Finally had the opportunity to try this place, and man do they serve some "tasty eats" along with "excellent service." We first came here on a late Sunday afternoon, right before the evening dinner rush. And I'm glad we did because it sure filled up right after 5pm hit. So here's a little tidbit about this fancy Korean joint called HANSIK:
~ Parking, Dining, & Atmosphere ~
No issues with parking, there were plenty of spaces in the lot. As for dining-in, the place was surprisingly huge. Booths along the wall, with larger family tables around the center. They even had a bar area in the corner with a few tv monitors. When we went, only a few tables were occupied, so we knew we'd likely receive more attention from service. The decor was fairly ostentatious with a mix of woodsy and contemporary. More elegant versus your typical KBBQ or pocha. It felt pretty chill and comforting for the most part. And I'd say it's a good second date type of place. Maybe first, if your date isn't cheap :)
~ The Menu, Banchan & More ~
With our second visit here, I did notice a change in their menu. A clear sign that they rotate and offer new items, in which I don't mind. With most entrées, they serve your typical six to eight different banchan, some hot clay pots, cold noodle bowls, and bibimbap. Now here's what we've tried:
- Mandu, fried dumplings for only $10. A filling appetizer, so don't eat it all at once!
- Lotus Shrimp Sandwich ($16), mmm mmm! These were recommend by our server Tyler, and man what a mouthwatering suggestion it was. Thanks Tyler!
- Braised Short Ribs in a Clay Pot ($60), yes $60 and YES we had to try their best item on the menu. I mean the pot was larger than my face. It's definitely meant for sharing with two or more people, so I get the price value of the dish. I say it really is one of their best items on the menu. The beef was simply tender and luscious! Big 'not too fatty' rib bone cuts too! Took it home and had leftovers for a couple of days. Worth it imo.
- "SSAM" green leaf Set with KBBQ Short Ribs ($39) which was made just right the first time, but the last visit felt a bit overcooked on the grill. The beef was tougher the second time we ordered this. So trust me, this was where I debated between 4 or 3 stars. But regardless was still a good combo with the banchan wrapped up in a green leaf.
- Cutlass Fish Spicy Soup ($26), the broth AMAZING! The fish, disappointing! Its one thing that soup was salty good and bold in flavor, but its another thing when the fish was overcooked. You'd expect the fish to be soft, in a soup, not hard. And the back breaker was the bones I had to deal with while eating it. A hassle to deal with, so I doubt I'll get this again.
~ Service & Experience ~
Talk about ALL-STAR, the times we've been here, we were served by Tyler. He has been welcoming, he's explained the menu, shared what's newly added or changed, made excellent suggestions, and made us happy every time he served us specialty cocktails or soju! A true all-star that takes care of his customers, and well deserves a raise! Overall, eating here has been fantastic! I would come back, but only for certain entrées that I feel are worth it. It pains me to give 3 stars, but the tough spare ribs (the second time) and fish stew just didn't justify the price. I recommend trying Hansik yourself and let me know what you think. read more