We had a good experience at Sonamu which could be due to having a Korean person in our dining group and having made a reservation ahead of time for our large group. We shared many dishes and all were good. The staff were also very nice to us. The neighborhood is a fun area to walk around before and after dinner. Overall we liked it but certainly it was a huge benefit to have a Korean person with us that made things much more smooth. read more

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Oh gosh. I am glad my computer was broken for a while so I didn't have to write this review. But I now have a new computer, and less harsh words for the place. Don't worry, Sonamu, I still think you're appallingly bad. I was on cloud 9 when I went here. I have always wanted to stop by as it sits right on Bergerstraße and truthfully has a pretty kickass modern exterior. I imagined the place couldn't possibly serve lousy food. I had just bought myself a bike and had lots of money leftover from my birthday and it was sunny. I was on top of the world. Little did I know this place would bring me back down to reality. I ordered a bibimbap. Quite possibly one of my favorite foods ever. It was around 2pm, so nothing else seemed quite as appropriate. It came out looking stunning. So colorful, lots of sides. I was just in awe of how beautiful it looked. I didn't want to eat it. But I did. And I shouldn't have. It was SOOOOOO bad. So bad. Filled with more mushrooms than a person could ever possibly consume in one sitting. And some red cabbage. And carrots I believe. The egg, instead of nice and sunnyside up so the yolk soaks everything, was fried and cut into small pieces that were all overcooked. Every element tasted the same. No depth or flavors at all in this thing. I truthfully couldn't eat it as the only thing I could, in fact, taste, was mushrooms. I left this place with one thing and one thing only- a strong intent to never return. read more

Sonamu - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

Okay, i'm giving the 3-star rating to rate it relative to other restaurants in the city. If I were rating this compared to the Korean restaurants I used to eat at while growing up in San Francisco, it would be less than 3 stars, sadly. I really really really wanted to like this place and had high hopes for it, especially since a couple of friends recommended it. First time I went, I ordered the galbi (or kalbi aka short ribs). Perhaps it was my fault for not reading the description, but at every single other Korean restaurant I've been to, galbi is marinated and then grilled and then served on a sizzling hot plate on top of onions that have been caramelized on that hot plate. Not so here. I got really excited when I saw galbi on the menu and didn't bother reading the description. I just assumed it would be grilled. After all, I've had galbi only in two ways: grilled or in an egg-drop soup with silver noodles. When the dish came out, I was disappointed--there's no other way to say it. The plate wasn't sizzling. The beef looked...wet. It didn't taste marinated at all. It looked like it was boiled, then tossed really quickly in what was supposed to be in the marinade. And that was exactly what it tasted like. Plus, it was served with some broccoli and carrots on top. I've never had galbi served with carrots and broccoli. Ever. Not in the numerous Korean restaurants owned by Korean people in LA or SF. I decided to give it a second chance and went back for lunch one day and ordered the dolsot bi bim bap. The bowl was hot. Good. Meat didn't seem to be an option as a topping (also something I'm not used to--most places I've been to actually offer bulgogi as an option). There were apple slivers mixed in with the veggies, which is also unusual, in my experience. Whatever, I was starving, so I mixed up everything and started eating...and everything got progressively saltier and saltier. I actually started digging for more rice in my bowl to offset the saltiness of the veggies, but alas, there was little rice left. Anyway, perhaps I'm used to the Americanized version of Korean food and what Sonamu serves is in reality more authentic. Hell, I don't know for sure as I've never been to Korea, but I probably won't be back to Sonamu anytime soon. Sorry.... read more

Yes. Yes. Yes yes yes. If you tire of German cuisine and are in need of actual, non apologetic flavor, GO HERE. The kimchee soup is outta this world and so is the bi bim bap. If you don't know how to use chopsticks, you will learn quickly enough (or eventually just give up and start using your fingers) because you can hardly stop eating once you've started. It's really that good. Staff is patient, kind, helpful. Strongly recommend. Also- their kimchee makes me cry happy tears it tastes so good. Again, FLAVOR. read more

Sonamu - Bi bim bap with an egg. Go get it now. - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

Location (5/5): This looks so nice and like what I have in mind, when I think of korea. The wood architecture is so beautiful and give the location an clean an united look on everything. Service (3/5): Service staff is often a little bit confused. I would love if they would know better what drinks they have (even if not on the menue) and look more often after you. But they have been friendly. Also you have to pay cash. Food (5/5): Starters cost about 6 Euro, Main dishes about 12-13 Euro. Quite good prices, but also good and fresh food. They say, that everything is housemade and I have no doubt. Summary: Beautiful location with good food, but no boring korean BBQ. Try this :) read more

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Stay away! Owner discriminates against people with medical conditions! The owner is out most unprofessional and rudest person I have ever encountered in a restaurant. My friend and I had a reservation at this restaurant and I was a few minutes earlier there. I decided to go up the stairs and ask if I could already get to the table or if I would have to wait till the party is complete. The restaurant door was open and a table was set up as a desk right at the door. The owner himself was sitting on the right side table without a mask on. So I stepped to the table (the border basically), and right away asked if it was ok for me to be without a mask due to my doctors note? The waitress was polite and she was trying to answer but the owner interfered right away saying "ACTUALLY your note does NOT matter!".(That was his exact words). I was taken back because it was not like I just ran inside the restaurant passed the sign and ignored any of the rules. I straight up brought it up, trying to kind of just ask a simple question, that of if I had to wait outside or could already be seated? All I wanted to know was how to proceed to be honest, and a simple answer of my question with a friendly note about the fact that they dont accept any doctors note waiving a masks indoors would have just been fine. Instead he stood up from his table and told me that our reservation was now canceled and I could leave, then he put his mask on and set down. No matter what, it is still against what the law says, but Im not one that wants to be somewhere where I am not accepted and give them my hard earned money, so I would have left regardless. BUT the difference is, the customer friendly way, would have kept the face of his restaurant with a cleaner slate and not put such sour note on top of it all. I know how such owners think. Its just one person, and he has so many others customers that are coming. True, but how often can you do that till this makes it rounds? And people will not come any longer cause they dont want to support someone with that discriminatory mindset?? He took it to a whole different level and its discriminating as it is, but to also bring such disrespectful way while not wearing a mask himself inside the restaurant, is just ridiculous and beyond me. Think twice if you want to support such behavior with your money!! If he did it to me, he would do it to anyone! Discrimination is a crime! read more

Love the details in this restaurant! The interiors are well-designed, the cutleries are gold, and water is served in tiny glasses with various berries. When it comes down to food though, i find them a bit "westernized". Taste is still good and very much Korean, but the flavors are a little more subtle. The serving is huge (at least for Asian standards) and i love love love that the main dishes come with brown rice. However, i missed the sweet chilli anchovies that's usually part of the appetizer set elsewhere. At least their kimchi hits the spot. read more

Sonamu - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

We went for dinner on a weekday. 2 people no reservation and they gave us seats at the bar. Now up & down justifying the rating Ups: Location: right outside the Bornheim Mitte station U4 Staff: very attentive and friendly, explaining the traditional way of eating BiBimBap Food: Just delicious, the right amount of spice and quality ingredients, exactly what you expect for a restaurant Atmosphere: wood everywhere, cotton flower, cosy, space enough, right level of noise and light. Perfect for a casual dinner date or to catch up w a good friend l. Down: honestly, I can't point out any... FYI Price: expect to spend about 14eur for main dish; 5 for a starter and 4 for a beer. Middle+ Iwould say Tip:make sure to book in advance if you want a table read more

Sonamu - Bar - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

Located on Berger Street, my boyfriend and I stumbled upon this Korean restaurant. It was a little before 3pm on a Friday afternoon and there were a few other customers there dining as well. The worker knew English well so it was easy to communicate and ask questions. We ordered bulgogi and a pot of tea. The meat came with purple rice instead of the white I was hoping for, but it was still yummy. The side dishes that are served are also tasty as well. The meat was a bit bland and dry for my taste, though. I wouldn't say Sonamu is the best Korean place ever, but I'm glad I stumbled upon it. read more

Sonamu - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

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I can only second what everyone else has written...fantastic place. Great atmosphere, cosy balcony and awesome food. I had the duck bulgogi and it was pretty darn good with an appropriate portion size. Can really recommend this place. Und hier die deutsche Version: Habe lange nicht koreanisch in Deutschland gegessen und war sehr positiv überrascht. Essen ist total lecker, Atmosphäre und Terasse ist sehr schön. Mein Ente Bulgogi war der Hammer (und die Portion war auch nicht zu kleon) ...Kann man definitiv hingehen read more

Excellent Korean restaurant. Fresh ingredients, more then adequate service. Clean, nicely decorated. A must for Asian food lovers. read more

Sonamu - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

Came here tonight with some friends for a date night. The atmosphere was great, we sat outside in the backyard. The drinks are so cool ( since they serve berries and strawberries in your glass with whatever you are drinking.) Their schorle's are also refreshing on a warm summer day. Staff was very friendly. Over all the food was good, I'll definitely pay a visit again soon. read more

Sonamu - Bi bim bap with chicken. It tasted great. Might be a little spicey for some. - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

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This is a great and authentic Korean restaurant. The staff is always very friendly and actually you will talk more to them than in a regular restaurant, as the menu is really small (only 4 different dishes), but there is always at least the same amount of additional dishes available, which are not on the menu. Same with desert and drinks (I had a delicous bamboo tea which is also not on the menu). Korean standard dishes like Bi-Bim-Bap or Bulgogi are very good and delicious as well. Worth mentioning is also the furnishing: The complete interior is made from natural wood planks (tables, floor, ceiling, walls). I liked it very much, because it does not feel as cold as many other minimalistic/modern furnished places, but more cosy. I will definately come back and can recommend this place! read more

We went without a reservation on Valentines Day. We got a nice table for two.There were two waitresses that were serving us,both spoke English and German. I was advised on my food choise, it was very pleasant and calm atmosphere. The food was delicious ! Can't wait to come again! On the other hand it is quite expensive, one glass of wine(Merlot red) was 5,90€ and my dish costed 17,40€(u can choose with what meat u want it duck,chicken, pork,beef or vegetarian), it got served with some side soup and a lot of side dishes like kimchi and ect. It was really tasty! my boyfriend got something like spaghetti with chicken it was around 8€ but it wasn't a big plate thou. There are of course more dishes that are around 8€, but I recommend the main one it starts from 15€to17,40€. I give 5starts because it was fast and efficient service and tasty food.Definitely will come again even though not as offen as I would like. read more

Sonamu - I think the name was Bi Bim Bap,this one is with duck meat delicious ! - Korean Near Me - Frankfurt, HE

Casual Korean food, which is really flavorful; one of the most authentic international food experiences I have had in Frankfurt so far. We got a seat at the bar without reservations and had a couple of dishes. Good spread of alcohol options from sochu to french wines, whiskies and vodka. Cool. read more

Fab Korean restaurant located in the heart of Bornheim. Order the dolsot bibimbap, which is not on the menu. DELISH!!!

Really delicious food and great ambiance, very authentic. We had a dish with roaststeak, another with calamari and a third with chicken, all very good and large portions! Another nice aspect was the good coffee, totally recommend this place! read more

This is the best Korean food you'll find in Frankfurt! I've tried almost all dishes and they are all super tasty! I love how their non-alcoholic drinks are often filled with sliced fruit to add some additional flavour :) The atmosphere inside is very relaxed. Music playlist is very hip and creates a really unique ambience in the restaurant. Great for groups, but also if you want to quickly grab a meal on your own you can sit at the bar. read more

Marvelous place, extremely warmly nice staff, and really delicious Korean food! Cozy and warm environment. The gochujang can be stupidly hot if you appreciate it well spicy. read more

Always make a reservation here!! I've never been lucky with a spontaneous visit. And it's worth it!! Absolutely delicious. (Staff was a bit weird I remember. :/ ) read more

Just tried this restaurant today for my late lunch and it was definitely not dissappointing. I had the bibimbap, the rice they used was different but in a good way. Would definitely come back and try their other dish next time! read more

Beautiful place, most of the staff is korean, authentic food with a very very light touch of fusion (as opposed to the Korean restaurant Hankook in the south of Sachsenhausen, which is almost 100% true korean), not too expensive. A clear recommendation from my part, especially if you want to introduce your parents or other unwary eaters to Korean food! read more

Sonamu (pine tree), is located in a trendy section of Frankfurt, Germany, and the exterior is paneled with...pine. In fact, the "pine" motif is on display throughout the establishment. My wife, daughter, and I stopped in late afternoon (4ish) after a pleasant Saturday walking through the Frankfurt Zoo. Atmosphere: The restaurant feels very warm and comfortable. We chose an outdoor table under a large, motorized awning. The weathered pine furniture, semi-closed in private patio, and weather & sounds of the street market winding down all contributed to a very good atmosphere. Service: The staff was attentive without being overbearing and was capable of conversing in German, Korean, and English (at a minimum). What threw me at first was the lack of an entire Korean family inside shouting and yelling in the kitchen and half running the floor. The staff is Korean/German and German (best guess) and if it is family run it's the most well behaved Korean restaurant family in the world. They provided menus in German with English translations. They may have had French as well, I just don't recall. Food: We ordered some kimbap (seaweed, vegetable, and rice rolls) and pajeon as appetizers. The kimbap didn't have any damuji in it and wasn't overloaded with gaenip and mayonaise, so I actually had some. It was very good and had shredded pork as well as (possibly) julienned beets. The pajeon (kimchi jeon) was served with seasoned soy sauce and was delicious. The flavor was sour enough to offset the saltiness of the soy sauce and the kimchi was crunchy enough to balance out the chewiness of the pancake. My wife and I both got kimchi stew, or kimchi jji-gye. The accompanying side dishes (banchan) were marinated lotus root, ggak dugi kimchi, baechu kimchi, a sweet and sour marinated cornichon, and marinated sweet and salty potato. Refills on the side dishes were handled as 'service' so there was no charge for more. Each dish was in a small rectangular stoneware "bowl" and they were all on a long stoneware plate. A similar arrangement was made for the soup itself with the bowl on one side, a smaller bowl for cooling/separating the soup, a wooden ladle, and the rice container arranged on a rectangular plate. The stew (soup, jji-gye, whatever) was flavorful, not over done, and didn't have any surprises to it. If there was any issue with it, it is that it doesn't have the spiciness to it that the same dish would have in a Korean restaurant in, say, Korea. However, I chalk that up to the restaurant tailoring their dishes to their customer base as well as, possibly, the kimchi being used also being adjusted to the European palate. Note: All of the food was well plated, prepared and arranged "just so" which really contributed to the overall feeling that the meal was going to be delicious because of how good the food *looked*. The flavor backed up the mental image, a very pleasant experience. The stoneware used is very nice and contributes to the experience as well. Overall: If I'm in that area of Frankfurt again, I wouldn't hesitate eating at Sonamu again if I wanted Korean. However, it is rather pricey on the high end of the €€ scale (as is a lot of Korean food in Europe) so I wouldn't make the 90 minute drive just to eat there. If you're in eastern Frankfurt and looking for good Korean, give this place a try, you won't be disappointed. read more

Great food and service , though the choice of beers could be better. Nice to have a bit of spice in my food. So far my experience of Oriental food in Frankfurt had been a bit bland but this changed when I visited this restaurant. read more

Fine herbs in Korean banchan. Dop Bap and Kimchee Jjige taste is ok. Nice interior and atmosphere. Service is very attentive.

One of my favorite restaurants for food and atmosphere! Not always consistent quality but still good nevertheless!

Einzigartig in Frankfurt! Leckeres Essen, tolle Weinkarte und sehr schöne Atmosphäre! Rechtzeitig reservieren ist empfehlenswert!