Where We Are Going Today: Korean Palace Restaurant in Riyadh
Tucked away on Al-Takhassusi Street, Korean Palace is one of Riyadh's oldest spots for Korean cuisine, and a nostalgic throwback for those who value flavor over flash.
It's visibly dated, with worn interiors and a lingering scent that suggests it could benefit from a deep renovation. Still, what it lacks in ambiance, it more than makes up for in taste.
We started with complimentary Korean sides, pickled radish, kimchi, and marinated greens, a generous and flavorful tradition that sets the tone. Then came a table full of classics, each arriving surprisingly fast.
The highlight of the evening? The transparent glass noodles, chewy, perfectly seasoned, and bursting with umami. This was hands down the best dish, and one I'd return for.
The cheese tteokbokki came bubbling in a hot stone bowl, spicy and rich, with gooey cheese melting into the sweet chili sauce.
We also ordered the bibimbap, served hot with colorful vegetables and beef, and the beef sizzling plate, which was tender and satisfying.
The dumplings, delicately wrapped in cabbage leaves, were comforting but mild. The only miss was the tofu soup, which fell flat in flavor and didn't deliver the depth I expected.
Despite the outdated setting, the overall food quality was impressive. It's a place that reminds you why people still queue up for spots like this, for food that feels home-cooked, unapologetically traditional, and generously portioned.
Don't come expecting a trendy hangout. Come for hearty Korean food that gets the job done.
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