Turns out a lot of things on a typical Korean BBQ menu start with B.
Last weekend I had my father in town and I’ve been dying to take him out for bulgogi at Han Sung Oak (6341 Columbia Pike Falls Church, VA 22041 - (703) 642-0808). Mainly I wanted to see the look of awe on his face as they bring bowl after bowl of banchan, the Korean version of food accoutrements, out to the table. They did not disappoint.
We started off by trying out an appetizer sampler of fried meatballs, grilled breaded shrimp, beef stuffed green peppers and fish pancakes. I have to say, this will be left off my order next time. Nothing particularly wrong with any of the items but with the intense flavors typical of this cuisine, these were rather bland.
Next up- Bibimbap aka Rice Salad. This was excellent. Cripsy rice, bulgolgi meat, lots of veggies and a fried egg all mixed up with a delicious spicy red sauce. A definite must have for any Korean BBQ visit.
For our main course, we shared a hearty serving of bulgogi cooked up at our table. Think thin steak slices marinated and cooked in a salty sweet broth. While the meat is cooking, the banchan parade begins. I counted 9 bowls of kimchi, marinated veggies, beans, jelly bean curd, sauces and more. Sorry for not providing the actual names of each dish but there is a bit of language barrier here. Plus, just think of how much more adventurous you’ll be when you aren’t quite sure what you’re eating!
Once the meat is ready simply wrap it up with a few of the banchan ingredients inside a crispy romaine lettuce leaf. The result? One of the best wraps you’ll ever have!
We were way too stuffed for dessert but as part of the meal they bring you a rice juice/water to cleanse your pallet. Deliciously sweet and refreshing.
So, if you haven’t had a chance to try Korean BBQ, now is the time. Head over to Han Sung Oak for an interesting and equally satisfying culinary adventure.
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Great. Loved the Korean Bar – B – Que description.