Introduction
Pittsburgh, a city known for its bridges and industrial heritage, may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of diverse culinary experiences. However, beyond pierogies and Primanti Bros., a vibrant and increasingly popular food scene has taken root, showcasing flavors from around the globe. And at the forefront of this exciting culinary evolution is a burgeoning Korean food presence. From comforting stews to sizzling barbecues, the Taste of Seoul is alive and well in the Steel City, offering a delicious and authentic experience for both seasoned Korean food aficionados and curious newcomers.
The rise of Korean food in Pittsburgh reflects a broader national trend. Korean cuisine has exploded in popularity, captivating food lovers with its bold flavors, unique textures, and communal dining experiences. In Pittsburgh, this trend has translated into a growing number of Korean restaurants, grocery stores, and even Korean-inspired pop-up events, bringing the rich culinary heritage of Korea to the heart of Western Pennsylvania. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch spot for a quick bibimbap fix or a celebratory dinner with friends centered around a Korean barbecue grill, Pittsburgh offers a diverse range of options to satisfy your cravings for authentic Korean food.
This article serves as your guide to navigating Pittsburgh’s Korean food scene, highlighting some of the best restaurants, must-try dishes, and places to find authentic Korean ingredients. So, grab your chopsticks and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant flavors of Korea, right here in Pittsburgh!
Exploring Korean Restaurants in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh boasts a selection of Korean restaurants, each with its own unique charm and specialties. These establishments range from cozy, family-owned eateries to more modern and upscale dining destinations, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Let’s delve into a few noteworthy spots:
So Gong Dong Tofu & Korean BBQ
Nestled on Centre Avenue, So Gong Dong is a local favorite for its comforting and flavorful tofu stews. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Their signature dish, the So Gong Dong Tofu Soup, is a must-try. It features silky soft tofu simmering in a spicy broth, customizable with your choice of protein (beef, pork, seafood, or vegetables). The soup is served piping hot in a stone pot, accompanied by an array of flavorful banchan, those delightful Korean side dishes that add to the overall dining experience. What sets So Gong Dong apart is its commitment to authentic flavors and generous portions, making it a great value for the quality. Expect to pay in the moderate range.
Golden Pig
For an immersive Korean barbecue experience, Golden Pig in the Strip District is a top contender. The restaurant is known for its high-quality meats, including marinated short ribs, thinly sliced pork belly, and juicy bulgogi. Each table is equipped with a grill, allowing you to cook the meats to your preference, adding to the interactive and social aspect of Korean barbecue. Golden Pig offers a wide selection of banchan, including kimchi, pickled vegetables, and savory pancakes, providing a delightful complement to the grilled meats. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great place to gather with friends and family for a celebratory meal. Be prepared for a higher price point, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the overall dining experience.
Chicken Holic
If you’re craving Korean fried chicken, look no further than Chicken Holic. With several locations in the Pittsburgh area, this popular spot offers a variety of crispy, flavorful chicken wings and tenders, coated in a range of sauces, from sweet and tangy to fiery hot. Their signature flavors include the soy garlic, spicy, and honey butter. Beyond the chicken, Chicken Holic also serves Korean street food staples like tteokbokki and kimbap. It’s a great option for a casual meal or a quick snack, with a focus on bold flavors and satisfying textures. Chicken Holic offers many different flavors of korean fried chicken. You can get a taste of korea with the many flavors and experience. The prices are reasonable.
Everyday Noodles
While not strictly a Korean restaurant, Everyday Noodles on Murray Avenue features a handful of popular Korean dishes alongside its extensive menu of hand-pulled noodles and other Chinese-American specialties. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a taste of Korean food in a more diverse culinary setting. The bibimbap is a popular choice, featuring a colorful assortment of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg served over rice with a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste). The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and skillful noodle-making techniques, offering a satisfying and affordable meal.
Must-Try Korean Dishes in Pittsburgh
Venturing into the world of Korean food can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. Here are a few essential dishes to try when exploring Korean food in Pittsburgh:
Bibimbap
This iconic Korean dish translates to “mixed rice” and is a true symphony of flavors and textures. It consists of a bed of warm white rice topped with a colorful array of seasoned vegetables, marinated meat (usually beef), a fried egg, and a generous dollop of gochujang. The beauty of bibimbap lies in its versatility; you can find variations with different vegetables, proteins, and spice levels. At Everyday Noodles you can find very tasty Bibimbap. The dish is typically served in a hot stone bowl, which creates a delightful crispy crust on the rice at the bottom. Be sure to mix everything together thoroughly before digging in to experience the full spectrum of flavors.
Korean BBQ (KBBQ)
A quintessential Korean dining experience, Korean BBQ is all about grilling marinated meats right at your table. Restaurants like Golden Pig provide a selection of high-quality meats, including thinly sliced beef bulgogi, marinated short ribs (galbi), and pork belly. The meats are typically marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and other spices. Along with the meats, you’ll be presented with an impressive array of banchan, including kimchi, pickled radishes, and seasoned spinach. The fun of Korean BBQ lies in the interactive cooking process and the communal aspect of sharing the meal with friends and family. Remember to wrap the grilled meats in lettuce leaves with some banchan and a dab of ssamjang (a thick, savory dipping sauce) for the ultimate bite.
Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
This spicy and flavorful stew is a staple of Korean cuisine, particularly popular during colder months. Kimchi jjigae is made with fermented kimchi, the cornerstone of Korean cuisine, along with pork or tofu, vegetables, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). The stew is simmered until the kimchi becomes soft and tender, infusing the broth with its characteristic sour and spicy flavor. This dish is a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for warming you up from the inside out. Look for it at restaurants like So Gong Dong for an authentic rendition.
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
This popular Korean street food consists of chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy gochujang-based sauce. Tteokbokki can be found in many Korean restaurants, each adding a unique touch to the dish. This dish is a fiery and addictive treat. The chewiness of the rice cakes combined with the intense spiciness of the sauce creates a truly unique sensory experience.
Korean Fried Chicken
As mentioned earlier, Korean fried chicken is a must-try in Pittsburgh, especially at Chicken Holic. The chicken is typically double-fried, resulting in an incredibly crispy and flavorful crust. What sets Korean fried chicken apart is the variety of sauces it’s coated in, ranging from sweet and savory soy garlic to fiery hot chili sauce.
Beyond Restaurants: Korean Grocery Stores and Markets
To truly immerse yourself in Korean cuisine, consider visiting a Korean grocery store or market in Pittsburgh. These stores offer a wide range of authentic Korean ingredients, snacks, and ready-made dishes, allowing you to recreate your favorite Korean recipes at home or simply explore new and exciting flavors. While options may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas, these smaller stores can still provide essential items. These grocers often offer hard to find Korean ingredients that are not available in big box grocery stores. Look for staples like gochujang, gochugaru (Korean chili powder), kimchi, rice cakes, Korean noodles, and a variety of Korean snacks and beverages. Some stores may also offer prepared banchan, allowing you to conveniently enjoy a selection of Korean side dishes at home.
Tips for Exploring Korean Food in Pittsburgh
Embarking on a culinary journey through Pittsburgh’s Korean food scene can be both exciting and rewarding. Here are a few helpful tips to enhance your experience:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Korean menus can sometimes be unfamiliar, so don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations or explanations of the dishes. They are usually happy to share their knowledge and guide you towards something you’ll enjoy.
Be prepared for spice: Korean food is known for its bold flavors, and spiciness is often a key component. If you’re sensitive to spice, be sure to ask about the spice level of the dishes before ordering. Many restaurants can adjust the spice level to your preference.
Embrace the banchan: Banchan is an integral part of the Korean dining experience, offering a variety of flavors and textures to complement your meal. Don’t be shy about trying all the different side dishes, and feel free to ask for refills.
Consider making a reservation: Korean BBQ restaurants can be particularly popular, so it’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Explore different neighborhoods: Korean restaurants can be found throughout Pittsburgh, so venture out and explore different neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and unique culinary experiences.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s Korean food scene is a testament to the city’s growing culinary diversity. From comforting stews to sizzling barbecues and flavorful fried chicken, there’s a Taste of Seoul to be found in the Steel City. So, whether you’re a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, take the time to explore the vibrant and delicious offerings of Pittsburgh’s Korean restaurants and markets. You’re sure to discover new favorites and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Korea. What are your favorite Korean spots in Pittsburgh? Share them in the comments below so everyone can join the delicious adventure!
