Korean cuisine’s global rise in popularity, often dubbed “K-Food,” is undeniable. Following the wave of K-Pop and K-Cinema, Korean food has captured international attention, with interest surging nearly 90 percent in 2021 alone. In Tampa Bay, a surprising number of Korean eateries are popping up, signaling a vibrant local K-Food scene. While the reviewer initially had reservations about Korean food based on a past experience, a deeper dive into the Tampa Bay Korean culinary landscape revealed two standout restaurants: Dooriban in St. Pete and One Family Korean Restaurant in Tampa. This review focuses on One Family Korean Restaurant, exploring why it stands out as a must-visit for authentic Korean flavors in Tampa.
While Korean BBQ is a well-known aspect of K-Food, the idea of cooking at a tabletop grill isn’t for everyone. For those who prefer to leave the grilling to the experts, One Family Korean Restaurant and Dooriban offer the perfect solution, cooking the BBQ for you. Let’s delve into the experience at One Family Korean Restaurant, located in Tampa, to discover why it earned the reviewer’s slight preference in this Korean BBQ showdown.
Discovering the Charm of One Family Korean Restaurant
Nestled in a modest gray building within a Town ‘N’ Country shopping center off Hillsborough Avenue, One Family Korean Restaurant might seem unassuming from the outside. However, stepping inside reveals a cozy and intimate dining space. The windowless dining room, while small, features eight tables and booths that create a relaxed and personal atmosphere. Despite being nearly full at 7:30 p.m. on a Wednesday, the restaurant maintained a comfortable noise level, contributing to the overall pleasant dining experience.
The service at One Family Korean Restaurant is noteworthy. KK, the sole server, efficiently and attentively managed all tables, providing excellent service despite the bustling environment. The order included Beef Bulgogi ($24.99), Fried Dumplings (6 for $7.99), and a Korean pear-peach flavored soft drink ($2.99), served in a petite six-ounce can. This Korean soda, as pictured, added a unique touch to the meal.
A Taste of Authentic Korean Bulgogi and More
The Beef Bulgogi at One Family Korean Restaurant arrived on a hot plate, and while its initial appearance, with a slightly grayish hue, differed from Dooriban’s presentation, the taste proved exceptional. Although the portion was slightly smaller than its competitor, the quality and flavor more than compensated.
Accompanying the Bulgogi were five traditional Korean side dishes (banchan): cabbage kimchi, cucumber kimchi, daikon kimchi, bean sprouts, and julienned white radish. These sides offered a diverse range of flavors and textures, enhancing the overall dining experience. The dumplings, simply described as “dumplings,” also held their own in this Korean feast.
The taste of the Bulgogi at One Family Korean Restaurant struck a perfect balance. It was sweet, yet less intensely so than Dooriban’s version, a subtle difference that the reviewer appreciated. A touch more sweetness could have been perfect, but the tenderness of the beef was undeniable; every piece was succulent and melt-in-your-mouth. The white rice served alongside was also perfectly cooked, boasting an ideal level of stickiness that beautifully complemented the savory Bulgogi. This image captures a close-up of the delicious Bulgogi, showcasing its tender texture.
The fried dumplings, filled with savory ground pork, offered a delightful crispiness and satisfying flavor. Among the side dishes, the daikon kimchi and sliced radish stood out, both immersed in a tangy sauce and providing a playful crunch. While the cabbage kimchi wasn’t a personal favorite, the pear-peach soft drink provided a refreshing and lightly carbonated counterpoint to the meal, almost like a juice, offering a pleasant change of pace. Both diners finished their meals at One Family Korean Restaurant, leaving feeling completely satisfied.
Dooriban: A Worthy Contender
Before concluding, it’s important to briefly revisit Dooriban. Located in a converted drive-through in St. Pete, Dooriban offered a no-frills, neighborhood atmosphere. The presence of Korean diners engaged in lively conversation contributed to the restaurant’s authentic feel. The Beef Bulgogi ($22.99) and Vegetable Mandu ($9.99) were ordered, presented with a different set of side dishes including cabbage, radish, and cucumber kimchi, along with potato and fish cake.
Dooriban’s Beef Bulgogi, arriving on a hot plate, had a terrific aroma and a shaved appearance, reminiscent of Philly cheesesteak meat. The Vegetable Mandu, eight crescent-shaped dumplings, were neatly arranged and served with house soy sauce. This image shows Dooriban’s app presentation.
While the beef at Dooriban was generally tender and flavorful, some pieces were slightly chewier. The barbecue sauce was sweet and well-integrated into the meat. The fried dumplings, while ample, were a bit mushy inside. Among the side dishes, the cucumber kimchi was a highlight, while the cabbage kimchi was less appealing. The fish cake strips were surprisingly enjoyable. This image provides a closer look at a bite of Dooriban’s Bulgogi.
The Verdict: One Family Korean Restaurant Takes the Crown
In the Tampa vs. St. Pete Korean BBQ comparison, One Family Korean Restaurant emerges as the slight winner. Both restaurants offered delightful meals and are worthy of repeat visits. However, One Family Korean Restaurant‘s nuanced Bulgogi flavor, supremely tender beef, and overall dining experience give it a slight edge.
This exploration into K-Food in Tampa Bay has been a resounding success, and incorporating Korean cuisine into regular dining choices is definitely on the horizon. For those seeking authentic and delicious Korean food in Tampa, One Family Korean Restaurant is highly recommended as a true hidden gem.
