Authentic Korean Street Food in Tawau - Saranghae Reviews

An Introduction to Saranghae Korean Street Food

Tucked away on a street in Tawau, Sabah is a little Korean street food gem called Saranghae Korean Street Food. As the name implies, this small restaurant specializes in authentic Korean fare, bringing a taste of Seoul to this Malaysian town.

The Restaurant's Offerings

For such a small establishment, Saranghae Korean Street Food packs quite a surprising punch when it comes to their menu offerings. Some highlights include:

• Bibimbap - a signature Korean rice dish topped with veggies and meat
• Bulgogi - thin slices of marinated beef, a Korean BBQ classic
• Mandu - Korean style dumplings filled with pork or kimchi
• Tteokbokki - chewy rice cakes bathed in a sweet and spicy sauce
• Soondae - blood sausage made with slightly sweet fillings

The menu runs the gamut from traditional Korean meat dishes to vegan-friendly fare. Those new to Korean food will appreciate the variety of flavors and ingredients featured on the menu.

The Dining Experience

The interior of the restaurant is simple yet homey, with just a few tables tucked into a cozy space. Despite its small size, the restaurant fills up fast, especially once word spread of its authentic flavors. Patrons have praised the service for being exceptionally friendly and gracious, with staff that try their best to explain the menu options to first-timers. Servers also frequently check in on tables to ensure food and drink are replenished.

Signature Dishes Not to Miss

While everything on the menu is worth sampling, there are a few signature dishes that should not be missed on their first visit:

Korean Fried Chicken

Their Korean style fried chicken features light and crispy batter coated bites that are then glazed or sauced. Flavor options include soy garlic, spicy, curry, and more. The chicken itself is always juicy on the inside while boasting an ultra crispy exterior.

Galbi Jjim

This braised beef short rib soup brings intense flavors together in one comforting dish. Tender beef and vegetables simmer away in a deeply savory broth that is slightly spicy and full of umami. The generous portion of galbi jjim can easily be shared amongst a group.

Jjajangmyeon

This dish of noodles smothered in a black bean sauce is a Korean-Chinese fusion favorite. It arrives piping hot, the thick sauce clinging to the tender noodles. Pork, onions, zucchini, and carrot provide extra texture and flavor. It's a deeply satisfying and addictive dish, perfect for slurping up on a cool, rainy day.

Is Saranghae Korean Street Food Worth a Visit?

Based on saranghae reviews alone, the answer seems to be a definitive yes! Patrons can't help but rave about the authenticity of the restaurant's Korean dishes, with many claiming it transports their tastebuds straight to Korea. Despite its unassuming location and size, foodies agree Saranghae punching above its weight class when it comes to flavor. The care put into using traditional preparation methods and spices certainly comes through in the tasty dishes served.

A Local Favorite

While visitors love being able to get a taste of Korea in Tawau, Saranghae Korean Street Food has also become a favorite among locals. Their affordable prices make it easy to come back again and again to sample new dishes. The friendly and gracious service also makes patrons feel right at home every time they visit.

Come Hungry!

If there's one unanimous consensus from Saranghae reviews, it is to come hungry! Portions are very generous across their menu of Korean specialties. From piping hot stews and soupy noodles to mountains of crispy fried chicken, the portions truly satisfy. Most dishes are intended to be shared Korean style amongst a group, allowing diners to sample as many items as possible in one sitting.

Quality Over Quantity

While the portions may be big, Saranghae also puts care into ensuring quality as well. Their mandate is bringing authentic Korean flavors to Tawau using fresh, high quality ingredients. Cutting corners or shortcuts that sacrifice flavor simply isn't their style. Patrons agree that they can taste the care put into each dish.

The Final Verdict

After scouring through saranghae reviews from locals and visitors alike, the consensus seems clear - this little Korean street food joint is a shining gem worth discovering in Tawau. Their combination of hearty dishes packed with flavor, gracious hospitality, and an authentic approach has won over the stomachs and hearts of many patrons. For those seeking a satisfying and affordable taste of Korea without hopping on a plane, Saranghae Korean Street Food delivers the goods.

FAQs

What are Saranghae's hours?

Saranghae Korean Street Food is open Tuesday - Sunday from 11am - 9pm. They are closed on Mondays.

Do they offer delivery?

Unfortunately at this time, Saranghae does not offer food delivery services. All dishes are intended to be enjoyed freshly made at the restaurant.

Is the restaurant vegetarian/vegan friendly?

While meat features heavily on the menu, there are a handful of vegan/vegetarian friendly items such as bibimbap, vegetable pancakes, and kimchi fried rice that can be made without meat or seafood.

Do they cater large groups?

Given the small intimate space of the restaurant, catering services are not currently available. Large groups are recommended to come closer to opening times to avoid capacity issues.