There’s lots to love about Korean cuisine, and while Japanese, Thai and Chinese food has enjoyed more airtime, Korean food is high on our hit list, and we’re thrilled to see a dedicated Korean restaurant in the capital.
Walk through the streets of Seoul and it’s clear that it’s a food city, there are great things to eat on every corner.
On shores closer to home, Madang Korean Restaurant has built a solid reputation in the city, known for delivering authentic Korean food without pretence.
The location is a little out of the ordinary, located in the grounds of Al Ghazal Golf Club, a course that’s one fly ball away from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
It’s a little out of the way for those who live downtown but if you’re after authentic Korean fare it’s worth it.
When we arrive on a weekend there’s a good buzz about the place, inside there are plenty of places to sit including areas to sit cross legged on the floor. But the outdoor terrace is where we find ourselves, to enjoy the sunshine and a bite to eat.
We dive straight into Korean fried chicken, it’s roasting hot, perfectly crispy, with succulent meat beneath each crunch.
We could eat it all day but there’s plenty more to enjoy.
One of our favoruite things is Korean barbecue and there’s something immensely satisfying about cooking your own meal.We order short-ribs and brisket, which go on the grill and start sizzling away sensationally.
The meat is wonderfully tender and it’s fun to cook, chat and eat together.
It’s communal and humble, just like the venue itself and you can easily make yourself at home here for a few hours.
The service is a little slow, which means you really could spend a few hours here, and things arrive at the table at different times, which can be frustrating, but all the food that does arrive is of a good standard.
Another cool quirk? There’s a small Korean supermarket, where you can pick up red bean paste, kimchi or even some frozen seafood imported from Korea. It’s a nice touch and is a good way to take a taste home with you.
With a few tweaks this place could be a star.
