
The heart and soul of Korean dining lies not just in its main dishes, but in the colorful array of side dishes known as banchan. These small but mighty accompaniments transform every meal into a feast for both the eyes and palate, creating a dining experience that's both communal and deeply satisfying.
The Essential World of Korean Side Dishes
In Korean cuisine, banchan represents more than just accompaniments – they're an integral part of the meal's harmony. Each small dish serves a specific purpose in the dining experience, whether it's refreshing the palate, adding textural contrast, or providing nutritional balance. This tradition of multiple side dishes speaks to the Korean philosophy of balanced eating, where every meal is an opportunity to experience a variety of flavors and nutrients.
Signature Banchan at Our Table
Our house-made kimchi stands as the cornerstone of our banchan selection. The traditional cabbage kimchi (£4.50) offers the perfect balance of tang, spice, and umami, developed through careful fermentation. Its companion, the crisp cucumber kimchi (£4), provides a lighter, more refreshing alternative that cleanses the palate between bites of richer dishes.
Beyond kimchi, we take pride in our modern interpretation of Korean sides. The Rosemary & Gochugaru Fries (£4) represent our innovative approach to banchan, bridging Korean and Western flavors. These crispy fries, dusted with aromatic rosemary and Korean chili flakes, offer a contemporary twist while honoring traditional Korean flavors.
Creating Perfect Pairings
The art of Korean dining lies in knowing how to pair banchan with main dishes. When enjoying our Korean Fried Chicken, the acidic bite of kimchi cucumber cuts through the richness, while the Rosemary & Gochugaru Fries add a complementary crunch. For a warming bowl of Kimchi Jjigae, fresh vegetable sides provide a cooling contrast.
Some of our recommended pairings include:
Dolsot Bibimbap with extra kimchi cabbage for added depth
Korean Noodle Soup with fresh vegetable sides for textural contrast
Korean BBQ dishes with an assortment of pickled vegetables
The Social Heart of Korean Dining
Korean side dishes do more than enhance flavors – they create connections. In Korean culture, the sharing of banchan encourages conversation and brings people together. This communal aspect of dining remains one of the most cherished aspects of Korean food culture, transforming everyday meals into memorable social experiences.
The variety of banchan encourages diners to engage with their food and each other. Conversations naturally flow as people share their favorites and discover new combinations. This interactive dining style makes every meal an opportunity for both culinary exploration and social connection.
Seasonal Celebrations Through Banchan
Our banchan selection evolves with the seasons, reflecting the Korean tradition of eating in harmony with nature. During summer months, you'll find lighter, refreshing options that help beat the heat. Winter brings heartier preparations that provide warmth and comfort. This seasonal approach ensures that each visit offers something new to discover.
Making the Most of Your Banchan Experience
For those new to Korean dining, we encourage exploration and curiosity. Start by tasting each side dish individually to understand its unique flavor profile. Then, experiment with different combinations alongside your main dish. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or refills – the abundance of banchan is part of Korean hospitality.
Enhance Your Korean Dining Adventure
Whether you're a food enthusiast or new to Korean cuisine, our selection of banchan offers something for every palate. From traditional fermented vegetables to creative fusion sides, each dish is prepared with care to enhance your dining experience.
We invite you to explore the world of Korean side dishes at your own pace. Our staff is always happy to guide you through the selections and help you discover new favorite combinations. After all, the joy of Korean dining lies in the journey of discovery, one small dish at a time.