Dallas' Most Interesting Restaurants No. 5: Seoul Garden

Leading up to our annual Best of Dallas® issue, we're counting down the 50 most interesting restaurants in Dallas. These spots bring something unique or compelling to the city's dining scene, feeding both your appetite and soul.

Kimchi may be the most well known dish turned out by Korean kitchens. It can also be the most overlooked. Kimchi should be fermented, but that doesn't mean the cabbage leaves should be turned to be mush. Kimchi should be assertive and spicy with a bright vibrant crunch.

The kimchi served at Seoul Garden will grab your attention with its texture, briny acidity and heat. A small bite added to just about any dish on the menu will bring a great improvement, which is why a small bowl lands on your table every time you sit down here. Try a piece of kimchi folded into a lettuce wrap, or even with a bite of plain rice. Who knew simple things could be this good?


Dinner can get more complicated, if you like, and you'll be rewarded if you're willing to put in a little work before enjoying your meal. The grills for Korean barbecue here are fired with coals that spit amber fireflies and impart a little character to milder cuts of pork belly and beef. Let your server know you'd like to cook your own cuts when they reach for the tongs. Make sure not to crowd the grill so you can get a good sear.

If cooking is not your thing, don't fear. Plenty of dishes leave the kitchen completely finished. Don't miss the seafood pancake turned Doritos-orange from the addition of kimchi. You can't get away from the stuff here. 

Your opinion matters! Be sure to weigh in on our Best Of Dallas Readers' Choice poll. Voting ends September 6.