Pocha! Korean Street Dining (JEM)

 After passing by Pocha! Korean Street Dining at JEM countless times, we finally decided it was time to step in and see what the buzz was about. The vibrant storefront, neon lights and lively Korean street vibes had always caught our attention, and curiosity eventually got the better of us. It was time to find out if the experience matched the hype.

Pocha! Korean Street Dining 

The vibe inside felt distinctly different from a typical restaurant setting. Beyond the neon lights and bold colours, the space carried a casual, street-style energy. Instead of regular chairs, we were seated on oil drum containers fitted with seat cushions, adding to the quirky and industrial Korean street dining experience.

Dining Environment

We decided to go for the Golden Abundance Feast, which came with a complimentary Orange Slushy. The set included Fish Tangsuyuk, Samgyetang served with two bowls of steamed rice, and Rose Noodle Tteok paired with Tteokgalbi, a hearty spread that seemed perfect for sharing.

Golden Abundance Feast

Golden Abundance Feast

We were also served a selection of pickles, including kimchi, which added a refreshing and tangy contrast to the richer dishes in the feast.

Pickles

The complimentary Orange Slushy was served beautifully in a glass jug, topped with a slice of orange for that extra visual appeal. It looked refreshing and vibrant, making it a perfect start to the meal.

Orange Slushy

The Fish Tangsuyuk arrived coated in a glossy sweet and tangy sauce, topped with sesame seeds and paired with colourful vegetables like onions, capsicum and cucumber. The battered fish pieces were lightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender within. 

Fish Tangsuyuk

The sauce leaned towards a balanced sweetness with a gentle tang, making it approachable and easy to enjoy without being overly heavy.

Pick a Slice & Enjoy!

The Rose Noodle Tteok paired with Tteokgalbi was something I was initially unsure about, as I’m generally not a big fan of tteok. However, this turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The creamy rose sauce was rich, slightly tangy and comforting, oddly reminding me of Haiwannian Pizza’s style of sauce. The thick noodles absorbed the flavours well, while the tteokgalbi added a savoury, meaty bite that balanced the dish nicely.

Rose Noodle Tteok paired with Tteokgalbi

Samgyetang has always been one of my favourite dishes in Korean cuisine, so I was naturally looking forward to this. It arrived bubbling hot in a stone pot, filled with tender chicken, enoki mushrooms and ginseng, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh spring onions. The comforting aroma rising from the pot made it especially inviting, perfect for those who enjoy a nourishing and hearty soup.

Samgyetang 

We also tried the Noodle Tteokbokki Series, Truffle Jjajang Tteok with Fried Ebi. Once again, I’m generally not a big fan of tteokbokki, but the way this was prepared really won me over. The rich, fragrant jjajang sauce paired surprisingly well with the chewy tteok, while the hint of truffle added an extra layer of aroma. Topped with crispy fried ebi for texture, the dish felt both indulgent yet refreshing at the same time.

Truffle Jjajang Tteok with Fried Ebi

Overall, Pocha! Korean Street Dining offers a lively atmosphere paired with a generous variety of dishes that cater well to sharing. While not every dish was something I would usually gravitate towards, there were pleasant surprises along the way that made the experience enjoyable. The Golden Abundance Feast, in particular, is a convenient option for those who want to sample a mix of flavours without over-ordering. With its vibrant setting and hearty portions, it makes for a casual spot to gather with friends, especially if you’re in the JEM area craving Korean comfort food.

Pocha! Korean Street Dining
Location: 50 Jurong Gateway Rd, #03-05/06 Jem, Singapore 608549

Pink Candy Korean Restaurant

Despite passing by this Korean stall countless times at Beauty World Hawker Centre, this was finally my first visit, thanks to a friend’s dinner suggestion. Pink Candy is located at one of the corners of the hawker centre, and it is hard to miss. The stall occupies a rather cramped space, but its vibrant and “loud” decorations, complete with neon lights and colourful signage, make it stand out prominently from the rest of the more modest stalls around it.

Pink Candy Korean Restaurant

If you are a fan of all things pink, this is definitely a spot worth checking out. Right beside the stall sits their eye-catching Pink Panther bench, which has become an Insta-worthy corner for visitors. It adds a playful and quirky touch to the stall, making it not just a place to dine, but also a fun photo opportunity before or after your meal.

Pink Panther

Given the relatively small stall space, I was quite impressed by the extensive menu they offered. With a total of 43 items, the selection was surprisingly wide, ranging from classic Korean favourites like Bibimbap, Kimchi Soup, and Army Stew to various fried chicken flavours and hotplate dishes. It certainly felt like there was something for everyone, and it took us quite a while to decide on what to order.

Menu

To go along with the meal, my friend ordered a glass of beer to pair with the food. Served ice-cold with a frosty exterior, it was crisp and refreshing, making it a perfect companion to the rich and flavourful Korean dishes.

Beer

We ordered the Pork Bulgogi to share. The portion was generous, with plenty of meat coated in a sweet and savoury sauce that paired well with the rice. However, the style was not quite what I had expected. The cuts were mostly on the fatty side, which made it feel a little heavy and not entirely to my preference. That said, it was served sizzling hot on a hotplate and came with kimchi on the side, which added a tangy and refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the bulgogi.

Pork Bulgogi (Hot Plate) - $1490

Finally, something that suited my preference. The fried chicken wings were served piping hot in a basket of 10, glazed in a sweet and savoury sauce that was incredibly addictive. The exterior was lightly crisp while the meat inside remained tender and juicy. The sweetness of the sauce made it an excellent pairing with the beer and drinks, making this dish one of the more enjoyable highlights of the meal.

Honey Soy Fried Chicken Wing (10pcs) - $1690

We also tried the Seafood Pancake, which unfortunately did not quite meet my expectations. While the exterior was nicely crisp and golden, the pancake itself felt rather starchy and doughy. The amount of seafood included was quite minimal, which made it feel a little overpriced for what was served. Overall, it was not particularly to my liking, especially when compared to other Korean seafood pancakes I had elsewhere.

Seafood Pancake - $21.90

Overall, Pink Candy offers an interesting and vibrant Korean dining experience right in the heart of Beauty World Hawker Centre. The stall certainly stands out with its bold pink theme and extensive menu, which is impressive given its small space. While some dishes like the pork bulgogi and seafood pancake did not quite suit my personal preference, the fried chicken wings were a definite highlight and paired perfectly with the beer. Prices are slightly on the higher side for a hawker setting, but the variety and ambience make it a unique spot to visit. I would still be open to returning to try some of their other popular Korean classics.

Pink Candy Korean Restaurant
Location:  Beauty World Food Centre, 144 Upper Bukit Timah Rd #04-60, Singapore 588177

Nami Korean Grill House

Visiting Premium Korean Barbecue Singapore at Nami Korean Grill House by Hanjip along Greenwood Avenue felt like a quiet escape from the usual bustling malls and crowded eateries.

Nami Korean Grill House

The Signboard

As we settled in, we were welcomed with a beautifully presented wooden box of banchan, neatly divided into four sections, kimchi, seaweed, candied fried lotus root, and pickles,  a pleasant and thoughtful start to the meal.

Banchan

To pair with our BBQ feast, we had the Lychee, Green Grape, and Peach Chorong Chorong soju, which added a light, fruity touch to the experience.

Chorong Chorong Soju

For appetisers, we began with the Hamachi Carpaccio. The thick cuts of hamachi were dressed in a zesty seasoning and topped with vibrant orange roe, instantly whetting our appetite.

Hamachi Carpaccio

We also had the Hanjip Kale Salad, tossed in a roasted sesame sauce with raisins, grapes, and almond flakes, offering a refreshing balance before the grilled meats.

Hanjip Kale Salad

The seafood pancake truly deserves a little more praise. Crisp and golden brown on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy within, it was pan-fried to near perfection. Each bite was generously packed with seafood and scallions, giving it a satisfying texture without being overly doughy or starchy. 

Seafood Pancake

Served sizzling on a hotplate with dipping sauce on the side, the slight char on the edges added an extra layer of aroma and flavour that made it hard to stop at just one slice.

Close up of the Seafood Pancake

The Oyster Blade showcased a striking web of marbling across the meat, indicating how flavourful this cut would be. Slightly firmer in bite compared to ribeye but equally enjoyable, it carried a deep beefy taste and remained succulent after grilling, making it a satisfying cut for those who enjoy a more robust texture.

Oyster Blade

Referring to the meat platter, the USDA Prime Ribeye immediately stood out with its beautiful, intricate marbling running evenly through the cut. The fat distribution promised tenderness, and once grilled, the beef turned incredibly juicy, buttery, and rich in flavour with a melt-in-the-mouth texture that premium ribeye lovers would appreciate.

Ribeye

The Pork Collar, the only marinated meat among the selection, was well-infused with seasoning that enhanced the natural sweetness of the pork. With a good balance of lean meat and fat, it grilled beautifully, developing a slight caramelisation on the surface while staying juicy and flavourful inside.

Pork Collar

USDA Prime Ribeye, USDA Prime Boneless Short Rib and Pork Collar

Look at its marbling

The beef short ribs soup was comforting and stomach-warming, especially between bites of grilled meat. Filled with onions and slices of beef, the broth was light yet flavourful, offering a soothing contrast to the richness of the barbecue.

Beef Short Ribs Soup

The marinated prawns were another delightful addition. Fresh and plump, they absorbed the marinade well and turned slightly smoky and sweet once grilled, adding a pleasant seafood element to the meal.

Marinated Prawns

What elevated the entire dining experience was the attentive service from the staff. 

Assistant at Work

They took charge of the grilling process, carefully monitoring the heat and doneness of each cut to ensure the meats were cooked to perfection. 

When Mouth gets into the Air

Once ready, they skillfully cut the meats into bite-sized pieces, allowing us to enjoy the barbecue at its best without worrying about overcooking.

Yummy

This thoughtful assistance not only ensured optimal taste and texture but also made the meal far more relaxing and enjoyable.

Well BBQ

Overall, dining at Nami Korean Grill House by Hanjip felt like a premium Korean BBQ experience that goes beyond just quality meats. From the thoughtfully presented banchan and well-executed appetisers to the beautifully marbled cuts of beef and attentive grilling service, every element came together seamlessly. Coupled with the peaceful Greenwood Avenue setting, it made for a relaxed yet indulgent meal that Korean barbecue lovers in Singapore would truly appreciate.

Nami Korean Grill House
Location: 18 Greenwood Avenue, Singapore 289212
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee (DT8)
Website

Gogi Buffet Korean BBQ (Tanjong Pagar)

When a friend keeps going on about an affordable Korean BBQ buffet in Tanjong Pagar, you listen. Located just a short two-minute walk from Maxwell MRT Station, this hidden gem promised a hearty grill-your-own feast without the hefty price tag and we were more than ready to dig in.

GOGI Buffet Korean BBQ

The space carries the humble charm of a classic Korean eatery, free from elaborate furnishings or flashy decor. Simple wooden tables and chairs fill the dining area, creating a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The buffet counter is tucked further inside the eatery, where diners help themselves to the spread, adding to the relaxed, no-frills dining experience.

Dining Area

Right smack in the eatery, the buffet counter showcases a generous spread of marinated meats, ranging from juicy LA galbi and classic bulgogi to more adventurous cuts like pig skin. There’s also a garlic-marinated selection, where the meat is coated in fragrant garlic for an extra savoury punch, offering plenty of variety for those who enjoy bold, robust flavours straight off the grill.

Marinated Meat 

Beyond the meats, the buffet also includes a selection of seafood such as fish, prawns, mussels, and squid, catering to those who prefer lighter bites from the grill. There’s even bread and cheese available, perfect for melting over the grill or enjoying as a simple, comforting side to balance out the smoky flavours.

Beyond Meat

Towards the back of the eatery, you will find a chest freezer stocked with pork collar slices and beef brisket, staple cuts that we simply can’t go without when it comes to Korean BBQ, and always a comforting go-to for the grill.

Meat

We grilled everything over a rectangular hot plate designed with a slight slope, allowing excess oil to flow neatly into a discharge bowl at the side. This thoughtful setup kept the grill surface less greasy, letting the meats sear nicely while preventing them from sitting in too much oil.

BBQ Starts

Besides the grilled items, there’s a variety of cooked dishes available too, including japchae, comforting seaweed soup, tteokbokki, pancakes, and noodles, perfect for pacing the meal between rounds of BBQ. Once our meats were nicely grilled, I couldn’t resist making my own ssam, wrapping the juicy beef in fresh lettuce with a generous bite of kimchi for that classic balance of smoky, fresh, and spicy flavours.

Ssam

Overall, the buffet offers an adequate spread that will satisfy most diners without breaking the bank. For those craving Korean BBQ, this makes for a solid and convenient option in Tanjong Pagar, especially given its central location and wallet-friendly pricing.

Gogi Buffet Korean BBQ (Tanjong Pagar)
Location: 22 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088445

Kimchi Mama (Bugis+)

Up on Level 4 of Bugis+, I was surprised to find a long, snaking queue forming outside Kimchi Mama and it wasn’t just the aroma that drew people in. A big, cute mascot stood cheerfully at the entrance, adding to the buzz. As one of the newest Korean eateries in the mall, it boasts a vast range of hearty home-style dishes, easily over 50 items on the menu, with prices starting from just $5.90. What’s more, every dish is prepared with no pork and no lard.

Kimchi Mama (Bugis+)

I was also glad that the drinks weren’t priced exorbitantly — each one was just $3.90.

Iced Tangerine & Pomegranate Tea, Iced Green Grape & Lemon Tea - $3.90

Kicking off with the sides, we started with the Eomuk Fries, also known as Korean Fried Fish Cake Fries. These addictive, crispy sticks were coated in paprika, our choice over cheese,  giving each bite a savoury, lightly spiced kick. A simple yet satisfying starter to warm up the meal.

Eomuk Fries - $6.90

Boneless chicken comes in three flavours, Soy Garlic, Sweet & Spicy, and Honey Garlic. And honestly, what’s a Korean meal without fried chicken? It’s practically a crime to skip it… haha!

Boneless Chikin (5 Pcs) - $8.90

The Mama Shake Shake Rice Balls were such a delight! Just cover the box, give it a vigorous shake, roll it around, and enjoy the flavour-packed bites. Each mouthful comes with seaweed and egg roe,  simple, interactive, and full of love.

Mama 'Shake Shake' Rice Balls - $5.90

The Hotstone Kimchi Beef Steak Rice arrived sizzling, giving off that irresistible smoky aroma. Tender slices of beef steak lay over a bed of rice that crisps beautifully against the heated stone bowl. The rich kimchi, creamy egg yolk, and pops of roe come together to create a flavour-packed mix, while the seaweed adds a savoury crunch. 

Hot Stone Kimchi Beef Steak Rice - $14.90

Give everything a good stir and enjoy a bowl full of eggy goodness, tangy kimchi, and satisfying textures, comforting and absolutely delicious.

Beef

The Kimchi Mama Stew Pot was a hearty highlight, a vibrant, bubbling pot loaded with generous ingredients and unmistakable home-cooked warmth. As seen in the photo, the bed of fresh kimchi, tender beef slices, silky glass noodles, clams, tofu and vegetables came together beautifully in a rich, spicy broth. 

Kimchi Mama Stew Pot - $25.90

It’s one of Mama’s specialities made with love, and between the choice of beef or chicken, we definitely went for the beef to enjoy that deeper flavour.

Beef

Overall, Kimchi Mama delivers the kind of comforting, homestyle Korean flavours that make you feel right at home. With hearty portions, satisfying dishes and that unmistakable “made with love” touch, it’s a great spot for sharing a good meal with friends and indulging in honest, soulful Korean comfort food.

Kimchi Mama (Bugis+)
Location: Bugis+, 201 Victoria St, #04-11  Singapore 188067