From the street, Seoul Tofu House looks relatively inviting. The reader board on the sidewalk briefly advertises the types of foods available and the interior is visible from the sidewalk. Inside the space is large, bright, and orderly.
Food is ordered at the counter in the rear. There is a large illustrated menu on the wall as well as laminated individual menus. The counter person was attentive and willingly advised us on our choices. For the budget-minded, there are a few dishes pushing $20, but much of the menu is under $10. We ordered Bibimbap with Vegetable in a hot stone bowl and Jap-Chae with Rice. Both ran $8.95/dish. We were given a number and found a table. Water, napkins, silverware, etc. are self-serve.
Our food arrived in a reasonable amount of time and with it, a tray of side dishes. Mary referred to these as banchan. Apparently this is traditional with Korean food. In addition to kimchi in the bottom right, clockwise, there was thinly sliced fish cake, sweet potato and something like slices of a little onion omelette.
The dishes we ordered were very well presented. I wish I could include here the sizzling sound that accompanied the Bibimbap. It was steaming hot and hissing! All these items are mixed together with the rice that lies beneath.
The Jap-chae was not quite as colorful or sizzling as the Bibimbap, but was deliciously fragrant with garlic and sesame oil.
It must be assumed that diners will share their dishes. The counter person mentioned it and small plates are available to assist in the process.
The food was delicious. The portions were quite sizable. We both left with little white boxes. The atmosphere was clean, cheery, and peaceful. I am pretty sure that I will return.
Just a note on the name of this restaurant, I don't know why it is called a "tofu" house. There was not a lot of tofu mentioned on the menu and most of the dishes are available with a variety of meat options in addition to vegetable. So it goes.
Seoul Tofu House
Korean BBQ
4538 University Way NE, Seattle
