Korean food is having a moment, and Nashville’s diverse food scene is happily along for the ride. From Korean BBQ to kimchi jjigae, Nashville offers an array of Korean restaurants that are sure to please your palate.
Whether you’re looking for traditional Korean dishes or a modern fusion experience, you’ll find it here. This article is devoted to helping you find the best Korean restaurant in Nashville, Tennessee, for your next night out (or in!).
From authentic family-run restaurants to trendy spots offering unique takes on classic dishes, Nashville has a great variety of Korean dining experiences to choose from.
Authentic Korean Cuisine: A Deep Dive
Korean food has a distinctive character all its own. Here’s a look at some of the dishes you’re likely to find at a Korean restaurant.
Exploring Traditional Korean Dishes
- Kimchi. You could say kimchi is the cornerstone of Korean cuisine. This fermented vegetable dish is available in dozens of different varieties, and it’s a must-have at nearly every meal. Some restaurants are especially known for their homemade, authentic kimchi.
- Bibimbap. This colorful rice dish is as beautiful as it is nutritious. Typically, bibimbap contains rice, an assortment of seasoned vegetables, meat, a fried egg, and gochujang (chili paste). The ingredients may vary by region.
- Korean BBQ (KBBQ). Korean BBQ is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. At a KBBQ restaurant, you grill your own meat at the table, and you’re served an array of side dishes called banchan. Several restaurants in Nashville offer KBBQ.
Understanding Banchan: The Array of Side Dishes
Banchan are meant to complement your main dish, not to be eaten on their own. The variety of banchan can give you a sense of the chef’s skill and the restaurant’s authenticity.
Common types of banchan include kimchi, pickled vegetables, seasoned spinach, and bean sprouts. The best banchan offer a balance of salty, spicy, sour, and sweet flavors.
Nashville’s Korean Restaurant Scene: A Culinary Landscape
Nashville’s Korean food scene is a tapestry woven from tradition and innovation, offering everything from time-honored family recipes to daring culinary experiments.
Family-Owned Establishments: The Heart of Korean Food in Nashville
Many of Nashville’s Korean restaurants are family-owned, and these establishments are often the keepers of authentic flavors and traditions. These restaurants offer a taste of Korean history and heritage, passed down through generations.
Many of these restaurants have signature dishes and stories, and they often offer home-style cooking and warm hospitality.
Modern Korean Fusion: Innovative Twists on Classic Dishes
Korean fusion cuisine is gaining popularity as chefs experiment with incorporating Korean flavors and techniques into other cuisines. This trend broadens the appeal of Korean food, attracting diners who may not be familiar with traditional dishes.
Some restaurants are pushing the boundaries of Korean cuisine by blending Korean flavors with American or other international influences. They may also emphasize the use of local ingredients and sustainable practices.
Korean Street Food: A Casual and Flavorful Option
Korean street food is a popular and affordable option for a quick and flavorful meal. Dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kimbap (Korean sushi), and Korean fried chicken are all readily available.
Several restaurants and food trucks in Nashville specialize in Korean street food, offering a convenient and budget-friendly way to experience Korean cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes and Hidden Gems
Nashville’s Korean restaurants offer a fantastic range of dishes. Here are a few you absolutely have to try:
Jjigae (Korean Stews)
When the weather is cool, you can’t beat a good jjigae. These stews are comforting, flavorful, and come in many varieties. Kimchi jjigae, made with fermented kimchi, is spicy and tangy. Doenjang jjigae uses doenjang, a fermented soybean paste, for a deeper, umami flavor. Several restaurants around town make authentic, delicious jjigae, so be sure to explore!
Korean Fried Chicken (KFC)
Korean fried chicken has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. It’s usually double-fried, making it extra crispy, and comes with a range of sauces from sweet and mild to intensely spicy. Many Korean restaurants in Nashville offer KFC, with menus boasting a huge selection of flavors.
Japchae (Glass Noodles)
Japchae is a savory noodle dish made with glass noodles (dangmyeon), stir-fried vegetables, and often beef or pork. It’s seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, giving it a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. When prepared properly, japchae is a delightful and satisfying dish.
Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known spots, Nashville has a few lesser-known Korean restaurants that are truly exceptional. These “hidden gems” often offer incredible value and incredibly authentic flavors. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try dishes that might not be on every other menu. Ask the staff for recommendations; they’ll steer you toward something amazing!
What to expect: atmosphere and ambiance
The atmosphere in a restaurant can be just as important as the food itself. Nashville’s Korean restaurants offer a range of vibes, from modern and sleek to cozy and traditional. Décor, music, and even the lighting play a role in creating an authentic dining experience.
Some places go all-out with design elements that reflect Korean culture. You might find private dining rooms perfect for groups or outdoor seating areas for a more casual experience.
Korean dining also comes with its own set of customs. Sharing dishes is common, chopsticks are the utensil of choice, and respecting elders at the table is important. Keep an eye out for these cultural nuances, and you’ll have a more immersive and enjoyable meal.
Wrapping Up
Nashville’s Korean restaurant scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from authentic Korean home cooking to modern fusion dishes and delicious Korean street food.
With so many options to choose from, the best thing to do is get out there and explore! Find your own personal favorites and support these local businesses that contribute so much to Nashville’s culinary landscape.
So, go ahead and experience the unique flavors of Korea, right here in Nashville. Embrace the city’s culinary diversity and discover your next favorite meal!