Let’s get this straight: Jang Teo is not the place for gourmet Korean food. But bargain hunters would approve of its low prices, big portions and welcoming service. Situated on the second floor of the Roof Garden Guesthouse, this tiny no-frills spot, which can hold 15 diners at most, won’t impress with style or decor. The dining area is right next to the kitchen, and features a squat-on-the-floor area and a few chunky wooden tables. But we still like it thanks to the laid-back, post-work vibe. It attracts a handful of tourists, smoking and soju-sipping Korean regulars and locals in search of an alternative to the inter eateries that dominate the soi. Ordering can be tricky as the three-page menu is written in Korean with random misspelled English translations. But Mr. Kim, the good-humored owner who also doubles as a cook, is more than willing to explain and recommend (in broken English and sign language). If he has time, he will even show you how to eat the samgyeopsal (grilled fatty pork slices wrapped in lettuce leaf with chili paste, sliced garlic and green chilies). Unlike his unswerving friendliness, Kim’s cooking is pretty inconsistent. While we really enjoy the tteokbokki (stir-fried Korean rice cake with egg, fish balls, veggies and gochujang paste) and the yangnyem dakitigim (sweet and sour chicken), we could do with more kick in the boring gogimandu (steamed wontons stuffed with bean curd) and lukewarm bibimbap. But for what they lack in quality, Jang Teo’s dishes make up in quantity. Almost every dish here is big enough to be shared by three people. The banchan (side dishes) are free of charge and constantly refilled. They also offer an ice cream buffet deal for a mere B25; you’re limited to one trip to the fridge but they let you scoop as much ice cream as you can possibly fit into one bowl. The cooking might not be worthy of a trip from downtown, but thanks to its affordable prices and pleasant service, Jang Teo makes a good dining spot if you are in the neighborhood. No corkage charge.
