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Nestled inconspicuously at a small corner of the Paya Lebar Kovan Community Center, lies Yorijori Korean BBQ, Ministry of Food's latest dabble in the vivacious local Korean food scene. With "yori" meaning to cook and "jori" to recuperate, I was expecting a soothing and palatable journey of soulful Korean classics when invited for the media tasting at this humble neighbourhood joint.
Sure enough, the weather was on our side. Cool winds swept through the mainly alfresco dining area (a scene I deem rather problematic during stormy weather), and we settled down to the generous hospitality of the knowledgeable staff, the gregarious sounds of evening line-dancing activities chiming in the background..
What most of you won't know is that almost EVERYTHING apart from the chicken and vegetables are imported from Korea. This includes the soup bases, main ingredients, rice and even the tables! Talk about bringing diners the complete authentic Korean dining experience, Yorijori takes it to a new level. Even entertainment is provided with the screenings of the latest Korean MTVs and shows while dining.
We kicked off the meal with Banchan that comes free flow with every main dish. Those that like your kimchi sour, this will be right up your alley. The myulchi bokkeum (stir fried anchovies) are truly addictive, the spiciness from the gochujang tickling the taste buds while the sticky coating of honey sweetens the deal. You'll probably want to ask for seconds!
The Ohsamdak Bulgogi ($15) [top] was a treasure trove of proteins, spicy pork, chicken and squid roast made snug over a bed of fresh greens. Dak Gal Bi ($12) [below], features spicy stir fried chicken ribs in a hot pot as well, but with the addition of rice cakes. Mix it all in and you've got a comforting bowl of rich, slightly spicy stew laden full of tender squid rings and marinated meats. Note that portions are rather generous and this dish is suitable for 3-4 pax to share.
Devoid of cooking abilities, fret not, the waitstaff will happily assist in the process, just take a swig of your beer and enjoy the breeze.
One of the shortfalls of Yorijori was the Haemul Pajeon ($12), the seafood pancake was way too stodgy, despite the crisp crust, the batter was a tad raw towards the centre. Such a shame since the generous serving of fresh seafood, prawns and squid rings beckoned to be cast a limelight.
If you're having the Bulgogi or Gal Bi, do consider ordering the Special Fried Rice ($6) which essentially entails a mixture of cooked rice, vegetables, loads of seaweed, tossed around in the same wok to soak up the lingering flavors of the stew, flattened to attain a sort of crust and then served. Definitely a clever and flavorful way to add some carbs into your meal.
Yorijori also offers the option of Korean BBQ. We were fortunate enough to sample the Original Pork Belly ($16/200g), Garlic Pork Belly ($18/200g) as well as the Spicy Pork Belly ($18/200g). Just look at that holy trinity of pork, nobody can resist that! Served with a basket of fresh lettuce wraps accompanied by crisp cucumber and carrot sticks, it made the whole indulgent affair a whole lot more healthy. Definitely one dish to orders if you're a meat lover.
To cap off the whole night in style, the generous bosses broke out the Watermelon Shoju. Hollowed out sweet melons filled with watermelon slushie and spiked with imported shoju. A brilliant idea that I will be keeping for future parties.
Yorijori has proven to be a good addition to the heartland neighborhood. Korean food at real affordable prices with serving sizes that are super family friendly. With food standards set slightly below 'outstanding', I'm pretty sure the establishment will be a hit with the local folk. So make your way down should you be craving something a little different.
Current Promotion: 10% discount will be given to customers who order 3 items and above and also for customers who dine in the alfresco area during rainy days.
Yorijori
207 Hougang Street 21
Paya Lebar Kovan CC
S(530207)
[just oppositen the road from Kovan Mcdonalds]
t: 6288 6651
Operating Hours:
Mon - Fri: 3 30pm - 11pm
Sat - Sun: 11 30am - 11pm
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