A family member of mine—who's passionate about international gourmet food—spoke very highly of this restaurant. He took me and a friend there twice this month and even brought me a takeout (May 2025).
Yes, I was truly impressed by this “glocalized” Korean restaurant for several reasons:
Outstanding Flavors The food was simply amazing. We tried the Pork Bone Soup, Seafood Tofu Stew, Tonkatsu, and Fried Chicken Breast—all were exceptionally flavorful with tender, well-prepared meats. The chef clearly has a special technique or secret for making the soups and stews so rich and satisfying.
While Pork Bone Soup and Tofu Stew are common staples at many Korean restaurants, the versions served here were in a league of their own. After tasting them, I honestly don’t think I’ll be going back to other places for those dishes. I’ve previously dined at other BapZip locations (such as in Thornhill), Piggy’s in Thornhill, and nearly every Korean restaurant across the GTA. Still, the Richmond Hill BapZip stands out as the best—by far. Even though it’s part of a chain or “sister brand,” what truly makes the difference is the skill of the individual chef and the quality of the service at each location.
Great Portions and Value The food portions were generous, especially the Tonkatsu, which came in a huge serving and tasted fantastic. They also offer weekday daily specials that knock $2–$3 off regular prices—a great deal. I’m looking forward to trying the rest of the menu throughout the year.
Open Kitchen and Clean Ambience I loved the open kitchen concept. It conveys transparency and confidence in cleanliness while adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant itself was clean and tastefully decorated in a simple yet appealing style.
Individual Trays for Each Diner Serving the main dish and side dishes on a tray for each person was a thoughtful and efficient system. It eliminates the need to share side dishes at the table, making the dining experience more comfortable and hygienic.
I even asked for the names of the chef and serving staff because I know we’ll be coming back regularly. So here’s a big thank you to Glen, the Wizard Chef, and the wonderfully kind and attentive staff, Mindy and Jessica. Keep up the great work—see...
Read moreFood: 4 Stars Service: 3 Stars Ambience: 4 Stars Value: 4 Stars Overall: 3.75 Stars
I ordered takeout from Bap.zip several times, and I must say, the experience was quite delightful. The fried chicken here is simply outstanding, with a rich and delicious flavour that is hard to beat. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness, and it’s clear that they put a lot of effort into perfecting their seasoning.
One of my favourite sides is the pickled radish. On my first visit, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous container they provided. It was more than enough to complement the meal. However, on my second visit, I noticed a significant reduction in the size of the radish container, which was a bit disappointing. The smaller portions were still tasty but not as satisfying as the larger servings I initially enjoyed.
Speaking of portions, the size of the chicken pieces has also decreased over my visits. While the quality and flavour of the chicken remain top-notch, the shrinking portion sizes are a notable drawback. It’s a bit disheartening to see such a great dish being offered in smaller quantities.
Despite these minor issues, the service at Bap.zip was excellent. The staff were friendly and efficient, ensuring my order was ready quickly and correctly. I visited Bap.zip for a casual dinner, hoping for a satisfying meal, and for the most part, my expectations were met. The ambiance of the restaurant is inviting, even for takeout customers, and it’s clear that they value their patrons.
In summary, Bap.zip offers some of the best fried chicken in Richmond Hill with its rich and delicious flavour. The pickled radish is a great accompaniment, though I wish the portion sizes remained as generous as they once were. The quality of the food and the excellent service make it a place worth visiting, despite the minor disappointments with portion sizes. I hope they consider reverting to their more generous servings in the future, as it would undoubtedly enhance the overall...
Read moreUpon entering the restaurant, you immediately feel a cozy yet chic atmosphere that transports you to the heart of Korea. The space is inviting, with warm lighting and modern touches that create a relaxed, yet sophisticated vibe. The staff is equally welcoming, greeting us with genuine smiles and attentive service that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The ambiance is as authentic as the food, making it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem.
We ordered a selection of dishes to sample, starting with the tonkatsu, which featured a perfectly crispy breading surrounding tender, juicy pork. The balance of flavors was spot on, with the savory meat complemented by a tangy dipping sauce. The BBQ chicken in various flavors was a standout, each one bursting with bold, smoky goodness and a savory sweetness that kept us coming back for more. The pork bone soup was rich and flavorful, offering a hearty, satisfying broth that had just the right amount of spice to elevate the dish. The bulgogi, tender and marinated to perfection, melted in our mouths with each bite, showcasing a classic Korean favorite that did not disappoint.
What truly sets this place apart, aside from the authentic taste and stellar food quality, is the cost. It’s rare to find a Korean restaurant that delivers such an exceptional experience without breaking the bank. The pricing is incredibly affordable, making it an excellent option for both casual dining and special occasions. It's clear that the value matches the quality, and the overall experience is one that guarantees a return visit.
In short, this BBQ chicken restaurant offers a truly authentic Korean dining experience that combines exceptional flavors, warm hospitality, and great value. Whether you're a Korean food enthusiast or new to the cuisine, you’ll leave feeling satisfied and eager to come...
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