Soban Restaurant - Heidelberg — Restaurant in Heidelberg

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Soban Korean Restaurant in Heidelberg, and I must say it was an absolute delight from start to finish. Soban not only delivers a truly authentic Korean culinary experience but also excels in service, taste, and portion size, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast in the area.

Service (5/5): The moment we stepped into Soban, we were warmly greeted by the friendly staff. Their attentiveness and eagerness to make our dining experience exceptional were evident throughout the evening. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and offered insightful recommendations, catering to our individual preferences. The pace of service was perfectly balanced; we never felt rushed, allowing us to savor each dish and enjoy our time. Soban's commitment to top-notch service sets them apart.

Tasty Food (5/5): Soban's menu boasts an array of traditional Korean dishes, and each one we tried was a burst of authentic flavors. We began with the classic Kimchi Pancakes, which were crisped to perfection and paired wonderfully with a savory dipping sauce. The Bulgogi, a marinated beef dish, was a highlight of the meal. Tender and succulent, it showcased the chef's mastery of Korean flavors. The Bibimbap was beautifully presented, with fresh vegetables and a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg. It was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that left us craving for more. Soban's culinary team certainly knows how to bring out the best in Korean cuisine.

Quantity and Quality (5/5): One of the most impressive aspects of Soban is their commitment to both quantity and quality. The portions are generous without compromising on the integrity of the dishes. Each ingredient is fresh, and the presentation is visually appealing. It's evident that Soban takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to create their dishes, which truly enhances the dining experience.

The ambiance at Soban is cozy and inviting, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. The restaurant's commitment to cleanliness and safety, especially during these challenging times, is commendable.

In conclusion, Soban Korean Restaurant in Heidelberg exceeded all expectations. The combination of exceptional service, mouthwatering dishes, and generous portions make it a standout in the culinary scene. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Korean cuisine or new to it, Soban is the perfect place to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Korea. I highly recommend Soban to anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience...

Here is my experience with 4 dishes:

Jae Yuk Deopbap (305): My husband ordered this spicy and delicious dish. If you’re a rice lover, consider ordering extra rice, as the beef and vegetable portions are more generous than the rice. My husband liked this balance, but I preferred having additional rice. Consider this dish This dish is ideal if you enjoy flavors combining soy sauce, pepper paste, and Korean chili flakes.

Bul Go Gi Deopbap (302): I ordered this dish, and it was exceptionally tasty. As mentioned earlier, extra rice is advisable for those who prefer a more balanced ratio. Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture as I was very hungry. Opt for this dish if you prefer a lighter taste, as it combines beef with a mild soy-based sauce that’s gentle on the stomach. Individuals with IBS might find it rich yet light on the stomach.

Jap Chea Deopbap (303): I previously tried this dish, which is similar to the (302) but includes fewer beef slices and additional glass noodles. I didn’t favor it as much, finding it heavy on carbohydrates.

Karae Ra Myun(504) : We also shared this dish. While it appeared appealing on the menu, it tasted like standard instant noodles with curry and beef—something easily prepared at home.

Note: Be prepared for a short wait, typically around 10 minutes, as there’s often a waiting list. However, the food is served promptly once you’re seated.

A note of caution: order wisely, as taking leftovers requires purchasing a container...

I used to love Soban back at its old location at the "Rathaus/Bergbahn" bus stop. It used to be really cozy and a nice place to have lunch or dinner but this new restaurant has lost all its charm in my opinion. You get seated at the same table with random strangers and have to share your space with them. Also it's extremely loud which is just made worse by them constantly playing Kpop on a super loud volume. I can barely have a conversation with the person I'm having dinner with over all the noise and the loud music. I feel like the atmosphere overall is just not pleasant at all. Everything is extremely and uncomfortably bright and just doesn't feel warm and cozy at all compared to how the old restaurant looked. I have never had this much sensory overload eating at a restaurant like that. Also I feel like the portions have gotten smaller as well compared to what I used to order at Soban 2-3 years ago?

Service is okay but definitely not the friendliest. It has always kinda been like that though so I don't really mind. Overall, just a very disappointing development for the restaurant. Will definitely look into other Korean food options as long as they don't...