So.Moon Korean Restaurant — Restaurant in Trieste

Located just behind the main square, this new addition to Trieste's culinary scene offers a blend of traditional Korean dining elements within a modern, clean, yet somewhat generic interior. While the decor may not evoke the ambiance of Korea, the tables are thoughtfully set with traditional Korean steel cutlery, plates, and cups, providing an authentic dining setup.

The menu is extensive and well-crafted, though I was disappointed to find that, with the exception of "Bibimbap," all dish names were in Italian. Including the original Korean names would significantly enhance the cultural experience and promote better understanding of Korean cuisine.

In terms of presentation, the dishes were visually appealing. However, I must note that the Bibimbap was served in a hot metal pot instead of the traditional hot stone bowl or a plain cold metal bowl, which detracted from its authenticity. Additionally, the pricing for Bibimbap seemed a bit high compared to other offerings.

Service was efficient and courteous, though somewhat detached. There was little effort from the staff to explain or introduce Korean culinary traditions to the guests, a missed opportunity for a restaurant positioned as the pioneer of Korean cuisine in Trieste. Given its status as the first of its kind in the city, I expected a greater emphasis on educating diners about the rich traditions behind the dishes.

Overall, my experience was positive, and I look forward to trying other menu items on future visits. I believe the restaurant has potential and hope that with time, it will address these minor shortcomings to fully embrace and showcase the vibrant culinary heritage of Korea. My critique comes from a place of familiarity and appreciation for authentic Korean cuisine, having experienced it firsthand in South Korea.

EDIT: On my second visit I took some different choices by adding some Kimchi also. Quite disappointed since it does cost 6 euros and the quality is not that good,...

We love Korean food so had high expectations. The concept and idea is great, location is super by the Piazza and very nice decor inside.

That being said, food is mediocre and not authentic Korean. I wish they took a real Korean chef at least. It is run by Chinese people, they are doing their best but could be so much better. Kimchi pancake didn't look like the photos too.

With the perfect location and design, just upgrade the Chef please and you will get all 5 stars reviews.

🐔🍗 Fried chicken has to be crunch crunch crispy (secret = double fried)!! Not soggy chicken! Coat the spicy one completely, please.

Also, nobody of the staff speaks a single word of English! Trieste has a lot of tourists in the summer, be smart no? And...

Very disappointing experience at this place as it is BY NO MEANS Korean food.

Gnocchi di riso con spaghetti (aka the tteokbokki- the quintessential Korean dish simmered korean hot pepper paste gouchujang ) was served with instant noodles in runny soup, there was no presence of taste of gochujang, the texture was VERY OFF, there was NO fish balls as they claimed on the menu.

Fried chickens were farrr off real things- they were soggy, with random sauce sadly drizzled on top..

The service was quick and efficient. If you are hungry and need to be served in a hurry, you are in the right place. If you are after an authentic Korean cuisine, turn away and better get a jar of gochujang and cook...