Yangban Shinjyuku Okubo — Restaurant in Tokyo

It is with a heavy heart that I am unable to recommend this restaurant. The first time I went, I honestly thought I had found one of the best kimchi jjigaes in Japan. The flavors were not only bold and deep, but it had a spiciness to it that made you feel the heat without ever obstructing any of the other ingredients. I walked out of that place ecstatic, so you can imagine my excitement as I went back for the second time. I ordered the kimchi jjigae and pajeon (Korean pancake). All the excitement and anticipation I had of trying such an amazing kimchi jjigae again completely and utterly evaporated when the dish was placed before me. The first thing I noticed was the shimeji mushrooms, not a typical ingredient. Then I caught sight of jalapeños and even grated carrot. Not a thing you usually see in a kimchi jjigae. But what made me the saddest was the soup. Gone was that beautiful, magma like red color that I love so much. Instead, I was met with a darkish brown soup. Now, do not get me wrong. The dish tasted good, but it was not kimchi jjigae. As for the pajeon, it did not fare much better, I am afraid. The pajeon that was brought out was not made of that wonderful batter that turns delectably crispy when fried. No. Instead, I got scallions over a base of eggs. In short, it somehow went from being a Korean pancake (how it is called in English) to a scallion omelet. Nothing about the pajeon tasted like pajeon.

If you are looking for food that tastes good and you do not care about authenticity, then you will most likely find something you like here. However, I do not go out of my way to visit Shin-Okubo, a place brimming with Korean restaurants and supermarkets, just to have a knock-off of some of my favorite...

We had barbeque there it was not worth it. Three small shrimps for nearly 1000 Yen, 5 pieces of small meat for 1500 Yen and the vegetable plate was a joke. Maybe the non barbecue is better but this was bad. The service seemed bored and not smiling at all, like she hates her job. Sorry to say that but I would not recommend it for the price. The...

The was a delightful gem of a restaurant. I recommend the chive seafood pancake, toppeki, and pork belly. Misses included the ox soup, which lacked flavor except for an overdose of white pepper. Service was friendly and speedy. I had reservations on a Saturday night which turned out not to be necessary as tables...