Han-Mi — Restaurant in Chattanooga

My wife and I have been hoping to get the chance to stop by and try out the food here and finally got the opportunity to do so with another couple we climb with regularly. It's a small place and pretty popular so seating can be hit or miss. This isn't a huge issue as most are simply getting take-out due to covid. Once seated we quickly perused the somewhat short menu(again most places limit the menu's a bit due to covid) and each couple ordered the pork belly wrap appetizers that were delicious. My wife's parents are the traditional korean type and have blessed me with the opportunity to experience most of what was offered on the menu via their home cooked meals. With that said my expectations for korean food are extremely high. My wife ordered the Rib-eye bowl and I ordered pork belly and Noodle stir fry while our couple friends ordered the Bulgogi and Korean fried chicken. My wife shared a bit of her Bulgogi and I knew immediately I'd ordered the wrong dish. The Bulgogi cook and flavor were divine. We did have to wait awhile to get the Bulgogi so were all offered a free Mandoo(Korean pork/beef dumplings) appetizer while we waited that were also tasty. The Korean fried chicken was decent if a bit dry but the sauce served on the side with it was fantastic. The noodle stir fry had much thicker noodles than any I'd had before but were great. The pork belly was also decent but none of it could compare to the Bulgogi. Me and the wife had imagined an older korean lady or Ajumma likely being the source of all this food and were a bit surprised when I believe the chef(a heavy set younger korean guy) came to our table at one point. He seemed exactly the type that would be passionate about a plate of hearty Bulgogi. I will note it's much thicker here than I'd ever had in the past and I was not complaining. It almost looked exactly like boneless LA short ribs to be honest - another dish I knew and loved. Here I do have to make one small critique in honor of my Korean mother in law. Had she been served a Korean meal without kimchi, ricer and a half dozen other small side dishes customary with a korean meal she would have come unglued and likely found her way back to the cook to tell him about it. Fortunately for him she was not in town for our initial foray into his realm. To be fair some of these side items can be had for $3 when ordering from the BBQ menu - it is just not considered optional for most of the koreans I spend time with. The kimchi was average for me as I tend to find what they serve over at chopstix a bit more akin to what I get at our family kage (korean market). Regardless, me and the wife will definitely be coming back.

TLDR: Order the Bulgagi in large quantities and pay...

My wife and I had found this place while looking for local Korean food restaurants. This is a true Chattanooga hidden gem. The only thing that makes me go 4 stars instead of 5 is the location. If you blink you can miss it. My wife and I went about 2:30 in the afternoon for a late lunch. It was slow so we were able to sit where we want. I did take notice that while the private parking lot is a little rough the restaurant is handicap accessible. When we entered we were told we could sit where we would like and found a cozy table by the window. I noticed they have a smaller menu but in a good way. They put more attention and flavor into their dishes that restaurants with larger menus. My wife and I got the tteok-bokki and mandoo appetizers. My wife absolutely loved the tteok-bokki and the gochujang sauce on it is the best you will get anywhere. The owner told us she makes all the sauces herself and that one is crazy good. I had the mandoo dumplings and I can say for certain I have never tasted better. They are basically a deep fried pork pot sticker. They are fried just enough to give a crisp wrapping and a perfectly juicy filling. The dumpling sauce is excellent blend of salty and tangy. We both ordered the stir fry at the recommendation of the owners son, as he told us it is the local dish of the town his my comes from. It is spicy and delicious. The noodles are cooked perfect and the veggies and chicken in it are cooked just right. Think of it along the lines of a sauce heavy Pad Thai. I also got a order of the Korean fried chicken for us to share. You have probably heard people say something is so good they would slap their momma for it. I would slap anyone for this fried chicken. It is one of the best things I have ever eaten. It is crispy fried chicken bites with a tangy sweet and spicy sauce served over white rice. This would be my go to dish hands down. I also got a order of their bibimbap, Korean spicy ramyeon and kimchi soup to go. The bibimbap and ramyeon were dinner that evening and my wife had the kimchi soup. The bibimbap was a wonderful mix of flavors that I enjoyed very much. The soups were basic but satisfying. We also got a quart of their homemade kimchi to take home. It is wonderful a perfect balance of spicy and sour. The staff was wonderful and very friendly. If you want a good place to eat that will satisfy about any appetite, give this...

HanMi Restaurant is an absolute delight for anyone seeking an authentic and delectable Korean dining experience right here in Chattanooga. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was captivated by the warm ambiance and friendly staff.

The menu offers a wide array of Korean dishes that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic Korean barbecue, spicy kimchi stew(seasonal), or vegetarian options, HanMi has it all. During my visit, I tried the Bulgogi, pork belly and kimchi friedrice, and it was a flavor explosion. The marinated beef was tender and full of rich, savory goodness.

One of the highlights of dining at HanMi is the interactive barbecue experience. They bring out a pre cooked meat to your table, allowing you to easily eat your meat to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s an enjoyable and engaging culinary adventure.

The attention to detail in the presentation of each dish is remarkable. The banchan, an assortment of small side dishes, adds a delightful variety of flavors and textures to the meal. And don’t forget to try their kimchi – it’s simply addictive!

The service at HanMi is top-notch. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu, always ready to assist with recommendations, and incredibly attentive to diners’ needs.

In terms of atmosphere, HanMi strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or that special someone, you’ll find it to be a welcoming and comfortable setting.

While the prices are slightly on the higher side, the quality of food and overall dining experience justifies every penny spent. It’s a place where you can savor the flavors of Korea without leaving Chattanooga.

In conclusion, HanMi Restaurant is a hidden gem that deserves recognition in the Chattanooga culinary scene. If you’re looking for exceptional Korean cuisine, impeccable service, and a memorable dining experience, look no further than HanMi. It’s a must-visit, and I can’t wait to return for another gastronomic adventure.

I hope this review helps you capture your experience at HanMi Restaurant in...