After 5th visit, this place earned a thorough time for me to review.
Nestled in Edgewater, SGD TOFU & BBQ is a hidden gem offering a culinary experience that blends Korean flavors with a spectacular view of the NYC skyline.
My recent visit left me thoroughly impressed, starting with the $30 LA Galbi and Soft Tofu dishes, which were both flavorful and reasonably priced. The highlight was definitely the tender LA Galbi ribs, perfectly marinated and grilled to perfection, paired with the comforting warmth of the Seafood Soft Tofu stew.
What sets SGD TOFU & BBQ apart is its commitment to providing a complete dining experience. The unlimited complimentary sides, ranging from kimchi to various pickled vegetables, added layers of taste and texture to the meal. Sitting outdoors, overlooking the Hudson River with the iconic silhouette of New York City in the background, was simply breathtaking. I recommend visiting during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild, allowing you to fully appreciate the panoramic view and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the nearby waterfront path post-meal.
The staff were exceptionally accommodating. I opted for a very spicy version of the Soft Tofu soup, and they graciously adjusted the spice level to suit my preference without compromising on flavor—a gesture that truly enhanced my dining experience.
Parking was readily available nearby, and despite its popularity, there was minimal wait time, ensuring a seamless dining experience.
The ambiance is serene and relaxing. The sound of water gently lapping against the rocks, complemented by the occasional chirping of birds, created a tranquil backdrop. Unlike many bustling city eateries, the restaurant's atmosphere is calming, with a playlist that strikes the perfect balance—audible enough to create a welcoming vibe yet allowing for easy conversation.
As for the overall value, dining at SGD TOFU & BBQ is budget-friendly, with a bill totaling around $75 for two people, including beverages.
For anyone looking to enjoy delicious Korean cuisine amidst a picturesque setting without breaking the bank, this restaurant is a must-visit.
Whether you're a local resident or visiting Edgewater, SGD TOFU & BBQ promises a memorable dining experience that combines great food, scenic views, and...
Read moreI'm a huge fan of soft tofu stews, and when the mood hits, there's nothing else that can satisfy that craving. Here, I was deeply intrigued by the offering of udon noodles in the stew (instead of rice on the side). In short, it is a perfectly conceived dish. I loved slurping up the thick, chewy noodles and found the spice level just right. For those who are faint in heart when it comes to spice, rest assured that you can modify those levels upon ordering. The slight downside of choosing udon rather than rice was that the stew was served in a metal bowl, which cooled much more quickly than the hot stone pots that are used for the non-noodle stews.
Many others have written about the views proffered at this restaurant, and I absolutely concur. If you're lucky enough to come when the skies are clear and temperatures are favorable, you're in for a real treat.
Service might be considered brisk or even curt by some. But I considered this a plus, since the speed at which our food arrived was frightfully efficient. That said, I was surprised that the banchan (or free side dishes that accompany most Korean meals) got to our table so late. It's a trend I've noticed with a lot of Korean restaurants lately, and wonder if it's something that's done to ward off asks for refills. Small quibbles aside, this was a fantastic meal with breathtaking riverside views of the city, and would absolutely recommend to anyone who's gunning for a decent soft tofu meal...
Read moreCame here for the food but that’s where the good stops. Some of the staff here are extremely rude. Had dinner and asked for a few things like sauce, extra spoons etc they forgot, no big deal. During the meal the staff was busy elsewhere but always seem to make us feel like they wanted us to leave so they could turn the table. It was odd and not very pleasant when you’re there to eat a meal with your family. We paid the bill and an older Korean waitress took the bill and tip we gave walked away then literally stopped and turned around to question us about the 15% tip we left for a table of 4. As if we somehow stiffed her. She circles the total and proceeds to try to educate me on the amount I should leave. Holding back my annoyance, I tell her it’s correct and just leave it at that. It doesn’t end there, she goes to say that there are people waiting and that they need to turn the table. By most standards we did not take any longer than other tables but it really confirmed my suspicion of the motivation of the staff. They literally just care about their own tips more and being super condescending to their customer. This is bad for repeat business as we won’t be coming back to be...
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