Huckleberry Play Cafe (Eli's Eatery) — Restaurant in Parsippany-Troy Hills

Went with the wife

What we got: Spicy Pork Kimbap Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Kimchi Stew Chicken Hot Stone Bibimbap

The first thing my wife and I noticed when we came in was a very empty and quiet space. There were no customers and no music.

The friendly server sat us and we ordered the four items listed above.

Beginning with our starters (Kimbap and Wings): Before our food even came out we could hear what could only be beeps of a microwave at least 3-4 times before our first food came out, the Kimbap. It was nothing special, and nothing off about it. But the rice was oddly warm and the pork somewhat stale. (Microwaved?)

Next was the Soy Garlic Wings. Hot, somewhat crispy, and the chicken inside wasn’t too bad. Nothing to say about it, just up to standard.

But the biggest issue was the entree’s, specifically the Chicken Hot Stone Bibimbap. The presentation was pleasant, with a satisfying sizzle. However, upon taking the first few bites my wife and I felt there was something off about the vegetables in the bowl. They had a somewhat fermented smell to them. I brought this to the attention of the server, who immediately brought this issue back to the chef. He promptly apologized and asked if I would like anything else instead. I just said no thank you and carried on. I inquired about the vegetables, and as to why they might taste/smell that way, and he confirmed with the chef and informed me that the vegetables were purchased this morning. (I can’t confirm)

15+ Microwave Beeps by this point btw.

The good news, however, is that the Bibimbap was taken off our bill (no questions), the server was very helpful, and the wife enjoyed her stew.

Overall 2 stars seems fair. Service and atmosphere are nothing lackluster, but the food...

This was my second time at Eli’s Eatery, and once again, they did not disappoint! It’s tucked away in a quieter area of NJ with not much around, but that just adds to the charm. Plus there is always plenty of parking, which is a huge plus.

I ordered a little bit of everything: • Fried Dumplings (Beef) • Pork Buns • Pork Belly • String Beans • Chicken Fried Rice (Spicy) • Seafood Soft Tofu Soup (with rice, broccoli, and kimchi) • Chicken Katsu

The portions were generous, and the flavors were there. I especially loved the spicy chicken fried rice, perfect amount of heat (but i tend to like things on the spicy side). The seafood soft tofu soup was rich and comforting, and I really appreciated the side of kimchi. The pork buns, katsu, and the string beans are my favorite.

The only item I didn’t love were the dumplings, but everything else more than made up for it.

If you're looking for authentic Korean food with great portions and quick service in a quiet spot, Eli’s Eatery is definitely worth the trip. I’ll definitely be...

I don’t know how this place got good reviews and great rating!? My wife and I went on 10/23/24 after work. The menu doesn’t have many options and the prices are kinda high. We ordered the buns and sweet rice cake with mozzarella. As we continued to see the menu we observed the employee in the kitchen actually use the microwave more than 4 times. When I witnessed the cook use the microwave I got bothered. The server came and brought the buns and the meat looked suspect. I asked my wife to try it and she said it was ice cold and can tell it was microwaved!!! I then called the server over and actually told him why are we being served cold food that was put in the microwave? I also stated that the establishment is a restaurant and should have the food prepared and cooked. I asked for the manager and come to find out that the cook was the owner and she said all the food is prepared days before!!!! Why would I spend money in a restaurant to eat days old food being warmed up at in the microwave!? That’s a shame...