Garlic, chilli and kimchi - with such unabashedly massive, bolshy flavours it’s little wonder that Korean food seems to be having a bit of a well deserved moment on the London food scene. The Japanese famously (and also racistly) refer to Koreans as “garlic eaters”. If like me, you see this as a very good thing indeed and not an insult at all, then Korean food is something you need to seek out. There are plenty of contenders out there so it’s worth whittling things down to avoid disappointment. Here are some of the very finest places in town to chow down on bibimbap and feast on bulgogi:

Koba

Consistently referred to as some of the very best Korean food in town and with good reason too. The food at Koba is fantastic and also excellent value for central London; the barbecued squid and the beef kalbi are a must.

11 Rathbone Street, W1T 1NA

On the Bab

East London’s first anju restaurant, On the Bab serves contemporary Korean fare, go for the bibimbap which is served sizzling in hot stone bowls with the obligatory crunchy rice lining.

305 Old Street, EC1V 9LA

Su La

New Malden is home to the biggest Korean community in Europe and if it’s authentic bibimbap or pajeon you’re in need of this is the place to visit.The specials include treats like ox tripe with chilli or raw beef with pear and soy.

79-81 Kingston Rd, New Malden KT3 3PB

Naru

For a more upmarket experience, Naru offers Korean treats like smoked marinated duck and Pa Jeon (pancake stuffed with kimchi) as well as the usual bibimbaps and bulgogis. Good authentic Korean food in central London.

230 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8EG

Hurwundeki

Next time you’re in Bethnal Green and stuck for somewhere decent to eat, look no further than Hurwundeki. Not only can you enjoy some of the tastiest noodles ever (the vegetable udon is dreamy) at excellent prices, washed down with a hot mug of plum tea, you can even get your barnet sorted at the in-house hairdressers.

298-299 Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9HA

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