Chef Taeseong Kim is known for his unique Italian-Korean culinary creations and his appearance on Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars'. He is also the visionary behind Seoul's acclaimed Pono Buono restaurant.
5
Fabulous Italian food in Seoul! I usually eat local cuisine and this was an exception to eat Italian food in Korea but it exceeded mine and my kids’ expectations. We got to try most things on the menu. Started with the scallop crudo that was so fresh and citrusy with a hint of green from dill. Kiddos just about died in heaven! Then, the must-have triple appetizer combo everyone raves about: “special” bread, which was piquillo pepper, prosciutto, and tête du moine cheese with truffle honey. It was TO DIE FOR when you eat it as recommended, which is to make a sandwich with all three ingredients. Even my skittish kids took one bite and fought for the last piece. Then we had Brussel spouts, which we ordered because my veggie-loving son loves roasted Brussel sprouts, but it ended up being a shaved Brussel sprout salad that was unassuming in appearance but packed a punch in flavor. Amazing!
Next in line were mushroom and squid which was served with egg yolk to mix all together. My son never eats octopus or any cephalopod, but he sure ate this one! Also the giant shrimp that was halved and grilled… freshness you can taste from its natural sweet juices! Just mouthwatering!
Pièce de résistance was the show-stopping grilled halibut with butter sauce. This was reminiscent of the type of grilled fish you would have in San Sebastián, Spain, with its own juices! The restaurant had a copy of Extebarri cookbook in its bookshelf, so I wondered if he was inspired by the iconic Spanish restaurant. It was as good or possibly better than the one I had in San Sebastián.
We didn’t miss a beat and moved on to the pasta course: of course, the famous aglio olio from his Netflix CCW debut, as well as the shrimp and zucchini pasta. Every dish just hit the high note and exceeded all expectations.
Dessert was the Korean melon ice cream, which had small diced Korean melon in it and was very refreshing. I’d have another if I had room in my stomach.
Hands down one of the most memorable Italian meals we’ve had, including in Italy! Lighter flavors and just delectable in the choice of fresh ingredients. Couldn’t have asked for a better meal. Bottle order of wine required, FYI.
Had such a wonderful time at Pono Buono. From the moment we arrived, the team was warm and welcoming, setting the tone for a great evening. The food was genuinely impressive, especially the hidden pasta, which was the highlight of our meal and definitely lived up to our expectations. The special bread combo was also perfect and paired so well together.
Service was excellent: patient, clear, and attentive without ever feeling rushed.
Overall, a great experience.
Gave away my sliced diamond ring to get a reservation here. For real! My cousin competed on Catch Table with the rest of the world for like 6 months to get a reservation at Pono Buono. I had the 'Hidden Pasta' here and it was the BEST PASTA I HAD IN MY LIFE! I literally cried it was so good.
All the dishes were perfect!
I recommend the appetizer menu
They had a truly special taste, and only the best can truly enjoy it
However, the service was not good 😌
