Darrell P.
Yelp
There aren't many Korean spots in South Orange County, but after today, HanBop just might become my go-to. HanBop had been on my list for a while... but they hooked me at "kimchi fried rice." (I'm a sucker for a delicious bowl of kimchi fried rice. It truly is a comfort food for me.)
Store front - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=Bhy665P0eExZKH9SqamT_Q
From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted and promptly seated. I already knew what I wanted: spicy pork and, of course, that kimchi fried rice!
The service was quick, and my food arrived within 15 minutes, hot and fresh. HanBop's menu offers great value, especially for lunch. With few Korean restaurants nearby, HanBop is a standout choice, and I'm excited to have found a new go-to spot for satisfying Korean comfort food.
I arrived just before 2 p.m., and aside from a small group finishing their lunch, the place was nice and quiet. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the restaurant is well-lit, making it a comfortable spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
I ordered the Spicy Pork Lunch Special ($17.50), which came with white rice, a light soup, salad, and a variety of banchan (side dishes). The spicy pork was tender, flavorful, and had just the right kick. For the price, the portion size was generous, and the assortment of sides made it a well-rounded meal.
Spicy Pork - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=NdI4DucTfur_pkMdkly06g
Banchan - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=6oDL5Ge0tThNTArv5OeGFg
Salad - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=EJRYOqlfCp4KvHHTtR07XQ
Soup - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=Bjk64Vxn5ITzqD0nY3Yoiw
The soup was very good with an unexpected bit of heat!
Sides - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=TwAaKJHhhLFRIj7eSz6sHw
Of course, I couldn't leave without trying the Kimchi Fried Rice with SPAM ($13.50)--it did not disappoint. The rice and sunny side up egg were perfectly cooked, with a rich kimchi flavor that hit all the right notes. It's definitely something I'd come back for.
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=oK1w7Wdv5CCzfOGYHk1kqQ
Another plus, chogochujang available upon request! Great for dipping!
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=-ChOyHhtBWr7b0xqUL9ABA
Before leaving, I placed a to-go order for the HanBop Vegetable Roll ($11.50), which came with one banchan. It was also tasty!
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=dECLrV7J4zVUhRsQFiflyw
HanBop is a hidden gem for Korean food lovers in South Orange County. If you're in the area and craving solid Korean fare, HanBop is definitely worth a visit! I'm looking forward to my next visit and want to try the Hwe Dup Bap.
Menu - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=-kyIizj6ahNWViS9o8hwKg
- Big Aloha!
Food: 5
Ambiance: 3+
Service: 5
Value: 4