Chris M.
Yelp
It was a 2-star experience (Could've Been Better) for me here because I spent 27 bucks for a premium dish expecting a premium experience with some wow-factor and I got none of that. Their high-runner popular Spicy Pork and Octopus dish here, which is raved by many, fell far short of expectations. The flavor and seasoning was lacking and not up to par. Bland.
I was excited to try this place. Never been to this H-Mart, stumbled upon them, and then did a search based on highest ratings in the area and this place popped up. A lot of people raved about their spicy pork dish - which is something I am very familiar with, and to be honest, no one in Austin (or NYC for that matter) has come close to the awesome spicy pork that I grew up eating back home in Michigan. But gonna give them a shot.
I saw their Spicy Pork + Octopus dish - it was $26+ which is hefty, but I love that combination and the pics looked so good so I decided to give it a go. Food came out in a timely manner.
Ok - so this is one of those experiences - and I don't know why - but lately I am finding these occurrences happening a lot with Korean restaurants. No joke. What I am referring to is the dishes look so appetizing and tasty on pictures, and even when they are served to you in person, but when you actually eat them and they fall way short of expectations and the flavor is not up to par. Well unfortunately this is what happened here. I got a lot of fatty pork bits, did not get as much octopus as I should have for $27, but those robust Korean flavors with the slight peppery-seasoned heat was just non-existent here. It basically tasted a bit on the bland side believe it or not. The flavors did not explode in my mouth, they were not robust, there was a severe lack of spice and seasoning. I was a little taken back and then after a few bites - very disappointed.
So after a few bites I decided not to finish the dish and just packaged it to go, being very disappointed. I have had similar experiences in Killeen - where there are several Korean places to choose from. I'd say I only found 2 places up there that were pretty good - not great - but pretty good. I don't get some of these reviews raving about their spicy pork. Not sure if it was an off day or different cook but it's a small kitchen and usually the same person cooking.
So I don't know what else to say, but after spending that much money for one dish and feeling underwhelmed and disappointed, it certainly doesn't motivate me to come back here and try them again. My search for excellent well seasoned Spicy Pork dish continues.....