Soul of Korea

We absolutely love Korean food and have lived in Korea while we were in the military so we’re always looking for authentic Korean restaurants to eat at. When we moved to Tampa we found Soul of Korea near the University of South Florida. It is a small restaurant in a nondescript strip mall but it’s clean, nicely decorated and the staff is very friendly. We always order yaki mandu as an appetizer and bulgogi. I had spicy pork and my wife had beef bulgogi. We also had all the kimchee side dishes which we always enjoy. The food came out pretty quick, it was hot, very tasty and the portions were pretty big. Soul of Korea is very authentic, the cooks and staff were all Korean. There was a steady stream of take out orders and it wasn’t crowded because we got there when they opened. The prices were reasonable for the amount and quality of food you get. We definitely recommend this place if you like Korean food or want to try it. It’s our “go to” Korean restaurant.

This is the first time every dish we ordered was delicious and amazing!! This small restaurant is managed by two very efficient ladies!! I read other reviews and they were pretty harsh on this small business. If you have any business sense, you should understand how expensive and difficult it is these days to find and retain labor. We were a party of five. We were greeted and seated immediately upon arrival. One of the ladies brought us menus and took our drink order swiftly. I observed how they worked, and noticed how quick they are cleaning the table after customers leave!! She brought our appetizers fairly quickly ( we had kids with us who were very hungry) and our main dishes followed shortly afterwards The lady kept checking with us, and refilling our drinks despite the restaurant being full!! Prices were in line with other restaurants but the food quality was very good I would go back in a heartbeat. It’s just that I live an hour away!! I love to support small businesses, especially when they’re run by women!! To the reviewer who gave it one star, you should blame DoorDash, not penalize this business!! Go there if you like authentic Korean food, you will not regret it!!

The workers here are not honest!!! They charged me for a cup of hot water without letting me know first. It happened twice. The first time when it happened, I asked for a piece of lemon to go with the hot water. They charged me but I didn't argue. The second time I only asked for a cup of hot water without lemon, they charged me again. I confronted the manager, and it took a long time for the refund to be processed. If they listed hot water as a charged item on their menu, I would understand and pay for it. Otherwise, it is stealing! They also charged me $47 for a hot pot, which only had some onions and kimchi with some hot dog, no other meat (see picture below). It was ridiculously expensive! I could have gone to a Korean all you can eat hot pot buffet, have had all different meats and vegetables, and only had spend around $30! I have to mention that they served cold fried chicken. Yes! Fried chicken was reheated but had a lot of cold spots. This happened at another time we went there. I really gave them many chances, but they obviously tried to cut corners to do business. I won't go there any more. It is a rip-off!!!

I went there today with my family members. As always the food, presentation, service, everything were top notch. We ordered Beef bulgogi, Ojingeo bokkum, and Kanpunggi. And all of these were as good as we tasted in Korea. And best of all, they serve Halal food... 😁

The restaurant has simple deco but the service is good. The food portion is generous, but the seafood pancake has a different texture (fluffy) and the buguki is a bit bland. However, it's still a good place to eat.

08/06/2025 Dinner: It may look small as a business, but the flavor and portion size is big! The service is wonderful. It felt cozy and like at home. Ordered the kalbi-tang and the al-jiggae. If you have never been here, it is worth the drive. Thank you for making the food like my mom used to make. The cucumber kimchi and cabbage kimchi is soooo good!

It was my first visit but my daughter has visited many times. The staff was very friendly and polite. The dining area was pretty clean (I did not visit the restroom). The food was served in a timely manner and was hot and fresh. There are many options to chose from on the menu but in my opinion they could use a few more drink options. The food was very tasty and the main dish portions are a nice size. It was a very nice experience and we will definitely visit again. Soul of Korea is certified Tasty!

I love the dinner for two meal. Offer a GREAT variety amount to have a bit of everything! Japachae, galbi, bulgogi, spicy tofu soup, fried fish, pancake, tifu and many ban chan... galbi was good but could've been cooked better < usual slightly browned > and more sauce for japachae.. other than that...well worth the eat for variety! Chicken wings was ok. Not ur usual fried wings.

My forever Tampa favorite! I loved Soul of Korea since I was in college! This is probably my second review on them and they never miss! My big sister and I shared a yummy Budae Jigae Bowl! It was delishhhh and it was so warm and comforting! It says it serves 2 people but you can have it for 3. It's so yummy! The place also feels like an authentic Korean restaurant. It was very warm and inviting.

The soy bean side dish has gone bad. I pointed it out and the lady behind the counter said it's not because they made it that morning. I can't dispute when it was made but I can tell you what food tastes like when it's gone bad. The soy bean was rancid. Everyone at my table agreed it had gone bad. We ordered the meal for two and it was enough to split between 3 but everything about each dish was just off. The fish tasted cold as if it had been cooked in the morning and not even nuked. The kalbi was mostly fat, the bulgogi was super dry. Restaurant was clean and it looked like your average Korean restaurant. Not going back.

The food was ok. In the fried rice-- the chicken was a little tough and the rice had an aftertaste. The bulgogi was tender and good overall. I just wish the flavor was stronger like what I usually expect from bulgogi. Service-- They were kind at pickup; however, I don't like the extra steps I had take with being charged twice. I ordered and paid online from their website. When I arrived, they told me they don't accept online payments so I had to pay again at the restaurant. They told me to dispute the online charge with my bank. I had to wait weeks for the dispute to resolve. It's unprofessional to put that responsibility on customers. If your business cannot access payments from the online order system on your website, it's your responsibility as a business owner to remove it from your website.

My husband and I (both veterans) had the pleasure of dining at Soul of Korea, and it did not disappoint! As a veteran-owned business, this spot instantly earned our support, and after our first visit, it's earned our return, too. The service was quick, friendly, and efficient.... no long wait times and everything came out fresh. The vibe was casual and welcoming, with bottled drinks (Coke products) and a solid variety of dishes on the menu. Here's what we tried: * Sweet & Spicy Chicken - Absolutely delicious and crispy with just the right kick. * Wings - Same tasty sauce as the chicken, & crispy in the best way. * Korean Fried Rice - Well-seasoned, with colorful veggies and a great balance of flavor. * Beef Bulgogi - Tender, savory, and satisfying, definitely a highlight. * Crab Cream Cheese Egg Rolls - not a fav for me, but hubs wanted to try it. Everything came out hot and well-prepared. The portion sizes were generous, making it a great value. It's clear this place takes pride in its food and hospitality. We'll be back and not just because we love supporting our fellow vets, but because the food stands on its own. Highly recommend!

10/10 would recommend Definitely small business feel. Very homey and casual spot. Two big tables and then maybe 6 smaller tables. They play K-pop on the tiny tv. The ladies working are fast and really nice! My partner and I ordered the Dinner for 2 thinking it would be nice to try a little bit of everything but not too much food. Wrong. THERE. WAS. SO. MUCH. FOOD. Dinner for 4 is more accurate haha and for just $65 when we went! Great deal considering we stretched into two meals and ate leftovers for lunch the next day Food came out very fast. And really could not say anything bad about any of the food we got to try! Other Korean restaurants we've been to don't usually provide so many banchan/sides! Kimchi tofu stew was so so good, craving was satisfied!!

As a California native, its really hard to come by good and authentic Korean food!!! The service was amazing and quick. Very cozy and fun!

Can't wait to go again. It was a very nice time. Food was great and enjoyed the atmosphere

Food is always good and consistent. Soon tofu beef soup is always piping hot and flavor is always on point. Scallion kimchi pancakes are crispy, flavorful, and not stingy. Bento box is delicious perfect size for a large appetite. Spicy pork bulgogi is always extra spicy and cooked perfectly.

Who knew you could find great Korean here in FL. Soul of Korea is a nice little restaurant with authentic Korean food. Service was quick and friendly. Inside is average size with enough room for groups if needed. We had a wide range of dishes and they were all very good. I had the kimchi pork belly. Just enough heat and spice to make my taste buds sing. Great kimchi and pork belly was very tender. This hit the spot for me. Others had chicken katsu, a beef and noodle soup and a combo of 2 apps, potstickers and kimbap. All were very good. Kimbap with beef was super tasty. The Mandu dumplings were crispy and full of flavor. Definitely a great combo for dinner. We really enjoyed this and will be back to try more dishes in the future.

Seoul of Korea is my absolute favorite spot in Tampa! Every time I'm in town, I make sure to stop by. The bulgogi is always delicious, and the short ribs are just as good. It's a cute, homey little restaurant with the kindest staff, everyone there is so sweet.

I was in the area when I saw Soul of Korea and knew it was on my list of places to try. It is on 56th about a mile from Busch Blvd.. It's in a small strip center with parking out front. It is indoor dining and take-out. Today I opted for the 2nd. The lady inside was somewhat indifferent, she took my order, seemed bothered by the pictures I took and it wasn't til I had one foot out of the door that she gave a cheerful farewell. The first table I sat at was wet and sticky so I switched tables. I ordered 2 favorites of mine, the Japchae and the Fried Chicken, the large 14 pc.. Neither was very good and the chicken was nothing short of dreadful. It was hard to tell most of the chicken pieces apart from each other. I did recognize a drumstick and 2 wings and the rest I could not tell. There was a collosal amount of breading on a wet style chicken. The taste was ok, maybe 3 out of 5 but everything else about it was very disappointing. Good thing I was home because I spent the better part of my meal spitting out the excess breading on to my plate and trying to find the meat on the bone. The chicken came in two containers and we ended up throwing 1 full container in the trash. The Japchae was not too bad, if I did not know any better I would have eaten it without incident. It had the quality profile of your cookie cutter strip mall chinese food. However, I can think of 4 places right off hand that make it better. No need to continue, other than they do have a lot of other items and who knows, maybe some of them are good. Did not try the Bulgogi, that would have told me more. But the again, I already wasted enough money. Nuff said.

This is a very good Korean Food Restaurant. The shorts-ribs entree was exceptional. The staff were very friend and helpful, they provided great service.

Very cute little restaurant, CLEAN. Excellent service. The food was delicious! Will be recommending to all friends and family. Great prices!

This place says it serves halal however it serves pork items which is not allowed. They may say that it is prepared separately but there is always cross contamination.

Good Food - Good Service... I absolutely LOVE their Galbi .... Small restaurant / newly remodeled.

The restaurant has simple deco but the service is good. The food portion is generous, but the seafood pancake has a different texture (fluffy) and the buguki is a bit bland. However, it's still a good place to eat.

I had never had Korean food that wasn't hotpot or BBQ, and this place exceeded my expectations. We were a group of four, so decided to each order a dish and share so we could all taste a variety. Every bite was delicious and super flavorful. I ordered the Spicy Chicken Bulgogi and it was perfectly spicy to where there was a good heat, but not enough to burn your tongue. The Korean Fried Chicken was probably my favorite; sweet and spicy sauce and the outside was nice and crunchy with juicy chicken. There weren't too many people in the restaurant so it was nice and quiet. They had a TV playing K-pop on in the background which was nice. The lighting was low, but bright enough to see the menu; the perfect mood lighting. Overall great experience and worth the 40 minute drive from where I live. Will definitely be back.

First time here. Can seat about 40 people max. Family run. It was dim inside and we end up getting seated in a very dark corner, couldn't take better photos. Pretty good service. Lady was attentive and food came out extremely fast. I loved the japchea. All the side dishes (banchan) were delicious, just the daikon were very sour. The bulgogi was not stacked with massive amount of onion like some other places we've been to, good amount of meat. The soft tofu soup were a bit salty but we pretty much enjoyed it all. Would be back here the next time we have a convention.

Definitely one of the best Asian restaurants I've been to in a very long time. The service is also top notch, and the ambience is such a homie feel. Some of the best wings in the city as well!

I ordered from this restaurant through Uber Eats because I've never had it but I love Korean food. The food came packaged well and was warm. I loved how they included the various vegetables and kimchi in individual foil. The tofu is my favorite. The beef bulgolgi was delicious and you receive a large amount. I also really enjoyed the crab Rangoon rolls. I want to stop in the restaurant now to check out other menu items.

Preferred the beef short rib hotpot. Incredible broth nice portion of beef and very tasty. The side condiments were excellent- fresh and spicy. Highly recommended- nice for medium sized groups 6-8 people.

Soul of Korea is a must-visit for anyone craving Korean cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned fan or trying it for the first time, the food, atmosphere, and service combine to create a memorable dining experience. The banchan (side dishes) are plentiful and varied, with standout options like kimchi and pickled radish that complement the main dishes beautifully. Don't miss out on the kimbop--it's colorful, flavorful, and a great way to start. The galbi (beef short ribs) and Chicken Donkatsu were amazing. My favorite was the Topokki (spicy rice cakes).

Love this place! Best bulgogi. Friendly staff! I live I. Wesley Chapel and make it a point to come to this part of town for their food.

Such a quiet and cozy spot for authentic Korean food made with love. The women working here were so nice and friendly and were happy to see me happy with my meal. I can't wait to go back. Also, they have the best kimchi I have ever had!! I typically don't like kimchi but I try it everywhere I go because I know everyone's tastes different but so far they have the best one :)

While on an errand run in Tampa, decided to try a new Korean place near our route. We enjoyed most of the meal and the owner was very sweet! The California roll was large and we enjoyed it very much. The Gyoza was also good and fresh. The sides to our Beef Bulgogi were mostly good, except the broccoli was cold (refrigerated cold!, kimchi was not too spicy, but we loved all the other sides and even were given refills! The Beef Bulgogi was yummy and one order is enough for four people! We had so much as leftovers to take home for just the two of us. We had ordered the pancake with seafood, although it looked delicious and the portion was good, it was not to our liking. The owner was kind enough to refund us the dish even though we did not ask. The owner invited us to return and ask for samples of dishes to try and we will be back. The restaurant is not in the best area and the plaza is run down (honestly, if it hadn't been for the reviews, we would have left). Inside is clean, and basic dining. Glad we tried this place and gave it a chance, you should as well!

I called this restaurant to ask if it allows BYOB, and this korean lady was so rude. I dont have a problem whether its BYOB or not, just wanted to check before me and my friends went there on monday. Her response to me asking BYOB was : i cant say yes or no to that question. I was genuinely confused by this answer and I asked her, what does that mean? And she said "under my watch, I will not allow it" I said okay then hung up. I will never go here just from this interaction.

The BEST KOREAN FOOD in TAMPA. I know they don't have the BBQ at the table but I'm here to tell you that doesn't matter. Let them cook, majority of us over cook at them other places any way. Plus $71(includes the drinks) for two people and it was easily enough food for 4. That is appetizers, mains, and dessert. Actually m, the table across from us was a party of 6 and they ordered what we ordered and added chicken wings. The ladies running the show were so humble. I don't know what the Korean equivalent to Big Mama arms are but I know they got them. The speed at which the food came out! Please get the sweet tea. It's like sweet tea got stationed in Korea and came back just a little different. I even ate grown up food like fish with bones in it, Mackerel. My friend doesn't like seaweed, so we had two orders. Have you ever asked for another round of Eggplant? We did because it was amazing. The ambience feels like you are eating at your auntie's house but it small so your cousins are standing there salivating while they watch you eat so they can sit down and eat. Very intimate! I forgot to mention they have a lot of vegetarian options and have a variety of HALAL menu options as well which I believe speaks volumes. Talk about serving the community.

Came here to celebrate my hubs birthday. Had a party of 14 and was able to call ahead and reserve a table. Let me say that I've never been here and went off the reviews of how great the food was. And I wanted to try something different than the typical Korean restaurants we go to. I had no idea this place was so small inside! So they had to split our party into 2 tables which wasn't ideal but we made it work. Seating was really tight! Staff was friendly and attentive! And never skipped a beat with service. So the loss of stars really comes from the food. We thought it was just ok, average. The bulgogi had very little flavor. There was really nothing that stood out from our dining experience. Nice to try something different but I think we will stick with our usual places.

Came here for a late night dinner and it was still busy. Ordered a few items to try and it was just okay. I had the Korean fried chicken wings and it was lacking flavor for me. Plus it seemed like it was breaded too much for my liking. The short ribs was not too flavorful as well. Service was good. It was a bit pricey as well.

Incredible food. I have gone several times in the last 10 years. Food still awesome. I've taken friends to this restaurant and everyone of them love it

One of the best Korean restaurants in Tampa. The food was amazing, we did the dinner for 2 and it was more than enough. It was a worth it! The service was great. They took great care of us.

It's on the plaza marquis, but has no signage on the outside of the building above the entrance or door. Only signage is above the door. It's the restaurant located to the left of the plaza. The plaza and parking lot is a bit rough around the edges. The interior is small, we had to put in our name and number. Only about 10 or so tables inside. We are second line, could be a while for sure before we eat then. Table was ready by 7:18pm. We were seated right by the door and crammed next to a larger table and party. The waitress asked me to get up to let her by to the table in the corner. Unreal. We were able to move by the kitchen and bathroom after another table was cleared off. We ordered the taste of Korea for 2 for $65 and was able to replace the beef bulgogi and short rib beef kalbi with spicy chicken bulgogi instead. The taste of Korea comes with 12 banchans, that's awesome. We also ordered the large or two roll kimbap, one veggie and one tuna and tteobokki. $108.58. They offer barley or green tea, we got the barley tea, hot. The veggie Kimbap and the tteokbokki are our first. The rice is mushy and over cooked. Not a good sign of what's to come at all. Same rice is used for their Kimbap. The tteokbokki is spicy, it's yummy and the rice cake is nice and chewy and not over cooked either. The japchae is tasty. Comes with bulgogi beef with it. The Kimbap rolls are so-so, the same mushy rice and ways too much rice in it too and there's not enough veggies or tuna in the rolls. The tuna is almost non-existent in the roll to be frank. The soondubu soup is spicy and good, it comes with meat as well. All beef for the taste of Korea. The spicy chicken bulgogi is good, nice heat. The banchans: kimchi, cubed kimchi radish, white pickled radish, eggplant, fish cake, bean sprouts, broccoli, green beans, egg roll, mushroom, nori, veggie jeon, tofu. I was not a fan of any of the banchans here, sadly. Wasn't worth the $65 at all. We basically paid $65 for a the spicy chicken bulgogi and the small sondubu stew, a tad steep. Dessert is red bean filled sticky rice balls covered with coconut flakes. They aren't too bad. The Kimbap wasn't worth the $9 (veggie) and the $12 (tuna). I feel like I was ripped off during this visit, what a bummer.

The absolute best Korean food!! I got several things to bring home because we live far from the restaurant. The Bulgogi was lean, flavorful and so tender! The wings were divine!! It is well worth the divine

Amazing service and amazing food! That sums it up. The portions are really good size and we enjoyed out first experience there

The owner started us with typical free small plates which included the fish cake, radish, kimchi etc (all of which were old, dry, and stale). My main dish kalbi was $32 which is a little higher than most places was half fat/vein and the meat wasnt even as tender. All the other dishes we had were pretty mid too. Inside is very small. Maybe 6-7 tables tops. I would recommend you not come here. Go to One Family instead. Service was good otherwise

A halal Korean BBQ place... need I say more? The food is wonderful, service can improve a little but I guess a rush hour is equally chaotic anywhere. Definitely a place you want to visit in Tampa.

The store doesn't look like much from the outside but it's definitely a hidden gem. It is slightly tucked on the side of a road next to a smoke shop where you least expect it. Walking in your greeted by the lovely ladies and I was seated quickly. The store gives off a very mom and pop store whose being run by aunties. I ordered the tripe tofu soup and a jjajangmyeon. The soup came out hot and boiling which was amazing. A little disappointed that I didn't get a raw egg for it but that's fine. You're also given a side of rice as well. The soup was the perfect amount of spicy. The tripe gave it a bit more of a iron taste which I enjoy. The jjajangmyeon was delicious as well, it didn't have as much meat or veggies as I am used to but it was still delicious and evenly saucy. Would love to come here again to try other things!

This restaurant is located in a strip mall. The decor is simple but the food was authentic. We went around lunch time. Service was quick and our food arrived promptly. If you are looking for a sit down, authentic Korean restaurant, check this one out.

Quite possibly the best Korean restaurant I have ever been to. We had the bibimbap, kalbi and kimchee pancake. Everything was piping hot, flavorful and veggies cooked to absolute perfection. Simply could not have asked for a better service experience, either. Dine here with confidence.

This restaurant is located in a very unassuming shopping plaza. Food is homemade and it is absolutely delicious. we never even had time to take pictures because we ate everything so fast. They checked on us to make sure that we were liking everything. I told her that it was really good and she said to take my time and enjoy. We will definitely be back for Korean food here.

Great local joint, very pleased with my experience! Try it out , and go for the apps! Like a tapa style (wings)

This place is absolutely incredible, order the army stew and seafood pancake, both were delicious and quickly prepared. Servers were very attentive and checked in often to see if we needed anything (more water or side dishes). Would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for good Korean food.

Service was lovely and the staff were so friendly. We ordered the meal for two and omg it was so much food. Bang for your buck and could def feed three people. We are from out of town and this is the best value I've ever had when it comes to Korean food (this is coming from someone who lives in an area with so much Korean options). We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and would def recommend.

Very small and dark inside, but warmth and helpfulness of owner made up for it. I've never tried Korean food so asked server for suggestions. After asking us a few questions about our preferences. she went through the menu and made several recommendations. As an appetizer we selected fried dumplings which were delicious. I had bibimbap with beef, vegetables, rice with a fried egg on top. The owner explained spicy sauce I could add and mixed it in for me. it was served in a very hot stone bowl which continued to cook the rice on the bottom and this crispy rice was great. My husband had a very spicy beef soup which surprised him as most restaurants don't spice things up enough for him. Service was impeccable. Take a chance on this very unpretentious place.

What a great little Korean restaurant! Their food tasted pretty authentic. The ban chan were plenty and AYCE. We had had the spicy tofu and pork stew. It was so good! The tofu just melts in your mouth. The kalbi were seasoned perfectly and tender. It was a huge serving too! The sweet and spicy wings has a nice crunch and caramelized coating that made it so delicious. Service was good too! Food came out fast!! Definitely will go back to try other dishes.

My first visit was years ago, before the interior was refurbished, so seeing this very neat and appealing interior was very inviting! Walking in for a 2pm lunch, it was quiet, and I caught them during their lunch break. However, they were still quick and kind enough to give me a menu and give me a water while I looked it through. The prices seemed a little high, but I was still quite curious, and ordered an appetizer and main for myself. My half-order of Beef Kimbap and 6 side-dishes arrived first. Tasting each of the sides with the kimbap, they were each delicious and distinct, a good mix of sweet, salty, and pickled, refreshing tastes. The kimbap itself was very savory, with a hint of sesame oil, and very filling. Had I known, I would've ordered it by itself as my meal! My main took about 15-20 minutes after the appetizer to arrive, but was a generous portion of meat and sauce. The pork was cooked perfectly, the batter was crisp but not oily, and the crunch was immaculate. The sauce had a good tang, but I found very thick. Nonetheless, it was delicious. All the while, I was constantly attended to by some of the nicest people, checking to see if everything was good. Even when I ordered a 10-piece Mandu Appetizer and Kimchi Stew to go, they made sure everything was hot and complete for my to-go order as well. As a whole, it was a very authentic experience, with warm people in the front and delicious food with a homemade taste. While it can be very easy to miss, and while the dining area is slightly limited, pay them a visit. It is well worth it.

Jin was so nice. We had a great meal. Order two appetizers and plan to order more. So delicious and filling we didn't need more but we definitely want to come again!

Came across this authentic Korean spot in Tampa. Always enjoy eating the side dishes from Korean restaurants! We ordered japchae with beef and a spicy seafood noodle mix. It was pretty spicy and the flavor of the broth is very strong. I like it but it was a little fishy. Japchae is good but they it was sweet which wasn't my thing. It was pretty good food and I bet some of their other dishes are better. It was quite pricy for the dishes $19 and $17. Other locations are on the $15 range.

Food was quick and did not disappoint. Will be heading back again when I'm in the area