Sowana

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) Today, I had the pleasure of dining at Sowana, and I must say it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I stepped in, the ambiance was cozy, setting the stage for a truly memorable dining adventure. The concept of a meal from Sowana is the chef's choice, and I was delighted to embark on a journey where the talented chefs would surprise me with their selection of beef dishes. The anticipation built with each presentation, and I was not disappointed. The star of the show was the beef. The quality of the meat was outstanding - tender, succulent, and bursting with flavor. The chefs showcased various cuts, from melt-in-your-mouth tenderloin to striploin, each prepared with utmost precision and expertise. The presentation of the dishes was also visually stunning, a feast for the eyes and the palate. What truly set this restaurant apart was the attention to detail and the impeccable service. The staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food they were serving. They took the time to explain each dish, its origin, and the reasons behind the specific cooking techniques used. In addition to the beef dishes, we were also treated to a carefully curated selection of complementary side dishes and accompaniments. These included fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, which enhanced the overall dining experience. But the experience's price point is not high compared with the quality. The attention to detail, exceptional service, and unforgettable flavors ensure this restaurant will remain one of my top picks for special occasions.

For a Korean specialized beef omakase, this is the spot. The price is reasonable and requires reservation but each bite was delicious. A drink is required to be order with the omakase. The staff speak minimal English, but are helpful in trying to explain each bite and what part of the cow it comes from.

It was -10 degrees outside, I arrived with a lot of shopping bags. My booking was at 19:30, I was in advance, it was 19:11 The staff opened the door, let me in. The manager came, and said with a tone not nice at all “Come back 7:30”. No sorry, no “please”, he didn’t look sorry at all to kick me out in the freezing cold. Lots of empty seats, and a table was eating so service started. I said “sorry?” And he repeated exactly the same thing, the same way. Surely I never came back

It was our first time at a meat omakasa. The course is 50,000 krw and you do need to order a drink, but it can be non-alcoholic. Our chef spoke English and he made the meal fun by having interesting conversations. All the food tasted good, some cuts were very tender while other cuts were a bit tough. Each cut of meat is cut into two bit size pieces. So if you are looking for a nice dinning experience it would definitely recommend sowana. If you are looking for a big meal, you might be disappointed. Since the chef cooks right in front of you if feels very intimate.

Nice atmosphere, especially for a BBQ place. More restaurants should be like this. None of the cuts of meat served were very flavourful and they weren’t grilled at a high enough temperature to give the meat a flavourful sear, or ‘Maillard reaction’. In terms of quality of meat, I have had a better experience in pretty much any regular Hanwoo beef restaurant, and usually at a more reasonable price. The only side dish served was pickled daikon. The rice bowl ‘finale’ was underwhelming for a Japanese style rice bowl. They only receive customers by reservation and in allocated time slots only.

What a great little place in hannam-dong. The service was exceptional, and the food was splendid. Great Omakase experience especially for the price in that area.

More beef forward than other 한우 omakase places I looked up with less filler courses at a decent price.

Great assortment of top quality Hanwoo beef and great detailed service from the chef.