Lunch in Ktown—”Her Name Is Han”
Winter's approaching and I find myself often craving for a bowl of hearty, warming Korean cuisine. If you're in the hunt for a place that offers a swift service yet maintains a cozy, conversational atmosphere, then 'Her Name Is Han' in Midtown is the spot for you.
Priced around a reasonable $20, their lunch menu is a showcase of authentic Korean fare, each dish accompanied by an assortment of delightful, homemade side dishes.
Their fried chicken has a crispy, golden exterior and an inside that's both juicy and tender. This chicken meets every criterion on my fried chicken checklist: the batter is thin, does not fall off from the meat, is perfectly savory, and a great crunch.
Then there's the Yuzu Chicken Kalkuksu, a traditional soup noodle dish (kalkuksu) with an innovative twist. The broth brims with robust chicken flavor, yet there's a clear, refreshing hint of yuzu. Chili paste is offered on the side for customization. What caught me off guard was the shredded chicken's tenderness, a pleasant surprise given that shredded chicken can often be somewhat dry.
Budae jiggae: beans, ham, rice cake, vegetables, ramen and cheese cooked in a savory and spicy broth. Exactly how budae jiggae should’ve been done and exceptionally tasty.
Bulgogi Hot Pot: a dish of marinated beef and vegetables cooked in a light, refreshing broth. The flavor profile closely resembles a Japanese Sukiyaki, with a broth that's lightly salted and sweet. It's not your traditional bulgogi, but this fusion variation was a delightful surprise we thoroughly enjoyed.