The real taste of Korea, hidden in Holborn.

The Venue
Right next to Holborn tube, down what appears to be a staircase leading to a muscle gym or discount shoe shop, hides this spacious and impressive Korean restaurant. The large room has lots of spaces between the tables, wooden screens for more privacy and low lighting, creating a discrete, exclusive feel. In fact the lighting and decor are so cleverly done that within a few minutes, it is easy to forget this swish restaurant is in a basement at all. The large sturdy wooden tables have a round metal hot plate – for the cooking of certain dishes at the table.

The Atmosphere
This place, though well hidden, is very popular and throngs with Asian customers – prepare to queue on weekends if you haven't booked. The waiters and waitresses appear to be in their own world diners are advised to gen up on Korean cuisine as the menu is a bit baffling for the uninitiated, though the photographs help. This is as real as a Korean restaurant in London gets – no knives and forks on the table, but they are provided if you are brave enough to ask.

The Food
The food really is authentic and as nothing is watered down for western palates, some tastes, textures and flavours can be unusual, but persevere and a new taste discovery could be just around the corner. Try the Pa Jeon (about £9), an omelette-y pancake of spring onion, oysters and seafood served sliced into strips with the yellow and green layers on display. They also do great hot pots and a good selection of barbecues including Sam Gyup Sal Kui about (about £9), fresh slices of belly pork brought to the table and cooked there and then. Another flavourful option is the bibimbab which means means stirred meal and consists of a bowl of rice, topped with mounds of raw and cooked vegetables and chilli pepper paste. Healthy and simple, yet packed with flavour.

The Drink
Asadal have plenty of soft drinks, teas, beer and wine to accompany your Korean meal, including OB (Oriental Brewery) Lager. Or for a stronger tipple, try a glass of soju - Korea's native spirit.

The Last Word
Bring an open mind and you'll leave with a full stomach.

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