This is my third visit to Jjang, and I must say I love how often they update their menu, and how creative they are with all their offerings. Thus, making them a destination worth driving to Richmond for. And during this winter season they have plenty to help keep you warm, as you gather around their Korean Barbecue tables.
On this visit we were trying all their new winter offerings starting with a familiar cocktail made a bit more Korean using soju. The Soju Mule is like a sweeter mint mojito with ginger beer for fizz and to help with digestion.
A new non-alcoholic option is their Jeju Sea which is sweeter and tropical with guava juice as its overarching flavour.
As for food, our meal began with complimentary Korean sides the likes of kimchi, soy bean sprouts, and sweet marinade potatoes. Plus a collection of sauces, dips, and seasonings to help flavour the entire meal as you please.
The Clear Clam Soup Set came to the table still steaming. A perfectly piled tower of clams in a light milky broth. The soup was peppery with plenty of clam essence, sweetened by the presence of red pepper and fresh greens.
The rest of our meal utilized the built-in table grill for Korean style barbecuing. New to this offering is a whole squid. Steamed and sliced, so all you need to do is give it some char through grilling. As is, it was bland, we definitely used our assortment of sauces for this one.
In comparison the Grilled Mackerel was far too salty, which is the natural tendency of the fish. As is, it was overwhelming. And without rice or noodles to pair it with, I passed on more after the initial taste.
My favourite barbecue item to order from Jjang is their Premium Beef Belly. Prepared in a roll out sheet, I find the best practice is to cook it as is, then using the provided scissors to cut it down to size for serving. Depending on how you prepare it, the meat is tender and fatty with an enjoyable chew. Marinaded for a nice sweet and savoury flavour.
Looking for a leaner cut and a quicker cook? The Marinated Prime Rib is a good choice for quality meat that is easy to barbecue and best dipped into the side of sweet soy sesame.
In short, I have yet to have a meal I didn’t like at Jjang, especially given how well ventilated and spacious the place feels. I would say they are my go-to recommendation for Korean BBQ and I will continue to return to try their latest and newest offerings, season after season.
JJang Korean BBQ and Social House 5668 Hollybridge Way #115, Richmond, BC V7C 4N3 (604) 370-5668
