One may stumble upon a relatively new addition to Singapore’s dining landscape Friends Kimbap 펑요김밥 好朋友紫菜包饭 if you head to the basement of Orchard Gateway.
Gimbap (or Kimbap) is a traditional Korean dish made from cooked rice and various other ingredients that are rolled in seaweed (gim) and then sliced into bite-sized pieces.
(From my understanding, the pronunciation leans closer to “Gimbap,” but “Kimbap” is also widely recognised and used.)
This is said to be the Number Gimbap store in Shanghai, though the menu also printed it “originated from Korea”. Anyway…
Friends Kimbap has quite a diverse offerings.
Ranging from Tuna Kimbap ($10.90), Roast Beef Kimbap ($10.90), Classic Kimbap ($8.50), Cheese Kimbap ($9), Kimchi Kimbap ($9.90), Fried Pork Kimbap ($11.90), and Crab Meat Kimbap ($11.90), diners are spoilt for choice.
There are also low-carb versions in which the rice is replaced by egg.
And with prices such as these, it is also commendable that neither service charge nor GST is added, making it a reasonably priced meal or snack option.
In an age of automation, the restaurant has leaned into technological advancements.
The Gimbap here is rolled and cut by separate machines, with human hands involved primarily for inserting ingredients and brushing on sauces.
This mechanized approach, while novel, may still require customers to muster a bit of patience. The Gimbap is freshly made upon order, so some waiting time is to be expected.
Nonetheless, the staff on duty during my visit made up for the delay with their friendly demeanor and earnest service.
This mechanical preparation does have its perks – each Gimbap is rolled densely and evenly, ensuring uniform bites.
Yet, while the presentation and consistency are noteworthy, the flavor profile did leave room for improvement.
Of the two I sampled – the Roast Beef and Classic – both seemed to yearn for a touch more seasoning or perhaps a complementary dipping sauce to elevate them.
The natural taste of the ingredients, unfortunately, felt somewhat subdued.
Those familiar with the hand-crafted Gimbap made by ajumma in more traditional Korean establishments might find the taste here needing some refinement.
However, for those in search of a quick bite on the go or a slightly ‘healthier’ rendition of this classic dish, Friends Kimbap may just fit the bill.
Their Inari Sushi ($1.60 onwards) showcases an array of fillings from roast beef to spicy pork, providing another option for those eager to sample more.
I rounded off my meal with the Fish Cake Soup ($2.80), a dish that, while comforting, could benefit from a warmer serving temperature.
Friends Kimbap brings to Singapore an interesting fusion of Korean tradition and Shanghai popularity, though may have a few kinks to iron out in terms of flavours.
Friends Kimbap 펑요김밥
Orchard Gateway B1-11, 277 Orchard Road, Singapore 238858
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Other Related Entries
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Market Blue (Tanglin Mall)
Rolling Rice (Marina Square)
Bulgogi Syo (Bugis Junction)
Gangnam Café (Bukit Timah)
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My favourite is Japanese food.⁷