They say dining along Orchard Road is expensive. True, but as long as you look in the right places, there are affordable steals waiting for you.
The only catch is that everyone else probably knows the place too.
Kim Dae Mun Korean Food is one of the worst kept secrets when it comes to not breaking the bank.
Long queues are a feature during lunch and dinner hours, with every diner itching to get a taste of the authentic Korean fare.
You might even feel a pressure to finish your food fast and leave, as the queue sometimes snakes out of the door along the corridor.
“Kim Dae Mun” alludes to the famous Dongdaemun in Korea, by slotting in the family name, “Kim”, of the owner.
Entirely owned and run by Koreans, the food coming out of the kitchen is considered authentic for its price.
The no-frills style dining requires you to order and pay upfront, then collect your food yourself.
For each order, a side dish of your choice will be served, one of pickled cucumbers, kimchi, or anchovies.
Hot plate dishes are popular, one of which being the Tender Sliced Beef ($11.50). This is known for its large portion of thinly cut beef fried with onions and leafy greens.
Spicy Shredded Chicken ($9.50) and Spicy Pork ($10.50) are good alternatives, though can be slightly salty. Goes better with the rice and soup.
Do not come expecting high restaurant quality, but it is indeed good for its price. Better than the typical foodcourt Korean fare.
The Ramyeon ($6.50) here is quite comfortable as it would come sizzling hot.
Soups are very affordable too, with the Kimchi Soup (Pork), Bean Paste & Vegetables Soup, and Beancurd Soup all going for just $9.
The Kimchi Soup packs a good punch through the spicy kimchi base. The soup is stuffed with plenty of ingredients, so get it with rice or get it to share.
Some sides like the Fried Dumplings ($4.50) and Korean Rice Cake ($5.50) are economical and in good portions.
I think the price spent at more expensive places can get you a main, a side, and a drink easily and guilt-free.
Remember Kim Dae Mun for your next trip in town.
Kim Dae Mun Korean Food
Concorde Shopping Mall #01-03D, 100 Orchard Road, Singapore 238840
Opening Hours: 11am – 8pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon
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Daebak Korean Restaurant (Wilkie Edge)
Hangawi Korean Food (Fortune Centre)
88 Pocha (Holland Village)
* Written by Dean Ang and Daniel Ang. Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.
