Sotbap (솥밥) is a traditional Korean way of cooking rice. “Sot” refers to a pot, specifically a stone or earthenware pot, and “bap” means rice.
The rice cooked is known for its evenly cooked texture that is slightly sticky and chewy; while a characteristic feature is the thin crust of slightly browned rice at the bottom.
You can now find more Korean restaurants in Singapore offering Sotbap, such as Sagye Korean Pot Rice at Tanjong Pagar.
SOTPOT at Suntec City is another such Korean restaurant, specialising in Sotbap Korean Rice Pot and “Phyunbaeg Jjim” steamed meat dishes.
Located on the third floor within Suntec City’s Sky Garden, the restaurant is easily accessible (though won’t be completely sheltered when raining), and has gained popularity recently.
The Sotbap comes in various flavours, available in two sizes – medium or large.
The main difference lies in the toppings, with options ranging from Tofu Vegi ($15.90), Beef Bulgogi ($19.90), Pork Bulgogi ($19.90), Duroc Belly ($24.90), Pork Ribs ($22.90), to more luxurious choices like Wagyu Abalone ($34.90).
I decided to go for the Chicken Cheese ($21.90) with mozzarella cheese.
Each Sotbap is served as a set meal with side dishes, steamed egg, and soup, adding value to the dining experience.
I thought that while the chicken was relatively tender, the spiciness and robustness one would expect from Dakbalgi was not that apparent. I reckon they wanted to go the healthier style.
SOTPOT has also tailored its Sotbap to exclude the slightly scorched crust (nurungji) at the bottom which is common in Korea. Some diners may be missing that. But I guess for health reasons…
Aside from Sotbap, SOTPOT also specialises in Phyunbaeg Jjim which refers to a Korean dish or a method of steaming food using Phyunbaeg (편백) – a type of cypress tree known for its aromatic wood.
The wood is believed to impart a subtle, woody aroma to the food while retaining its natural flavours and moisture.
Customers can choose from options like Beef Short Plate ($37.90), Beef Brisket ($39.90), Duroc Collar ($42.90) and Beef Brisket ($39.90).
I thought that experience may differ slightly depending on whether you come in a group of 2 or more.
Pairs are led to a table where the cypress boxes are placed quite high (above eye level); while bigger groups have tables where the heaters are inbuilt – and therefore you can see your food clearer.
The meats in this case, to be honest, tasted rather plain and bland, and may not satisfy those seeking a robust or spicy flavour profile.
Thankfully, there were two types of sauces – one house-made and one spicy to make that difference.
I would imagine some customers may feel the food lacked the depth and richness one would anticipate in more typical Korean cuisine.
Despite being a relatively new establishment, SOTPOT has been attracting a healthy crowd (and crowd who wants to eat healthy), especially during lunch hours on weekdays.
The food should likely appeal more to those with a palate for mild, unembellished flavours.
SOTPOT
Suntec City Sky Garden #03-304/305, 3 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 9pm (Mon – Sun)
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