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With the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant recently in the news again for all the wrong reasons, some parents may be reassured to learn that Shibuya-based Korean restaurant Soul of Seoul (B1 Mitake Bldg, 1-2-5 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku) sources its foodstuffs and water far from any potentially contaminated areas. Much of the produce used in the restaurant’s meals, such as the beef kalbi (¥980), comes from Kyushu, while the water used to make the ice is Crystal Geyser from the USA. For further peace of mind, the company lists farmers and distributors on its home page, and states that a Geiger counter is used to test the food.
Yakiniku fans can choose from an incrementally priced range of meats—harami cuts range from ¥1,800 to ¥3,200 according to the meat’s quality—or plump for one of Soul of Seoul’s many courses, which include a number of kimchi, appetizers, different meat grills and rice.
Mamas (or papas) with prams and strollers will appreciate the restaurant’s spaciousness. A recent lunch visit saw a number of young mums taking advantage of the opportunity to dine on Soul of Seoul’s lunch sets, most of which cost ¥1,000 including use of the drinks bar.
The bibimba set will satiate the most ravenous of appetites. Filled almost to capacity, the warm stone bowl of rice is crowned with seasonal vegetables and a raw egg, plus a dollop of gochujang, the fermented red pepper paste and workhorse of Korean cuisine.
