Soy Yum Review: Korean Fine Dining Without Paying A Dime
If you love Korean food but are hanging out with friends who are into Japanese more, then Soy Yum is the best option for you. Yes, you read that right.
While it is true that most people who have been to this restaurant mainly know it for being one of the best Japanese places, when I tried their Korean dishes on the menu, I was shocked at how good it was. And trust me, this is coming from a person who loves to eat Korean food.
So, if you are planning to visit Soy Yum and are looking for a review, you have reached the right place, my friend! So, hop on to this delicious journey as I tell you what to order when you are visiting Soy Yum.
About Soy Yum
Located in Golpark, Hindustan Park, Kolkata, Soy Yum is a Korean-Japanese. With a diverse menu, including sushi, ramen, and Korean BBQ, this place is a must-try for all Korean food lovers.
Soy Yum first opened its doors to foodies on Valentine’s Day 2024. As Kolkata’s first Japanese and Korean Centre with a cafe and bakery, the eatery was able to garner a loyal customer base with its Izakaya-style decor quickly.
While the average cost for two people is approximately 1,000/- which might look like a little over-priced in the beginning, I can assure you that it is worth every penny.
The restaurant has received positive reviews for its fresh ingredients and exceptional service, boasting a rating of 4.5 stars on Zomato from over 650 reviews. Customers particularly enjoy the ramen and desserts (you HAVE to try their Korean Cheese Bun).
The restaurant has two locations in Kolkata:
1. Hindustan Park: This is their original outlet, at P- 353B Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Sarani, Ground floor, Building No 2, Kolkata – 700029
2. Salt Lake: Their second outlet, located at Plot No. 32, Block AC, Sector 1, Salt Lake, was launched on January 4, 2024.
Patrons have praised the restaurant for its fresh sashimi, well-crafted rolls, and flavorful ramen. Although some find the sushi prices a bit high, I would say they are actually pretty reasonable for the taste.
What Did We Love About Soy Yum?
When it comes to dining out, few places in Kolkata manage to strike the perfect balance between ambiance, cuisine, and service. Soy Yum does just that, offering an unforgettable experience that’s hard to match.
Here’s everything we loved about this gem of a restaurant.
Decor
From the moment you step into Soy Yum, the decor transports you straight to a cozy corner of Seoul or Tokyo.
The interiors are minimalist yet vibrant, with subtle nods to Korean and Japanese culture. Traditional lanterns cast a warm glow over the tables, and the walls feature elegant art pieces inspired by East Asian aesthetics.
The seating is thoughtfully arranged to give you a sense of privacy. Whether you’re dining solo or with a date, the ambiance here feels welcoming and intimate.
Food
Soy Yum’s menu is a treasure trove for lovers of Japanese and Korean cuisine. The sushi, for instance, is a standout, with fresh, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and perfectly crafted rolls. And yes, they have more than fifteen varieties of sushi.
For those craving Japanese bites, the gyoza and tempura are absolute must-tries. Their ramen bowls have great flavor, featuring rich broths and tender noodles that make for a soul-soothing meal.
If you’re new to Korean food, their chicken wings and Korean tofu are excellent introductions, with the right balance of authentic flavors and accessibility. And yes, I would highly recommend that you try some of their shakes. I tried the Biscoff one, and I absolutely loved it.
Each dish is plated beautifully, making the experience as much about the visual appeal as it is about the taste.
Service
Exceptional service can elevate a good dining experience to a great one, and Soy Yum understands this well.
The staff is attentive without being overbearing, knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to help you choose dishes that suit your palate.
Oh, and they do ask you if you are allergic to anything in particular. Great, right?
They are quick to accommodate dietary preferences or allergies, ensuring a hassle-free meal. The wait times are reasonable, even during peak hours, and the staff’s friendly demeanor adds a personal touch that makes you feel valued as a guest.
What Did We Hate About Soy Yum?
While Soy Yum offers a great dining experience, it is not without its shortcomings. Hence, let me point out the things that I would say can improve:
Price
Let’s start with the elephant in the room—pricing. Soy Yum is undeniably on the expensive side. While the quality of the food and the overall experience justifies the cost to some extent, it’s not the most budget-friendly option in Kolkata.
A simple dinner for two can quickly add up. And that’s especially if you want to try multiple dishes or indulge in their sushi platters. For a restaurant catering to a city known for its love of affordable yet delicious food, the steep pricing might deter some diners.
Variety In Korean Food
This restaurant claims to be an “experience center” for Korean and Japanese cuisines. However, their limited variety in the Korean offerings kind of disappointed me a little.
While staples like Korean Fried Chicken and Korean Kimchi Ramen are present, the menu lacks depth in exploring the richness of Korean cuisine.
Where are the tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), jjigae (stews), or even the famous bibimbap? For those who are well-versed in Korean food or looking to experiment, the options might feel a bit restrictive.
Seating And Space
While the decor is lovely, the seating arrangement leaves much to be desired. The space feels a bit cramped, especially during peak hours.
Tables are close to each other, which can make conversations less private and the overall experience slightly uncomfortable. If you’re planning a dinner with a group of people or a quiet meal, you might find the bustling atmosphere distracting.
Additionally, the limited seating means you might have to wait for a table, particularly at the more popular Hindustan Park location.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Your Time And Money?
My answer to this is a big YES. However, the limited Korean menu and cramped seating can take away from the otherwise stellar reputation. That said, if you’re willing to overlook these flaws, Soy Yum still holds its own as a unique destination for Korean and Japanese food in Kolkata.
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