I love an odd couple: Andre 3000 and Big Boi, Timon and Pumba, me and anyone who dares love me.
So when I heard Eight Korean BBQ was serving a burger, I was beyond curious. I’ve eaten at this Singapore-to-SoCal gem before, and had a great time doing it. I had faith, but I needed proof.
They came through in a big way. Dubbed the K-Town Burger, it’s 8oz of pork belly with a crispy kimchi pancake, Seoul slaw, served with an assortment of banchan, or apps.
I knew all of that info before I arrived. What I didn’t know is it’s served between pineapple buns, a sweet contrast to this meaty, manly burger.
Them buns
At first bite it tastes like a treat, then as you start to taste the pork belly and Kimchi, we move into serious dinner territory. It’s sophisticated and has a few moving parts, but they work perfectly together. I could eat this burger every day and discover something new every time.
The kimchi gives this a crunch I really appreciated. You know burgers can get messy real fast, with sauces and buns sliding to and fro. Not only did the kimchi add subtle spice, it added a contrasting texture and structural integrity that made this burger easy to pick up and eat. Just as God intended.
Because I’m a greedy Gus, I decided to try the steak. I’d missed it on my first visit to Eight, and I promised myself I wouldn’t make the same mistake. It was as delicious as the day is long, cooked and sliced up before my hungry eyes. It reminded me of the black sesame pork belly flavor I’d had a year prior. A smoky taste that beckons you with every bite.
It’s a steakout
The banchan was fresh and tasted great, and the service was once again impeccable despite a completely packed restaurant.
Here comes the brand new flavor in your ear.
I hope they take more risks like the Ktown burger so I can have an excuse to stuff myself into euphoria.
