Walter Ponce
Embarking on a culinary adventure often leads to unexpected delights, and my recent visit to Hanki, a hidden gem of a Korean restaurant nestled at Carrer Guillem Tell, 23 in Barcelona, was nothing short of extraordinary. Inspired by the tantalizing world of South Korean dramas, where food takes center stage, I stepped into Hanki with high expectations.
Ambiance Hanki:
One of the delightful surprises awaited me when I stumbled upon the charming patio tucked away at the rear of the restaurant. It transformed my dining experience into a genuine luxury, creating an ambiance that set the stage for an extraordinary culinary journey. This cozy patio, adorned with a small garden cultivating various plants used in their dishes, turned out to be a hidden oasis – a tranquil spot to bask in the sun, soak in calm vibes, relish delectable food, and, of course, savor a sip of soju.
Signature Dishes Hanki:
Hanki’s menu boasts a curated selection of classic Korean dishes, making it an ideal starting point for those new to this vibrant cuisine. From the iconic Bibimbap, a delightful mix of rice, vegetables, meat, and egg, to the savory Bulgogi, thinly sliced and sautéed beef, every dish showcased the authenticity and quality of Korean flavors. The menu, though not extensive, ensures that diners won’t feel overwhelmed, making it an excellent place for both novices and connoisseurs.
Food review Hanki:
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Yachae Mandu (Korean Dumpling): Kicking things off on a delightful note, these dumplings crafted with rice dough and vegetables were a tasty treat, priced at 6.5 euros.
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Chicken Wings with Honey and Soy Sauce: While not stealing the spotlight, these wings fell short of the wow factor. I’ve experienced better options, and they’re priced at 7 euros.
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Yeoneo-Jang (Sliced Raw Salmon): A pleasant surprise awaited with the sliced raw salmon marinated in seasoned soy sauce. Both tasty and flavorful, this dish is priced at 9.9 euros.
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Gamja-Jeo (Potato Pizza with Cheese and Truffle): Offering an okay flavor profile, the truffle taste remained elusive. Priced at 12 euros, it’s a decent dish that doesn’t quite reach extraordinary heights.
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Jabche (Sweet Potato Noodles with Pork): A tasty fusion of sweet potato noodles, pork, mushrooms, and vegetables, though not groundbreaking. Priced at 13 euros.
Dessert Delight:
And now, the pièce de résistance from Hanki’s repertoire – the Hotteok. This thick pancake served with ice cream marked a delicious conclusion to an unforgettable dining experience.
In Conclusion:
Hanki’s unassuming facade conceals a treasure trove of authentic Korean flavors. From its cozy ambiance to standout dishes, the restaurant serves as a testament to the richness of South Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore, Hanki promises a delightful journey through the vibrant world of Korean gastronomy.
**Hanki menu: **https://hankibcn.wixsite.com/menu **Hanki address: **Carrer de Guillem Tell, 23, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08006 Barcelona
**Hanki Instagram: **https://www.instagram.com/hanki_bcn/?hl=en
A Short Introduction to Korean Food
Korean cuisine is built around rice, fermented foods, vegetables and bold seasonings like gochujang (fermented chilli paste), doenjang (soybean paste), garlic, sesame oil and soy sauce. A typical meal includes rice, a soup or stew, a main dish and a selection of small side dishes.
Over the last few years, the popularity of Korean dramas, K-pop and Korean films has made the cuisine much better known in Europe, and Barcelona now has a growing number of Korean restaurants.
Dishes on the Menu Explained
- Bibimbap: Literally “mixed rice”. A bowl of rice topped with vegetables, meat and an egg, mixed with gochujang just before eating. The dolsot version is served in a hot stone bowl that makes the rice crispy at the bottom.
- Bulgogi: Thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil and garlic, then grilled or pan-fried.
- Japchae: Glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, stir-fried with vegetables and often meat.
- Mandu: Korean dumplings, steamed, boiled or fried, with fillings of meat, vegetables or kimchi.
- Hotteok: A sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon and nuts, a hugely popular street food in Korea, especially in winter.
What Is Soju?
Soju is Korea’s best-known spirit, a clear drink traditionally made from rice and now often from other starches. It is usually lighter in alcohol than vodka and comes in plain and fruit-flavoured versions. In Korea it is drunk with food, and there is a whole etiquette around it:
- Pour for others, not for yourself.
- Hold the glass with two hands when an older person pours for you.
- Turn your head slightly away when drinking in front of elders.
You don’t need to follow these rules in Barcelona, but it is a nice part of the culture to know.
Korean Dining Tips
- Banchan (side dishes) are meant to be shared by the whole table.
- Use a spoon for rice and soup, and chopsticks for side dishes and noodles.
- Mix your bibimbap well before eating so the sauce is evenly spread.
- Ask about spice levels. Korean food can be quite hot, but most restaurants can guide you.
How to Get There
Carrer de Guillem Tell is in the area where Gràcia meets Sant Gervasi, close to Plaça Molina. The nearest public transport is the FGC at Plaça Molina or Sant Gervasi, and the Fontana metro station (L3) is also within walking distance.
What to Do Nearby
- Explore Gràcia: Its squares, independent shops and bars are a short walk away.
- Casa Vicens: Gaudí’s first important house, open to visitors.
- Park Güell: A walk uphill from Gràcia leads to Gaudí’s famous park. Book tickets in advance.
Tips for Your Visit
- Check current hours and the latest menu before you go, as dishes and prices can change.
- Ask for the patio if the weather is good.
- Book ahead for weekend dinners.
FAQ
What type of food does Hanki serve? Classic Korean dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi, japchae, mandu and hotteok.
Is Hanki good for people new to Korean food? Yes. The menu is short and focused on well-known classics, which makes it easy to choose.
Does Hanki have an outdoor area? The restaurant has a small patio at the back with a garden.
Where is Hanki located? On Carrer de Guillem Tell, near Plaça Molina, between Gràcia and Sant Gervasi.
What should I drink with Korean food? Soju is the classic choice, but beer and tea are also common pairings.
