I returned to Asadal last Wednesday lunchtime to see how the place was doing since I last visited, which was about 2 years ago.
Despite being underneath Holborn tube, in a dark basement, the team has managed to create a cosy, warm, inviting and spacious dining area and I noticed new furniture since I was last there which helps create a feeling that you could stay there all afternoon quite happily.
They do a variety of good value lunch dishes, all under a tenner but the one to go for is the Dol Sot Yuk Hei Bibimba - raw minced beef surrounded by rice and vegetables in a deep round sizzling dish that cooks the meat when you start mixing it all in with your chopsticks. Important note here - do not touch the bowl! It will give you serious burns if you touch it - it cooks and keeps the food piping hot for the duration.
The portion size is very good, it costs £9.95 and tastes delicious. It is also good fun and a little different. The waiter will also bring Kimchi and other small side dishes. Wash it all down with a Hite beer or Korean tea and you will enjoy a very good value lunch.
Highly rated!
Asadal Restaurant can be found at:
227 High Holborn
WC1V 7DA
tel: 020 7 430 9006
