Ssyal Ginseng House - Chicago

This is possibly the best Korean restaurant I have ever been to. It's definitely better than any in my hometown, and if I lived in Chicago, this would be a regular on my list of eateries to visit. It was a Wednesday late morning when I realized my original plans to go to the Art Institute were dashed because it was in fact closed. I decided instead to explore some Chicago neighborhoods. It was also nearing lunch time, so I decided to seek out a Korean place, and the easiest one to get to was Ssyal. So I made my way by bus, the L, and a long walk through neighborhoods to work up an appetite. I found my destitation, and upon entering I was greeted warmly by the lady working. I went with my typical order for Korean places: Dukbokki (Spicy Rice Cake) and Dolsot Bibimbap. Although I was tempted to order the seasonal Naengmeyon (Cold noodle soup) that I became familiar with after watching K dramas... but I stuck with my usual. And I went with a peach soju as well. I was the only one in the restaurant, and enjoyed the quiet calm meal. The lady was like close friend's eomma, and I felt like more than just a patron. It is truly one of the few places where I felt valued as a person enjoying some really good homecooking. The banchan were really tasty there was some jalapenos, cucumbers, fish cake, and what I think was kkakdugi cubed daikon kimchi and it was SO good. The dukbokki was not to sweet, which was to my liking, and I savored the texture of the chewy rice cakes. I know that some don't like this, but it is one of my favorites if the sauce is done right. It was spicy, but not too spicy. I enjoyed these and my soju while I waited for the main dish. I was not disappointed when the lady rolled it out on a cart and it was sizzling like no other dolsot bibimbap I've ever had. I let it sit for probably 10 minutes to really let the rice crisp up and it was SO worth the wait. The dish was shallow and wide allowing for a thinner layer of rice that crisped up to perfection! I was pleasantly surprised that the beef was not fatty at all (that's the way I like it) and the egg was fried to perfection. I let it cook and get nice and hard. I was really in foodie heaven. What I love about Korean food is that it is healthy, and while I was indulging in a large lunch by myself, I didn't feel guilty for eating it all up. It was just so good. While I was eating, I noticed that my host was prepping strawberries, and I was so surprised when she brought my a small dish of strawberries. Perfect for a summer afternoon finisher. It paired well with my soju and I delighted in this simple gesture of generosity. I was so please with my experience here. I can't imagine a better dining experience. The atmosphere was homey and cozy and the service was amazing. Again if I lived here, I would undoubtedly be a regular. Please go and try it!!

Take out for first time here tonight. Yum. So good. So much flavor. Spicy Rice Cakes a little kick. Dakdori Tang Chicken so tender. Great stew. Galbi Good beef. Menu looks like lots more to choose for next time.

Amazing food Great service Super authentic and accessible You can't get this anywhere in Chicagoland!

This where I go when I need comfort food. The food always tastes amazing and the customer service is excellent. The portion is huge and reasonable for the price! We come here atleast once a week! Give it a try if you have not been here!

I came here on a weekday lunch. We were seated immediately. The place is known for their ssamgyettang (korean chicken soup) but their other Korean food items are delicious as well. Definitely great Korean food! Ordered the pajeon (seafood pancake), ssamgyettang (Korean chicken soup) and yukgaejjang (spicy soup) and all were good. Parking: Free parallel parking around the store but they also have a free parking lot. Costs: The costs may be on the higher end or maybe average these days but the portions are big so you'll leave full and content. Worth the drive for Korean food or soup based menu items on a cold day.