Korean food tampa is a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that has captured the hearts and palates of locals and tourists alike. From traditional Korean barbecue to modern fusion dishes, the city offers a wide range of authentic and innovative Korean dining experiences that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of this beloved cuisine.
With its bustling Korean restaurants, lively food festivals, and well-stocked grocery stores, Tampa has become a hub for Korean food lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the city’s Korean culinary landscape promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Korean Cuisine in Tampa
Tampa, a vibrant and diverse city, is home to a thriving Korean community that has significantly contributed to the city’s culinary landscape. The presence of Korean immigrants in Tampa dates back to the 1970s, and their influence on the city’s food scene has been growing ever since.Korean
cuisine in Tampa offers a diverse range of dishes, from traditional street food to modern fusion creations. Popular dishes include bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg), bulgogi (marinated grilled beef), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and kimchi (fermented vegetables).The
popularity of Korean food among locals and tourists alike is attributed to its unique flavors, healthy ingredients, and affordability. Many Korean restaurants in Tampa offer all-you-can-eat options, making it an excellent value for those looking to try a variety of dishes.
Korean BBQ Restaurants in Tampa
Korean barbecue, known for its interactive dining experience, is a popular choice among Tampa locals and visitors. These restaurants offer a wide selection of marinated meats, vegetables, and side dishes that are cooked on a tabletop grill.Popular Korean BBQ restaurants in Tampa include:
- *Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong
- *So Moon Nan Jip
- *The Alley
- *Sura
- *Gogiya
These restaurants provide a lively and communal dining experience, where guests can grill their own food and enjoy the flavors of authentic Korean cuisine.
Korean Restaurants in Tampa
Tampa is home to a thriving Korean community, and with it comes a wealth of authentic and delicious Korean restaurants. Whether you’re craving traditional dishes like bibimbap or modern Korean fusion, there’s a Korean restaurant in Tampa to satisfy your cravings.
Here is a comprehensive list of Korean restaurants in Tampa, organized by neighborhood or geographic area:
Carrollwood
- Kang Nam BBQ: 12815 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618; (813) 968-3999; Specialties: Korean barbecue, bibimbap, japchae
- Sura: 12805 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618; (813) 964-8811; Specialties: Korean barbecue, sushi, sashimi
Citrus Park
- Seoul Garden: 8218 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33626; (813) 926-6441; Specialties: Korean barbecue, japchae, tteokbokki
- Han Yang: 7605 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33626; (813) 855-7729; Specialties: Korean barbecue, bibimbap, kimchi pancakes
International Plaza and Bay Street
- BCD Tofu House: 2223 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607; (813) 877-8638; Specialties: Sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew), bibimbap, japchae
- Jong Ga House: 2223 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607; (813) 288-0886; Specialties: Korean barbecue, japchae, tteokbokki
Seminole Heights
- Seoul Hot Pot: 5205 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603; (813) 234-6699; Specialties: Korean hot pot, bibimbap, japchae
- Yang’s Kitchen: 5015 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603; (813) 237-7198; Specialties: Korean barbecue, bibimbap, tteokbokki
South Tampa
- Soju & Sushi: 3034 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629; (813) 831-8801; Specialties: Korean barbecue, sushi, sashimi
- K-Town: 2701 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629; (813) 254-0999; Specialties: Korean barbecue, bibimbap, japchae
University of South Florida Area
- Sura II: 13218 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612; (813) 975-0500; Specialties: Korean barbecue, sushi, sashimi
- Seoul Garden II: 13130 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612; (813) 977-5500; Specialties: Korean barbecue, japchae, tteokbokki
Popular Korean Dishes in Tampa
Korean cuisine has gained immense popularity in Tampa, offering a diverse range of authentic and flavorful dishes. From spicy stews to grilled meats, Korean restaurants in Tampa cater to various palates and preferences. Here are some of the most popular Korean dishes served in Tampa:
Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. One of the most popular dishes is bibimbap, a mixed rice bowl topped with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and a fried egg. Another beloved dish is tteokbokki, a spicy stir-fried rice cake dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its chewy texture and fiery sauce.
Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a grilled marinated beef dish that is a staple of Korean cuisine. In Tampa, bulgogi is typically served with a sweet and savory marinade made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. The beef is thinly sliced and grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Bulgogi is often served with a side of rice and a variety of banchan (side dishes).
Kimchi, Korean food tampa
Kimchi is a fermented cabbage dish that is a staple of Korean cuisine. It is made with napa cabbage, radishes, and a variety of seasonings, including gochugaru (Korean chili powder), garlic, ginger, and jeotgal (fermented seafood). Kimchi is a spicy and flavorful dish that is often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other dishes.
Samgyeopsal
Samgyeopsal is a grilled pork belly dish that is a popular choice in Tampa. The pork belly is thinly sliced and grilled until crispy. It is often served with a dipping sauce made from ssamjang (a fermented soybean paste), garlic, and green onions.
Samgyeopsal is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for sharing.
Korean Food Festivals in Tampa: Korean Food Tampa
Tampa’s vibrant Korean community celebrates its rich culinary heritage through various food festivals held throughout the year. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience authentic Korean cuisine, immerse in the culture, and connect with the local Korean diaspora.
Annual Korean Food Festival
*
-*Dates
Typically held in the spring or summer
-
-*Location
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Downtown Tampa
-*Highlights
Over 20 food vendors offering a diverse range of Korean dishes
Traditional Korean performances, such as Taekwondo demonstrations and K-pop showcases
- Cultural exhibitions showcasing Korean history, art, and fashion
-*Cultural Significance
The annual Korean Food Festival is a celebration of Korean culture and a testament to the growing presence of the Korean community in Tampa. It fosters community pride and provides a platform for Korean businesses to showcase their culinary skills.
Korean American Festival
*
-*Dates
Typically held in the fall
-
-*Location
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
-*Highlights
A larger-scale event featuring a wider range of Korean food vendors
Live music performances by Korean-American artists
- Cultural activities, such as Korean language classes and traditional games
-*Community Involvement
The Korean American Festival actively engages the local Korean community and organizations. Volunteers assist with event planning and execution, while local businesses and community groups participate as vendors and sponsors.
Korean Cooking Classes in Tampa
Learning about Korean cuisine and culture through cooking classes can be a rewarding experience. These classes provide hands-on instruction, allowing participants to develop their culinary skills while immersing themselves in the flavors and traditions of Korean cooking.
Tampa offers a range of cooking classes that cater to different levels of experience and interests. Whether you’re a beginner looking to master basic techniques or an experienced cook seeking to expand your repertoire, there’s a class that can meet your needs.
Korean Cooking Classes in Tampa
- Korean Cooking Class at Tampa International Airport:This class is designed for travelers with limited time who want to experience Korean cuisine. The class is held in the airport’s Food Hall and offers a hands-on cooking experience led by a professional Korean chef.
- Korean Cooking Class at The Chef’s Table:This cooking school offers a variety of Korean cooking classes, including classes on Korean street food, traditional Korean dishes, and Korean desserts. Classes are led by experienced Korean chefs and are suitable for all skill levels.
- Korean Cooking Class at Yummy House:This cooking studio offers a range of Korean cooking classes, including classes on kimchi making, Korean barbecue, and Korean soups and stews. Classes are led by Korean chefs and are designed for all skill levels.
- Korean Cooking Class at Sejong Cultural Society:This cultural center offers Korean cooking classes as part of its cultural programs. Classes are led by experienced Korean chefs and are designed to introduce participants to the basics of Korean cuisine.
- Korean Cooking Class at The Korean American Society of Tampa Bay:This organization offers Korean cooking classes as part of its community outreach programs. Classes are led by Korean chefs and are designed to promote Korean culture and cuisine.
Korean Grocery Stores in Tampa
Tampa boasts a thriving Korean community, and along with it, an array of authentic Korean grocery stores. These stores offer a wide selection of Korean ingredients and products, catering to the needs of both local Korean residents and those who enjoy cooking and exploring Korean cuisine.
From fresh produce and meats to packaged snacks and traditional sauces, Korean grocery stores in Tampa provide a one-stop destination for all things Korean. Here’s a directory of some of the most popular Korean grocery stores in the city:
H Mart
- Address: 2415 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
- Phone: (813) 932-1936
- Hours: Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
H Mart is a large and well-stocked Korean grocery store chain with a location in Tampa. The store offers a vast selection of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and packaged goods, including popular Korean brands and specialty items.
Han Ah Reum
- Address: 10001 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33612
- Phone: (813) 977-2288
- Hours: Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Han Ah Reum is a family-owned Korean grocery store that has been serving the Tampa community for over 20 years. The store is known for its friendly staff and wide selection of traditional Korean ingredients, including kimchi, gochujang, and doenjang.
Seoul Market
- Address: 12302 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618
- Phone: (813) 963-9701
- Hours: Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Seoul Market is a smaller but well-curated Korean grocery store that specializes in fresh produce and meats. The store also carries a variety of Korean snacks, beverages, and household items.
Kim’s Oriental Food
- Address: 3802 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33614
- Phone: (813) 875-0731
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Kim’s Oriental Food is a small but well-stocked Korean grocery store that has been in business for over 30 years. The store offers a variety of Korean ingredients, including fresh produce, meats, and packaged goods.
FAQ Explained
What are some of the most popular Korean dishes in Tampa?
Some of the most popular Korean dishes in Tampa include bulgogi (grilled marinated beef), kimchi (fermented cabbage), bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and japchae (glass noodles with vegetables).
Where can I find Korean grocery stores in Tampa?
There are several Korean grocery stores in Tampa, including H Mart, Lotte Plaza Market, and Han Ah Reum. These stores offer a wide variety of Korean ingredients and products, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, and packaged goods.
