For the perfect bite, look no further than Kimbab Cheonguk

It is often the case that the most discreet, low key restaurants (imagine a small fish and chips stand or an unsuspecting takeout spot off the side of a highway) offer some of the most delicious and exciting food experiences one can possibly have.

A (not so well) kept secret near Coquitlam’s North Service Road, Kimbab Cheonguk is one such place. Serving authentic Korean fare in a small, compact dining hall, we were blown away by the quality of their kimbap (also spelled gimbap), hearty stews and rice dishes, all bursting with spice, salt and delightful acidity from crunchy pickled vegetables served alongside every dish.

For those unfamiliar with kimbap, think inverted sushi; instead of a roll coated in rice, it’s one that’s wrapped tightly in seaweed for ideal compactness and portability. The flavours vastly differ from Japanese sushi too, with ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi, gochujang and pickled radish taking centre stage for a rather unique, distinctly Korean taste.

We had the pleasure of tasting the original, tuna, kimchi and beef kimbap rolls, as well as (despite the fact that we were already stuffed to the brim) the "Al Bob”, a sizzling stone pot filled with rice, tuna, crunchy cabbage and a steamy hot layer of melted mozzarella on top. Looking back, it’s impossible to choose a favourite—all we know is, we’ll be back.

If you’re looking for cozy, authentic Korean cuisine in the Tri-Cities, look no further than Kimbab Cheonguk. The unassuming ambience, homestyle cooking and undoubtedly explosive flavours make this a gem well worth exploring and coming back to again, and again, and again.

Address: 341 North Rd. A, Coquitlam