Taste Korean food at this pop-up serving authentic dishes

Chicken Kimchi Ramen

Bibimbaps, BBQs, and spicy Kimchis. Korea has more than just the glamorous K-pop culture to offer to the world. The Korean Food Festival at the Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar in Andheri brings alive this diverse culinary culture in the city.

Mandu, with chicken (centre) and vegetarian (top left) variants

"The pop-up is part of the second season of our Across Asia culinary series, where we choose a region or country and host a special culinary festival for the same," explains Ewa Valia, marketing executive at the outlet. Patrons can look forward to a variety of Korean comfort food and street staples, from spicy-sweet Tteokbokki in Gochujang (a chilli paste) and Chicken Kimchi Ramen, to Corn Cheese and Korean-style Fried Prawns and Korean Fried Chicken. Other hearty dishes consist of Bibimbap bowls, and Mandu (traditional Korean dumplings), available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian variants. To finish off on a sweet note, are desserts such as Tanghulu fruit skewers and honey butter-glazed fruits.

Korean Sandwiches (non-vegetarian)

A highlight is a Secret Menu challenge, for which guests are encouraged to traverse the restaurant to locate QR codes, many of which are cleverly hidden, and often intentionally misleading; only one unlocks the actual menu. "This secret menu has four dishes that are not available on the regular one. It is in line with the retro gaming art concept, and like a hunt to discover what the dishes are," Valia reveals. While the dishes remain under wraps, she reveals, "It includes a special cocktail, two main courses, and a dessert." In addition, diners who find the correct menu can enjoy some rewards too. These are also a secret for now.

Robata Grill dishes; the technique traditionally consists of small portions of meat, seafood or vegetables slow-cooked on a charcoal grill; (right) a glimpse of the ambience at the outlet

Valia signs off, "The pop-up is expected to run for three to four months, approximately." For Mumbai's K-drama and K-pop fans, it might just be the best time to head over and binge.

Korean-style Fried Prawns

AT Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar, Hotel Peninsula Redpine, Andheri-Kurla Road, Marol.
Time 4 pm to 1 am
CALL 8291999949 or 9820630470 (for reservations)
COST Rs 1500 (approximate, for two)

Diners enjoy a meal at the festival. Pics Courtesy/Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar