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💌 𝗚𝗨𝗨𝗠 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹 - 𝗞𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗶𝗮𝗸 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱
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Located along Keong Saik Road, GU:UM is a contemporary Korean charcoal grill housed within a heritage shophouse.
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A contrast to its fine-dining sister restaurant, NAE:UM, GU:UM focuses on a vibrant sharing concept and was recognised as a Tatler Best Recommended Restaurant 2025.
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Stepping inside, the space subtly echoes the charm of a modern Korean hanok. Warm timber finishes, textured plaster walls, and soft ambient lighting come together to create an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
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An open charcoal kitchen takes centre stage, while a curated bar showcases Korean craft spirits and traditional rice wines.
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GU:UM's culinary philosophy centres on modern Korean charcoal grilling. To celebrate its second anniversary, the restaurant introduced the "Hanwoo & Namul" Sharing Set Menu, inspired by Korean temple cuisine and the beauty of seasoned vegetables.
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The meal begins with a series of refined appetisers:
- Leek & Doenjang
- Karae Chicken Tart
- Signature Yukhwae Jeon
- Nokcha Guksu
Each dish offers its own character while staying rooted in familiar Korean flavours. A refreshing modern interpretation of traditional recipes.
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The highlight is the charcoal grill platter featuring:
- 1++ Grade Jeju Hanwoo Lower Loin
- Jeju Handon Pork Collar
- Dalkochi (Korean Chicken Skewers)
- Tiger Prawns
The Hanwoo stood out immediately with its rich flavour and tenderness, easily earning a place among my favourite beef I've tried. The Jeju pork was equally impressive.
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Everything is accompanied by a generous selection of namul, banchan, and fresh ssam vegetables, allowing you to build each bite differently.
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The meal ends with Namul Bap, Galbi Tang, and Hwachae.
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The Galbi Tang was the perfect finish. The broth was deeply flavourful, while the beef short ribs were fork tender. I would gladly go back for a second serving.
Having dined at GU:UM recently, I can share what makes this contemporary Korean grill truly stand out. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with wood finishes and subtle lighting that create a cozy yet elegant dining space reminiscent of a modern hanok. The open charcoal kitchen is a focal point, offering the sensory experience of watching your food prepared with expert care. The "Hanwoo & Namul" Sharing Set Menu offers a thoughtfully curated journey through Korean flavors. Starting with the appetizers like the Leek & Doenjang and Karae Chicken Tart, each bite is carefully crafted, balancing traditional Korean tastes with a contemporary twist. The signature Yukhwae Jeon and Nokcha Guksu introduce a refreshing take on classic dishes. The highlight, of course, is the grill platter. The 1++ Grade Jeju Hanwoo Lower Loin is incredibly tender and rich, showcasing the superior quality of Korean beef. The Jeju Handon Pork Collar was juicy with a perfect char. The Dalkochi chicken skewers and tiger prawns added variety and depth to the meal. Accompanying these are a generous variety of namul (seasoned vegetables), banchan, and fresh ssam leaves—these additions allow diners to customize each mouthful and keep the palate excited throughout. To conclude, the Namul Bap (rice mixed with seasoned vegetables), Galbi Tang (beef short rib soup), and Hwachae (traditional Korean fruit punch) provide a comforting and satisfying end to the meal. The Galbi Tang’s deeply flavorful broth and fork-tender ribs left a lasting impression and made me eager to return. Overall, GU:UM offers a modern yet authentic Korean charcoal grill experience that balances tradition with innovation. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging in premium Korean beef and pork, this restaurant on Keong Saik Road delivers on taste and ambiance, earning its recognition as a Tatler Best Recommended Restaurant 2025.
