*RATINGS & REVIEW* was it worth the hype⁉️
SAVE & SHARE this full honest review! 😱 finally trying this popular contemporary Korean restaurant & makgeolli bar! 🤩
🍞 Brioche & Gamtae Seaweed Butter ($18)
definitely a MUST TRY!! super soft & fluffy brioche, topped with a sweet & sticky soy glaze! good on its own, but level it up by spreading on gamtae seaweed butter that was full of savory umami
🦪 Chive & Oyster Pancake ($28)
embedded with soft oysters & sakura ebi for a pleasant seafood umami! pancake had crispy charred edges, while the middle was soft from the oysters
🥩 Barbecued Kalbi ($62)
tender medium rare US boneless beef ribs that didn't have any beef gaminess! but didn't like the house marinade with tokki (gold) butter sauce as it was pretty sweet and overpowered its natural beefiness
🍚 Abalone Boribap ($48)
pearl barley was well-cooked with a firm bite, tossed with makkoli-abalone jus, pearl barley, gamtae butter and & liver sauce that was packed with earthy umami! along abalone, with zucchini, gosari (mountain fernbrake), it was clean-tasting & healthy
overall, the food was alright, but not mindblowing and pretty pricey for its small portion (got the 4 menu above for 2 pax)! also, the seating area wasn't the most comfortable and service not the best too! really enjoyed the brioche though 😁
(46 Kim Yam Rd, # 01 -17, Singapore 239351)
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If you’re considering a visit to Odem in Singapore, here are some additional insights based on my experience and other diners’ feedback. While Odem offers unique Korean dishes with a modern twist like the Abalone Boribap and Chive & Oyster Pancake, the prices can be quite steep for the portion sizes, which is something to keep in mind when planning your meal. One thing that stood out was the quality and texture of the brioche topped with gamtae seaweed butter—a must-order item for anyone who visits. The subtle umami flavor from the seaweed butter really elevates the dish, making it a standout starter or sharing plate. However, the barbecued kalbi, despite using premium boneless US beef ribs, had a marinade that was a bit too sweet and masked the natural beef flavors. If you’re a fan of balanced savory notes, you might want to request the sauce on the side or explore other dishes. The restaurant’s ambiance is modern but the seating wasn’t the most comfortable for a relaxed dining experience, and I found the service to be somewhat inattentive at times, which contrasted with the quality of the food. For those curious about the makgeolli offerings, while the bartenders craft interesting cocktails, I recommend asking for suggestions to match your meal as the drink menu can be a bit overwhelming. Overall, Odem is a spot worth trying for those interested in contemporary Korean cuisine with creative flavors, but it’s best to go with tempered expectations regarding value and comfort. Sharing your own feedback on their menu and atmosphere would help others decide if it’s the right fit for their dining occasion.
