YORI (Covent Garden)
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Authentic Korean restaurant in London
The "YORI" in London, England, is an authentic Korean restaurant that belongs to the small but growing YORI chain, which specializes in presenting traditional Korean cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the vibrant Covent Garden area, known for its theatrical atmosphere and cultural diversity, the restaurant offers a refreshing alternative to the usual British or European options in the vicinity. Since its opening, it has established itself as a popular meeting place for lovers of Korean food, who can enjoy both classic dishes and innovative variations. It attracts a colorful mix of theatergoers, tourists, and locals looking for a quick yet flavorful meal before or after a show.
Korean BBQ restaurant Covent Garden
The interior of "YORI" is modern and stylish, featuring an open kitchen that allows guests to view the food preparation, highlighting the freshness and care put into the dishes. The space is compact but well-utilized, with a mix of small tables and additional seating upstairs, creating a cozy atmosphere. The decor is simple, with clean lines and subtle references to Korean culture, giving the venue an elegant yet unpretentious feel. The bar, which serves a selection of Korean-inspired cocktails, invites guests to linger and makes the restaurant appealing for an after-work drink. The atmosphere is lively, especially during peak times, yet remains pleasant and not overly noisy.
Traditional Korean cuisine modern twist
Culinary-wise, "YORI" offers a blend of traditional Korean favorites and modern interpretations, prepared with high-quality ingredients. The Korean BBQ is an absolute highlight—such as the Ribeye & Beef Bulgogi BBQ Set, where tender beef is grilled over charcoal and served with crunchy lettuce, garlic, and the house-made Ssamjang sauce, perfectly complementing the flavors. The Soy Garlic Fried Chicken, crispy fried and coated in a sweet-and-spicy glaze, is also a favorite, often praised for its balanced texture and intense flavor. For those looking for something lighter, the Bibimbap provides a colorful mix of rice, vegetables, and a fried egg, enhanced with a spicy sauce. The Kimchi Pancake, a Korean pancake variant with fermented cabbage, is often highlighted as a delicious snack or side dish that captures the typical taste of Korea. For dessert, there are smaller treats that round off the meal without being too heavy.
Korean cocktails and soft drinks
The drink menu is equally appealing, offering a selection that perfectly complements the dishes. The Korean Plum Juice is a refreshing classic that balances the spicy flavors of the dishes with its sweet-and-sour note. The choice of mocktails and Korean soft drinks, such as Bong Bong, a grape beverage, adds a playful touch to the experience. For those preferring something stronger, there is a small but fine selection of cocktails enhanced with Korean influences such as Soju or ginger. The beverages are served with care and contribute to the overall experience without detracting from the focus on the food.
Friendly service at Korean restaurant
Service is generally described as friendly and efficient, with staff striving to maintain a positive atmosphere even during busy times. Particularly, the service is often praised for its helpfulness, especially when explaining BBQ preparation to newcomers or offering recommendations. Ordering is mostly done via a QR code, which speeds up the process, although it can sometimes feel impersonal. On hectic days, there may be minor delays, especially when the restaurant is full, but the team usually remains attentive. Cleanliness is generally exemplary, although there are occasional complaints about the upkeep of the tables or restrooms—a point that is not unusual for such a popular venue.
