Sarang Bang

Good place for authentic Korean food. From the hours of the store, the atmosphere of the restaurant, to the taste of the food. Literally, if you aren't able to go to South Korea, Sa Rang Bang can give you a little taste of how it's like eating in South Korea. The only thing is that it's a little more pricier. Could be because of various reasons, but if authentic Korean food is what you want. Go here.

This has been my go-to Korean restaurant for many years when I lived in the Rosemont area because they have a specific beef & octopus stew dish that other Korean restaurants don't offer. Order a couple of side dishes to compliment the large stew and you have a very full satisfying meal. The Korean ajummas that ran the place were always on their toes, but made it feel welcoming. Depending on when you arrive, the wait times may vary because of the limited seating and the food may come out slow. I was sadden that they minimized their menu when I revisited in 2021 during the COVID years, and unfortunately the stew didn't make the cut. They still had the typical Korean dishes like bulgogi and etc, but it wasn't the same anymore. I tried to find other restaurants that offered the stew, but no luck. In Oct 2022, I heard the news that the restaurant was sold to new owners so I decided to take a trip to dine in to see what's changed. The outside is still inconspicuous and rundown looking between a liquor store and a bar; I don't think this will ever change because of the location. Surprisingly, the inside hasn't changed at all; the decor, all of the seating arrangement, dim lighting, and graffitied walls are still intact. Instead of ajummas, the place was ran by younger guys, so it didn't have the same feel anymore. Fortunately I came in before peak time so I was seated right away. The food was somewhat costlier and still came out slow as expected, but was still delicious nevertheless. Above all else though, I especially enjoyed my visit because they brought back the old menu, which contains my favorite stew. For this, they deserve my recommendation.

I thoroughly enjoyed the food here for my first visit. I was skeptical about visiting due to some of the negative reviews but I'm glad I paid them no mind since I ended up having such a pleasant dining experience. I dined in on a Monday night in a party of 3 and was seated immediately when we walked through the door (we were allowed to choose our seats). The booths seemed a bit small but cozy and you're allowed to write on the walls at the restaurant which gives the place a very chill vibe. The server was prompt with bringing water (I believe it has barley in it so the coloring is light brown — don't worry, it's not dirty water). My 9 year old son didn't like the taste of the water but my friend and I enjoyed it; to me, it tastes like refreshing cold tea or a water chestnut drink. We were give (4) free side dishes: kimchi, [pickled?] sliced cucumbers, sweet macaroni, and broccoli. (I don't know the official terms for these side items but they looked and tasted good and paired well with our main orders). It's about $10-$20 per food menu item on average, but I spent about $20-$30 since I ordered the soft tofu spicy soup (with pork but you can also choose seafood or beef) as well as the omurice. The soup was super tasty with the right amount of spice, with the pork being tender. I thought the omurice would taste basic but I really enjoyed the way they cooked the rice and surpassed my expectations. The portions were bigger than expected so my son and I shared the soup and omurice. The server was attentive with our requests and would bring our utensils/straws, extra bowls, and more water in a timely manner. My friend ordered the tteokbokki and it was so cheesy and delicious. She also got bibimbap that looked pretty good too. We had a nice time dining here; definitely going to return!

Came here because it was open. Let me tell you I spent a good portion of my life in Rosemont and passed by this place constantly If not everyday and did not notice it was here. It's amazing when you change your friends it also changes the way you see things. The food here is really good and despite all the drawings are all over the place it feels like a place that just emanates comfortable It was late night and I thoroughly enjoyed myself with the food was good, the people were good, I will be returning. Again another hidden gem where great things come from little hidden places.

I've lived in Rosemont for almost a decade and did not try this place because it looked like a hole in the wall. Boy was I dumb and boy have I been missing out. This place is so gosh darn tasty. It's still a bit of a hole in the wall but it's one of those gems that knock your socks off. The food is great. Service is great. The restaurant is cozy in a good way. This will be my go to Korean spot from now on out.