A fun Tuesday for team Bloom as we headed to Seoul Food Studio on the Ormeau Road to welcome the Lunar New Year with a five course tasting menu celebrating Korean tradition with contemporary flair.
Opened at the end of last year, this beautifully curated space has quickly become one of the most exciting additions to Belfast’s food scene. Minimalist wooden interiors, soft lighting and carefully displayed Korean ceramics and gifts create an atmosphere that feels both modern and deeply rooted in culture. It is more than a restaurant; it is a cultural destination.
To mark Korean Seollal, guests were invited to experience a specially curated menu designed by Executive Chef Michael Hartnett. Formerly Sous Chef at Waterman and previously at Galgorm, Hartnett brings classical technique and precision to Korean cuisine, working alongside his wife who leads front of house. Together, they create a warm, thoughtful hospitality experience that feels personal and polished.
The five course tasting menu opened with traditional Korean New Year pancake, a delicate nod to celebration and sharing. It was followed by Gochujang Tuna Hwe, a standout dish that delivered clean heat and texture in equal measure. The richness of the tuna was balanced by seaweed, avocado and a gentle kick of wasabi, finished with sesame for depth. It was vibrant, elegant and layered with flavour.
Pork and kimchi mandu brought comfort and umami, the acidity of the kimchi cutting through the richness beautifully. Then came the perilla seed soup with rice cake and slow poached egg, a traditional Seollal dish elevated with Hartnett’s subtle twist. The addition of pickled mushrooms lifted the earthy, nutty base of the soup, adding brightness and complexity.
The triple fried rested chicken drumstick with yuja glaze, caviar and chives was playful yet refined. Crisp, juicy and glazed with citrus sharpness from the yuja, it demonstrated the kitchen’s confidence in balancing authenticity with creativity.
Dessert, yakgwa with banana crème pâtissière, caramelised banana and peanut tuile, closed the menu with warmth and sweetness, honouring Korean tradition while delivering contemporary finesse.
While the tasting menu was the focus of the evening, Seoul Food Studio’s everyday menu continues to impress. Their Seoul Fried Chicken with Yang Nyon sauce remains a firm favourite, as does the bibimbap, layered with colourful vegetables, perfectly cooked rice and that signature gochujang heat. Pickled radishes add crunch and contrast, and the Korean teas, particularly the fragrant yuja tea, are worth seeking out. Coffee lovers are equally well served.
Founded by visionary owner Jae, Seoul Food Studio is building something special on the Ormeau Road. From weekly cultural events to Korean film nights on a Tuesday, it is fast becoming a hub for those wanting to explore Korean food and culture in Belfast.
This was my third visit since opening, and the Seollal tasting menu confirmed what many already suspect. Seoul Food Studio is not simply serving food. It is telling a story of heritage, flavour and modern Belfast creativity, one beautifully balanced plate at a time.
Check out via insta @seoul_food_studio to find out about events. Walk-ins fine booking over 6 do book.
