"This is possibly the best Korean restaurant I have ever been to. It's definitely better than any in my hometown, and if I lived in Chicago, this would be a regular on my list of eateries to visit. It was a Wednesday late morning when I realized my original plans to go to the Art Institute were dashed because it was in fact closed. I decided instead to explore some Chicago neighborhoods. It was also nearing lunch time, so I decided to seek out a Korean place, and the easiest one to get to was Ssyal. So I made my way by bus, the L, and a long walk through neighborhoods to work up an appetite. I found my destitation, and upon entering I was greeted warmly by the lady working. I went with my typical order for Korean places: Dukbokki (Spicy Rice Cake) and Dolsot Bibimbap. Although I was tempted to order the seasonal Naengmeyon (Cold noodle soup) that I became familiar with after watching K dramas... but I stuck with my usual. And I went with a peach soju as well. I was the only one in the restaurant, and enjoyed the quiet calm meal. The lady was like close friend's eomma, and I felt like more than just a patron. It is truly one of the few places where I felt valued as a person enjoying some really good homecooking. The banchan were really tasty there was some jalapenos, cucumbers, fish cake, and what I think was kkakdugi cubed daikon kimchi and it was SO good. The dukbokki was not to sweet, which was to my liking, and I savored the texture of the chewy rice cakes. I know that some don't like this, but it is one of my favorites if the sauce is done right. It was spicy, but not too spicy. I enjoyed these and my soju while I waited for the main dish. I was not disappointed when the lady rolled it out on a cart and it was sizzling like no other dolsot bibimbap I've ever had. I let it sit for probably 10 minutes to really let the rice crisp up and it was SO worth the wait. The dish was shallow and wide allowing for a thinner layer of rice that crisped up to perfection! I was pleasantly surprised that the beef was not fatty at all (that's the way I like it) and the egg was fried to perfection. I let it cook and get nice and hard. I was really in foodie heaven. What I love about Korean food is that it is healthy, and while I was indulging in a large lunch by myself, I didn't feel guilty for eating it all up. It was just so good. While I was eating, I noticed that my host was prepping strawberries, and I was so surprised when she brought my a small dish of strawberries. Perfect for a summer afternoon finisher. It paired well with my soju and I delighted in this simple gesture of generosity. I was so please with my experience here. I can't imagine a better dining experience. The atmosphere was homey and cozy and the service was amazing. Again if I lived here, I would undoubtedly be a regular. Please go and try it!!"
