Kang Na Roo

Kang Na Roo is a restaurant just round the corner from Hudadak, a local mom-and-pop shop that serves delicious Korean Fried Chicken. I see Kang Na Roo whenever I head into Clayton, but I'm a creature of habit who gets my Korean fix at Hudadak and Hodori Korean Garden. There was never much reason for me to step into Kang Na Roo, until, well, a couple of friends recommended their hot pot really really highly. 

We had the Gam Ja Tang (L - $48), a pork marrow stew loaded with potato, carrots, mushrooms and pork. It was large enough to feed 4-5 people. The soup wasn't overly spicy. Perfect for me. The soup is so fragrant, I could see myself living on just the soup, some potatoes, and a bowl of rice day after day. 

The hot pot took a while to cook, and we loaded up on their Seafood Pancake ($16.50). It was done well, with crispy edges that went well with the sauce. 

One thing I can never get sick of is the Glazed Sweet Potato side dish that is a common fixture in Korean restaurants. The ones here are great. Kimch-whassit? It's all yours. I'll have another bite of sweet potato. 

On another visit, I had the Beef Bulgogi ($14.50), and my friend had the Beef Spare Ribs ($18). The beef spare ribs was more flavourful, but it's a little bothersome to have to eat around the bones. (That's how lazy we are.) I prefer mine: put into mouth, chew, swallow, repeat. Easy.  

Warning! Kang Na Roo do get crowded during lunch and dinner times, so call ahead for a reservation. They'll hold your table up to 15 minutes. Understandably, they do get a little huffy if you don't show up on time.