Have you ever visited a fusion restaurant? Fusion cuisine combines different cooking traditions from all over the world. With people from all over the world traveling and bringing their traditions with them, fusion is increasing in popularity globally. Korea is no different. One trend growing alongside fusion cuisine is veganism. Itโs environmentally friendly and healthy. So, itโs no wonder that with the rapid growth of fusion restaurants and cafes in Seoul, more and more vegan options are also becoming available.
Many dishes that have been adapted as vegan staples have foreign origins. Some common vegan dishes Iโve found include curries, pasta, etc. However, today I am here to introduce you to a fusion that is a little bit more unique and most importantly, one of the best meals Iโve ever had!
Little Gangster Introduction
Little Gangster is a small, hip, all-vegan restaurant that opened recently in summer 2021. The entirely plant-based menu features a Korean twist on foreign dishes. Offerings are changed seasonally, so you can try new items every time you visit.
Vegan Fusion Menu
In general, you can expect warming curries, noodles, and various side dishes. Their menu changes seasonally. When I visited, the menu featured Laksa, Thai Red Curry, a Mushroom Bowl, and Kimchi Arancini. How great does that sound? No wonder Little Gangster was able to quickly gather a lot of loyal customers! They also serve various drinks ranging from teas to vegan wine โ just in case you are feeling particularly fancy.
Atmosphere
Arriving at Little Gangster is like walking into a little forest paradise. You can sit down at the small wooden tables and admire the greenery and artsy decorations. The restaurant has an open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs create their masterpieces. The space is relatively small, so sometimes it might be difficult to be served right away โ but itโs definitely worth the wait!
A Feast to Remember
I had a difficult time choosing what to eat. Everything on the menu looked incredible! In the end, my friend and I ended up ordering everything but the mushroom bowl.
Vegan Fusion Laksa
The laksa was a bit spicier than average and a bit redder in color. Yet, it still gave you the comfort noodle vibe and a nice light coconut taste. With their laksa, they also serve a side of veggies and some bread. Each piece of toast came with a homemade veggie spread that was also incredibly delicious.
Vegan Fusion Thai Red Curry
The Thai Red Curry came with little chickpea corn balls and wholewheat naan. As a curry lover, I had high expectations but the dish did not disappoint. It was very flavorful and the naan was nice and soft.
Vegan Fusion Arancini
However, the highlight of the day (and maybe my life) were the arancini. Arancini are Italian fried rice balls. Unlike traditional arancini, they came in a shape that resembled an egg roll. Nevertheless, they were spectacular! The filling was the perfect harmony of vegan cheese sauce and kimchi. Additionally, the sauce that was served along the arancini was both super flavorful and perfectly tart, balancing the dish and creating deep-fried perfection. The only negative, I wish we had ordered a double portion.
Directions & Location
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Little Gangster Address: 11-3 Saechang-ro 12-gil Yongsan-gu, Seoul Operating Hours: 11:00am - 9:00pm, Closed Monday Directions: From Exit 6 of Hyochang Park Station (Line 6) walk straight and turn left, then walk through the underpass. Cross the road and trun right. Turn left at the third street (near the CU). One block down, on the corner building, Little Gangster will be located on your left.
