Cafe Modu Korean Bowl

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Epoch of dynasties, emperors and offerings. Many legends revolve around the birth of Bibimbap, the Korean dish par excellence of a harmonious and balanced gastronomy. Whether in ceremonies, in the palace or in the streets of an ancestral Korea, this delicious dish reaches the intramurals of Barcelona.

Tucked away on Minerva street, amidst the crowds of an area famous for the heyday of businesses and entrepreneurs, we found this little passageway into the heart of Seoul. We were surprised to discover that MODU has been in this location for just under a year. A real discovery for passionates like us, illustrious of an extensive gastronomic world that runs through a cuisine as precious as Korean.

We crossed the tiny door into an immense gastronomic universe, pushed by the uncertainty of what awaits us past it. A step into this homely Korean restaurant and we find Geibbeum, a MODU owner, and our personal guide. We enter into a space that is governed by a philosophy explicit in its own sign. A literary translation of a name that takes for granted a mixture of flavours, textures and aromas capable of intoxicating.

A homely and cozy space where only Korean products are used and distributed in this small sanctuary. A kitchen that is run by a single thread, the Korean flag supports it in the form of Bibimbap. Insignia of his kitchen, we asked him for veal. Rice, five types of vegetables and an egg, meticulously presented; accompanied by Miyeok Guk – a seaweed soup present at all celebrations – and Gochujang sauce.

Our next bite is two pieces of Korean-style fried chicken. One bathed in soy sauce, garlic and honey, and another in hot sauce. There’s so much sauce you’ll need to lick your fingers, although MODU tries to prevent that with a couple of neat napkins. Followed by Tteokbokki, a pasta of rice, street delight.

Advised by Geibbeum, we ask for another MODU banner. Jeyuk, marinated meat in Gochujang hot sauce, accompanied by rice. Doom and lust in a lavish dish. The sweet touch is provided by a macha brownie and an arm of gypsy filled with whipped cream and red beans. An authentic experience, a street adventure, a backpacking exodus through Korea, a complete culinary tour that takes place when crossing an arcade called MODU.

This is MODU, a harmonious refuge that supports the foundations of an ancestral Korean cuisine under a peaceful motto: all together!