Korean Hawoo Beef is the Best Beef in the World…except for one problem

I had beef all over the world in places that claim to have the best. From Argentina to Japan to Spain. There is one beef which stands above the rest – Hanwoo Beef from Korea. The only problem is, it is extremely hard to find outside of Korea. Therefore, on a recent overnight in Seoul, I knew what I wanted for my one meal – HANWOO beef. I choose Born & Bred which is in the Michelin guide and 47th on the World’s 50 Best Asia in 2023. Note that there are multiple experiences in the multi-story building. On the second floor there is a more casual al la carte restaurant. We choose the third floor private dining omakase option.

As I walked into the private room, I was greeted by a familiar Korean bbq set up and got very excited for the evening’s meal.

The chef for the evening then entered and presented the first set of cuts.

While these initial cuts were cooking, we were served some amuse and a soup.

Then finally, our first taste of freshly grilled hanwoo beef with some black truffle on top. It was heavenly.

The reason hanwoo is SO good is that it is perfectly balanced. Japanese Wagyu is too fatty. Like biting into butter. Hanwoo, while still highly marbled, is not as fatty. Next, another cut with some mustard.

The next course presented in marinade.

Then grilled to perfection.

…and served…

Some oysters and white kimchi to refresh the palate.

The next two servings came with amazing pickled veg in top. They were the perfect compliment and greatly enhanced the experience. Each bite, was the perfect blend of umami, salt, acid and some sweetness from the veg.