Sodam

Located in the heart of Dublin, CA, Sodam offers an authentic taste of Korea that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Seoul. This Korean restaurant stands out with its vibrant menu featuring beloved traditional dishes like Chicken Wings, Kimchi Fried Rice, Bulgogi, and the comforting Korean Spicy Rice Cake (Tteokbokki). Each dish bursts with balanced flavors—the spicy yet subtly sweet sauce of their rice cakes showcases a tender texture that keeps diners coming back for more.

One of the unmistakable highlights of Sodam is their Kimbap, available in hearty variations such as Fish Cake Soup Fried Chicken Kimbap and Beef Kimbap, all thoughtfully prepared with generous portions of meat and fresh ingredients. Their Korean Crab Pancakes and Japchae further enhance the menu, offering a delightful range for both newcomers and connoisseurs of Korean cuisine.

To complement your meal, Sodam offers an enticing selection of traditional Korean drinks, ranging from soothing Ginger Tea and vibrant Citron Tea to refreshing cold drinks like ShikHye and Green Plum, perfect for cleansing the palate. For dessert lovers, their Sweet Rice Cakes, known locally as mochi, come highly praised for their delicate sweetness and soft textures. The Shaved Ice served here offers a delightful finish, especially on sunny California days.

But Sodam isn’t just about spectacular flavors. The atmosphere effortlessly reflects the warmth and casual comfort of Korean eateries back home. Customers like Florencio Lavadia Jr have noted how the moment you walk in, you're embraced by an ambiance that truly feels like being in Korea — from the lively vibe to the spotless facilities, including well-maintained restrooms. Whether grabbing a quick bite or settling in to enjoy a full sit-down meal, Sodam offers plenty of comfortable seating and a friendly, attentive staff to ensure your visit is seamless.

Returning patrons rave about the restaurant’s consistent quality and value. Bill Lam, a longtime fan, praises the sweet rice cakes as the “best mochi” he’s ever had, remarking on the reasonable pricing and generous portions of meat in their kimbap. Heba highlights the Tteokbokki as the “best in the Bay Area,” appreciating the perfect balance of tender rice cakes with a sauce that’s neither too spicy nor too sweet.

Those looking for convenient, flavorful Korean fare will find a gem in Sodam. As Ashli Chen puts it, it’s an ideal spot for “grab and go” lunches, featuring a robust variety including kimchi fried rice, banchan, fried chicken, and Korean desserts. Shannon Tam underscores the ability to also bring home Korean staples like jajangmein topping and beef bone soup, making Sodam a practical and delicious part of your culinary routine.

Whether you crave hearty comfort food, crave authentic Korean specialties, or simply want to immerse yourself in genuine Korean flavors and hospitality, Sodam delivers an experience rich in taste, warmth, and cultural authenticity. It’s a captivating culinary journey that left me eager to return and explore even more from their thoughtfully curated menu.