Best Kimchi in Austin, Texas: Narrow Street 512

Korean food does get the recognition it deserves in Texas. And when it comes to Kimchi, we only have a few spots in Austin worthy of mentioning.

If you're not familiar with Kimchi, it's a traditional Korean dish made by fermenting seasoned vegetables, typically cabbage and radishes, with a blend of spices, including chili powder, garlic, ginger, and salt. This iconic dish boasts a complex flavor profile that balances spicy, salty, and tangy notes, with a hint of umami richness. Beyond its delicious taste, kimchi is also renowned for its numerous health benefits, thanks to the fermentation process which enhances its probiotic content, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Kimchi holds significant cultural significance in Korean cuisine, often served as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes, showcasing its versatility and enduring popularity both domestically and internationally. It's not too popular with foodies, but slowly growing appreciation.

When you're shopping in Houston, Super H-Mart is a great place to do your grocery shopping for all things Asian, and located inside H-Mart at the far end of the food court, Narrow Street is one of the last places I've needed to try at H-Mart and I am so glad to have gotten around to it! In the far back wall of the dining hall of HMart, you'll find this hidden gem.

Narrow Street provides a nice variety of dishes on their menu and they know that big pictures bring in business, at least it hooked me in. We ordered the Ox Tail and Tendon soup (B4) and the spicy seafood udon (C1). The staff was nice and efficient.

But my favorite goodie to eat (when I eat Korean) is Kimchi. Kimchi's exceptional taste stems from a combination of factors that work together to create its unique flavor profile. Firstly, its fermentation process plays a crucial role, as beneficial bacteria break down sugars in the vegetables, yielding lactic acid and imparting a tangy taste. This fermentation not only preserves the vegetables but also enhances their flavor complexity. Additionally, the diverse array of ingredients, including napa cabbage, radish, garlic, ginger, scallions, and chili peppers, contribute to its rich flavor palette. Seasonings such as Korean chili powder, fish sauce, and fermented shrimp paste add layers of spiciness, saltiness, and umami. The interplay of these ingredients results in a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the palate. And Narrow Street 512 nails it!

I got to enjoy a great meal, get some grocery shopping done, and end it all with a quick game of poorly-played Sound Voltex. I truly love H-Mart...and Narrow Street 512!!

11301 Lakeline Blvd H Mart food market Austin, TX 78717

(737) 708-8033

https://www.narrowstreet512.com