Thursday, January 31, 2019

Kuji Brings Korean/Hawaiian Flavors to Woodland


Woodland isn't a town known for its Asian cuisine, but that has really changed in recent years. Japanese and Thai restaurants have really made a nice impact to the Woodland food scene. Kuji brings some Korean and Hawaiian flavors into the mix with their menu full of unique dishes. 

Food -
The entire menu at Kuji has me hooked as it brings flavors and food items that I really love. From kalbi (Korean short ribs) to spam masubi (a type of Hawaiian sushi), there is certainly a huge variety for any sort of taste you're craving.

For meat lovers, the Korean path is worth taking. Korean marinated meats are the stuff of legend. I had some on the top of my cold noodle dish called bibimkooksoo. Cold noodles may be shocking to some, but it is a seriously fun way to have it. And the sauce that they provided with it just set the entire dish into orbit. The orange sauce didn't bring the fire and heat, but instead gave the entire dish a bit of tangy sweetness that paired perfectly with the rest of the ingredients.

Korean restaurants usually come with a bevy of side dishes presented on little plates. Each Korean restaurant has their own unique offerings in this area. Kuji isn't a traditional sit down Korean place, but they do serve up a trio of sides when you order a lunch plate. These come with kimchee, potato salad, and pickled veggies. The kimchee is nicely seasoned and vinegary. It's not over the top though - which I appreciate. This and rice are awesome. The potato salad is creamy and offers a milder experience. And the pickled veggies are a nice appetizer to get the meal going.

Along with the food items on the menu, you can also order milk tea! Milk tea is something that Woodland just doesn't really have, so it is awesome that Kuji offers it on the menu. And this is the real deal milk tea too. The one I had tonight was a smooth balance of flavors with fresh boba. The boba was so fresh that it was still warm! I think boba lovers will enjoy the kind that they have here.

If what I had on my visit to Kuji is any indication, the rest of the menu items are bound to be good. In talking with the owner, there was a ton of passion put into creating the food on the menu. This passion really translates to the dishes that Kuji serves its customers.

Service/Atmosphere - 
Kuji isn't a huge restaurant. It's one of those places where you order your food first at the counter and then find a place to sit. I didn't have any issues getting seated during the dinner hour, but if the restaurant gets hit with a large crowd, finding a seat could be difficult. Many of the tables seat two people with only one or two that accommodate more. Sitting at the counter is also an option as they have counter seating available.

The staff at Kuji is very friendly, so feel free to talk to them about the restaurant and the food. I found that they are more than happy to make a recommendation so that you get the food you really want to eat during your visit.

Price -
Kuji's prices fall into the mid-range category as this restaurant isn't for the super budget friendly, but it doesn't blow out your bank account either. You can probably get a nice filling meal for around ten to twelve dollars. Add a few dollars to that if you want to spice up your order with an extra side or dish.

During my visit I spent thirty bucks for both me and my guest. It was enough to eat and drink and I left feeling full, but not over stuffed.

Special Tips and Recommendations -
My recommendation is any marinated beef or pork product! Korean style beef and pork are so flavorful! It's a must-have if you go to a Korean place. If you're looking to try their milk tea, I recommend getting it as part of a combo as it lowers the price from $4.50 to $3.

Bottom Line - 
Kuji is a restaurant that is a definite visit if you live in Woodland. I'm so happy that Woodland has a place like this! Kuji is a solid choice for lunch or dinner with tasty at a reasonable price.

Letter Grade

A


Me and my cold noodles.


Korean grilled chicken.


Sides.


Marinated meat.

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