my timesThe Korea Times
  1. Lifestyle
  2. Travel & Food

TANI Nomadic Bistro

Listen
  • Published Jul 26, 2007 8:42 pm KST
  • Updated Jul 26, 2007 8:42 pm KST

Truly Intimate and Unrivalled in Culinary Offerings

By Gregory Curley

Contributing Writer

When the thought of fusion cuisine springs to mind, no other restaurant in Seoul has cornered the market quite like TANI Nomadic Bistro. And rightfully so. With richly exotic, elegant decor, and unrivalled quality, its appeal is unmatched and reputation rightfully cemented in the minds of its loyal patrons as the place to go to savor authentic Asian fare.

Cozy ambiance, excellent service and a menu guaranteed to win over even the most hardened of culinary aficionados, TANI proves to be a restaurant worth its weight in gold and in a class all on its own.

First opening its doors nearly four years ago in one of Cheongdam’s myriad hidden side streets, its elusive location and proximity to a wealth of other fusion style restaurants proved a risky venture.

However, TANI’s owner, Kim Hong-gi, didn’t quite see it that way. His strategies soon flourished for within a short time, TANI’s unique concept and strict approach to detail quickly garnered the respect from a steady stream of customers and soon put the wheels in motion for expansion.

Highlights of the menu include: yaki udon, a delicious assortment of stir fried vegetables and seafood mixed with thick udon noodles; the asparagus/watercress salad, fresh market greens tossed together in a balsamic dressing and layered with succulent garlic shrimp and scallops; the pork ribs with braised radicchio; the black cod, glazed in a Japanese miso and the signature tenderloin steak, layered with foie gras saute.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive list of varietal wines, and its nicely chosen house red, a fine Australian cabernet merlot, Cape Mentelle, makes for a perfect addition to one’s meal.

A sommelier is available to answer any questions and offer suggestions as to which selection would best compliment your entree.

Everything from within its walls echoes of authenticity: all the handcrafted furniture, cutlery, tableware and dining ware are imported from Bali.

Upon entering, it seems almost as though you’ve been thrown through a cultural time warp _ out of the metropolitan madness and into a secret hideaway, replete with natural elements fusing wonderfully together.

The seating is comfortable, with sturdy wooden chairs fit with plush cushions occupying large tables and the layout is uniquely traditional.

Whatever the occasion, TANI is sure to exceed all expectations. And nestled securely away from the hustle and bustle, it remains, unquestionably, the ideal venue to spend a comfortable, intimate evening exploring traditional fusion cuisine.