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August 2019

THE KIMCHI PROJECT

http://thekimchiproject.nz/

To thank and commemorate our Huskies nailing one of the biggest jobs we’ve completed to date, we (of course) went out to feast as a team. Our celebratory pre-Escape Room adventure (which we nailed in an almost record-breaking 25 minutes booyah) found us at The Kimchi Project on Lorne Street. Don’t be deceived by the small frontage of this place – the restaurant spills out into a lush, tropical-feeling courtyard tucked away out of street view. On this brisk winter’s day, we were mega-thankful for the readily-provided blankets and heater. The menu offers a lovely range, with a cheeky Instagram stalk able to provide some guidance for our orders (when in doubt, refer to Insta). The shared Kimchi Waffle Fries and Lotus Root Chips were demolished in no time. The food, although beautifully presented, wasn’t the most flavoursome. Nonetheless, the helpful waitstaff and lovely atmosphere ensured a lovely lunch for all. With the infamous fried chicken not available all day (though this may have been our misread of the menu in hindsight), we might have to squeeze in a post-work dinner visit sometime soon.

Louise had the Southland Salmon Ceviche Rice with Southland salmon, sesame dressing, wild jasmine rice, sriracha and salted cucumber and drank a Gorilla Smash Oreo Smoothie. She said, “Coffee cups are amaze – totally in love with the ceramics. Loved the courtyard and the provision of a heater on a super-brrr day. I typically love ceviche but wasn’t sure on the Korean twist. Felt more poke bowl, less traditional, but it IS a fusion joint! Not put off though – would love to go back and try the night vibes and the chicken which I hear is a must!”

Katie had the Korean BBQ Pork Rice with horseradish cream, bok choy, chickpeas & sliced almonds, and drank a Garage Project IIPA – Pernicious Weed. She said, “Grateful for the wait staff that put the heater on for us, less grateful for them forgetting an order, grateful for husk banter and celebrations — WOOT.”

Mel had the Kimchi Bacon Pasta with kimchi, cream, seasonal veggies, garlic, seasonal mushroom and bacon, and drank a Jungle Power Smoothie. She said, “Very cool area out the back where we ate, the pasta tasted great, and the smoothie was refreshing. I would love to come back and try the night menu!”

Bri had the Yuzu Mushroom Salad with baby potatoes, cucumber, tomatoes, ginger and seasonal mushrooms, and drank a Jungle Power Smoothie. She said, “Really fun vibes in the courtyard, suitable for our large group. Refreshing smoothie and the food was good, though I would try something different next time.”

Jeffrey had the Kimchi Bacon Pasta with kimchi, cream, seasonal veggies, garlic, seasonal mushroom and bacon, and drank a Guava & Apple Organic Juice. He said, “very nice food and relaxed atmosphere.”

Phil had the Kimchi Fried Rice with edamame, sunny side up egg, parsnip chips and prawn, and drank an Asahi Black. He said, “Food was yummy and the space was cosy. Very enjoyable.”

Kate had the Kimchi Fried Rice with edamame, sunny side up egg, parsnip chips and prawn, and drank a Peach and Passionflower Iced Tea. She said, “after having a good stalk of their Instagram I went with the kimchi fried rice. It wasn’t the best fried rice I’ve had but it was enjoyable and not too spicy. I wish I’d added the crunchy prawns for something a bit extra. The outdoor space has a lovely atmosphere – super thankful for the heater! The service was a bit all over the place but I’d still be keen to come back and try the dinner menu.”

Iliane had the Buddha Bowl with mungbeans, chickpeas, green beans, cucumber, wild aster, red cabbage, wild rice, gochujang sauce, 64°C egg, and drank a glass of the Italian Mionetto Prosecco Doc Brut. She said “the service wasn’t overly attentive, friendly but nothing to rave about. Drinks and food delivery did not flow well. Some of us were drinking and eating for a significant amount of time before others. Presentation was stunning. My dish looked amazing. Prosecco was en pointe and chilled to perfection. In terms of flavour, not overly tasty. Wish I had opted for a hot dish in retrospect. Overall experience was great! A few minor details to improve on here but definitely budget-friendly and a surprisingly huge outdoor area for this part of town! It was a nice setting. Seating a little cramped – but thank goodness for the heater and stray blanket.”

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