Mannaza Korean Restaurant

Tucked in a back street behind the Gate is Mannaza Korean Restaurant. A small modern asian eatery. It's sister company to the Sunshine Supermarket, which is next door and open the same hours as the restaurant. We had a table of nine which was no trouble for the patient and smiling staff. The menu is a fine example of Korean cuisine, a variety of soup, sizzling hot plates and rice dishes, many with a heavy hint of spice. 


I chose the Seafood Pancake (£6.90) and was not disappointed, it was one of the non-spicy dishes so I ordered a side of Kimchi (£1.50) which is thee Korean delicacy of pickled cabbages in a spicy sauce that they eat as a side dish/condiment and therefore I think a "must have" to truly get the Korean experience. 
To wash it down I had a can of Rice Punch which I now think is more of a dessert. I was bemused to see actual rice pour out into my glass, but anyway it really helped to cool the mouth after some potent kimchi.
My friends meals all looked delicious too and their clean plates confirmed this. Dishes to note was the Salmon Hotplate which was cooked to perfection, it melted in the mouth. The Tofu Kimchi Soup was a real oriental treat, not as spicy but still had a flavorsome kick.


There are a lot of truly Korean touches such as Metal Chopsticks, the Korean Music Channel playing and the Menu being written in both Korean and English. To me the number of Korean customers already proved authenticity and quality. Also one of the great thing is that if you really liked something, you can pop next door (you don't even have to exit the restaurant) and buy the ingredients from the shop!


I had to find out about the metal chopsticks, it was something I had immediately been curious about and one friend said there was a reason for it. The general belief I've found is that metal is generally better than wood or plastic because it is more durable and hygienic, but not used because it makes eating rice harder. Koreans generally use spoons to eat their rice and therefore have adopted the metal chopstick. If anyone knows otherwise, I'd love to hear it.


So for a authentic Korean nibble, I highly recommend Mannaza and what ever you order, make sure there is a side of kimchi. The restaurant is at the end of Monk St just off China Town or via a small alley way off Low Friar St.


 I must warn that they accept cash only, which can take people by surprise so be prepared.
 Mannaza serve take out as well which receives a 15% discount.


Open: 
Restaurant: Monday to Sunday 11.30am-9.30pm
Shop: Monday to Sunday 11am-11pm


Tel:01912327950