Description
The Bab Pocha is one of those hidden gems in Amsterdam that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a Korean local’s favourite hangout. At Cornelis Troostplein 3, it serves authentic Korean food in a relaxed setting.
I’m no Korean food expert, but after wandering into The Bab Pocha on a chilly Amsterdam evening, I was hooked. Step inside and you’re met with the smell of sizzling meat and fragrant spices. It’ll make your mouth water before you’ve even looked at the menu.
The restaurant has a cosy, intimate feel, more like someone’s living room than a formal restaurant. It’s the kind of place where you can loosen your belt, settle in and enjoy a good meal without any fuss.
What sets The Bab Pocha apart from other Korean spots in Amsterdam is its focus on homemade recipes. The kitchen serves dishes that taste carefully honed over time, and you can tell in every bite.
Whether you’re a Korean food regular or a curious newcomer like I was, there’s plenty to try. From hearty stews and crispy fried chicken to Korean BBQ, you’ll find familiar classics alongside a few less expected dishes.
Key Features
Here are a few things that stand out:
1. Authentic Korean Cuisine: The menu sticks to traditional Korean dishes, with plenty to tempt you if you’re keen to try something beyond the usual favourites.
2. Homemade Recipes: The chefs at The Bab Pocha draw on time-honoured family recipes. You can taste the care that goes into each dish.
3. Korean BBQ: This is where dinner gets interactive. The Bab Pocha has tabletop grills, so you can cook your own meat just the way you like it. It’s a fun choice for a group meal.
4. Extensive Beverage Selection: You’ll find traditional Korean soju as well as local craft beers. Their tea selection is worth a look, too.
5. Cozy Atmosphere: Wooden furnishings and soft lighting give the interior a warm, relaxed feel. It works for a date night, but groups can settle in here just as easily.
6. Friendly Staff: The staff are welcoming and happy to explain dishes or suggest what to order if the menu feels a little overwhelming.
7. Vegetarian Options: Korean food can lean heavily on meat, but The Bab Pocha offers a range of vegetarian dishes that are satisfying in their own right.
8. Dessert Menu: Save a little room for dessert. The Bab Pocha serves traditional Korean sweets that make a lovely finish to the meal.
9. Takeaway Option: Rather eat at home? The Bab Pocha offers takeaway, so you can enjoy the same food elsewhere.
10. Cultural Experience: A meal here is about more than the food. The decor, music and menu give the restaurant the feel of a cosy Korean eatery.
Best Time to Visit
When’s the best time to visit? It depends on the sort of evening you have in mind.
For a quieter meal, try an early dinner around 5: 30 PM, when the restaurant first opens. It’s usually a relaxed time to eat, whether you’re catching up with a friend or planning a date night.
If you’d rather have a livelier atmosphere, aim for somewhere between 7: 30 PM and 9 PM. The room fills up, the meat sizzles on the grills and the soju starts flowing. That’s when the place feels at its most lively.
Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays. If you’re planning to visit on a Friday or Saturday night, I’d recommend booking ahead. You don’t want to miss out because you left it too late.
One local tip: if you’re going for Korean BBQ, ask for a table with a built-in grill when you book. Those tables are popular, especially during peak hours.
The Bab Pocha is open year-round. In winter, a steaming bowl of Korean stew hits the spot; in summer, Korean fried chicken and a cold beer on the terrace make a lovely evening.
Keep an eye out for special events and themed nights, too. The Bab Pocha sometimes hosts Korean cultural evenings or menu tastings, which are worth checking out if you’re in town.
How to Get There
The Bab Pocha is at Cornelis Troostplein 3, an easy spot to find once you’re in De Pijp. Here are a few ways to get there:
1. By Tram: If you’re coming from the city centre, tram 3 or 12 is a straightforward option. Get off at the Cornelis Troostplein stop; the restaurant is right by the square.
2. By Metro: Take metro 52 to De Pijp station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk. Head east along Ferdinand Bolstraat, then turn right onto Cornelis Trooststraat. You’ll find the restaurant on your left by the square.
3. By Bike: If you’re feeling adventurous (and, well, this is Amsterdam), rent a bike. It’s a good way to see the city and build up an appetite. Just lock it securely when you arrive.
4. By Car: Driving in Amsterdam can be tricky, but if you’re set on it, there’s a Q-Park nearby at Van Ostadestraat 6. It’s about a five-minute walk from the car park to the restaurant.
5. On Foot: If you’re already in De Pijp, The Bab Pocha is easy to reach on foot. It’s a lovely neighbourhood for a stroll, and you can work up an appetite on the way.
A quick tip: if you’re using Google Maps or another navigation app, search for “The Bab Pocha” rather than just the address. There are a few restaurants around the square, and it’s easy to end up at the wrong one.
Look out for the Korean signage when you get close. Even if you can’t read it, you’ll spot the characters and find the place more easily.
Tips for Visiting
A few tips to make your visit to The Bab Pocha go smoothly:
1. Make a Reservation: The Bab Pocha can get busy, especially at weekends. Book ahead to avoid turning up hungry and having to wait.
2. Try the Set Menus: If you’re new to Korean food or can’t decide what to order, a set menu lets you sample a few dishes without spending too much.
3. Don’t Be Shy, Ask Questions: The staff are friendly and know the menu well. If you’re unsure what a dish is or how to eat it, just ask.
4. Pace Yourself: Korean meals often come with plenty of side dishes, or banchan. They’re easy to keep picking at, so save room for your main course.
5. Learn Some Basic Korean: A simple “Gamsahamnida” (thank you) or “Mashisoyo” (it’s delicious) is a nice way to show your appreciation. It’s fun to try, too.
6. Try the Soju: If you’re of legal drinking age and fancy a tipple, give soju a try. This traditional Korean spirit pairs well with the food, though it’s stronger than it tastes.
7. Dress Comfortably: The Bab Pocha has a relaxed atmosphere, so there’s no need to dress up. If you’re having Korean BBQ, wear something you don’t mind smelling a little smoky.
8. Bring Cash: The restaurant accepts cards, but it can be handy to have cash, especially if you’re splitting the bill with friends.
9. Don’t Rush: Korean dining is a social affair. Take your time, enjoy the food and make the most of the company.
10. Try Something New: Bulgogi and bibimbap are delicious, of course, but why not try something outside your comfort zone? The Bab Pocha has lesser-known Korean dishes that are well worth ordering.
11. Save Room for Dessert: The Bab Pocha’s dessert menu is small but memorable. Their hotteok (sweet filled pancakes) are particularly good.
12. Check for Specials: They often have daily or weekly specials that aren’t on the regular menu. It’s always worth asking what’s good that day.
13. Bring friends: Korean food is made for sharing. Bring a few people and you can try more dishes!
