If you’re looking to experience a culinary journey of Korean flavors, Jagalchi is the place for you! Located in Daly City inside of Serramonte Mall, lies this massive complex where culinary dishes, sweet and savory snacks, and buttery bakery items await.
Upon first entering the market, I saw the bustling crowds of people, scurrying around buying groceries, browsing the snacks, and dining at a small restaurant in the center of Jagalchi called Pogu.
Korea’s first Michelin-star chef, Tony Yoo, owns Pogu, and was actually there, monitoring his chefs. I excitedly scanned the menu; my mouth watering with each description I read. The entrees arrived in an adequate amount of time, a pungent aroma blooming once my bowl was set in front of me.
I ordered the Bulgogi Rice Bowl: a tall pile of Korean BBQ beef with an abundance of green onions outlining the rim of the bowl, all over steaming hot white rice. When the first bite reached my taste buds, I was met with the soft, mochi-like texture of the rice, accompanied by the sweetness of the beef.
The green onions added just the right amount of crunch, which perfectly tied the bowl’s variety of flavors together. I really enjoyed this dish and would definitely recommend trying it.
Behind Pogu, you’ll find a line of street food that you can purchase fresh, including mandu (Korean dumplings), kimbap (seaweed rolls), and tteokbokki (chewy rice cake).
Across the way, you’ll find Basquia, Jagalchi’s gluten-free bakery, which specializes in bread and pastries made with rice flour. They also offer cakes and a varied drink menu that lines the bakery counter.
In the grocery section, you’ll see fruits and vegetables, as well as different meat cuts. Cookies and chips of unique flavors, sweet and savory frozen foods, and coffee, tea, and juice pouches, can all be found in the snack area. A personal favorite that I picked up from the drink aisle was the Cantabile Vanilla Americano that is sure to give you a great boost of energy.
It really takes quite a while to browse through the entire place, and I definitely did not capture the plenitude of items Jagalchi has. I highly recommend giving Jagalchi a try. The prices aren’t too high considering the quality of foods you can get. Who knows what fun snacks and drinks you’ll go home with!
