Topokki, located in Birmingham’s lively Southside district, is an understated Korean restaurant known for its authentic flavours and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled close to the city's bustling Chinese Quarter, this family-run eatery has become a go-to spot for Korean food lovers seeking traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and deep-rooted culinary expertise. Its sleek yet cozy interior creates a relaxed dining experience, while the friendly and efficient service makes it an inviting destination for casual meals, group dining, and Korean food enthusiasts alike.
The restaurant’s menu offers a diverse selection of traditional Korean dishes, featuring bold, comforting flavours. At the heart of the menu is Topokki, the dish that lends the restaurant its name. This Korean street-food favourite consists of soft, chewy rice cakes and fish cakes simmered in a rich and spicy gochujang (Korean red chili paste) sauce, delivering a delicious balance of sweetness and heat.
Another star of the menu is Bibimbap, a vibrant rice dish served in a hot stone bowl and topped with an assortment of sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and a choice of proteins such as Bulgogi (marinated beef), spicy pork, kimchi, chicken teriyaki, or natto (fermented soybeans). The dish is traditionally mixed with either hot gochujang or a sweet soy sauce, allowing guests to tailor the flavour to their preference.
For those craving warming broths, Topokki’s soups are a must-try. The Korean Fish Cake Soup (Oh-deng-guk) is a comforting dish featuring skewered fish cakes in a light, flavourful broth, while the Rice Cake Soup (Tok-guk) is a Korean New Year’s staple made with sliced rice cakes in a savoury beef broth. The Mandu-guk offers delicate Korean dumplings served in hot soup, making it an ideal choice for a comforting meal.
Noodle lovers will appreciate the variety on offer, from the Japchae—stir-fried glass noodles with beef and vegetables in a savoury soy sauce—to the Korean Spicy Chewy Noodles, a cold noodle dish served with vegetables, sesame oil, a boiled egg, and a fiery hot sauce.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Korean cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, Topokki offers an immersive and delicious dining experience.