Wisconsin and Minnesota are two states far from the Korean peninsula; but in Lawrence, the respective streets house the only Korean restaurant in Lawrence—O Café. Located off Sixth Street, the ‘hole-in-the-wall’ is anything but small, with its bold flavors reverberating in popular dishes found across the Pacific, and a price incomparable to the amount of food accompanying your meal.

Korean side dishes, complimentary with your meal.
Korean side dishes, complimentary with your meal.

In Korea, a main course isn’t without its banchan, or side dishes. While O Café is consistent in offering a variety of sides catering to the American palate, there’s a frequent rotation in choices. For this occasion, dishes were received: pickled radish, potatoes with jalapenos, and the infamous dish associated with Korea—kimchi, in both cabbage and cucumber form. While the portions are small and split between guests at the table, it’s the equivalent to an ‘all-you-can-eat’ buffet without the added cost. The healthy appetizers are the perfect introduction to your meal.

 

The main course.
The main course.

The dish of the evening was the bulgogi, marinated beef simmering on a cast iron plate, complete with mushrooms and onions topped with sesame seeds, a bed of rice, and lettuce leaves to wrap the meat in. It’s a popular alternative than using regular utensils to eat—and if you’re a fan of heat, don’t hesitate to ask for a side of ssamjang, made of hot pepper and bean paste.

O Café is the perfect alternative for healthy food, located at 1530 W Sixth Street, and is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.