Food
Meat
All the meat dishes were savory and succulent. The BBQ platter offered a bounty of roasted, crisped, and expertly seasoned beef and pork options. The sausages which could have played the role of side dish were stars in their own right. There were about three different types of sausages, all of them were distinct in flavor and texture. There were bratwursts, frankfurters, and spicy Italian sausages. It’s a rare treat as a foodie when your eyes, tongue, and nose can be satiated by anyone dish. The spicy Italian wasn’t too spicy, so even the timid could enjoy a bite.
Sandwiches
Though the salads and the BBQ were quite filling, my pride and gluttony would not let me pass up the chunkiest pastrami sandwich I’ve ever encountered. Instead of using thin New York deli – inspired slices, this Reuben had moist, juicy chunks of meat. The light smattering of thousand island dressing and sauerkraut enhanced the savoriness of the pastrami. An expert had obviously oversaw the important moisture-sealing phase. The juices were flowing everywhere. If you are craving a panini….Do it!
Salads
I have had an aversion to coleslaw most of my life, but that has changed. I used to hate coleslaw so much that I didn’t want it on my plate. Then, John Cook Deli Meats did the unthinkable…they created a drier, spicy coleslaw. The spiciness has a Cajun feel. It’s the kind of side dish that tastes good if you sneak it into a sandwich, combine it with a bite of crisped pork belly, or just eat it on its own.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere has the sophistication of most Sinsa-dong establishments, but the dangling sausages and deli counter that frames the entrance makes it feel welcoming.
Dessert
I had on jeans with some give, so I gave myself permission to enjoy a few spoonfuls of the tiramisu and New York style cheesecake. I wished that etiquette did not forbid me from public bowl licking. The smoothness and creaminess of the tiramisu was edging me in that direction. Unfortunately, I didn’t try the fig – centered cupcake or the freshly-baked cookies, but I heard moans of gratification to my left and right from my dinner companions that sampled those treats.
Service
The staff was attentive, but not lingering. They spoke some English, but the menu was pretty easy to navigate and the glossy pictures helped.
Value
The average price of a sandwich was 15,000 won which includes one of the daily sides. The BBQ platter was 85,0000 won. A group of 4-6 can finish it, only if they haven’t eaten all day long. Prepare to leave with leftovers.
How much did I enjoy John Cook Deli Meats? I went back 48 hours later and I fell in love with some more sandwiches and salads.
John Cook Deli Meats is located at 38, Nonhyeon-ro 175-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Take the subway to Apgujeong station (line 3). Leave from exit 5, walk straight and then take the third left. John Cook Deli meats is located at the end of that alleyway on the right hand corner. For further info call them at 02-514-0040 or check out their facebook page.
