Tucked Away In A Grocery Store You’ll Find The Best Authentic Korean Food In Charlotte

Pepero was recommended to my brother and we decided to go check it out and to be very honest my first impression was “should I get out of the car?”. The place does not appeal to the eye and the windows are tinted so you can’t catch a glimpse of the inside. We walked to the main door where the sign was located but it was locked so we had to go around to another door (that doesn’t look like an entrance) and went inside. When you enter you will see a small crowded market to your left and a small restaurant to the right. We were greeted and seated at a booth. If you are unfamiliar with Korean restaurants each table has a call bell you push when you need assistance. The waiters have always been very nice and attentive.

Every time we have visited none of the dishes have ever disappointed me and those include the japchae, seafood pancake, dumplings, bibimbap, kimchi jjigae (my brother’s favorite), and marinated galbi. These are all great dishes if you are new to Korean food but if you do not like spicy food do not get the kimchi jjigae. The majority of these entrees come with banchan (side dishes) such as kimchi, bean sprouts, fish cakes, zucchini, and radish.

I really enjoy the fresh food and the overall atmosphere of Pepero. It’s very cozy and homey and it makes me smile when I pass by the kitchen and see an ajusshi (older man) sitting with his arm crossed watching tv. This family-run restaurant does an amazing job of providing you with a satisfying homemade meal.

And don’t forget about the market! You will find a variety of things such as yummy snacks, ingredients for those new Korean recipes you may be trying out, and K-beauty face masks just to name a few. If you enjoy drinking tea I recommend trying out their jelly teas that come in many flavors but our favorite is the citron. Take a spoonful of the jelly and mix it was hot water and you have yourself a delicious fruity tea that contains small pieces of fruit.

Head over to Pepero to eat authentic Korean food and/or pick up some tasty treats!