In the capital of Paraguay, Asunción, a charming Korean restaurant named Kim’s Bab has been steadily gaining popularity since its opening in August 2024. Located in a neighbourhood surrounded by numerous universities, Kim’s Bab started with the idea of providing healthy and affordable Korean food for students, besides offering a warm and family atmosphere.
With good food, the word quickly spread, and now not only students but also local workers gather around the tables. If you need more evidence that Kim’s Bab is the real deal, ask The Asunción Times’ Editor-in-Chief directly! Go to Kim’s Bab during the weekdays, and there will be a possibility that you might run into him because he is a regular.
The story behind Kim’s Bab
The inspiration for Kim’s Bab came from a simple observation by the owner’s son. While he was a student, he often searched for healthy dining options near the educational institutions he attended. Motivated by his mother’s delicious home-cooked meals, he was inspired to establish a restaurant that served wholesome and affordable Korean food. After overcoming numerous challenges, including delays in construction due to weather conditions, Kim’s Bab finally opened its doors on August 9, 2024.
Signature flavors at Kim’s Bab
Kim’s Bab takes pride in its signature dishes, which include a variety of rice bowls known as “Cup-Bab,” a delightful mix of rice and vegetables with the option of adding meat. The restaurant caters to a diverse clientele, offering vegetarian and vegan options with grilled tofu instead of meat and dishes that can be customised to individual preferences.
Another signature dish is their Korean fried chicken, made with the juiciest, most tender part of the chicken which is chicken legs, perfectly de-boned for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Crispy on the outside and impossibly juicy on the inside, it is served with variety of sauces, including sweet and sour, spicy, or a classic option without sauce.
Our Editor-in-Chief and regular customer of Kim’s Bab, Bram, has his own go-to dish. “My favorite is bibimbap. I lived in Asia for many years, and the intense flavours in this dish instantly transport me back to my trips to South Korea.”
Bibimbap is a vibrant rice bowl topped with a colourful array of seasoned vegetables, marinated meat, and a perfectly fried sunny-side-up egg. It’s an absolute must-try!
Delicious and accessible!
“We make sure our portions are big and tasty,” Johana Kim, the owner of the restaurant, says, “because we know students eat a lot, and we want them to leave this restaurant feeling full.”
One of the standout features of Kim’s Bab is its dedication to affordability. Recognising the financial constraints of their primary customer base, students, the restaurant has priced its menu in a way that most consumers appreciate, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal without breaking the bank.
The Personal Touch, A Warm Experience
What sets Kim’s Bab apart from other restaurants in the area is the personal touch provided by the owners and staff. The family Kim are deeply involved in the daily operations, ensuring every detail is perfect. The son, a trained chef, takes charge of preparing the meat dishes, crafting each one with care and precision.
“I am always in the restaurant and know all the customers,” Johana says, reflecting her commitment to making every guest feel at home. This personalised service has been a key factor in the restaurant’s success, creating a loyal and engaged customer base.
A special treat for VIP members of The Asunción Times
As an added incentive to enjoy Kim’s Bab, as a VIP member of The Asunción Times, you’ll get a whopping 15% discount just by showing your VIP card – one of many VIP member benefits! Kim’s Bab is exactly the kind of spot our international readers, especially expats and foodies ask about when searching for authentic Korean cuisine in Asunción. You have to try it!
Kim’s Bab Opening Hours
Monday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Thursday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Friday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Saturday: 11 AM to 3 PM
Sunday: 11 PM to 3 PM
Next time you are near Downtown Asunción or crave a taste of Korea, remember this name: Kim’s Bab. And do not be surprised if you leave feeling not only full but like part of the family! You can also follow Kim’s Bab on Instagram.
