New in town: Pocha in a Forest, Prinsep St — Korean fare in a cosy pojangmacha

Some of my fondest memories when I was living in Korea include seeing snow for the first time, seeking warmth in a cosy Pojangmacha stall, and decking out in seven layers just to keep the winter chill out. Alright so maybe the last one’s up for debate, but it’s all part of the seasonal thrill that we’ll never get in Singapore. A lot more common than you think, Pojangmacha, or street food tent stalls, pepper the paths of Seoul, ever eager to embrace the weary shopper seeking respite from chilly afternoons, and colder nights.

While we don’t exactly get sub-zero temperatures here in Singapore (and thank the heavens for that, I say), we can at least lie to ourselves by hiding out in a bright red, tent complete with tiny stools and round aluminium tables that are just about big enough to fit three sharing plates and that’s about it. The Singaporean-Korean owners of Pocha in a Forest along Prinsep Street take what some of us miss the most about the +82 and bring it right here to us in the heart of town.

Aside from the very on-theme tents and bright neon lights, Pocha in a Forest also serves a mean menu of booze and bites—nothing short of uber-Korean fashion. Knock back some Soju (S$18), Maekju (Ice Beer) (S$15), and my personal favourite poison, Makgeolli (from S$24) while reminiscing better, virus-free times.

To pair, light bites like Fried Prawn Head (S$12), Dried Pollack Fish (S$12), and Chicken Heart Skewers (S$12) for the more adventurous diners are also available to curb the munchies while you’re having a drink or two.

Lunchtime offerings include the perennial Bibimbap (S$16), Kimbap (from S$7), and my favourite of the lot, Spicy Instant Noodles ($12) that really drive home the Korean dining experience. If you’re heading down for dinner though, you’ll find Kimchi Fried Rice ($15), Kimchi Pizza ($18), and Fish Cake Soup ($16) on the menu for a hearty end to the day.

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