Shik Do Rak Restaurant, Irvine CA

This place was phenomenal! The food and service were beyond any of my expectations, and I definitely plan many more visits here. So let's walk step by step through this one, because it is definitely worthy of being highlighted. To start, this was a recommendation from several people that spoke about it in a way that made me say we have to take a trip here. They would speak about the food as if reliving the experience noting how each item was throughly enjoyed- a proper foodie tell, so I rounded my kids up during their spring break and we made the 30 minute drive to this specific location even though there is another closer. We were told, Garden Grove location specifically will not disappoint and I tell you, they were right!

So we find the parking lot, which was a touch confusing because we had to circle back around to a side road to access it. Once we found it, the entrance to be honest was a touch concerning because there was graffiti on the wall and it didn't necessarily look safe. Once 11: 30 hit, we headed in as their first customers for the day and pleasantly surprised at this recently renovated interior area. It was clean, spacious, well lit, and music lightly playing in the background that made the environment inviting and relaxing. The waitress was exactly what we needed- patient, helpful, and attentive. I had a lot of questions because this was an extensive menu and could easily be overwhelming. She guided me through all of the options for all you can eat, lunch only options, various meat options, and proper grilling times for each meat.

Once we decided on the order, the table was dressed with all of the sides, two grills because I didn't want the pork and beef to mix since I am not a pork eater, and our beverages. The utensils were very clean and the silver goblets for water kept the water very cold, even without ice. Once the meat started arriving, we began the grilling process and let me say, it was an experience! The smell of the food was making our stomachs growl and we couldn't wait to give this food a shot. They have hefty portions, but none of it went to waste because we made sure not to eat before this feast. Literally everything was good! The rice, soup, marinated beef, beef belly, squid, pork marinated, pork belly, small intestines, pickled cucumbers, kimchi, seaweed, and dipping sauces. Again, I don't eat pork, but my kids couldn't get enough!

The waitress was able to help for most of our visit because we were the only people there for a while since we arrived early. She made us feel so welcomed and was happy to help us have a good experience. I appreciated her demeanor and guidance through the process because it did make all of the difference. At the end of the visit, make sure you don't walk out the door without getting their blueberry ice cream. It was the perfect sized sweet treat to end this feast! I was so full after this meal, I literally could not eat dinner because I was full into the evening hours. I never overeat, but I couldn't help myself at this place because it was truly that good. Every bite I relished and completely understood after leaving why the personal recommendations we received were so high. Not one issue here. The exterior of the restaurant could use some work, but man oh man, this humble restaurant on the side of the road blew our minds!