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Have you been to Daebak’s location in Wicker Park yet? If not, we’re here to tell you that it’s so good, we went twice in two weeks. The first visit was on official CFM business of course but it was such a memorable culinary experience, we knew we had to return as soon as possible. Luckily a few foodie friends were game to join us for round two where we got to try even more authentic Korean cuisine. Read on for everything we enjoyed and recommend.  

Daebak’s menu is broken down by meat (beef and/or pork), combos and packages, all reasonably priced for the feast you get. On our first visit, we opted for the small, Beef Combo 1 Silver Package which includes beautifully Marinated Boneless Short Rib (our favorite of the night), Thinly Sliced Brisket and Prime Rib Eye, feeding 1-2 people.  

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With a bigger group on our second visit, we went with the large, Beef Combo 2 Gold Package to once again enjoy the succulent Marinated Boneless Short Rib and Thinly Sliced Brisket, this time with the Seasoned Prime Boneless Short Rib to complete the trio of offerings. With the Gold Package, diners get a choice between two traditional soups: Beef Brisket Soybean Paste Stew or Kimchi Stew & Pork Soup. As if we didn’t have enough beef, we savored the warm and comforting Beef Brisket Soybean Paste Stew which provided a much-needed culinary hug on a chill fall evening. To change things up, we also ordered the Thinly Sliced Pork Belly Marinated in Special Chili Sauce, a la carte.  

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Photo courtesy of Bessy Tam from @biteswithbessy

Literally rounding out the center meat display is a trifecta of accompaniments including cast iron-seared onion, scrambled eggs and the very popular cheese and corn. On the side, grab some banchan bites of housemade kimchi, fish cakes, sliced garlic and jalapeño, spicy and picked radish, bean sprouts, rice and much more depending on what package you choose.  

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And if all this isn’t quite enough, we implore you to order plenty of sides. Here are a few of the must haves: 

  • Pan-Fried Dumplings - filled with pork and served with a salty, sesame oil sauce 

  • Hot Stone Bowl Bibimbap - a melody of rice and vegetables to break up all the meat being consumed 

  • Buckwheat Noodles with Spicy Paste - served cold but oh so spicy  

  • Cheese Buldak - the true star of the show here. Chicken fajitas meet Korean cuisine in this cheesy and spicy hit on the menu.  

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Photo courtesy of Bessy Tam from @biteswithbessy

You can’t have Korean food without a little soju to sip on! Soju first-timers and purists alike will enjoy the classic Jinro Is Back while journeymen can choose from effervescent flavors like strawberry (CFM top pick), mango, lychee or grapefruit to name a few. A selection of wine and beer is also available if soju isn’t your thing.  

Daebak Wicker Park is located at 1266 N Milwaukee Ave, conveniently situated off the Division Blue Line Stop or Ashland bus route. They open at 12pm, Monday through Friday and 11:30am on the weekend. Perfect for a group outing, double date or just for two, make your reservation on OpenTable today! 

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