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Categories: Korean, Asian Fusion [Edit]
Neighborhoods: Theater District, Hell's Kitchen50th St-8th Ave (C, E)
59th St-Columbus Circle (1, A, C, B, D)
57th St-7th Ave (N, Q, R, W)
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My in-laws have an apartment in Hell's Kitchen, so on nights where we weren't so enthused about being out, we perused the offerings on 9th in the 50s...and MAN, how that area has taken off....B-Bap is quick, fresh, cheap, healthy and tasty. A good place for a fast, nutritious dinner or take out if you live nearby.
I'd go often if I lived in the area...
People thought this was:
A solid 3.5.
I ordered:
Potato Balls
Kimchi
Spicy Chicken B-Bap
The potato balls were OK, a bit too salty and too heavy for my taste. They were HUGE though (a good 2.5 inches in diameter).
The Kimchi was tasty, but for $2 I expected more than a small plastic cup full. Kimchi is CHEAP people, come on!
The highlight of the meal was the Spicy Chicken bowl. Lots of fresh veggies, a ton of spicy white meat (this sounds like it could be someone's nickname, but I digress), and some delicious green tea rice.
I will be ordering from then again soon.
People thought this was:
This place hits the spot for a quick and delicious meal.
I give them credit for trying to add a lot of style to the design of the restaurant as well but they don't exactly have a lot of canvas to work with.
I loved the spicy chicken bowl I made with broccoli, cucumbers, and red peppers and I'll definitely be back.
Finally a really good lunch spot near Columbus Circle! I had almost given up hope for this area since I started working here. So far I got the spicey chicken bap. It's freaking delicious. It's really fresh. The price is just right and they give you a lot of food! I highly recommend this place if you're into Bip bim bop and are not a picky Korean foodie.
3.5 - rating
Fast and easy delivery
Tofu bibimbop was tasty but not incredible
A lot of food which is nice
Quick and easy but not a destination place for me
[granted I am Korean and a harsh judger of Korean cuisine]
Really cool looking place. Not fancy and very little room for seating, but would be great for take-out if you live near by. Food was fresh and tasty.
Rather underwhelmed by their "classic" bi bim bap (with cranberries, which was a little odd). I expected better, since for about the same price one can get a great dol sot bi bim bap.
People thought this was:
The spicy Chicken bowl was absolutely delicious. Fresh veggies, juicy meat, and yummy green tea rice. And the portion was HUGE for the price. A perfect option for seamlessweb at work.
Teriyaki Boy, eat your heart out.
There's a new cheap Asian restaurant in town.
After nearly retching after 30 seconds in my college cafeteria, I decided to take a walk down Ninth Avenue. Something had to be cheap, right? I reached 55th Street, where I saw B-Bap. I recalled some good reviews that I read here last night, so I went inside.
I admit, I was scared because I thought that the prices were way too low, and they'd give small portions. Wrong! The bowl was huge! I ordered white rice, with chicken, mushrooms, zucchini, and chili sauce. It was so healthy and delicious. I'm still full, which usually doesn't happen.
The prices are amazing, and the food is fresh and flavorful. Go here, now! Ninth Avenue isn't as painful as I thought anymore.
People thought this was:
Just happened to walk by b-bap on a casual Saturday afternoon (around 12pm). My gf and I decided to give it a try b/c it looked pretty new and cute.
Space/Decor:
As everyone mentioned, it's very small (3 tables only) and their focus seems to be the delivery market as even eat-in diners are served on cheap-looking plastic containers. The decor is cute and new.
Food:
Surprisingly pretty good - didn't expect this kind of bibimbap from this casual fast-food type place. We both ordered beef bibimbaps from the non-customized menu. Large portions, girl didn't skimp on the beef, fresh veggies/ingredients. Also ordered the soup of the day (shrimp and something?), which was fine.
Overall, the bibimbap tastes good and its fast, but definitely not cheap (~$10 for 1 bbap). However, for not having go to ktown for a bibimbap fix, it's worth it for what it is.
People thought this was:
Nice but small restaurant, delicious bibimbap remixed, but crappy takeout containers
You know you're in the 21st century when you can choose every single ingredients for your taco/burrito (Chipotle), your Mac & Cheese (S'Mac), your yogurt (Pinkberry), and now your Bibimbap (B Bap). B Bap is a really cool looking restaurant on a block that can't look anymore bland. There's probably only 2 other restaurants, and none of the store fronts for any of these restaurants (including B Bap) look anything remarkable. I would have walked right by if I wasn't locked into having a Bibimbap for lunch like a monkey craving a banana.
As for the Bibimbap, I'm not actually too down with choice. As from the book "The Paradox of Choice" that I started reading but didn't finish (such a high demand at NYPL), choice is not always a good thing. I was just overwhelmed with choice at B Bap. Fortunately, they have their custom bibimbap as well, and I ended up getting a Beef Bibimbap (Extra beef, mushrooms bibimbap). They still asked me to choose a sauce and I ended up going w/ creamy onion.
The bibimbap tasted really good, and its as authentic as Koreans want to make it (as everyone working are Koreans), and I definitely thought it was very authentic. Much better than those pre-made Bibimbaps that I have in other places. The creamy onion sauce was like crack. I was literally licking my chopsticks after I was done. The only thing is they serve it in those cheap plastic containers that you get in Chinese restaurants like Yips. For $10+, that's slightly disappointing, but it definitely gives me another option when I go out for lunch.
You Yelpers got me all excited about this place and it was a total bust!
The space is cute - REALLY cute. But it is awkwardly laid out and only has 3 tables and a bunch of unusable space. Poor ergonomic design right? From what I gleaned from the staff they are hoping to make takeout and delivery their bread and butter.
My boy and I ordered a "make your own" rice bowl. What was interesting was that there were a lot of ingredients available that were not listed on the menu. It's good to know they add special and seasonal ingredients to put in your rice bowl - like Forbidden Black Rice. I got the brown rice, spicy chicken, spinach, zucchini and broccoli with chili sauce and nuts sprinkled on top. The portions of veggies were on the smallish side and they didn't appear to be the freshest. The spicy chicken was good and not terribly spicy - the portion of that happened to be good as well. Brown rice was...brown rice. Cooked right but I expect any Asian restaurant to be able to cook rice right.
The DIY Bibimbap was a whole lot of ok. The flavors and sauces didn't really resound with me. It's a good concept but I think it needs to be done better. We also ordered some steamed dumplings which were good (not amazing) but were placed in some deli paper which they subsequently stuck to. Peeling away my 6 steamed dumplings from deli paper does make me happy about paying 5.95 for them. Weak.
I don't think I'd come back here considering there are much more heart and delicious quick Asian food places in the hood.
People thought this was:
b bap is like a pinkberry for bibimbap -- you create your own mixture from a selection of bases (salad, noodles, different types of rice), toppings (a variety of vegetables, nuts, chicken, etc), and sauces. I decided on salad with zucchini, spicy chicken, carrots, mushrooms, and creamy onion dressing on the side. Success! It was flavorful and spicy and delicious. My brother ordered off the menu -- a traditional bibimbap which he really liked, and then a shaved ice with fruit that I wasn't a big fan of.
The layout of the restaurant is cute and modern, though the small tables and seats are a bit awkward. The people who worked here were really friendly and fast, preparing our food in two minutes. This place is great if you're looking for a quick, moderately priced* bite to eat and want something a little unique.
*about $9 per order
People thought this was:
I don't get the raves about this place. It's a decent healthy food option when you're on your lunch break or need something quick, but the food isn't great. You can create your own bowl, but it's just rice, some vegetables, protein, and some sauce. Really nothing exciting. I almost gave this two stars, but it is a fast food joint (three--or two?--metal tables does not a restaurant make).
People thought this was:
I passed by this place plenty of times while it was under construction, since I live less than a block away. I could tell it was going to be Korean/Korean-esque, and so I was excited, being the Korean that I am. And now today I saw it was finally open, and so I decided to give it a test run.
b bap is a "fusion rice bar" based on the concept of bibimbap (rice mixed with veggies and meat and a pepper sauce stirred in). And that's definitely on the menu, but it isn't the only thing. The place is a bit like the make-your-own-sandwich/salad places, except with rice bowls. You pick a base (rices, noodles, greens), add some protein (meat/tofu), add some toppings (veggies/egg), and finish it off with a sauce or garnish - each component costs a certain amount. They also have 'specials', which are pretty much predetermined combinations of said components.
I had the original b-bap special, which was basically bimbimbap. It was pretty good! The ingredients seemed fresh, and it sure hit the spot for this Korean boy missing his mom's cooking. Granted, it probably wasn't as good as what Koreatown has to offer, but Korean food is kind of scarce in this part of the city, so I was happy for the new addition. Portion was a bit small, but I might have been really hungry. I think it would work well as a light lunch place, or anytime you need a quick bite to eat (the ingredients are ready for assembling: I got my food about 2 minutes after ordering).
You know it's fusion when you can order something from gochujang (hot pepper paste) to bacon bits on your rice. So if you're looking for super traditional Korean, this may not be the place for you. But if you want to try something new, check it out! I think they're trying a new concept, which I appreciate. You never know: b-bap might be the new cupcake.
People thought this was:
Cute neighborhood take-out type of place. I ordered delivery very late one night and the food was still great. Everything was very flavorful and good portions for the price!
I ordered shrimp and broccoli friend dumplings, the potato puffs, and someone else that I can't remember. Nonetheless, the food is great, cheap, and fast delivery, so go in or order in. You won't be disappointed!
People thought this was:
Yay I don't have to go to K-town to get my fix!
The tofu bap is a little expensive but the combination of seasoned tofu, egg strips, and mushrooms was delicious.
I ordered some dumplings too and they were deep fried and stuffed with some kimchee. Normally I miss meat in my dumplings but these were actually perfect as they were. Also, the potato balls look interesting. Now I don't have to go to Burrito Box every night!!
And to the owners/future customers: I think this place has potential to replace my chipotle stops, but the only thing is that service is a little slow. If business speeds up, I think maybe B-bap needs a card where you mark down all the toppings you want on your bap instead of you telling the server all the things you want and then the checkout person kind of scratching their head trying to keep track of which toppings you have.
This place is relatively new so I guess they're working out all the kinks - which is a better reason to go now, before they get crazy with customers and the quality of the food inevitably deteriorates as they try to become faster.
But how cool is it that they were confident enough to open a new restaurant in the middle of the recession? I'm a believer.
People thought this was:
If you don't already love b bim bap this is the place to try it... I've been a long time fan of the Korean staple but love that this restaurant let's me customize and leaves out the "creatures" that sometimes show up in my bowl when I order this dish in Korea.
The decor is sparse and the wooden log seats at the 3 small tables are not the most comfortable but the food is delicious. I ordered white rice with tofu, egg whites, veggies and the chili sauce and it was pretty amazing how such simple ingredients could be so flavorful. My boyfriend had the beef along with a side of fried kimchi dumplings and was equally impressed.
At $34 for our two over-flowing bowls and 2 Snapples it was not as cheap as I would have hoped for a place with plastic cutlery and no ambience but it was still worth it and very filling.
People thought this was:
this is a great addition for the neighbourhood. there aren't many authentic asian food choices around here. Wondee Siam I is the only other one. The staff are polite. Food is fresh and very tasty. and price pretty reasonable. I like the decor too, it's clean and trendy and somewhere you would actually want to eat in at. now if they only had beer or soju...
People thought this was:
Being the LOS ANGELES transplant that I am...I miss nothing more than the incredible Korean food (that I could get DELIVERED) to my old house. Alas, when I have my cravings now I must trek to 32nd st. (a microcosm of LA's KTOWN) or order mediocre food.
I had been anticipating b bap's opening for quite some time. I finally got a chance to order as I had been checking on them sporadically on yelp and menupages. They took a bit of time to deliver the food - called me and it turned out that the new delivery guy got lost. I'm actually quite sympathetic about it - after all, everyone gets lost from time to time and in all honesty my apartment is hard to find. The girl (one of the owners?) was super sweet on the phone and so apologetic. She even offered to deliver the food herself. Not sure how many restaurant owners would offer to take on such a task on a cold NY night. When the food did arrive the guy (co-owner I think?) insisted on comping my order and even included extra appetizers and beverages. Very sweet of them. Made them take my money though...I mean - c'mon - we're experiencing a horrible recession and it's only right to support the small biz owners.
Needless to say, the food was awesome and I will definitely be ordering again.
Beef B-bap w/ white rice, lots of beef, bean sprouts, eggs, mushrooms, and zucchini
- Fresh ingredients
Spicy Chicken B-bap w/ green tea rice, spicy chicken, mushrooms, zucchini, eggs, mixed greens, and nuts
- like the green tea rice a lot
- Never had nuts in my bibimbap - thought it added great texture and may be adding nuts the next time I make my own
Dumplings
- tasty, but thought the potato balls more impressive
Potato Balls
- nice and creamy, like croquette you'd find at a standard izakaya but much lighter w/ cleaner flavors
People thought this was:
Being a new business, I think they still have a few kinks to work out... but I thought the food and the concept is great. It's a new take on the traditional Korean mixed rice bowl, with new twists like green tea rice, spicy chicken, etc. I think they should move the awkward drink stand that takes up a lot of space in an already crowded place... and offer more bench-type setting.
People thought this was:
what really makes the difference at this place is the quality. it's a fast food type place with semi-ethnic food (i don't really consider korean "ethnic" but i suppose it's not burgers and fries so its ethnic for fast food)-- the actual preparation is production-line. pick your protein, your starch, your vegetables... it's all chilled... they pour on some cold sauce... and there you go. as i was putting my dish together, i suddenly got worried that i was spending 8 bucks on something really gross. everything was sauceless and unseasoned until the very last step. but i sucked it up and finished ordering, picked a drink, and went to sit down.
oops. no seating. well, that's fun... time to squeeze onto a tiny table with two strangers who are talking very loudly about being in the hospital with alcohol poisoning. i sat quietly across the table from my husband (but in no contact with each other, as not to disturb the conversation already in place) and actually found that i enjoyed the food. yeah, it's kind of weird, but it works. i just think next time i'll take it home. (oh, and i'll probably get the spicy chicken instead of the regular chicken. it looked pretty good and i could have used more flavor)
price is a bit more than you'd expect to pay for fast food, especially if you get carried away with toppings. but the quality happens to make it worth it. kinda. just get a table before you order.
This place is a really good value! I ordered the Classic bowl, with white rice, thin cooked beef, various pickled veggies, wilted spinach, mushrooms (this was the best addition!), and shredded egg. I took it to go, and I was glad I did because I saved more than half of my leftovers for another meal! It was plenty of food, and only nine dollars for the classic bowl. You can also pick your own ingredients: pick your base, from white rice, brown rice, vermicelli noodles, or salad greens. Then pick your protein: beef (so yummy!), chicken, or tofu. Then the fun part: so many tasty, well-cooked and seasoned veggies! The spinach and mushrooms are the best, but they also have shredded carrots in vinegar, pickled root vegetables, etc. Really really great place! Highly recommended, especially for take-out! It's small on the inside, and not the best atmosphere for lingering, so get this to go on a weeknight :)
This place is across the street from me. (Hmm...maybe i shouldnt give out such personal information). Anyway, great korean flavors. However, everything was cold...despite the fact that it was a rice bowl. Shouldnt rice bowls be served warm?? Still thought it was great to get some K-town flava in the 'hood without trekking 20 blocks, tho. And Yes, i am that lazy.
People thought this was:
i love this place. i'd rather spend $10 on b-bap than $10 on a crappy cosi sandwich ANY day of the week. it's really as simple as that.
the setup of the restaurant could use some work, but i heard they are planning to renovate it soon to make the space more efficient. i can't wait!
I agree with many others; this place is great. It's not too expensive, depending on what you get. I've been twice and I see myself becoming a frequent visitor.
I got the "make your own rice bowl" on both occasions. The first time I got the rice, broccoli, asparagus, and tofu with teriyaki sauce. SO good. One of the biggest plus's for me is that it's fresh AND they give you the sauce on the side. Having the sauce on the side is ideal because sometimes restaurants make your food practically swim in the sauce. I also tried their potato balls, I forget what they call them. Those were really good too and freshly made. You can get 2 of them together and they come with a ketchup that is slightly spicy...or actually maybe the potato ball was spicy, I couldn't figure it out!
Like said before, I think it's a really good addition to the neighborhood and I plan on becoming a frequent. ALSO, when I asked for a menu the other day they gave me one but said it was temporary because they are changing the menu soon. I'm curious what they will be changing and adding!
Bibimbap done quickly and fresh in my neighborhood-finally! Have only tried the traditional beef bibimbap, and so far, so good! Friendly service, clean and fresh food. Great for delivery or a quick take out on the way home from work. **Ask for extra red chili pepper sauce because you only get one small container to mix with your bap.
this place is AWESOME. try the spicy chicken- it has a combo of yummy ingredients n i love the addition of the peanuts to give it some texture. so tasty and so healthy- will def be going back!!
People thought this was:
When I usually want a Korean fix without leaving midtown west, I head to Cafe Duke. But I thought I'd give B-bap a try, as a few co-workers said it was descent. As everyone has mentioned, you can customize your bi bim bap bowl. I just decided to go with the 'classic' to see how it measured up to other versions that I have had. It was fine, the veggies were fairly fresh and the rice was cooked properly. The portions of veggies and beef was very small, but nothing out of the ordinary for that type of place. I thought the price was high (about $9), especially when I can go to Cafe Duke and get it a little cheaper with a larger portion. What really bothered me was that the Kimchee was $2 extra. I've never heard of charging for Kimchee before. I was really craving it, so I sprung for it. It was actually quite good, nicely tangy and had a definite kick to it. Not sure that it was worth $2 though. It should definitely come with the meal. The place is clean but very small, so it's better for takeout. I might be back as it's good for my veg and vegan co-workers, but I'm not sure that I'd go back to satisfy a craving.
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