Finding a dish that brings comfort and a sense of connection to another culture is special. For me, that's “Samgy in Bowl” from 11.14 Café. Of all their menu items, my favorite is the Bulgogi, a Korean classic that always makes me smile. It takes me on a delicious trip to Korea, a country I’ve cherished since I started watching Korean dramas in 2018.
When I first visited 11.14 Café, I didn’t expect to fall in love with “Samgy in Bowl.” The moment I tasted the Bulgogi — thin slices of marinated beef cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful — I knew it was going to be my comfort food. The sweet-and-savory sauce, combined with sesame seeds and sautéed onions, makes each bite satisfying. It’s served with steamed rice, kimchi, and fresh vegetables. The harmony of flavors makes the meal heartwarming.
The café’s ambiance adds to the charm. 11.14 Café has cozy, warm lights, wooden tables, and little touches of Korean décor that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a small corner of Seoul. Whether it’s lunchtime or dinner, the atmosphere is always inviting. I love how it becomes even more enjoyable when I’m with my friends, sharing laughter and stories over bowls of delicious food. Eating together there feels like a mini celebration — one that strengthens our bond and creates lasting memories.
Bulgogi isn’t the only standout at 11.14 Café. The café offers many Korean dishes, making every visit enjoyable. Tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes in a spicy, flavorful sauce, is among the most popular. It balances heat and sweetness, making it addictively good. There’s also Sotteok — sausage and rice cake on a stick, glazed with savory-sweet sauce. The fish cakes are soft and comforting, served in warm broth that feels like a gentle hug on a cold day.
Each dish at 11.14 Café has its own character. Together, they create a menu that showcases the beauty of Korean cuisine. I especially appreciate how the food here tastes authentic. You can tell the people behind each meal put their heart into it. From presentation to flavor, everything feels crafted with care.
My love for Korean food started in 2018, not in a restaurant, but at home. Watching Korean dramas introduced me to Korea's culture and food. Scenes with ramen, sizzling meat on the grill, and colorful side dishes filled the screen. I was fascinated and promised myself I’d try those dishes one day. When I finally did, I understood why food means so much in their culture. It brings people together, just like in the dramas I watched.
Eating at 11.14 Café reminds me of those drama scenes — the laughter, friendship, and simple happiness of sharing meals. My friends and I visit not just to satisfy cravings but to enjoy the moment. We usually order a variety to share and taste everything. As the food arrives, we take photos, because every Korean-inspired meal deserves a picture before eating. We laugh, talk about our favorite K-dramas, and dream of visiting Korea together.
There’s something about Korean food that makes you slow down and appreciate the present. Maybe it’s the comforting warmth of the soup, the balance of flavors, or the vibrant colors on the plate — everything about it feels like an expression of care. That’s why “Samgy in Bowl” by 11.14 Café means more to me than just food. It perfectly represents how food can connect people, cultures, and cherished moments in life. It’s a reminder of my journey — from being a fan of K-dramas to discovering a love for Korean cuisine, and even to making meaningful memories with people I care about.
Every bite of Bulgogi reminds me how food connects cultures and feelings. Even though I’m in the Philippines, dishes like these help me feel closer to Korea. One café can make a real impact. One bowl can carry so much flavor, nostalgia, and joy.
In the end, “Samgy in Bowl” by 11.14 Café isn’t just my favorite dish; it’s part of my story. It symbolizes friendship, comfort, and the beauty of discovering new things that make life a little more special. From the tender Bulgogi that melts in your mouth to the spicy kick of Tteokbokki, each meal there is a celebration — not just of food, but of the connections and moments worth remembering. As long as I continue to enjoy their dishes with my friends, I know those memories – and my appreciation for Korean culture – will keep growing, one delicious bite at a time.