An Nyeong

By Nadia Lepoutre

Everyone loves freebies. That’s why Costco has 139 million cardholders worldwide (let’s be honest: nobody in their 20s needs a 12-pack of extra virgin olive oil for $180).

I’m here to assure you that you can finally cancel that membership and simply drive up Burnett Road to An-Nyeong instead (not to be confused with the adopted Korean child from Arrested Development).

Where to begin: The banchan, the incredibly affordable and oversized entrees, the simple and straightforward menu? An-Nyeong has easily become a do-not-miss spot in Austin for myself and everyone I’ve shown it to.

For those unfamiliar, banchan is a variety of small, shared side dishes fundamental to Korean meals and all for free. While I understand that this is standard procedure for most K-BBQ establishments, An-Nyeong’s assortment feels particularly special, including marinated potatoes, glass noodles in a sweet and savory sauce, and the best kimchi I’ve ever had.

It's impossible not to fill up on the never-ending banchan that’s delivered to the table the minute you order your entree.

Once you are stuffed full of banchan bites and the heaping order of steaming beef bulgogi with onions rolls around, your stomach will magically reset to full-hunger level. For $40, you’ll leave feeling full and satisfied, with enough leftovers to sustain a whole week. It’s no surprise why An-Nyeong remains my most visited restaurant.