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Welcome to Sorabol Korean Restaurant

Sorabol Korean Restaurant, located in Honolulu, HI, is a must-visit for Korean barbecue lovers. With a range of amenities like valet parking, takeout options, and wheelchair accessibility, Sorabol offers a convenient and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant's unique offerings include gender-neutral restrooms, Happy Hour specials, and even a drive-thru for added convenience. The delicious dishes at Sorabol are a treat for the taste buds, with flavorful meats and traditional Korean flavors that will leave you craving for more. The inviting ambiance and friendly staff make dining at Sorabol a memorable experience for everyone.

Sorabol Korean Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Henry P.
Henry P.

So sad to see them go So we stopped by Sorabol I got the following items Bibim naengmyun And Kalbi lunch combo

Page T.
Page T.

Sadly it's a permanent closure, not temporary. Their last day was March 7, 2025. I'm fortunate to have enjoyed it one more time on March 1. https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/video/2025/03/06/popular-korean-restaurant-sorabol-close-after-40-years/

B N.
B N.

We had a great Korean dinner. We ordered the steamed butter fish and the short rib beef soup. Both were great on its own but together a deadly combination. The service was fast and good. We would definitely come back again.

Raymond K.
Raymond K.

Unfortunately, Sorabol Restaurant has announced it will be closing, and this is heartbreaking news for many. "After 40 years, a beloved Korean restaurant near Ala Moana is closing for good. "Sorabol posted a notice informing customers that their last chance to dine at the restaurant will be March 7." https://bsky.app/profile/raymondkaya.bsky.social/post/3linmodsnu22x

Rand E.
Rand E.

Great setting in the midst of koi ponds. Decided to try their lunch specials with delicious and different cold soups and spicy pork and beef kalbi. The soups were great and meats good. However, the beef kalbi was very tough and a knife would have been helpful. Service was friendly but slow. Overall a good experience.

Catherine P.
Catherine P.

We went to eat at Sorabol on a Saturday around 4. There is a two level parking structure to the left of the restaurant. It was $3 to park there for two hours and you end up paying through a QR code. Parking is tight if it is packed. There was only one other table and we were seated immediately. We got our order in, my dinner was spicy cold noodle (bibim naengmyun). My husband got the bibim gooksoo and my daughter the bbq chicken. I really liked the spicy cold noodles with buckwheat noodles and pickled radish. My daughter liked the bbq chicken with her rice. My husband wished there was a sauce to go with his gooksoo like a goguchung. At the end of the meal, we were given a little cup with a cold, sweet ginger rice drink. Not sure what that was, but it was very delicious. The best part about this restaurant is the koi pond surrounding it. The waitress gave my daughter a small container of fish food that we were able to feed to the koi while waiting for our food to come out. She was also so sweet to remind my daughter to wash your hands after touching the fish food. And then after our meal, she gave my daughter another container of fish food, and we went out outside and fed the fish for a little bit longer while my husband boxed up the food and paid for our dinner. Plus, the waitress was so sweet to make sure that my daughter got her jacket on before we left. The service with our waitress was outstanding.

Starla T.
Starla T.

It's been a hot minute since I ate at Sorabol...actually it's about 4 years thanks to the pandemic and having moved from town. First, fyi, they're in the old Pagoda restaurant. Don't make the mistake we almost did and go to their old location! I honestly like that they're at the old Pagoda. There's more parking options and it's great the fishes are still around. The parking is to the left when looking at the main entrance. There's street parking or the two level structure. Be sure to pay for the parking. Ok, about the food. I loved everything we had: Side dishes: so many different options and they all had great flavor. You go to other places and the sides are meh..that is not the case with Sorabol. I could eat just the side dishes with rice. Soondubu (spicy soft tofu soup): It had maybe 3 or four clams. It didn't really bother me but not sure if others would prefer more. But it had just enough spiciness to me while also having so much taste! I could only wish my soondubu could taste like theirs. Mandoo: the buggas are chubby! They had a nice crispy outside while having a ton of meat inside. The filling was seasoned and I honestly didn't need any sauce for it. As we were done, we were given a sweet rice drink. There was a hint of ginger and I thought it was nice and refreshing. In regard to service, aunty who was serving us was nice and had a good sense of humor. Food as arrived fast too~ I wish I was in town more, but I'll be sure to visit again especially since they have to little side pagoda/rooms~

Jennifer T.
Jennifer T.

Sorabol has moved to the old Pagoda restaurant space. The fish ponds could use some TLC. I would recommend getting the Sorabol set menu. It's worth it's value with lots of things share btwn two people. See picture. Spicy tofu stew 4.5 stars Kalbi 4.5 stars Fish Jun 3 stars Meat Jun 3 stars Croaker 3 stars Service was great. We came early so it wasn't busy yet. Food came out quickly. I love the sides that come with korean food. I would come again.

Lovey Y.
Lovey Y.

I've never tried it at their prior location so this is my first time in general ever trying this restaurant. The location is niiiice! I really love all the greenery & koi fishes outside. The restaurant is HUGE and even had a full bar! It's perfect for big groups or I even saw they had private seating. Few things I ordered: Mandu (5/5): SUPER HUGE! Delicious & Meaty!!! Super crispy and yum craving for this now. Cold noodle (2/5): It was refreshing for a hot summer day but a little more on the sweeter side. I'm not a fan of sweet cold noodle. Kalbi (5/5): Kalbi was amazing! Not the typical Korean cut short ribs but it was really flavorful. Meatjun (4/5): nice thick pieces of meat but the sauce was a little salty for me. Customer service was ON POINT! Very attentive workers and had great friendly service. I can't wait to go again and try other things.

Location

Sorabol Korean Restaurant, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a must-visit destination for lovers of Korean barbecue. This charming restaurant offers a wide range of amenities, including reservations, takeout, and wheelchair accessibility. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, Sorabol has something for everyone.

Upon entering Sorabol, you're greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. The menu features traditional Korean barbecue dishes, expertly prepared by skilled chefs who are dedicated to delivering authentic flavors.

One of the standout features of Sorabol is their commitment to sustainability. From compostable containers to plastic-free packaging, the restaurant goes above and beyond to reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the option to bring your own container is a thoughtful touch that further demonstrates Sorabol's dedication to sustainability.

As a food reviewer, I can attest to the exceptional quality of the dishes at Sorabol. The flavors are bold and satisfying, with each bite offering a delightful explosion of taste. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, Sorabol has options to suit every palate.

Overall, Sorabol Korean Restaurant is a gem in the Honolulu dining scene. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and commitment to sustainability, it's a place that you'll want to visit again and again. I highly recommend giving Sorabol a try for a truly unforgettable dining experience.