Korean Fried Chicken, Local Craft Beer A Winning Combination

SEMINOLE HEIGHTS, FL — If you've never tried Korean friend chicken, here's a chance to sample this taste sensation that's sweeping the country.

Gangchu Chicken and Beer officially opened in February at 6618 N. Nebraska Ave. in Seminole Heights, and is already living up to its name. "Gangchu" means "highly recommended" or, to use a colloquialism, "it rocks."

The newest eatery created by Noel Cruz, owner of the award-winning Ichicoro Ramen restaurants, specializes in wings (with bone and boneless) served with daikon pickles, Ganchu perilla ranch and a choice of seven sauces including Gochujang Buffalo, Korean BBQ, Sweet Chili Garlic and Korean dry rub with gluten-free options.

"We are bringing the idea of 'chimaek' to Seminole Heights while also offering Korean-inspired dishes and shareable plates," Cruz said.

"Chimaek" in Korean comes from chikin (fried chiken) and maekju (beer), and is a pairing of fried chicken (either plain huraideu or spicy yangnyeom) and beer, served as anju (English for food with alcohol).

But that's just the tip of the menu.

Gangchu also serves a variety of other Korean-flavored selections including:

• Crispy Chicken: Kimchi-Brined Chicken Breast, Martin’s Potato Bun, Gangchu Perilla Ranch, Pickles
• Beef Bulgogi Wrap: Thin-Sliced Marinated Beef, Pressed Flour Tortilla, Kimchi Rice, Cheese Sauce, Kimchi Slaw, Served with Fries
• Gangchu Cheesesteak: Thin-Sliced Marinated Beef, Toasted Roll, Cheese Sauce, Charred Onions, Served with Fries
• Kimchi Pancake: Onions, Marinated Bean Sprouts, Sesame, Scallions, Tamari-Vinegar Dipping Sauce
• Tteokbokki Spicy Rice Cakes: Spicy Korean Chili Sauce, Onions, Sesame, Scallions and Mozzarella
• Japchae: Glass Noodles, Bell Peppers, Spinach, Charred Scallions, Marinated Shiitakes, Carrots, Tamari and Sesame

Brunch items include:

• Stone Pot Bibimbap: Caramelized Rice, Fried Egg, Assorted Banchan, Lettuce, Perilla, Scallions, Sesame
• Tornado Potato: Spiralized Fried Potato, Korean Magic, Fried Spam, Perilla Ranch, Cheese Sauce, Scallions, Gochujang Ketchup

In addition to craft beers including the K-Hop IPA and Round Corners Lager from the 7venth Sun Brewery across the street, the eatery has a full bar with specialty cocktails inspired by the names of nearby roads in Seminole Heights:

• The Hanna: Citrus Soju, Pineapple Infused Cocchi Americano, Blue Curacao, Lime Acid, Opera Prima Brut
• Nebraska: Citrus Soju, Gangchu Mix, Paranubes Rum, Guava Syrup, Lime Acid, Cinnamon, Luxardo Maraschino, Opera Prima Brut
• Minnehaha: Pineapple Infused Cocchi Americano, Paranubes Rum, Orange Curacao, Lime, Almond, Ube Extract
• The Highland: Scotch, Cocchio Torino, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Ginger, Mango, Lemon, Orange

Diners can also choose from a variety of Soju and Makgeolli (Korean alcoholic beverages).

Gangchu is open for dinner Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 4 to 11 p.m. and Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. with happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.

Brunch is offered Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit Gangchu’s website to place an order to-go and take-out orders.

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