Bibigo Angel — London, UK

Long the preserve of a scattered diaspora and curious gastronaughts, Korea’s cuisine, with its powerful flavours and elaborate traditions, has finally come of age, resulting in a number of noteworthy restaurant openings. Bibigo, the second London outpost from CJ Group, Korea’s foremost food and entertainment company, basks in this newfound confidence by serving authentic fare in a sleek space designed by Ian Haigh of local firm Central Design Studio. Taking advantage of the property’s industrial shell to reference Seoul’s buzzing Hongdae area, natural timbers and stone add warmth and texture, while details such as bamboo table lamps and wooden lattice screens nod to the restaurant’s heritage. Headed by chef Yongjae Cho, expect flavoursome interpretations of favourites like pork belly ‘bossam’ or healthy options such as Cho’s signature ‘bibimbap’ (rice served with seasonable vegetables and Korean hot sauce). The lounge meanwhile, serves up Korean twists on classic cocktails along with innovative soju-based creations.