Gaya, Roving

Have you witnessed the Mad Hatters Markets in Freo? They pop up at King’s Square, Wednesday – Sunday. Not quite as extensive as neighbouring markets, there are a few snack lunch options including an organic hot donut truck, Thai street snacks and Pho, among folk selling fresh produce.

I love any meal where you get to mix and play, and so my top pick from Mad Hatters, is Gaya – dishing out the Bibimbap, a Korean meal staple with a modern twist. Gaya is run by a guy whose passion for the Bibimbap is evident in his thoughtful assembly of this multi-faceted bowl of goodness. Every ingredient, as Gaya guy will explain, has a nutritional benefit. A wonderfully varietal and colourful lunch! 

Each day Mr. Gaya will vary the toppings slightly. My Bibimbap was a kaleidoscope of mixed fresh and home-pickled veggies - purple cabbage, lightly tendered zucchini, fresh broad beans, crunchy walnuts, bee pollen, bean shoots, pickled radish, wilted spinach, sesame seeds, cooked carrots and a squirt of Korean hot sauce, all atop wholesome brown rice.

Nothing originates from a jar at Gaya, all components are made lovingly from scratch at the Gaya's home. Even his Miso is the real deal.

Catch Gaya now at the City Twilight Hawkers Markets, every Friday from 5 through Summer.

Tong 86, 6000

Cutting to the chase - this place is pretty cool. I have never experienced the world of Korean BBQ before and if you’d ask me what I though of it after my time at Tong 86, I’d say I’m a bit of a fan! I like the cook-it-yourself ritual, but it was really the atmosphere that had me sold on this place. 

The first thing I said when I walked in Tong 86 is “I don’t feel like I’m in Perth”. It’s a warehouse style restaurant, with pen-scribbled walls; dim, amber lighting and the place is buzzing with a full house of Korean peeps! It seems as if you’ve stepped into the underground. There’s also Korean pop music videos projected onto one of the walls. 

For those not clued up on the Korean BBQ; it’s all about the meat. A pretty clear-cut menu that lists various carves and chops of meats. You make your order and the meat is brought to your table raw, along with typical sides, for you to engage in some DIY cooking! 

We ordered a serve of Scotch Filet, Brisket, Spicy noodles, Mushroom and Kimchi (cabbage) pancake.  Kimchi is like pickled vegetables; a famously Korean side dish.  The Kimchi cabbage pancake was my favourite; I recommend you order this one!

I didn't care much for the scotch filet and found it a bit chewy (this may be on account of our rookie BBQ-ing skills) but I did like the thin shavings of brisket.

Scotch Filet, Brisket, Mushroom and sides

If you’re looking for a fun but inexpensive night, with an alternative mood, and you don't like to be rushed through your dinner; then beeline to Tong 86 with your favourite non-vegetarian buddies! 

Spicy Noodle

 

Kimchi Pancake

Food: 3.5/5

Ambience: 5/5

Service: 4/5