PINK MU
Pink Mu is a River North gem for fresh, authentic Korean kimbap, made to order with balanced fillings and not-too-much rice. Regulars rave about the tonkatsu kimbap with radish and sesame sauce, tuna, bulgogi, spicy pork with perilla, sausage-and-rice-cake skewers, and banana pudding, while Holly’s warm, welcoming service and chill atmosphere make it a favorite for casual repeat visits.
What 24 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Phenomenal & delicious kimbap! I got to enjoy the beef kimbap at the farmer’s market popup and the tonkatsu kimbap at the store location. I loved both but the tonkatsu kimbap is so special! It’s honestly such a rare find in the U.S. and it was made perfectly 😊 It’s served with radish and a sesame sauce. Highly recommend!”
“As someone who grew up in Korea, I can’t recommend Pink Mu enough! All of their gimbap is authentic and delicious. The veggie gimbap is one of my absolute favorites, even as a non-vegetarian! The proportions and the flavors of the ingredients are perfect—they easily make the best gimbap in the Chicago area. On top of the food, the owner, Holly, is incredibly nice and welcoming. I used to travel to the Wicker Park Farmers Market from the suburbs just to find them, so I'm so glad they have a permanent Chicago home now!”
“Went to the Pink Mu residency at Seoul Taco and it was delicious! I got the bulgogi quesadilla kimbap and the rice cake and sausage skewer, both very yummy”
“This place is such a gem. The food is made with passion, thought, and care. It is freshly made every time you order. Their kimbap is one of the best I have ever had. They are flavorful, yet simple and light. I've had three of the kimbaps; tuna, bulgogi, and the OG and each one were good every time. The rice skewers have a great texture consistency; bouncy, chewy, and crispy on the outside. The sauce is coated on nicely and it is slightly sweet, with a small hint of spice. The sesame seeds on top add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor. When someone wants to share their love for food, you can tell and I feel like Holly does that well. Not only is she a great chef, but she is kind and attentive to her customers. I definitely would recommend this place!!!”
“I had such an amazing experience! You can really tell how much care and effort Holly puts into everything, especially her kimbap. Watching her make it from scratch makes a huge difference, and it tastes incredibly fresh and authentic. Each bite was perfectly balanced, with great flavor and texture. If you’re looking for delicious, homemade Korean kimbap made with heart, this is definitely the place to go. Highly recommend!”
“Love being able to get kimbap in River North! Great options and flavor. We got the bulgogi kimbap, tacos, triangle kimbap, and some pink mu (to eat at home). The owner was so so kind and I really hope her business continues to thrive!”
“Tried this kimbap spot for the first time and I’m already planning my next visit. The chicken katsu was unbelievably good. Everything tasted fresh and homemade. The service was just as amazing as the food. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and they made the whole experience feel warm and comfortable. Definitely one of those hidden gem places worth checking out! And the banana pudding… 10/10”
“Every chill atmosphere service was both nice and quick. The food was delicious and refreshing! I ordered the Bulgogi Kimbop and the sausage and rice cake skewer which I recommend.”
“Amazing food - super fresh and made with lots of love. Holly really knows her stuff!”
“My wife heard about the Pink Mu pop-up through Instagram, and was very excited to try it! We were greeted with great samples of the kimbap, which my wife loved. We also met the owner who was very friendly, helpful and gracious, and is running an excellent business. My wife loved the food (she ordered the tuna kimbap and the spicy spam triangle kimbap) and plans to go back so often that it hurts my wallet. Definitely highly recommend checking them out!!”
“Highly recommend trying the misugaru horchata and the tuna kimbap! Both items were standout favorites of mine. Holly was incredibly sweet and went out of her way to explain the menu items. If you’re looking for unique, delicious flavors paired with friendly service, this is definitely a place worth checking out.”
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