Seemor
Bento BabB+Worth Trying
13 Bowling Green Ln, London EC1R 0BD
· Korean restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (201 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Affordable, friendly Korean comfort spot with generous portions; best for quick lunches and casual meals, minor service speed and occasional quality quibbles.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Bento Bab delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality and exceptional service warmth, with generous portions at excellent value for central London. Limited seating and modest ambiance prevent grade A territory, though reliable execution and loyal regulars confirm this as a worthwhile local favorite for quick, satisfying Korean comfort food.
Restaurant Summary
Bento Bab is a compact Clerkenwell nook that feels like a Korean bunsik counter: warm and cozy, K-pop humming, and staff who seem to know the regulars. One diner summed it up: "portions are big, flavors hit the spot, and the team is lovely." Expect a quick, friendly lunch vibe with a few tables, more geared to takeaway than lingering. The cooking leans classic Korean comfort over flash: crisp soy-garlic chicken, hearty bibimbap, and kimbap that fans seek out. It is elevated traditional rather than experimental—think satisfying textures and familiar sauces, with spice tweaks on request. Value stands out for central London, where a filling meal can still land in the mid-teens. Families do well here thanks to kid-pleasing staples like chicken katsu, fried chicken, and simple bibimbap. No formal kids menu is evident, but the mains are shareable and adaptable on spice. Space is tight, so strollers and large groups may find it snug; takeaway can be the smoother move.
At a Glance
- Generous portions at low prices for central London
- Friendly, accommodating staff with personal touches
- Hard-to-find kimbap and reliable bibimbap
- Limited seating; better for takeaway or quick eats
- Isolated slow-service complaint during a busy period
What Sets It Apart
- hard_to_find_kimbap
- generous_portions_under_£10
- personal_warm_service
What People Love
- Crispy soy-garlic chicken
- Hearty, customizable bibimbap
- Welcoming staff who remember guests
- Surprisingly affordable central London pricing
Points of Concern
- Limited dine-in seating; lunchtime can be crowded
- Occasional batter-heavy chicken pieces noted by some
- One-off complaint about slow service and glove use not echoed elsewhere
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£13-17 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For value: Bibimbap £8.40 + Small Kimchi £1.80
- For comfort: K.F.C Ramen £8.40 if you like fried-chicken toppings
- Vegetarian-friendly: Tofu & Kimchi Bibimbap £8.40
Perfect For
- Quick office lunch near Exmouth Market
- Casual weeknight comfort-food fix
- Solo dine-in or grab-and-go
- Families seeking approachable Korean dishes
Location Insights
Area: Creative-office cluster near Exmouth Market; weekday lunch energy, casual after-work crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during day and early evening; typical central London lighting and footfall.
Nearby: Steps from Exmouth Market; mix of cafes, bars, independent eateries; offices and residential nearby.
ClerkenwellClerkenwell is known for its trendy dining scene, featuring a mix of modern restaurants, gastropubs, and artisanal eateries. The area combines historic architecture with a lively social atmosphere, popular among food enthusiasts and those seeking a blend of casual and upscale dining experiences.
Bowling Green LaneBowling Green Lane is a small, tucked-away street within Clerkenwell that hosts a selection of boutique restaurants and cafes, offering a more relaxed and exclusive dining environment away from the main thoroughfares.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–15:00
Tuesday11:30–20:00
Wednesday11:30–20:00
Thursday11:30–20:00
Friday11:30–15:00
Saturday
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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