I’ve heard mixed reviews about this place, but from my experience Hoban serves up some of the best Korean in Minnesota. I think you should trust me on this one. I can say with 99% certainty that you’ll enjoy what Hoban has to offer.

Located in Eagan, Hoban has made its home in a small strip for over 15 years. Surrounded by a McDonald’s, Domino’s delivery, and a gas station, the area seems unusual for a restaurant of this nature. However, just this summer they closed down (I almost had a heart attack) for renovation and expansion sake. It was closed for 3 months (longest 3 month of my life!). The dining area almost tripled in size and they got new booths. I guess the strip mall is treating Hoban well. To me this means the place is worth a visit, even if it is a little out of the way.

Banchan (a Korean meal tradition) is served with every meal. It typically consists of Kimchee, potatoes, kongnamul (bean sprout salad), and other pickled vegetables. The appetizers at Hoban are great. I would highly recommend trying a couple, or at least the Man Doo. Man Doo is a small fried dumpling filled with beef and vegetables. You can’t really go wrong here. I also recommend the Bin Dae Tuk which is a Korean-style soybean pancake cooked with green onions and carrots.

I can’t pick a favorite dish, because it’s all good to me. I guess at the top of my list would be the dolsot bibimbob and the kimche bokum. Two very traditional Korean dishes that both possess a lot of favor, texture and visual appeal (see pics!).

The owner (Kim, as they call her) is very sweet and truly loves her restaurant and her restaurant supporters. We have had some minor problems with service, but in the end I’m just there to bliss out on some Korean food. If the server isn’t super fast it’s not a big deal to me, but I understand that it may be to some.

So, what else can I say? Hoban is good food. The selection is great and true to its origin. Go there and tell them I sent you. Just kidding…but do actually go there.

I love the Kalbi at this restaurant and have used it to introduce many friends to Korean food. However, prices have risen significantly over the last 4 years so I’ve had to stop going often.