Kimchi Tofu House is on my shortlist of favorite restaurants not just in the Twin Cities, but everywhere. Delicious, consistent food has had me coming back here at least every month and half since I was introduced to it in my first few weeks of college. There's a lot to love about this small shop nestled into the University campus, and over the years I've tried everything on the menu. If you haven't been, I hope this is the review the gets you to give it a shot. But first let's break it down.This place is dialed in. At Tofu House, it's all about the silken tofu stew (sundubu-jjigae). This stew hits your table in the cast pot it was cooked in-- steaming, boiling, and fiery red if you turn up the heat. Heat level is a matter of comfort of course, and you can choose what feels right. Heed this caution though--they don't play when it comes to spice. Spicy is SPICY. Medium is a good balance and what I usually order, but I wouldn't recommend going below mild or you'll lose the flavor that makes this soup so special. Order a stew and you'll receive a raw egg before your magma arrives. When that stew comes out, crack the egg on the cauldron and let it boil in front of you. Don't hesitate to do this long--you need that heat. There's a range of stews on the menu, but I stay loyal to the classic beef or go dumplings if I've got a little extra appetite. Tofu house's secret weapon is their grill, serving up sizzling plates of beef, spicy pork, and chicken bulgogi. The pork is the way to go here-- I've had graduated friends fly back to the city dreaming of this stuff. Luckily you don't have to make a choice between this and the stew. Tofu house's lunch and dinner combos let you indulge in both. You'll get a ton a food for the price--~$16 for lunch and ~$20 for dinner. Note that the stew you'll get with the combo is a bit smaller. But don't fret, I don't leave my plate empty often, but even I've brought back some pork and rice for the next day's lunch. If you want the full experience, this is the way to go.Now a couple how-tos about this sweet spot. This place is small. I'm talking seating for no more than 15, and that's including the communal tables. Yes, you might join someone else's table here, but it's part of the charm. The place is busy even when school is out, so plan for an early dinner or late lunch. They're strict about their closing time too. Don't expect to stay a minute after. Service here is all about speed. You might get two minutes to look at the menu, and don't be surprised when your check comes out after only a few bites. But ask for the time you need, or for suggestions, and they'll be happy to help. A lot flies in the face of regular restaurant service, but don't take it personally--there's a line outside waiting for stew too. Now go already!
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"Yum! My husband, 3 children, and myself came here on a Friday during Christmas break. We first ordered one Potato Mozza to try it out for fun. The cashier suggested a couple hot sauces to top it with. It was so good! So naturally, we ordered more. We tried the Mozza & Hot Dog and the All Cheddar, both were good, but our favorite was the Potato. Cruncheese shares a space with Snowbing, so we got our dessert at the same location. We will definitely be coming back!"
"I absolutely love this place. It's right next to all the big sports stadiums so I love getting a bite here before heading to a game. The place itself is pretty small, don't expect accommodations for a huge group, but it honestly adds to the "hole in the wall" restaurant vibe. It really feels like an authentic Asian restaurant. If the servers are ushering you out as quickly as possible and head straight to business when serving, you know the food is about to hit. They always serve their kimchi stew boiling, and you get to crack your own egg! They also have such good bibimbap."
