foodha for thought – menuism blog

Menuism reviewers are truly awesome! Whether they found an unexpected tasty gem of a restaurant or took it for the team after having a terrible meal, we truly applaud all their efforts in giving us the scoop on where we should be spending our hard-earned money on. On that note, I’d love to introduce you to those reviewers who we feel really contribute quality content to the site as well as quality information to fellow Menuism’ers. Our Featured Reviewer today is Yoojin, better known as smallfry. So let’s learn more about Yoojin from Chicago.

Introduction

Hello! My name is Yoojin. I’m a resident physician and live in the northwestern part of Chicago. I lived in this area originally as a child after first immigrating to the US from S Korea. Then, I moved out to the northwest suburbs of Chicago for most of my life and finally migrated back towards the city for my current work.

1. How did you find out about Menuism?

I found out about Menuism through my good friend Soo and her husband Justin. Justin is a co-founder (along with John) of Menuism. They were quick to spread word, and their excitement for Menuism was contagious!

2. What about Menuism first appealed to you?

Many things about Menuism appealed to me. However, the best thing about Menuism to me was getting to find out about new and good places to eat from everyday people.

3. What restaurant did you write your first review about?

The Chicago Diner. It is well known in Chicago as one of the best vegetarian places the city has to offer. I was actually a tad disappointed with the food (mind you, I’m not vegetarian) so I wanted to express my opinions on Menuism. I was also curious as to what other people thought about it.

4. What is your food philosophy?

Be curious and adventurous. Try something new each time. I like to stick to what I know at times, but it’s more fun to venture out of your comfort zone.

5. What are your favorite restaurants?

I haven’t listed any as my faves on Menuism and probably didn’t give five stars to all of these following places, but I am a fan after visiting more than once. Cafe BaBaReeba is definitely a fave. It is pricey but the food and atmosphere never disappoint. Ethiopian Diamond is incredibly fun and yummy. Ma and I is the place to go for Thai – I just really like the cozy atmosphere plus the good food.

6. What are your favorite cuisines?

I LOVE Thai food. Otherwise, I have none – I love food from everywhere!

7. What are your favorite comfort foods?

Oh, so many! I suppose this really depends on the time of day too. Omelettes, french toast, any kind of Asian noodles in a soup base, rice, pad see ewe, and of course, ice cream.

8. What is the best meal you ever ate and why?

The best meals that I remember are ones during college breaks. I would come home from out of state, not having had very many traditional Korean meals. I always craved kimchi, or spicy pickled Chinese cabbage, while being away. So my mom would make kimchi jjigae – a hot soup made from kimchi – and she always added tofu, bean sprouts, and pork. That with a bowl of steamy rice was heavenly everytime.

9. Do you have any favorite cookbooks (if any)?

Definitely. My good friend Robin introduced me to this in college and I’ve been hooked ever since. The Betty Crocker Cookbook. It’s simple and everything turns out great, even if you’re a complete novice!

10. What words of encouragement would you give to first time Menuism reviewers?

Don’t hold back negative or positive experiences! It really helps! None of us are professional reviewers, but we can all tell good food and service from the bad. The subtleties are just opinions. So have fun!

If you’d like to be able to keep up with Yoojin’s reviews, click here to check out her profile!

If there is a Menuism reviewer who has really helped you make great dining choices and you’d like to see him or her be a Featured Reviewer, than be sure to message me or send me an email at abby@menuism.com.

By Abby C. Abanes
Menuism Community Manager