If I absolutely had to eat the same thing for lunch every day (but with different fillings), it would be Korean seaweed rice rolls, otherwise known as kimbap. Typically sold at convenience stores, casual eateries, and traditional markets, kimbap is a staple for many in Korea, but it’s really hard to find the real deal in Singapore.
Not unless you hit up Oni Kimbap in Lavender.
The former home-based business specialising in authentic kimbap “freshly made by [a] Korean unnie” opened a physical store at Aperia Mall in May 2023, occupying the same unit as Aurora Asian Kitchen & Bar.
You can order kimbap, alongside a small selection of Korean street eats for dine-in from 11.30am–2.30pm on weekdays, but self-pick up and delivery are also available.
Each kimbap is meticulously crafted (just look at those visuals!) and served in generous portions, with an excellent rice-to-ingredient ratio that puts most shops selling kimbap in Singapore to shame.
Regular kimbap flavours range from the classic Kimchi (S$9.90) and Tuna (SS$9.90) to Ebi (S$9.90), Kani (S$9.90), Teriyaki Chicken (S$10.90), and even Walnut Cream Cheese (S$10.90) for those who gravitate towards a sweet-savoury profile.
However, I was more intrigued by the rice-less kimbap, which essentially replaces the rice with more eggs. We tried the rice-less Spicy Tuna (S$11.90), comprising a tightly packed roll of egg sheets, carrots, pickles, cucumbers, and deceptively spicy tuna mayo, which was hearty, well-balanced, and so, so satisfying.
I’ll admit that I’m not the biggest fan of rice (especially since it’s super filling), so this carb-free alternative was right up my alley!
You can also pair the kimbap with your preferred accompaniment — choose from Stir Fried Kimchi, Sweet & Spicy Sauce, and the mildly sweet Garlic Mayo Sauce — all homemade. Impressive.
Feel free to add on sides like Kimchi Soup (S$4.50), Sotteok Sotteok (S$9.90), and Japchae (S$9.90). The japchae was generously topped with ingredients like crabstick and tobiko, but we would’ve preferred for it to be a little less savoury. Decent, but not a must-order.
Oni Kimbap’s rendition of Tteokbokki (from S$5.90) is served with smoky sliced sausages and fishcakes. Do note that contrary to its vivid red appearance, the tteokbokki sauce, which boasts a thick consistency (I like), is not at all spicy.
All I can say is that those living and working around Aperia Mall are very, very lucky. But of course, you can easily pre-order your kimbap online and enjoy a tasty roll or two in the comfort of home.
BRB, placing another order as we speak!
Oni Kimbap
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???? 12 Kallang Avenue, #01-44, Aperia Mall, Singapore 339511
???? 11.30am–2.30pm (Mon to Fri), Closed on Sat & Sun
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Photos by Christabel Tan
I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨