LOCATION
Conveniently located in East Victoria Park, 10 minutes south of the CBD
DETAILS
The concept of Ninniku Jip is the brainchild of proprietor Joanna Whittle who hails from Seoul but has spent a considerable time working in Tokyo. It’s through this duality that presents the meaning of Ninniku Jip. ‘Ninniku’ meaning garlic in Japanese and ‘Jip’ meaning house in Korean. The menu is reflective in paying homage to both Japanese and Korean cuisine, with the common theme of garlic being interlaced throughout the menu. The menu itself is descriptive and very user friendly, with a dish to suit everyone’s palate. Ninniku Jip provides a good excuse to take the family out, as it comes complete with a glass enclosed play area, allowing children to play without compromising the ambience of the restaurant. Ninniku Jip provides an enjoyable dining experience which is also ideal for group bookings and functions.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Garlic is a flavour you either love or loathe. It’s been used in food and medicine for thousands of years, even earning a mention in the Bible. Its antiviral properties are highly regarded in many cultures but it is equally adored for its distinct flavour when used in cooking. As an indirect tribute to this fundamental culinary component, Ninniku Jip is just the spot to sate your love for the holiest of bulbs.
Translating to ‘garlic house’, Ninniku Jip melds fine Korean fare with Japanese influence to create some truly amazing cuisine. Upon entering, you’ll be met by simple yet characteristic Asian-influenced interior, complete with black and red walls, simple table settings and local artwork. A favourite destination for students, young professionals and local families, the atmosphere is welcoming and very homely. Those with little ones love the restaurant for its huge enclosed indoor play area, giving mums and dads some time to enjoy a quiet meal.
While the kids play, parents and guests get to business ordering from the extensive menu that ranges from hot pots to sizzling plates and beyond. The noodle variations give diners a choice of Malaysian and Japanese-style dishes like seafood yakisoba (fried noodles) while the sizzling dishes are fantastic if you like a bit of theatre at your table. It’s near impossible to resist gawking at a plate of sizzling chilli squid as the noise and aromas fill the restaurant. Signature dishes like the rolled beef with garlic jam are a must-try, and the DIY meat dishes are brilliant for fussy eaters, and combine great food with family fun.
So unless you have a date with a vampire, or a post-dinner board meeting, there’s no excuse not to indulge in the delicious, garlic-infused fare at Ninniku Jip.
Karen Bilsby
FOOD
The menu covers all bases that with over a hundred dishes on offer, should satisfy the cravings for both the amateur and experienced diner alike. Korean specialities such as the Chijimi - a pancake of seafood and vegetables or the Unagi Kabayaki – a Japanese style of grilled eel, is a great way to start the proceedings. The ever so faithful Prawn Tempura and the highly addictive Edamame, also make a mention amongst the variety of entree offerings. For the more adventurous, the Kimchi Spaghetti is worth the challenge. The dish comprises of an Italian twist with the successful partnering of kimchi (a Korean side dish of pickled cabbage and chilli) with spaghetti, mixed in bolognaise sauce and topped with a napolitana sauce, grilled cheese and garlic bread. Certainly a unique dish to contend with.
The mains largely consist of a Set Menu Meal which includes, rice, miso soup, kimchi and namul (Korean styled marinated vegetables) on the side. You can choose from a range of sizzling dishes, or the very popular Ishiyaki Bibimbap – rice served in a warm stone bowl, to complete your meal. To take your tastebuds to the limit, the Kimchi Nabe – a soup comprising of pork and kimchi, packs a spicy, herb infused punch of flavour or the seriously hot, seriously Korean, Seafood Soup – a hot soup with seafood and egg noodles will determine your spicy fate. Another option to consider from the impressive mains selections, is the range of Hot Pots which allow the diners to get involved by heating the pot of various meat, noodle and vegetable combinations on a portable gas cooker and await till it comes to the boil. A great idea to share with a group or even a dinner for two but whatever the case, the staff at Ninniku Jip will be ready to assist you with their friendly and knowledgeable service.
BEVERAGE
Ninniku Jip with their extensive food menu, offers authentic Japanese and Korean spirits, to complete the experience. For the Japanese fans, Sake is available along with the new addition of Tsunami Sparkling Sake which is only available from Ninniku Jip and provides a refreshing alternative. For those wanting to experience something different, Soju – a Korean spirit made from Barley or the fruity Bokbunja – made from Korean wild black raspberries, will fit the bill. Local and imported beers are available, while there is a strong focus on local wines.
FUNCTIONS
The spaciousness of this restaurant provides a perfect venue to host your next function or event. Whether it’s a large group booking, cocktail party or corporate event, Ninniku Jip will be able to accommodate and tailor to your specific requirements. Please contact Joanna Whittle for any bookings or enquiries.