Sam Woo (Rockville)

With center table top grills, Sam Woo specializes in authentic Korean food. Don't be alarmed by the one manager who is constantly rushing around the restaurant. She's (we think) just ensuring quality and speedy service for the customers.

Most of the people around you will be searing up thin pieces of beef called bulgogi. Looks yummy, haven't tried it myself. You will first be served kimchee along with several other enjoyable appetizers, but don't hesitate to ask for the sushi a la carte menu. The sushi bar is small and hidden behind a half wall. Spam Musubi and I ordered Udon with a couple sushi rolls and we weren't disappointed. The udon is appealing, but for some reason it costs nine bucks a bowl! (That's at least better than another sushi place that asks for $14!!) Do two pieces of tempura shrimp really add that much to the price?

As for the makisushi, we really liked the "Sam Woo roll" which contained a gratifying combo of eel, avacado and crab, and a tasty sweet (bbq?) sauce drizzled on top. The hamachi roll was decent and better than the spicy tuna. And everything (save the udon) was reasonably priced. Time for the ratings...

The good:
Attentive service
The "Sam Woo" roll
Quality for the cost

The bad:
Another place with expensive udon
Small sushi bar, small selection

Overall:
Certainly recommended for anyone who has never visited. The prices are generally low, and the food is tasty across the board. Don't hesitate to try the Korean dishes, even if you came for the sushi.

Sam Woo

*That's Llyod, one of the awesome Entourage characters. He's there as a treat for the ladies. :)