When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Hola Seoul
Why Hola Seoul is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hola Seoul is a popular dining destination located in downtown Ann Arbor at 715 North University Avenue. This vibrant restaurant shines with its unique fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisines, creating an exciting menu that is perfect for casual meetups with friends. The specialty here is Korean tacos, with seven different varieties featuring bold fillings like bulgogi, spicy pork, and kimchi with bacon and sausage. Beyond tacos, Hola Seoul offers traditional Korean favorites such as bibimbap, dumplings, and Korean-style fried chicken, ensuring there's something for everyone's palate. The bibimbap stands out with fresh colorful vegetables like green lettuce, spinach, grated carrots, zucchini, radish, cilantro, edamame, and corn, often garnished with avocado for a fresh touch. The dishes are celebrated for their explosive flavors, fresh ingredients, and presentation that invites return visits. With a casual, quick-service setup, Hola Seoul makes an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner, especially for those looking for something flavorful and different near the University of Michigan campus. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with menu prices ranging from affordable tacos and sides to hearty entrees, making it great for groups seeking flavorful, shareable meals in a lively atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Hola Seoul
As of recent, Hola Seoul holds a 4.2-star rating based on 264 reviews.
Customer reviews of Hola Seoul consistently praise the bold flavors, freshness of ingredients, and the fast service that makes the dining experience enjoyable and convenient. Positive feedback often highlights the Korean tacos, especially the shrimp taco with fried shrimp and fresh toppings, as well as the bibimbap, which customers appreciate for its generous portion and creative vegetable combinations not commonly found elsewhere. Reviewers also commend the restaurant for its reasonable pricing and quality, making it a favorite for both quick lunches and casual dinners. Some noted the seating can be a bit tight, yet the overall experience remains pleasant enough that patrons keep returning. On the other hand, a minority of reviews mention occasional crowdedness and limited seating space, which might affect comfort during peak times. Despite that, the passion for the food and the unique Korean-Mexican fusion concept overshadows minor drawbacks. In summary, Hola Seoul wins favor with customers for its delicious, creative menu and welcoming vibe, making it a beloved staple in Ann Arbor's local food scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Raymond Lian
The first thing I tried from Hola Seoul was the Spicy Pork Cup Bap. I had no clue what I was in for but when I dug in, I was so surprised to see how much variety there was in 1 portion of food. The sauce on top was really tasty and didn't overwhelm the flavors of the other food. However the flavor of the spicy pork itself is way too overpowering. Halfway through the cup I felt like I couldn't eat anymore because all you can taste in your mouth is the extremely sweet pork. The lettuce was really crispy and the fries were by far the best addition. There was also rice and glass noodle. But again I feel like any other protein that is not that sweet would balance the cup bap perfectly.
Catherine Kiela
The Korean fried chicken sandwich was delicious!! It was crispy and saucy and very enjoyable. Duk-bok-ki was definitely on the spicy side. Even dine-in orders are served in takeout boxes, very casual and street-food kind of vibes.
Larissa
I asked for the vegetarian option, and I didn't like it that much. It's missing some protein and is pretty hard to eat. On the positive side, the taste is not bad.
Dani Hoover
My kid and I had a fun time at Hola Seoul! We got Korean hotdogs. My kid got the potato one and I got the cheese one. They were super tasty. I also got a red bun. I hadn't tried a red bun before, but it was good too! PS, be patient about parking when you get there, as it may take a minute!
Hank Putter
KIMCHI FRIES ARE A MUST!!!!!! Love the fries so crispy and so much flavor, although don’t expect copious amounts of sausage on there. I literally get them every week. Korean fried chicken is really good too I would say always get boneless because you get more meat and there’s too much breading on the bone in.
How to reach Hola Seoul
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Why Hola Seoul may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hola Seoul with your friends?
If you're looking for the perfect gathering spot that blends vibrant flavors with a lively atmosphere, Hola Seoul presents an irresistible option to rally your friends. With a solid 4.2-star rating from over 260 reviews, this eatery has carved out a niche that combines the exciting boldness of Korean cuisine with the casual comfort of Mexican fare. This fusion not only intrigues your taste buds but also creates a fun and unique dining experience that’s perfect for a group meetup. The welcoming and homey vibe of the space makes it comfortable whether you're catching up over lunch or enjoying a weekend dinner. Additionally, its location inside a bustling food hall adds a community feel, enhancing the sociability of any group gathering. Hola Seoul's menu features standout dishes like their signature bulgogi tacos and kimchi fries, which ignite conversation and shared enjoyment. For friends who appreciate culinary creativity mingled with a relaxed setting, Hola Seoul offers more than just a meal—it’s a place to create memorable moments together.
What types of activities and social experiences can you enjoy at Hola Seoul?
Hola Seoul is more than just a restaurant; it's a social hub where culinary adventure meets casual fun, making it ideal for groups looking to enjoy a collective experience. The primary activity here is, of course, sharing and savoring their innovative Korean-Mexican fusion dishes. From bulgogi tacos to kimchi loaded fries, there’s a variety to sample and pass around the table, fostering an interactive dining style that encourages conversation and connection. The setup inside a food hall environment promotes a communal and lively ambiance where groups can blend into a lively crowd or find a cozy corner for intimate talks. Hola Seoul’s menu prices are reasonable, supporting diverse group sizes and budgets, which is convenient when coordinating meals with friends or family. Moreover, those interested in cultural culinary experiences will appreciate the fusion concept, sparking discussions about the innovative blending of flavors and food traditions—turning your meetup into both a taste adventure and a cultural exploration.
Why is Hola Seoul the ideal place for a group meetup?
Hola Seoul’s fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine creates a dynamic food experience perfectly suited for groups striving for variety and novelty. Sharing plates such as their vibrant bibimbap salads or sizzling dishes adds a sense of lively participation to your gathering, allowing everyone to taste and discuss multiple dishes across the menu. The serving style emphasizes freshness and presentation, making each dish visually appealing and perfect for sharing on social media, which can be an engaging part of the meetup for today’s digitally connected groups. The pricing structure is also inviting for groups, ranging from affordable tacos to shareable larger dishes, which encourages communal dining without breaking the bank. Accessibility is another advantage; the restaurant is wheelchair friendly, ensuring that all members of the group can comfortably enjoy the experience. Lastly, the casual yet upbeat atmosphere inside the food hall fosters a sociable environment where groups can easily relax, linger, and extend their gathering without feeling rushed.
What makes the menu at Hola Seoul exceptional for groups?
The menu at Hola Seoul is crafted to please a wide array of palates, featuring an imaginative mix of Korean and Mexican flavors that lends itself well to group sharing and sampling. Signature items such as bulgogi tacos offer a savory, marinated beef experience wrapped in a soft taco shell, providing a satisfying and unique alternative to classic taco fillings. For fans of vegetarian options, the bibimbap salad is a colorful and fresh choice, packed with seasoned vegetables and optional avocado to enhance the health-conscious eaters’ experience within your group. The kimchi fries stand out as a flavorful side that’s perfect for sharing, combining crispy fries with spicy fermented kimchi, adding a playful kick to the meal. This diversity on the menu ensures there’s something for everyone, from adventurous eaters to those who prefer familiar basics with a twist. The freshness of ingredients and the quality of preparation make every bite enjoyable, enhancing the collective dining experience and ensuring your meetup centers around memorable flavors.
How does the ambiance and setting of Hola Seoul contribute to a memorable meetup?
Hola Seoul is located inside a vibrant food hall on North University Avenue that contributes considerably to the atmosphere and group dynamic. The environment is lively and energetic, encouraging social interaction not just within your own group but with other diners as well, should you choose to engage. The interior design balances casual comfort with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic, making it a visually pleasant place to spend time. The food hall setting means you benefit from a variety of dining options nearby, which can suit groups with diverse dietary preferences or hunger levels. Plus, the layout allows flexibility—whether your group wants to stay and chat over meals or grab something quickly and head out, Hola Seoul accommodates both styles effortlessly. Finally, the staff's friendly and attentive service adds to the informal, welcoming vibe that helps groups feel at ease and valued from arrival to the last shared bite.
What practical reasons make Hola Seoul a great choice for family and friend gatherings?
Beyond delicious food and flavorful innovation, Hola Seoul also scores high on practical aspects that are important when planning group meetups. Its location within a busy, accessible area ensures ease of travel for attendees coming from different parts of the city. The restaurant operates with convenient hours, serving from late morning to evening, which fits well with various scheduling needs. The pricing range allows flexibility for different budgets without compromising on quality, an important factor when coordinating meals with larger groups or families. The inclusive, wheelchair-friendly design guarantees that gatherings can be inclusive, focusing on enjoyment without logistical barriers. Furthermore, the restaurant takes pride in its consistent quality and presentation, which means groups can expect a reliably pleasant experience whether they come for a special occasion or a casual get-together. These practical attributes, combined with the culinary creativity and welcoming ambiance, round out a compelling case for Hola Seoul as the go-to place to host memorable meetups with friends and family.