When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Oseyo
Why Oseyo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oseyo is a vibrant supermarket chain specializing in Korean and a wide range of Asian foods and products, making it the largest specialist grocery retailer of its kind in the UK. Since opening its first location on Tottenham Court Road, London in 2015, Oseyo has expanded to 20 branches nationwide, including 14 in London and additional stores in cities like Manchester, Cambridge, and Birmingham. Its stores offer a diverse selection ranging from authentic Korean ingredients to other Asian essentials sourced from Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Taiwan. Beyond groceries, Oseyo enriches the shopping experience with toys, stationery, housewares, and electronics, providing a cultural hub that goes beyond food. The brand prides itself on delivering high-quality shopping environments and excellent customer service, reflecting the elegance, youth, vibrance, and excitement of Asian culture. Customers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere—true to its name "Oseyo," which means "Welcome, please come in" in Korean. Whether you're looking to explore Korean cuisine, stock up on Asian household items, or find unique gifts, Oseyo presents an inviting and comprehensive destination to meet up with friends and experience the best of Asia in the UK.
Here's what people think of Oseyo
As of recent, Oseyo holds a 4.1-star rating based on 712 reviews.
Users' reviews of Oseyo generally highlight the supermarket's extensive variety and authentic selection of Korean and Asian products that are hard to find elsewhere in the UK. Positive reviews commonly praise the cleanliness and modern layout of the stores, the wide selection of fresh and packaged goods, and helpful staff who enhance the shopping experience. Many customers appreciate the cultural variety beyond Korean products, enjoying the inclusion of items from other Asian countries. However, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as higher pricing compared to mainstream supermarkets and limited seating or food service options, especially after some locations discontinued their hot food and dine-in services, notably at the Waterloo branch. A few customers also cite occasional stock shortages of popular items. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus reflects that Oseyo successfully offers a unique and specialized shopping experience, attracting a loyal customer base. The mix of cultural authenticity, quality, and customer service positions Oseyo as a go-to destination for fans of Korean and Asian products in the UK.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jazmyn Snelson
The food was delicious! Though we did dine at the end of the night and they had run out of some options. But that just means that it’s delicious and I should try again! Recommend the pork belly. However, I’m not the biggest fan of their house soju…
Julie Yu
I usually don’t leave negative reviews, but I was surprised that the food was not great here, especially for the price. The bulgogi in the japchae lacks marinade and is more like plain pieces of meat (although fresh and cooked well). The dish overall tasted like it was only seasoned with salt and lacked flavor & depth. I understand that at some elevated restaurants, the flavors are more subtle to highlight the ingredients, but this food experience just felt lackluster. The bibimbap was just fine. There’s only 3 little banchan (sides) and the kimchi flavor was lacking. The pancake however was delicious— it was thicker than a traditional one but I enjoyed this take on the dish. Mango margarita was also great. Portion sizes for everything were nice. Service is excellent. They have multiple, friendly people attending and servicing you. Everyone from the hostess to the waiters and runners were great. Vibes are nice too.
Ava Johns
Food and atmosphere is phenomenal. Our server was lovely and awesome. We got dumplings, bibimbap, and udon noodles. Bibimbap was my favorite by far. Drinks were very very expensive - $18 for a decent glass of wine or cocktail. Food was also expensive but was easy to share. Took a while for food to come out but overall enjoyed the experience! Would go more often if the drinks weren't insanely priced.
Chahat Sajnani
Wow. Did not expect this level. Great great food. The service was also excellent. We started with a martini and mezcal cocktail. WOW, we loved the freshness to start our meal. Then we skipped the starters bc it looked ok and got a chicken sizzler rice wrap. And the kimchi bokkeumbap- the best thing ever. Huge portions too. We ended up being tempted with the homemade oolong tea tiramisu, completely worth it. Safe to say - great vibes, great experience and a must try. Very surprised about the mixed reviewed.🤠🤠
Taewon Kim
I went to Oseyo for happy hour with some friends. And it was okay. I was hoping for upscale food with Korean flavors (which I would have understood the prices), but it was "standard" Korean food with higher price tag. We ordered the Tteokboki (spicy rice cakes), "tong dak", fried mandu, steamed mandu, and the banchan flight. A big challenge I had was around portions. In my experience growing up with Korean food there is a big presence on communal meal and sharing the portions offered were for solo dining. Tteokboki is like a staple of Korea, it hits all the right flavors if done well. The one at Oseyo was bland and the spice was muted. Also to charge $15 for that portion size. I was confused when the Tong Dak came out. Not pictured. So tong Dak that I grew up with is a whole chicken fried (no batter like fried chicken). What I got was 4 pieces -5 pieces of chicken with a thick crunch batter and a standard korean spicy sauce (which is yangnyum chicken). The batter to chicken ratio was off but it was fine. The challenge I had was around the naming convention because this was not tong Dak. The mandoo was pretty solid the only major critique in the steamed version they had a sea of soy sauce on the bottom and personally for me I like to dip and not coat in soy sauce. The final thing the flight of banchan was not good. Things were over pickled and just sour to the point. Also banchan is a freebie at any Korean restaurant ive visited so this was not the vibe to charge $14. Prices listed are the menu price not the happy hour price. The staff were super helpful and really kind. Parking is quite limited.
How to reach Oseyo
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Why Oseyo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Oseyo with your friends?
Gathering friends at Oseyo offers a vibrant and unique experience that goes beyond ordinary meetups. This place is more than just a food spot; it is a cultural hub infused with the bright flavors and bustling atmosphere of Korean cuisine and lifestyle. With a solid rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on over 700 reviews, Oseyo stands out as a friendly and affordable destination where groups can enjoy delicious meals together in a casual, lively setting. At Oseyo, you can dive into an authentic Korean dining experience that promises fresh, flavorful dishes that cater well to a variety of tastes, from classic sweet and sour chicken to delightful noodle and rice combos. It’s also an excellent place to explore Korean groceries and snacks, offering a mini-adventure in taste and culture under one roof. Friends can bond over shared plates, compare their favorite dishes, and even pick up ingredients to recreate the experience at home. The combination of affordable prices, inviting atmosphere, and rich cultural immersion makes Oseyo an ideal rallying point for groups looking to enjoy quality time together while discovering new flavors.
What activities can groups enjoy at Oseyo and why is it perfect for meetups?
Oseyo offers an array of activities ideal for groups looking to gather and have a memorable time. The primary activity is enjoying the diverse Korean menu that features freshly prepared dishes with vibrant flavors. Group members can share various meals—like sweet and chili chicken, dumplings, and noodle dishes—making it perfect for tasting and swapping bites, which adds a social element to the dining. Beyond eating, Oseyo hosts a small supermarket section where groups can browse and shop authentic Korean groceries and snacks. This provides a fun and interactive way to engage with Korean culture beyond just eating, allowing friends to discover unique products and plan future culinary experiments together. The casual and canteen-style seating accommodates different group sizes comfortably, fostering a relaxed environment conducive to conversation and laughter. Oseyo’s staff is known to be friendly and welcoming, helping groups feel at home and assisting with any questions about the menu or products, which enhances the overall experience. The combination of delicious food, grocery shopping, and a sociable environment makes it a perfect spot for meetups.
How is the environment and service at Oseyo suitable for group gatherings?
The environment at Oseyo is lively yet welcoming, making it an accommodating venue for groups seeking a casual but engaging place to meet. The space features a canteen-style seating arrangement that encourages interaction and easy conversation among friends or family. According to feedback from visitors, the store is well-stocked and bustling, creating an energetic vibe without feeling overcrowded. This balance makes it easy for groups to feel part of a vibrant community while enjoying personal time together. The staff at Oseyo are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, which is crucial for group meetups where members might want recommendations or need assistance managing orders. The attentive service ensures that food is served hot and efficiently, so groups don’t have to wait long or deal with confusion during busy periods. Moreover, the in-store shopping area offers a visual and tactile experience of Korean culture that can spark conversations and shared discoveries. Overall, Oseyo’s environment and service quality enhance the social atmosphere essential for successful and enjoyable group gatherings.
What type of food can groups expect at Oseyo, and why does it suit social dining?
Oseyo specializes in Korean cuisine known for its bold and exciting flavors, making it an excellent choice for groups who want a dynamic dining experience. The menu includes crowd-pleasers like sweet and sour chicken, sweet and chili chicken, dumplings, and options with rice or noodles, allowing group members to mix and match according to their preferences. This flexibility encourages sharing and sampling among friends, ideal for social dining where the experience is as much about conversation and connection as it is about eating. The food is freshly prepared and served hot, ensuring an enjoyable taste experience that diners can appreciate communally. The affordability of the menu means groups can order a variety of dishes without worrying about a high bill, making it budget-friendly for friends or family meetups. The emphasis on authentic Korean flavors also offers a cultural twist that can spark curiosity and delight guests, turning every meal into a mini culinary adventure. Thus, the food choices at Oseyo are perfectly suited for groups seeking a fun, flavorful, and sociable dining occasion.
How does Oseyo’s blend of food and shopping enrich a group outing?
Oseyo’s combination of a casual dining area and a Korean grocery section encourages a multifaceted outing that enriches group meetups. After enjoying a meal together, groups can roam the supermarket space, exploring shelves stocked with imported snacks, beverages, and cooking ingredients unique to Korean culture. This shopping experience adds an interactive layer to the visit, making it more than just a meal but a cultural exploration. Groups can turn this into a fun activity, discovering items to talk about, taste-test later, or bring home as souvenirs or for group cooking sessions. The ability to buy authentic Korean groceries on-site allows the experience to extend beyond the visit to Oseyo, enabling friends and families to recreate the flavors they enjoyed. This blending of dining and shopping helps deepen social bonds by providing shared activities that foster engagement and curiosity. For those unfamiliar with Korean cuisine, it’s an enlightening introduction; for enthusiasts, it’s a treasure trove of familiar delights. This seamless blend of food and shopping makes Oseyo a unique and enriching place for group gatherings.
Why is Oseyo considered affordable and accessible for group dining?
One of the significant appeals of Oseyo is its affordable pricing, which makes it accessible for a variety of groups, from students to families. The menu offers tasty, filling dishes at budget-friendly prices, allowing groups to indulge in multiple dishes without financial stress. This affordability encourages larger groups to come together and try a selection of dishes for a shared experience without the pressure of expensive tabs. Besides price, Oseyo’s locations, such as its London branch near Waterloo, are conveniently situated, making it easy for groups to plan visits around other activities like nearby markets or events. The mix-and-match ordering style—where customers select their base such as rice or noodles and their preferred protein or vegetables—makes it quick and easy for groups to customize their meal orders without complications. Additionally, the casual, canteen-style environment means there’s no need for formal reservations or long waits, accommodating spontaneous group meetups as well. This combination of affordability, convenience, and flexibility positions Oseyo as a smart choice for casual group dining and socializing.
What makes the atmosphere at Oseyo authentic and culturally enriching for groups?
Oseyo offers an authentic Korean dining and shopping atmosphere that gives groups a genuine taste of Korean culture without leaving their city. The decor and setup echo the feel of a bustling Korean eatery blended with the charm of a traditional market, creating a vibrant yet welcoming space for social gatherings. This authenticity is enhanced by the carefully curated selection of Korean products available for purchase, showcasing the diversity and richness of Korean food culture. Groups can learn about ingredients, ask questions, and immerse themselves in the experience, making the visit both educational and entertaining. The staff, often knowledgeable about Korean cuisine, adds to this authenticity by guiding customers and offering friendly recommendations. For groups interested in exploring different cultures together, Oseyo serves as a mini cultural hub that combines the pleasure of eating well with the excitement of cultural discovery, making every meetup a meaningful and memorable event.
How does Oseyo cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences in groups?
Oseyo’s menu is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, making it an excellent choice for diverse groups. With options including chicken, vegetable, and seafood dishes prepared with distinct Korean flavors, everyone can find something appealing. The ability to choose between rice or noodle bases adds to the customization options, accommodating preferences for texture or dietary needs such as gluten considerations. Moreover, the inclusion of vegetarian dishes ensures that non-meat eaters or those exploring plant-based diets can also enjoy a full and flavorful meal. The balanced approach to seasoning and spicing in Korean food at Oseyo means that even those new to the cuisine can find dishes suited to their palate, with options ranging from mild to more spicy flavors. This versatility in the menu fosters inclusivity and satisfaction within groups, where individual dietary needs are respected without compromising on taste or quality. Hence, Oseyo stands out as a group-friendly venue that seamlessly blends variety with authenticity.
What kind of social experiences does Oseyo promote for different types of groups?
Oseyo promotes various social experiences that suit different kinds of groups, from casual meetups of friends to family outings and even cultural exploration clubs. The informal seating and friendly vibe encourage easy conversation, making it a relaxed space for friends to catch up or families to enjoy a meal together. For work or hobby groups interested in cultural foods, Oseyo serves as a perfect venue for immersive experiences where members can taste authentic dishes, learn about Korean culinary traditions, and shop for unique ingredients. The sharing style of dining naturally promotes interaction, discussion, and laughter as dishes are passed around and tastes compared. This social dynamic helps strengthen bonds and creates lasting memories. Even for first-time visitors who might be hesitant about Korean food, the welcoming environment supports comfortable exploration and group learning. Oseyo’s mix of food, shopping, and cultural ambiance creates social experiences that are diverse, inclusive, and rich in shared enjoyment.
How can Oseyo enhance celebrations or special group events?
Oseyo can enhance celebrations and special group events by providing a lively backdrop with flavorful food and immersive cultural elements. Whether it's a birthday, reunion, or casual celebration, the vibrancy of Korean flavors and the warmth of the setting elevate the mood and offer guests a unique culinary experience. Groups can plan shared meals that spark conversation and interaction, making the event more engaging than a typical restaurant visit. Additionally, the option to explore the Korean grocery section adds an unexpected twist to celebrations—guests can pick up interesting snacks or ingredients as gifts or souvenirs, making memories last beyond the event. While Oseyo operates more as a casual dining and shopping venue than a formal event space, its dynamic environment fosters joyful interactions and authentic cultural experiences that enhance any group occasion. This makes Oseyo a versatile and memorable location for hosting gatherings that stand out for their flavor, fun, and cultural vibe.