Calling all foodies! Young Dabang is opening its first Hong Kong location at Sha Tin’s New Town Plaza on 30 June. Since its founding in 2015, Korea’s premium tteokbokki pot restaurant chain has taken the world by storm, expanding to over 400 outlets across the US, Australia, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan. Now, Hong Kong’s vibrant culinary scene welcomes Young Dabang’s unique and premium take on Korean soul food.
Young Dabang isn’t just another Korean restaurant — it’s a cultural phenomenon that has redefined tteokbokki pot (Korean rice cakes pot) as premium comfort food. The name itself spells out the brand’s philosophy: “young” represents its youthful energy and passion that transcends age, while “dabang” pays homage to the popular Korean coffee shops of the 1980s that served as neighbourhood gathering spots. Locally in Hong Kong, the name has also been thoughtfully translated, with “Young Dabang” resonating as “Youth Nation,” further emphasising its vibrant spirit.
The Tteokbokki Revolution: 35cm of Pure Delight
Young Dabang’s signature offering is its customisable Tteokbokki Pot (from $248 for two), featuring remarkably chewy and substantial 35cm rice cakes that redefine the traditional tteokbokki experience. Each pot is a shareable feast, brimming with fish cakes, quail eggs, yaki mandu (fried dumplings), mixed vegetables, and ramen noodles – perfect for enjoying with friends and sharing on social media.
Guests can personalize their pots with a choice of up to six distinct sauce bases, including the classic Korean spicy “YDB Signature” and cream-enriched Rosé as well as Hong Kong exclusives like Corn Cream and Carbonara created for local palates with a lower spice tolerance. To make things extra delicious, up to three toppings are recommended to be added from options like fish cakes, ramen noodles, chewy cheese, pork belly, fried chicken and more. The quintessential Young Dabang experience culminates with the tableside preparation of Flying Fish Roe Seaweed Bokkeumbap, expertly fried using the remaining flavorful sauce from the pot — enjoy it as “dessert” like a local!
Beyond The Pot: Dive into the Ultimate Korean Soul Food Fiesta at Young Dabang!
Hold on, K-food lovers! Young Dabang’s culinary offerings extend far beyond its signature pots, featuring other irresistible Korean favorites:
YDB Chicken ($213 up): Freshly hand-cut daily, slow-cooked and baked to achieve ultimate juiciness. Served with hand-cut chips in six signature flavors. Highlight includes the sweet, sticky, and savory Honey Garlic ($228) with crispy garlic and fresh parsley; the aromatic Smoked Black Pepper ($223), a sophisticated blend of rich black pepper sauce coating the chicken, elevated by crispy fried leeks and fresh parsley; and the vibrant Orange Sriracha ($228), featuring grilled orange slices and a fiery Sriracha kick.
Sot Bap (Korean-style pot rice) ($118 up): This Korean claypot sensation is a powerhouse of perfectly cooked rice, piled high with the Wasabi Beef ($158), the smokey seduction of Grilled Eel ($148), or the rich, savory Pork Belly ($132). The must-try Korean hearty comfort food!
Umma’s Mega Gimbap ($93 up): Go big or go home — these tributes to Korean mom’s nostalgic rice rolls are bigger than your regular gimbap, feature a significantly higher ratio of fillings to rice, less oil, offering a healthier option packed with vegetables and protein, including Tender Chicken ($98), Tuna Mayo ($98) and Korean Hotdog ($93).
Sip in Style: When Tteokbokki Meets Coffee, and other Signature Sips
Prepare for the unexpected! Young Dabang isn't just famous for its tteokbokki – it is the ONLY place where spicy meets your caffeine fix. Young Dabang's drinks are just as amazing as their tteokbokki.
Get ready for a wild ride with their epic selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic lineup. Making its Hong Kong debut, the Bokbunja Beer Bomb ($230) brings together the deep, jammy notes of Bohae Bokbunja (Korean wild raspberry wine) with the crisp, clean finish of Terra Beer - a fizzy, fruit-forward drop shot that’s equal parts refreshing and bold. Young Dabang also serves up standout picks like the Poom Jinro Soju ($230), known for its velvety smoothness; the rich and creamy Kooksoondang Draft Makgeolli ($110); and the subtly sweet, nutty Chestnut Makgeolli ($118). For those skipping the booze, the YDB Ade ($58/glass, $148/jug) series delivers a playful burst of flavor with its sparkling trio: Green Grape brings a crisp and juicy pop, Jeju Mandarin Orange offers a bright citrusy tang with floral undertones, while Tropical Fruit rounds it out with a sweet, sun-kissed blend. And don't miss the refreshing Peach Americano ($42), a delightful twist on a classic that's become a phenomenon in Korea, where these sweet and fruity notes blend seamlessly into the slightly bitter espresso.
Travel Back in Time: Retro Vibes, Modern Comfort
Spanning over 2,000 square feet and accommodating 98 guests, Young Dabang is designed to impress. The interior evokes the charm of 1980s Korean coffee shops with retro furnishings, walls adorned with vintage posters, and warm, earthy-toned wooden decor accented by the brand’s signature teal. With lively music and dim lights as the backdrop, this creates an uplifting, vibey and inviting atmosphere ideal for casual gatherings and celebratory meals where you can savor good quality food at an affordable price.
Your Hong Kong Kaul: Limited Merchandise and Opening Day Treats
To mark its highly anticipated arrival in Hong Kong, Young Dabang is rolling out a collection of exclusive, limited-edition merchandise, featuring special Hong Kong-themedaprons, tote bags and t-shirts. Fans can show their tteokbokki love with fun items likebeach towels, umbrellas, cushions and additional t-shirtdesigns! As an extra special welcome, starting from 30 June,the first 50 customers who spend HK$1,200 (in one spending) or more at Young Dabang will receive a complimentary tteokbokki umbrella or beach towel. Don’t miss the chance to snag these unique collectibles and be among the first to dive in the Young Dabang experience in Hong Kong!