Sonamu Korean Restaurant

If you're searching for authentic Korean flavors, Sonamu is an absolute gem! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere that set the tone for an amazing meal. We started with the tteok bokki, and it was everything I hoped for—perfectly chewy rice cakes in a rich, spicy sauce that had just the right kick. The sundubu beef tofu soup was another standout, served bubbling hot and packed with tender beef, silky tofu, and deep, savory flavor in every spoonful. The banchan here deserves its own shout-out. Each little dish was fresh and delicious—my personal favorites were the broccoli, kimchi, sweet soy-glazed potatoes, and crisp cucumber slices. You can really taste the care that goes into preparing every bite. A special thank you to April, our waitress, who provided exceptional service throughout our meal. She was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed to enjoy our dining experience to the fullest. Sonamu is now one of my top go-to spots for Korean comfort food. Can’t wait to come back!

We ordered a bimbimbap, japchae, soup and galbi for 3 of us. The portions are good size and the flavor of each dish was good. In particular I liked the soup the best, but only wish they have more glass noodles in it. I also appreciate that this restaurant isn't using much of MSG so I wouldn't be drinking gallons of water after the meal. The restaurant was not too busy so they only had 2 staff on the floor. They were still able to check on you for anything we need. I also like the restaurant playing some soft music from the tv which makes the meal more enjoyable. (Though we had a table of 5 ladies behind us, so their talking was louder than the music.) Parking is outside on the street. It was okay with us as we went during the long weekend but I guess it may get busy during some other times. One thing I didn't appreciate as much was the cleaning (muggy) smell of the restaurant. The smell was strong when we first got there but eventually the cooking from the kitchen overpowered that smell.

Came on a Friday night and it wasn’t too busy. This place was clean and had a pretty casual vibe. We got a seafood and scallion pancake and Tofu Stew with beef. Loved the banchan options, not as big of a spread as fancy Korean restaurants but pretty good for a casual place like this. The food was delicious and satisfied my craving for Korean food, especially on a windy and chilly day.

Newly remodeled from the previous Turtle Tower restaurant. Service on the slow side. As for food, Chicken Wings - good PaJun (seafood pancake) - not bad. Crusty on the outside. Banchan - simple. Generous on the fish cake but fish cakes were too fishy and tough. Tteokbokki - very different from other Korean places. Quite disappointed. Galbi (Korean short ribs) - flavor was good but on the dried side from overcooked. Galbi Tang - good but too salty. Tofu stew - broth was just ok. too watery. Ox bone soup - a little bit greasy but my favorite. Just wished it was less grease floating on top.

We had a wonderful lunch at sonamu on Sunday. We ordered sellotang, Galbi and Kimchi jigae. We arrived there slightly before closing time but they still serve high quality meals and service is 10/10. Server Hauk is attentive and refill BanChan for us as well. We’ve been there couple times and still my favorite is Kimchi jigaeeee!! Also they give korean bean paste and lettuce for Galbi. The best homemade authentic korean food in Richmond area!!!