A new dining destination is drawing long lines at Burnaby’s Crystal Mall. The recently opened Kalguksu Noodle Restaurant by well-known Korean chef Wonil Lee has quickly become a sensation in the local community. The soft opening on August 7 marked his first noodle restaurant in North America.
Chef Lee, a popular TV personality in Korea with a large following on YouTube, teamed up with his brother Johann to bring a special taste of home to Canada. The brothers took over the location that was once home to S.W. Pepper House, a restaurant that served the area for 20 years before closing in June.
The menu focuses on kalguksu, a comforting Korean dish made of hand-cut noodles in hot broth. While this dish is popular in Korea, it is still rare in Vancouver. Chef Lee has already opened two similar restaurants in Singapore, but this is the first time he has brought the concept to Canada. Johann explained that their aim was to serve a humble yet soulful meal that captures the same warmth and care found in traditional kitchens back home. The noodles are cut by hand each day, and the broth is freshly made from pork bones and chicken. This approach ensures every bowl is rich in flavor and made with attention to detail.
The restaurant seats only 40 people and has been designed to feel like a traditional Korean home, with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening, the demand has been so high that a ticketing system has been introduced to manage the crowds. Lunch tickets are handed out starting at 10:45 a.m. for the first 25 parties, while dinner tickets are given at 4:15 p.m. for the first 38 parties. Once the tickets are gone, the day’s seating is full. Because of the overwhelming interest, some dishes have been selling out before service ends.
The menu offers creative takes on kalguksu alongside classic comfort food flavors. The Double Decker is served in a spicy pork bone broth and topped with tender pork bones. The Very Shroomy Creamy blends perilla seeds and mushrooms for a nutty, rich taste that is unique in the city. The Chicky Chicky Ginseng is inspired by samgyetang, with a ginseng-infused chicken broth that delivers soothing and aromatic notes. Beyond noodles, guests can order shareable plates such as the Kimchi Crispy Pancake, made from Chef Lee’s special recipe for a crunchy texture and bold flavor, or the Soy Drunken Seafood platter, featuring scallops, shrimp, and deep umami taste.
Chef Lee has been in Vancouver personally overseeing the soft opening and testing menu items. The restaurant is adjusting its offerings based on customer feedback, making diners part of the process as the menu evolves. Many visitors have been excited to meet the celebrity chef in person, often taking photos and sharing their experiences online. His presence has added to the excitement surrounding the restaurant, making it one of the most talked-about new food spots in Burnaby.
The growing popularity has already sparked talk of future expansion. Sources suggest that Richmond could be the next location to welcome a branch of the restaurant, giving more people a chance to enjoy the handmade noodles without traveling to Burnaby. For now, those eager to experience this Kalguksu Noodle Restaurant should plan their visit carefully. Arriving early for tickets is essential, as seating is limited and demand is high. Guests can expect to enjoy a hearty bowl of authentic Korean comfort food made with fresh ingredients and prepared with skill and care.
The arrival of Chef Lee’s restaurant has added something special to Burnaby’s food scene, introducing more people to a dish that is both simple and full of tradition. With its combination of handmade noodles, flavorful broths, and warm hospitality, it has quickly become a must-visit spot for food lovers. Whether you are familiar with Korean cuisine or trying it for the first time, this new restaurant offers a taste of comfort that is hard to forget.
