Our Story
SONMAT was founded by Yoonjung, a passionate cook from Seoul, South Korea, who wanted to share the true taste of home in the heart of Utrecht.
In Korean culture, when food tastes exceptionally good, people often say “you have great sonmat”, which literally means “hand taste.”
It’s more than just flavor, it’s the warmth, care, and soul a cook puts into every dish.
That spirit inspired Yoonjung to name her restaurant SONMAT. Every meal is prepared with the same love and authenticity she grew up with in Seoul, homemade, balanced, and full of soul.
At SONMAT, her philosophy is simple: to bring happiness through honest Korean food that nourishes both body and heart.
Why do so many people love Korean soul food?
Korean food is all about warmth, balance, and heart. It’s comforting, flavorful, and made to be shared. That’s why people often call it soul food.
At SONMAT, every dish is prepared with care, following the same tradition that Korean families have passed down for generations. Whether it’s a crispy chive pancake fresh from the pan, a bowl of ramyeon with rich broth, or our colorful bibimbap, each plate tells a story of home and comfort.
Some come for the yangnyeom chicken, double-fried and coated in our sweet and spicy sauce. Others fall in love with our Deopbab, a rice bowl topped with fresh vegetables and savory meat. And of course, no Korean meal is complete without a drink. Try a glass of rice wine, blackberry wine, or one of our refreshing Korean juices.
Korean soul food isn’t just about taste. It’s about connection, the feeling of warmth that stays with you long after the last bite. That’s the spirit of SONMAT.
Why is Korean Fried Chicken so special?
In Korea, fried chicken isn’t just a meal, it’s part of everyday life. There are actually more fried chicken restaurants in South Korea than McDonald’s in the entire world. Crazy, right?
Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why. The ultra-crispy skin and tender, juicy meat create a perfect balance that no other fried chicken can match. It’s light, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying.
What makes it even more special is the yangnyeom chicken, double-fried for extra crispiness, then coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that’s absolutely addictive.
Not into spicy food? No problem. We’ve got plenty of other flavorful sauces that are just as delicious.
Try our Bibimbap, the tastiest healthy Korean rice bowl!
Bibimbap (비빔밥) literally means “mixed rice.” It’s a warm bowl of rice topped with colorful vegetables, good proteins and other fresh ingredients, all mixed together with a touch of spicy gochujang sauce.
It’s a balanced, wholesome meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
At SONMAT, we offer 5 different Bibimbap options, from classic beef and spicy chicken to tofu and vegetarian versions, all made with our homemade red pepper sauce.
Looking for a kick? Try our signature Beef Bulgogi Bibimbap with fresh vegetables and our special house sauce!
Friendly Service
We want to ensure we give all of our customers the best service all of the time.
Original Recipes
We serve traditional and authentic Korean food and all recipes are from South Korea.
Convenient Location
We are located at the heart of the city center in Utrecht.
Takeaway
Takeaway your favorite Korean food or skip the line and order online to pick it up!