KKO KKO NA RA PTE. LTD., with its Unique Entity Number (UEN: 200721949R), is a cornerstone of Singapore’s culinary landscape, celebrated for introducing authentic Korean fried chicken and the vibrant Chi-Mek (Korean Fried Chicken & Beer) culture to the city-state. Since opening its doors in 2008, Kko Kko Na Ra has grown from a modest eatery on Tras Street to a bustling restaurant on Tanjong Pagar Road, becoming a beloved destination for locals, expatriates, and tourists seeking a taste of Korea in Singapore.
Introduction to Kko Kko Na Ra
Founded by Eon Lee, a self-taught Korean cook who spent six months perfecting her fried chicken recipe, Kko Kko Na Ra is a pioneer in Singapore’s Korean dining scene. The restaurant’s name has become synonymous with authentic Korean cuisine, particularly its crispy, flavorful fried chicken. Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, Kko Kko Na Ra offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for late-night dining and social gatherings. Its commitment to quality and authenticity has earned it a loyal following and recognition in local media, including features in The Straits Times multiple times between 2009 and 2010.
Services and Products
Kko Kko Na Ra specializes in Korean fried chicken, offering a variety of flavors that cater to diverse palates. Their signature offerings include:
Dish/Flavor | Description |
---|---|
Original Fried Chicken | Crispy, golden chicken with a classic, savory taste. |
Soy Garlic Sauce | Chicken coated in a rich, garlicky soy sauce, a Singaporean favorite. |
Sweet & Spicy | A perfect balance of sweetness and heat for a bold flavor. |
Hot & Spicy | Fiery chicken for spice lovers craving an intense kick. |
Combo Chicken Set | A mix of flavors, ideal for sharing or sampling multiple varieties (~$24). |
Army Stew (Bu Dae Jji Gae) | A hearty, bubbling pot of vegetable stew with noodles, spam, and mushrooms, perfect for groups. |
Additional Dishes | Korean pancakes, rice sets, and stews for a complete dining experience. |
The restaurant also serves traditional Korean beverages like Cass and Hite beers, as well as soju, enhancing the Chi-Mek experience. Kko Kko Na Ra’s late-night hours, often extending until 3 or 4 AM, make it a haven for night owls and those seeking a post-work meal. The menu is complemented by sides like tteokbokki (chewy rice cakes with Korean ramen) and drinks like chestnut makgeolli, adding to the authentic Korean dining experience.
Unique Value Propositions
Kko Kko Na Ra stands out in Singapore’s competitive food scene for several reasons:
- Pioneering Chi-Mek Culture: As one of the first restaurants to introduce Korean fried chicken and the Chi-Mek concept in Singapore, Kko Kko Na Ra has shaped the city’s Korean dining culture since 2008.
- Authentic Ingredients: The restaurant imports ingredients directly from Korea, ensuring the true taste of Korean cuisine. Recipes, many derived from Madam Lee’s mother from Jeon La Do, a province known for its culinary excellence, add a layer of authenticity.
- Late-Night Accessibility: Open until the early hours, Kko Kko Na Ra caters to Singapore’s nightlife and late-shift workers, offering a rare late-night dining option in Tanjong Pagar.
- Community and Atmosphere: The restaurant’s friendly environment and central location make it a go-to spot for social gatherings, whether for casual drinks or hearty meals.
These qualities have solidified Kko Kko Na Ra’s reputation as a must-visit Korean restaurant in Singapore.
Standout Features and Customer Feedback
Kko Kko Na Ra has earned widespread acclaim for its food and ambiance, as reflected in reviews across multiple platforms:
- Google Reviews: Customers like Manfred Chan rave about the restaurant’s authenticity and late-night appeal, stating, “One of my favourite korean restaurant to visit! They serve korean fried chicken, stew, pancakes and some rice sets and all. Open by koreans!! And tons of people visit them even korean themselves. Definitely mean something if koreans visit them as well right? Best of all. They open till later like 3 or 4AM? Location is quite central as well. Good for people ending work late or a place to hangout with friends over drinks with fried chicken. Beers and soju with fried chicken? Cant go wrong right?” (Kko Kko Na Ra).
- Burpple: With 186 reviews and 1643 wishlists, Kko Kko Na Ra is featured in “Best Korean Restaurants In Singapore.” A reviewer praises, “One of my favourite fried korean chicken place in Singapore and w awesome company! ✔ Combo fried chicken set* (~$24): This is their signature!!! And absolutely love the yangneom flavour. The original was surprisingly tasty as most of the time the inner bits are blend..but this is not! Thumbs up!” (Burpple).
- TripAdvisor: Rated 4.1 out of 5 based on 93 reviews, Kko Kko Na Ra has earned a Travellers’ Choice award for its consistent excellence. A review highlights, “Kko Kko Na Ra was one of the pioneer restaurant open in 2008. Most of the restaurant’s recipes are from Madam Lee’s (Korean owner) mother who lived in Jeon La Do which is one of the famous province from making the best dishes in Korea. The authenticity of Kko kko na ra’s recipe makes the restaurant stood up from their competitor” (TripAdvisor).
- Yelp: With 13 reviews, customers appreciate the restaurant’s late hours and flavorful chicken, noting its suitability for late-night munchies (Yelp).
The restaurant’s ability to attract both Korean patrons and locals underscores its authenticity and appeal.
Areas of Singapore Served
Kko Kko Na Ra is strategically located at 33 Tras Street #02-01, Singapore, in the vibrant Tanjong Pagar neighborhood. This central location, near Tanjong Pagar MRT station and with ample parking options, makes it easily accessible to residents, office workers, and tourists. The restaurant primarily serves the Tanjong Pagar and Duxton Hill areas but attracts diners from across Singapore due to its reputation and late-night hours. Additionally, Kko Kko Na Ra offers takeout and delivery services, extending its reach to a broader audience.
How Kko Kko Na Ra Meets Singapore’s Needs
Singapore’s multicultural society and fast-paced lifestyle create a demand for diverse, high-quality dining experiences that cater to various schedules. Kko Kko Na Ra addresses these needs in several ways:
- Authentic Korean Cuisine: By offering traditional Korean dishes with imported ingredients, Kko Kko Na Ra satisfies Singapore’s appetite for international flavors, appealing to the city’s diverse population.
- Late-Night Dining: Open until 3 or 4 AM, the restaurant serves late-shift workers, nightlife enthusiasts, and those seeking after-hours meals, filling a gap in Singapore’s dining scene.
- Social Hub: The Chi-Mek culture fosters social connections, aligning with Singapore’s vibrant social scene and providing a space for friends to gather over food and drinks.
- Economic Contribution: As a local business, Kko Kko Na Ra supports Singapore’s economy by creating jobs and contributing to the city’s reputation as a culinary hub.
By blending authenticity with accessibility, Kko Kko Na Ra enhances Singapore’s dining landscape and meets the needs of its dynamic community.
Contact Information and Social Media
For reservations or inquiries, you can reach Kko Kko Na Ra at:
- Address: 33 Tras Street #02-01, Singapore
- Phone: +65 6225 9282
- Email: Not publicly available; use the contact form on their website
- Social Media:
- Instagram: Kko Kko Na Ra
- Facebook: Kko Kko Na Ra
- TripAdvisor: Kko Kko Na Ra
Summary
Kko Kko Na Ra is a shining example of how authentic cuisine can bring people together. As Singapore’s pioneer in Korean fried chicken, it has not only introduced the city to the joys of Chi-Mek but also created a welcoming space for late-night dining and social gatherings. With its flavorful dishes, imported ingredients, and vibrant atmosphere, Kko Kko Na Ra continues to delight diners in Tanjong Pagar and beyond. Whether you’re craving a plate of soy garlic chicken wings or a hearty Army Stew with friends, Kko Kko Na Ra offers an unforgettable Korean dining experience.
Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.