Seoulmate brings authentic Korean street food culture to Mount Maunganui, serving up crispy Korean fried chicken, hearty rice bowls, and loaded Korean hotdogs. With recipes rooted in classic Korean comfort food, Seoulmate crafts its signature dishes using halal-certified chicken and signature sauces that range from sweet honey to fiery chili.
Whether dropping by Bayfair for a quick lunch of Chi-Bap or sharing a box of freshly glazed boneless chicken with friends, Seoulmate focuses on accessible, flavour-packed takeaways prepared with care. Every batch of fried chicken is designed to retain its signature crunch and taste, offering a satisfying bite whether enjoyed fresh on the spot or taken home.
Korean fried chicken and street eats have become beloved comfort foods across the globe, and Seoulmate is dedicated to delivering that vibrant culinary experience right to Bayfair in Mount Maunganui. From its inception, the eatery set out to introduce authentic Korean-style takeaways to local communities, combining bold seasonings, traditional techniques, and fresh ingredients.
At the core of the kitchen's craft is their take on chicken gangjeong. Prepared using halal-certified boneless chicken, each batch is double-fried to achieve a light, airy exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. What makes this style stand out is its ability to hold onto its distinct crispness and deep flavour even after it has cooled down, making it an ideal option for takeaways and family sharing.
Variety is a cornerstone of the Seoulmate experience. Diners can enjoy the chicken unadorned for pure crunch with the Crispy option, or explore a curated selection of house-made sauces. The lineup includes a sweet honey glaze that balances richness with subtle sugariness, a savoury soy garlic sauce packed with umami notes, and a fiery Korean spicy glaze that delivers an authentic kick.
For those seeking a complete meal on the go, Seoulmate offers Chi-Bap—a staple combination of warm steamed rice crowned with two different styles of fried chicken. It provides a hearty, convenient balance of carbohydrates and savoury protein, perfect for lunch breaks and quick evening meals.
Beyond fried chicken, Seoulmate serves authentic Korean hotdogs, popularised in street markets across Seoul. Battered and fried to order, these treats feature a blend of pork and beef sausage encased alongside stretchy mozzarella cheese in items like the Original Half Mozza. For extra texture, the Ugly Hotdog variations provide a craggy, crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese core.
To balance the richness of the fried chicken and hotdogs, diners can round out their spread with house sides. Tangy cubed pickled radish provides an essential palate-cleansing acidity between spicy bites, while fresh coleslaw adds cool, crisp texture. Whether you are after a fast street-style snack or a spread of saucy boneless chicken, Seoulmate brings genuine Korean street food flair to the Bay of Plenty.