Bewon Korean Restaurant   

A small subterranean restaurant named after a secret garden on the grounds of the royal palace of King Tae Jong of Korea, Bewon is a true taste adventure. But if you're accustomed to paying cheap prices for Asian food, you'll likely suffer a little sticker shock. Entrees here reach as high as $19, and a multi-course meal runs $25. If you're adventurous, though, consider treating yourself. The simple and elegant ambience is highly conducive to eating with its sun-splashed walls and crisp white table clothes. There are some bargains here, too, especially if you consider the upscale food presentation and high quality. Otherwise, put together a meal chosen carefully from a menu of side dishes. Try the "bi bam bap," a beef-and-vegetable concoction (also available meat-free), the "man du" (a potsticker of sorts) or chilly sweet potato noodles mixed with grated mushrooms, spinach and carrots. Even the prix fixe traditional Korean meal, "han jung shik," is affordable when you count the dishes involved (eight) and the amount of food. -- Jo Ostgarden