Maybe it’s the season; maybe it’s the economy, but people are short tempered, particularly those who wait on the public. If there is such a thing as “customer service karma,” mine is at an all-time low. It’s enough to make you go crying to your mama.
According to my Korean co-worker, Umma means "mother." So the sparse, clean restaurant of that name that opened in October is the equivalent of “Mom’s”. Umma is in the Technology Square, Midtown, near the Georgia Tech bookstore. This restaurant may well offer a feeling of home to Korean students and a bit of the exotic (on a budget) for the rest of us. It’s larger on the inside than it looks outside. There’s plenty of seating, as I expect most of their business is take away.
Umma seems to focus more on its Japanese sushi rolls than Korean specialties. The rolls are priced from $3.99 to $8, about the same as what I get in my local Kroger. The quality is OK, not great. There’s more imitation crab than I like to eat, but at these prices it’s to be expected.
The kimbob ($7, served with instand ramen noodles) is of the same quality as the sushi, acceptable and inexpensive, but nothing to write home about. My big disappointment is the bibimbob ($8 with miso soup). There was no heated stone bowl, no sautéed vegetables, and no egg. It’s just a cold tossed salad with hot bulgogi meat on top and a side of white rice. Meh.
To me, the restaurant’s food doesn’t have an authentic feel, though those working and frequenting the shop are Korean. My Korean born co-worker is still ecstatic about the restaurant’s opening and buys lunch there more days than not. I’m convinced the devotion is based on more than the food. Their main target is students, so a quick meal at an affordable price may be draw enough.
You can’t fault the customer service, though. I shouldn’t stereotype, but I’ve come to expect a sweet and friendly manner from Korean immigrants. Here, I’m greeted as though they are delighted that I came.
Some days a little kindness is enough.
Umma
75 Fifth Street NW, Suite 170
Atlanta, Ga 30308
404-477-3255
Their website doesn’t seem to work, but they have a facebook page.
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