We had the good fortune of connecting with Francis Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Francis, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My decision to launch Ktang wasn’t merely about opening another eatery. It stemmed from a
desire to share the authentic flavors and communal spirit of Korean dining with the diverse
community of Houston. “I wanted to create a place where people could not only enjoy incredible
Korean food but also experience the warmth and hospitality that are so central to our culture,”
Kim explains. “Ktang is more than just a restaurant; it’s an extension of my home, a place where
everyone feels welcome.”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
● A Culinary Journey: Ktang aims to offer a comprehensive Korean dining experience.
From popular barbecue cuts and comforting stews to a variety of “banchan” (side dishes)
that are integral to a Korean meal, Kim wants to introduce Houstonians to the breadth
and depth of Korean cuisine.
● Community and Connection: Beyond the food, I envisions Ktang as a hub for
community. The design, the service, and the overall atmosphere are all crafted to
encourage shared moments and lively conversations, reflecting the communal nature of
Korean dining where food brings people together.
● Education and Exploration: For those less familiar with Korean food, Ktang serves as
an approachable entry point. my team are eager to guide guests through the menu,
explain the origins of dishes, and help them discover new favorites, fostering a sense of
culinary adventure.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Kemah Boardwalk is perfect for a fun, relaxed day out. It’s got that classic seaside amusement park vibe with rides, games, shops, and restaurants, all right on Galveston Bay. It’s a great way to unwind, enjoy some good food, and have some lighthearted fun by the water.

On the other hand, NASA’s Johnson Space Center offers an incredibly inspiring and educational experience. It’s where so much of human space exploration history was made and continues to be made. Your friends will get to see real spacecraft, touch a moon rock, and learn about the incredible achievements of space travel. It’s a chance to witness innovation and history firsthand.

Together, these two spots showcase the diverse appeal of Houston – from thrilling entertainment to groundbreaking scientific achievement!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Hey to all the young people in California, and Seoul, Korea! You’ve got to experience life in Houston. Just like our weather, life here is incredibly diverse, dynamic, and exciting! You’ll find a vibrant mix of cultures, amazing food from all over the world, a thriving arts scene, and endless opportunities. Come see for yourself why Houston is such a unique and exergetic place to live.

Instagram: @k_tang_houston

Image Credits
The resturant photos were taken by the Ktang Marketing team and his individual photos are personal photos taken by Bo Young Lee

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