The Autistic Foodie’s Guide to Paris | Shin Jung | Paris 8
Korean cuisine has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It's characterized by its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. Korean food is also known for its balance of different flavors, including salty, sweet, sour, and spicy, which work together to create complex and delicious dishes.
Korean History, Culinary History, and the Korean language are all autistic Special Interests of mine so you will find that I will come back to the topic often. As an autistic person, I have a few "same foods" that I enjoy cooking at home and eating out, and several of those dishes happen to be Korean. I typically indulge in Korean cuisine several times a week, and am fortunate to have access to a number of excellent Korean restaurants in Paris. If you’re looking for Korean restaurants that are accessible for autistic people in Paris, read on about Shin Jung!
Located in the beloved 8th arrondissement, Shin Jung is situated on a unremarkable street near Place de Clichy, making it almost a secret spot, away from the bustle and common tourist restaurants of the area.
Although Shin Jung may appear small and unassuming from the outside, don't be misled into thinking it's just another typical Bibimbap joint. In fact, Shin Jung is as authentic as they come, staying true to the traditional Korean restaurants found in Korea. The menu is compact and focused on classic dishes, including Fried Chicken, Japchae (Glass Noodles), Bulgogi BBQ (Marinated Beef), and various soups. Unlike other restaurants that may dilute the flavors of their dishes, Shin Jung's food is prepared using traditional methods, which may surprise you with its richness and depth of flavor. There are no gimmicks here, just honest, delicious Korean cuisine that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
All dishes are served with Banchan, traditional Korean side dishes, including Kimchi of cabbage and soy. Kimchi is typically made with Napa cabbage, radish, and other vegetables, which are mixed with garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and other seasonings, and then left to ferment for several days. The result is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour dish that is packed with probiotics and other health benefits.
Another classic Korean dish is bulgogi, which we tried at the Shin Jung. Bulgogi is a type of grilled or stir-fried beef that is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings. It's a popular dish in Korea and around the world, thanks to its tender and flavorful meat that is perfect for wrapping in lettuce leaves or enjoying with a side of rice.
We also tried the kimchi pancake and fried chicken at Shin Jung. Kimchi pancake, or kimchijeon, is a savory pancake made with kimchi, flour, and water, and then pan-fried until crispy. It's a popular snack or appetizer in Korea, and is often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce and vinegar.
Finally, we tried Korean fried chicken, which is a newer addition to Korean cuisine. It's thought to have been introduced to Korea by American soldiers during the Korean War, and has since become a beloved comfort food in Korea and around the world. Korean fried chicken is typically coated in a crispy batter and then tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. The result is a dish that is crunchy, sticky, and bursting with flavor.
For those who enjoy Korean alcohol, the menu is filled with various beers and sojus. There are a variety of vegetarian options available, as well as some vegan ones as well.
For autistic people, dining out can be a challenge due to sensory sensitivities. Loud noises, bright lights, and crowded spaces can all make it difficult to enjoy a meal. That's why finding a restaurant like Shin Jung, with its quiet atmosphere, low non-fluorescent lighting, and small, cozy setting, can be such a relief. The fact that their entire menu is available online is also a huge advantage, as it can help reduce anxiety and make the dining experience more enjoyable.
To close, Shin Jung in Paris offers a delicious and authentic taste of Korean cuisine in a comfortable and sensory-friendly environment. Whether you're a fan of classic Korean dishes like bulgogi and kimchi, or newer additions like Korean fried chicken, Shin Jung is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable dining experience, especially for autistic foodies.
Pluses for Autistic People
Calm environment
Good natural light and no overhead fluorescent lights
Quiet and good acoustics
Kitchen is well away from the dining room and doesn’t emit sound or strong aromas.
Few tables
Low lighting
Shin Jung
Address: 7 rue Clapeyron, 75008 Paris, France
Phone: 01 45 22 21 06
Website: www.shinjung.fr
Reservations HIGHLY Recommended, Especially on the Weekend
Closed Sundays
