NAM Dae Moon offers a slice of authentic Korean cuisine and culture. This beloved restaurant, under the careful stewardship of owner and manager Hellena Kim (Mi Yun Kim) and Soung Jun Lee, has become the go-to destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Innate potential
Kim and Lee, seasoned entrepreneurs with backgrounds in various businesses including markets, restaurants, and tourist agencies, took the reins of Nam Dae Moon at the dawn of 2016. “A friend offered me the opportunity to take over the restaurant,” Kim and Lee recall. “With my experience in the industry, I saw the potential to create something special here [on] Saipan.”
Under their hands-on management, Nam Dae Moon has flourished, earning a reputation for its delectable dishes and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant’s menu caters to diverse palates, with tourists frequently gravitating toward the fresh tuna sashimi. Meanwhile, locals favor hearty Korean staples such as braised shortribs, Korean BBQ, and soft tofu soup.
“We strive to offer authentic Korean flavors while also appealing to the local taste preferences,” Kim explains. “It’s about finding that perfect balance that keeps our customers coming back for more.”
Continuous service
One of the unique aspects of Nam Dae Moon is its commitment to continuous service. The restaurant operates without a lunch break, serving hungry customers from opening until 9 p.m., six days a week. “We understand that people’s schedules can be unpredictable, especially on vacation,” Kim notes. “By staying open throughout the day, we ensure that no one misses out on a satisfying Korean meal.”
The restaurant’s interior reflects the warmth of its cuisine. A kids’ corner adds to the family-friendly vibe, making Nam Dae Moon an ideal spot for gatherings of all sizes. Cleanliness is a top priority, with Kim personally overseeing the maintenance of the dining area and Lee overseeing the maintenance of the kitchen.
Mary Grace Mirano, Khristinne Nunez, Helena Kim, Cristine Joy, and Melanie Dicoy.
Staff training
One of Nam Dae Moon’s greatest strengths lies in its staff. Kim has personally trained an all-female wait staff, many of whom have been with the restaurant for nearly a decade. This longevity speaks volumes about the positive work environment Kim has cultivated.
Melanie Diyco, a veteran of seven years at Nam Dae Moon, embodies the restaurant’s commitment to customer satisfaction. “We try to put our best smile forward every day,” Diyco shares. “It is important to give good customer service and a great dining experience.”
This dedication to hospitality is evident in every aspect of Nam Dae Moon’s operation. From the moment guests step through the door, they are greeted with warm smiles and prompt attention. The efficient service ensures that diners can enjoy their meals without unnecessary delays, whether they’re tourists on a tight schedule or locals squeezing in a quick lunch and hearty dinner.
Future plans
Kim has exciting plans for Nam Dae Moon. “We’re planning to have small freebies with their meals this October,” she reveals. “It’s our way of saying thank you to our loyal patrons and welcoming new faces.”
Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of tofu stew or a fresh plate of sashimi, Nam Dae Moon promises an authentic Korean dining experience with a hearty side of island hospitality.
Nam Dae Moon, to date, has received two awards as the Best Korean Restaurant in the Marianas.
Hellena Kim and Soung Jun Lee.
