This North Carolina Korean Eatery Is Hiding The City’s Best Fried Chicken
Tucked inside a bustling shopping plaza in Cary, North Carolina, Ajumma is quietly redefining Korean fried chicken in the Triangle. Known for its perfectly crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, this family-owned spot has earned a devoted following, and it’s easy to see why.
Located at 2055 Renaissance Park Pl, Cary, the restaurant has amassed nearly 500 glowing reviews and a remarkable 4.9-star rating, proving that locals can’t get enough. Every piece of fried chicken bursts with bold, authentic Korean flavors, from savory soy-garlic glazes to spicy, addictive sauces that leave diners coming back for more.
Beyond fried chicken, Ajumma delivers a full menu of Korean comfort food made with care, making it a standout destination in North Carolina’s vibrant dining scene. With its inviting atmosphere and menu that hits every flavor note, Ajumma is more than a meal, it’s a must-visit culinary experience.
1. Korean Fried Chicken That Defies All Expectations
The boneless Korean fried chicken arrived at my table looking like edible gold. Each piece glistened under the restaurant lights, coated in a shatteringly crisp shell that crackled audibly when I picked one up.
The double-frying technique creates a texture so perfectly crunchy that it stays crispy even as the sauce clings to every ridge.
What sets this chicken apart is the balance. The meat inside remains impossibly juicy while the exterior delivers that satisfying crunch with every bite.
You can choose from several flavor profiles, but the classic sweet and spicy version hits every note your taste buds crave.
After trying fried chicken across North Carolina, I understand why people drive from Raleigh and Durham just for this dish. The portion sizes are generous enough to share, though you might not want to.
Kids love the boneless style, which makes it family-friendly without sacrificing any of that addictive Korean flavor that keeps adults coming back weekly.
2. Complimentary Banchan That Steals The Show
Before my main dishes arrived, the server brought out an array of banchan that immediately elevated the experience. These complimentary side dishes aren’t your standard Korean restaurant offerings.
The cheese corn became an instant obsession, with its creamy, slightly sweet profile that somehow works perfectly alongside spicier dishes.
Fresh kimchi arrived with just the right amount of fermented tang, while fish cakes provided a mild, comforting contrast. The cucumber kimchi was particularly refreshing, offering a crisp bite that cleansed my palate between heavier bites.
Each banchan felt thoughtfully prepared rather than mass-produced.
What struck me most was how these sides reminded diners of home-cooked Korean meals. One reviewer mentioned they tasted like dishes from their Korean friend’s grandmother’s house, and that authenticity shines through.
The variety changes slightly with each visit, keeping the experience fresh. These aren’t just throwaway sides; they’re carefully crafted accompaniments that show the restaurant’s commitment to traditional Korean hospitality and flavor.
3. Seafood Pancake Bigger Than Your Head
When the seafood pancake arrived, I actually laughed out loud. This thing is absolutely massive, easily shareable among three or four people.
The golden exterior promised crunch, and it delivered spectacularly. Each bite revealed chunks of seafood distributed throughout the savory pancake batter.
The real revelation came with the dipping sauce. That vinegar-based accompaniment nearly brought tears to my eyes with its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
It transforms each bite into something extraordinary, cutting through the richness of the pancake while enhancing the seafood flavors.
Multiple reviewers specifically called out this dish as a must-order, and I understand why completely. The texture contrasts beautifully between the crispy edges and the slightly chewy center.
Fresh scallions add brightness throughout, while the seafood provides satisfying protein in every section. Whether you order it as an appetizer or make it your main event, this pancake represents Korean comfort food at its absolute finest.
4. Dolsot Bibimbap Served Sizzling Hot
The sizzling sound reached my ears before the dolsot bibimbap reached my table. Served in a screaming-hot stone bowl, this dish puts on a show while delivering incredible flavor.
Fresh vegetables arranged in colorful sections surrounded perfectly cooked rice, all topped with a sunny-side-up egg that begged to be broken.
Here’s the magic: as the bowl sits before you, the rice touching the stone continues cooking, creating a crispy, golden crust called nurungji. This crunchy layer becomes the treasure at the bottom, offering textural contrast to the softer ingredients above.
The beef bulgogi option adds tender, well-marinated meat that complements rather than overwhelms.
Mixing everything together with the spicy gochujang sauce becomes a ritual. Each ingredient maintains its distinct character while contributing to a harmonious whole.
The egg yolk creates creaminess, the vegetables provide crunch and freshness, and that crispy rice bottom delivers satisfaction with every spoonful. Multiple families mentioned their kids loved this dish, proving its universal appeal across generations and taste preferences.
5. Bulgogi That Melts On Your Tongue
Thin-sliced ribeye arrived on a sizzling platter, caramelized to perfection with yellow and green onions. The marinade had worked its magic, tenderizing the meat while infusing it with sweet and savory notes that define great bulgogi.
Each piece practically dissolved on my tongue, requiring almost no chewing.
What impressed me was the restraint with seasoning. The beef tasted like beef, enhanced rather than masked by the marinade.
Some restaurants drown their bulgogi in overly sweet sauce, but Ajumma finds that delicate balance where the meat remains the star. The generous portion size meant I had plenty to wrap in lettuce or enjoy with rice.
The sizzling presentation isn’t just for show. Arriving hot keeps the beef tender and allows the flavors to develop as you eat.
Steam carries the aroma of caramelized meat and onions, making your mouth water before the first bite. One reviewer noted the beef was well-seasoned without being overpowered by spices, which perfectly captures this dish’s thoughtful preparation and authentic Korean flavors.
6. Soon Tofu Soup That Warms Your Soul
My first spoonful of soon tofu soup nearly made me forget I was in North Carolina. The bubbling hot stone pot arrived with silky soft tofu floating in a rich, spicy broth that immediately cleared my sinuses.
The seafood version includes shrimp and other treasures that add depth to every bite.
Breaking a raw egg into the boiling soup creates instant magic. The egg cooks in the residual heat, adding richness and tempering the spice level slightly.
The tofu’s custard-like texture contrasts beautifully with the firmer seafood pieces and crunchy vegetables scattered throughout.
Multiple reviewers specifically praised this dish, with one calling it the only tasty dish they tried during their visit. The spicy beef version offers a different experience, with tender meat adding heartiness to the already substantial soup.
Served with a bowl of steamed rice, this becomes a complete meal that satisfies on cold days and hot ones alike. The heat level can be adjusted, making it accessible to spice novices and heat-seekers equally.
7. Crabmeat Rangoon With A Korean Twist
These aren’t your typical Chinese takeout rangoons. Ajumma handmakes each wonton, stuffing them with real crabmeat and cream cheese before frying them to golden perfection.
The result is a crispy exterior that shatters when you bite down, revealing a creamy, savory filling that oozes slightly.
The house-made sweet chili sauce elevates these dumplings from good to memorable. Its balance of sweetness, heat, and tang complements the rich filling without overwhelming it.
Each rangoon arrives piping hot, the perfect temperature for that satisfying contrast between crunchy shell and molten center.
What makes these special is the attention to detail. The wontons are sealed carefully, preventing any filling from leaking during frying.
The crab flavor comes through distinctly rather than getting lost in cream cheese. Multiple reviewers mentioned these rangoons specifically, calling them out as standout appetizers worth ordering every visit.
They’re substantial enough to share but addictive enough that you might want your own order.
8. Mandu Dumplings Done Right
The mandu arrived with perfect contrast: crispy, golden bottoms from pan-searing and tender, steamed tops that revealed the cooking technique. These pork dumplings showcase traditional Korean preparation methods, where the dumpling gets two cooking processes in one pan.
The house-made ponzu sauce adds a citrusy, savory element that brightens each bite.
Breaking into a mandu releases steam and reveals juicy pork filling seasoned with vegetables and aromatics. The wrapper maintains structural integrity without being thick or doughy.
Each dumpling feels substantial, with generous filling that justifies the portion size.
One reviewer mentioned ordering the spicy mandu and finding it had a kick without being overwhelming. The regular version offers savory comfort without heat, making it accessible for all palates.
With four large dumplings per order, this appetizer can easily serve two people or function as a light meal for one. The combination of textures, from that crispy bottom to the tender filling, makes these dumplings memorable enough that people specifically request them on return visits.
9. Service That Feels Like Family
From the moment I walked through the door, the staff treated me like a welcomed guest rather than just another customer. The warmth felt genuine, not scripted.
Servers checked on tables regularly without hovering, striking that perfect balance between attentive and intrusive that so many restaurants struggle to find.
What stood out was their willingness to help. Multiple reviewers mentioned staff assisting with babies so parents could actually enjoy their meals.
Others noted how servers patiently explained menu items and offered recommendations based on preferences. One particularly touching review described how the staff’s thoughtful service made the dining experience not just delicious but truly memorable.
The knowledge level impressed me too. Servers understood the dishes well enough to describe flavors, suggest pairings, and adjust spice levels appropriately.
Even during busy periods, the service remained friendly and efficient. This level of hospitality reflects the family-owned nature of the restaurant, where staff clearly take pride in creating positive experiences.
It’s the kind of service that turns first-time visitors into regular customers.
10. Atmosphere That Prioritizes Comfort Over Flash
Ajumma doesn’t try to impress with elaborate decorations or trendy design elements. The space feels clean, modern, and purposefully understated.
Wooden tables and comfortable seating create a relaxed environment where the food takes center stage. The lighting is bright enough to see what you’re eating without feeling harsh or clinical.
Some reviewers noted the minimal Korean decor, expecting more cultural elements in the design. However, this simplicity works in the restaurant’s favor.
Without distractions, diners focus on the food, conversation, and experience. The small dining area fills quickly during peak hours, creating a lively buzz without becoming uncomfortably loud.
The atmosphere suits families, couples, and groups equally well. While one reviewer suggested it wasn’t ideal for date night due to the casual vibe, others found the comfortable setting perfect for enjoying excellent food without pretension.
Background music plays at an appropriate volume, and the open layout allows you to watch the energy of a popular neighborhood spot. It’s the kind of place where you feel comfortable lingering over your meal or bringing kids without worry.
11. Location In Cary’s Renaissance Park
Finding Ajumma at 2055 Renaissance Park Pl, Cary, puts you in a typical shopping plaza setting, the kind you might drive past without noticing. Yet this unassuming location houses some of the Triangle area’s best Korean food.
The convenient Cary address makes it accessible from Raleigh, Durham, and surrounding communities, contributing to its broad customer base.
Parking is straightforward, with ample spaces in the shared lot. The location lacks the charm of a standalone building but offers practical advantages like easy access and plenty of room.
For residents of Cary, this spot is convenient for both dine-in meals and takeout orders that travel well.
The Renaissance Park area continues to develop, with Ajumma anchoring the dining options in this section of Cary. Despite being tucked into a plaza, the restaurant has built a reputation strong enough that people actively seek it out.
The 4.9-star rating and hundreds of reviews prove that location matters less than quality. Diners discover this gem through word of mouth and online searches, then become regulars regardless of the distance they travel.
12. Prices That Respect Your Wallet
Quality Korean food often comes with premium pricing, but Ajumma defies that expectation. Entrees hover in the reasonable range, with most dishes priced to reflect the generous portions and quality ingredients.
Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned the great prices, especially considering the exceptional food quality they received.
The value becomes even clearer when you factor in those complimentary banchan sides. Every table receives multiple small dishes at no extra charge, effectively expanding your meal without increasing the bill.
Appetizers are sized for sharing, and entrees often provide enough food for leftovers, stretching your dollar further.
One reviewer noted spending around fifty dollars per person including tax and tip, which reflects a moderate price point for the area. Families appreciate being able to feed multiple people without breaking the bank, while the quality justifies the cost for those seeking authentic Korean cuisine.
The pricing strategy seems designed to encourage repeat visits rather than maximize profit on single transactions, building a loyal customer base that returns regularly for their Korean food fix.
13. Hours That Work For Real Life
Operating Tuesday through Sunday from eleven in the morning until nine at night gives Ajumma a schedule that accommodates most dining preferences. The Monday closure for rest and preparation is clearly communicated, preventing disappointed visits.
This schedule allows the family-owned business to maintain consistency while giving staff necessary downtime.
The lunch service starting at eleven means you can satisfy midday Korean food cravings without waiting until dinner. Office workers from nearby areas stop in for lunch, while families often arrive for early dinners before the evening rush.
The nine o’clock closing time works well for those who prefer eating earlier while still accommodating later diners.
During my visit on a Thursday evening, the restaurant was comfortably busy without requiring a long wait. Weekend visits might need more patience, as the popularity means tables fill quickly during peak times.
Several reviewers mentioned being seated right away, while others noted brief waits that proved worthwhile. Calling ahead or arriving slightly off-peak can help avoid waits, though the efficient service moves tables relatively quickly even during busy periods.
