One Shot Pocha

One Shot Pocha is like a tableau for a popping party. Tambourine flares can be heard from the occupied karaoke rooms. The primary source of lighting is a neon sign. Someone is ladling their third glass of soju out of a watermelon. The energy at One Shot Pocha is set—all you have to do is match it. 

Unlike other party-forward spots, the food at this Spring Branch soju bar is more than just a means to soak up alcohol. The menu is full of shareable dishes meant to support people partying until 2AM. The sticky glazed, deep-fried chicken wings are worth pestering your server for more napkins, and the army stew will require reinforcements to be finished, especially if you add the soft chewy noodles to the party. Don’t let the thinly sliced bulgogi fool you—the sweet beef (and the banchan that comes with it) will fuel your fiercest power ballads for the rest of the night. Everything at One Shot Pocha is high energy, but we’d come for the food even if the backdrop were a library.

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Food Rundown

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Army Stew (budae jjigae)

No amount of heat outside could keep us from ordering a pot of the army stew and adding some noodles to the party. Not only is it massive but it’s just the right amount of spicy with at least three different types of meat in the pot to keep the whole gang full.

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Bulgogi

The bulgogi hits the table sizzling and is served around a bed of sweet peppers and onions. We love the slightly sweet marinade that covers the thin slices of meat.

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Wings

The wings at One Shot Pocha are the best dish on the menu. Even on the busiest of nights, the crunch from the double-fried glazed chicken can be heard from a table over. Get a 10-piece to try both the soy garlic and the sweet and spicy flavors.

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Kimchi Pancake

While the kimchi pancake is technically for sharing, we totally understand the urge to order the spicy, thin pancake for yourself. With little pieces of kimchi providing a crunch and just enough heat to make you appreciate what coolness feels like, these pancakes are a must-order.