Food at Bella Tunisia in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 22 / Courtesy of Eddie Tam

Just outside the gates of Sungkyunkwan University's Natural Sciences Campus in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, lies a hidden gem in the form of Bella Tunisia, a quaint basement restaurant that brings the vibrant flavors of North Africa to Korea. Tunisia, the northernmost country in Africa, boasts a diverse culinary heritage influenced by Arab, Berber, Turkish and Italian traditions. Its Mediterranean location has resulted in a delightful mix of flavors, with dishes heavily based on seafood, meats, tomatoes, olive oil and a wide array of spices such as cumin, cardamom, coriander and paprika.

Upon entering Bella Tunisia, one is immediately struck by the eclectic décor that evokes the cozy ambiance of a traditional Tunisian villa. The restaurant attracts a diverse crowd, including international students and curious Korean couples. The establishment is run by a young Tunisian man who not only prepares the food but also serves it to the patrons. The laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by the open-concept kitchen, where diners place their orders and pick up their meals directly from the window.

The interior of Bella Tunisia in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 22 / Courtesy of Eddie Tam

During our visit, we had the pleasure of sampling a variety of dishes. We started with the plain hummus (6,000 won), a classic choice among the several hummus variations offered, such as pesto, harissa (Tunisian chili sauce), beef, chicken and lamb. The hummus was creamy, smooth and full of rich chickpea flavor, making it a must-try dish that pairs perfectly with the restaurant's tortillas. Next, we tried the falafel (10,000 won), which came as six perfectly crispy, puck-shaped pieces. The falafel had a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. This dish was a wonderful introduction to the flavors of Tunisian cuisine. The highlight of our meal was the chicken tagine (8,500 won), a dish that truly showcased the culinary expertise at Bella Tunisia. The half-chicken was roasted to perfection, with a light layer of spices that enhanced the natural flavors of the meat. The chicken tagine was served with a side of fragrant rice and a small mixed salad, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Chicken tagine at Bella Tunisia in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 22 / Courtesy of Eddie Tam

The entrance to Bella Tunisia in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 22 / Courtesy of Eddie Tam

In addition to these dishes, we also enjoyed the mixed kebab (15,000 won) and the french fries (2,500 won), both of which were delicious and well-prepared. The tortillas (1,000 won) were a perfect accompaniment to the hummus, adding a satisfying texture to the meal.

The fact that there is a Tunisian restaurant in Suwon is a wonderful surprise for those interested in exploring diverse culinary traditions. Bella Tunisia, with its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, has been a beloved spot for Suwonites for about six years. It caters to the appetites of both international students and locals, offering authentic Northern African cuisine at reasonable prices. With just one dedicated employee, the restaurant ensures that everyone can enjoy the tastes of Tunisia without breaking the bank. For anyone curious about Tunisian cuisine or seeking a new dining experience, Bella Tunisia is a must-visit destination. The restaurant's unique offerings and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout choice in Suwon's diverse culinary landscape.

Bella Tunisia welcomes guests from Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Saturday from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (closed on Sunday). Follow @bella_tunisia on Instagram for more information.

Eddie Tam is an assistant professor in Suwon and runs the Facebook foodie groups Hidden Gems Korea and Hidden Gems Suwon, Korea.