Nestled in the heart of the city, Marble Korean in Hamilton is redefining what it means to dine Korean-style — where tradition meets innovation and every detail feels crafted with intent. With its sleek interior, warm hospitality and dishes that blend authenticity with artistry, Marble has become a destination for those seeking a modern taste of Korea in a refined setting.
That same philosophy extends to the bar, where each drink is designed to tell a story. This week, we shine a light on a cocktail that embodies that creative spirit: The Ssamjang Silk.
A Cocktail with a Korean Soul
At first glance, the Ssamjang Silk may appear simple and elegant — but beneath its smooth surface lies a depth of flavour that speaks to Korea’s culinary heritage. Inspired by the beloved Korean condiment ssamjang — a savoury, nutty and slightly spicy paste found in every Korean kitchen — this cocktail brings a taste of home to the glass.
It’s a daring creation that introduces Korean flavours to the cocktail world in a way that feels both adventurous and familiar. The result is smooth, moreish and deliciously balanced — an easy drink with layers that unfold sip by sip.
Why We Recommend It
Korean flavours are rarely seen in cocktails, which makes the Ssamjang Silk an experience worth seeking out. It’s an invitation to explore the unexpected — a drink that celebrates one of Korea’s most iconic ingredients in a completely new way.
As the team behind Marble explains:
"Korean flavours are rarely translated to the cocktail world. The Ssamjang Silk introduces guests to a whole new world of adventure with a familiar base flavour used in every Korean kitchen — from homes to restaurants.”
This is the kind of cocktail that excites both the palate and the imagination — something truly distinctive, yet comfortingly familiar.
A Fun Fact
Creating the Ssamjang Silk was no small feat. Translating a complex food flavour into a balanced cocktail takes time, experimentation and a sense of humour.
"Translating food to cocktails isn’t easy — there are a lot of errors before perfection is achieved,” the team laughs. "We even thought about adding anchovies, but that was a hard pass after I was voted out of doing it by the team. Maybe next time.”
The result of that creative process is a cocktail that feels effortless — a testament to the craft, patience and playful curiosity behind the bar at Marble Korean.
The Story Behind the Name
The name ‘Ssamjang Silk’ perfectly captures the character of the cocktail. Just like silk, it’s smooth, refined and irresistibly soft on the palate — a luxurious take on a humble, everyday flavour.
"The Ssamjang Silk is smooth, moreish and an easy drink — it’s yummy!” says the team with a smile.
A True Taste of Marble
At Marble Korean, every element — from the food to the cocktails — is guided by the same principle: respect for tradition, elevated by creativity. The Ssamjang Silk embodies that ethos beautifully, weaving together culture, craft and comfort in one exquisite glass.
So, the next time you visit Marble Korean, order the Ssamjang Silk. You’ll discover a cocktail that’s as silky as its name suggests — bold in spirit, delicate in texture and uniquely, unmistakably Korean.
