Jimenez podcast features Virginialicious
The second episode of Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez’ podcast series features Mina Kim, who as the founder of Virginialicious, leads tours of Annandale’s Korean restaurants.
The podcast, “Reimagine Mason,” is the place “where we highlight the people places and projects shaping Mason District into a vibrant and inclusive community,” Jimenez says.
The first episode featured Annie Ray, the Grammy-winning educator at Annandale High School.
Jimenez invited Mina to appear on his podcast after enjoying one of her tours. “From sizzling Korean barbecue to indulgent bowls of bibimbap, we experienced firsthand why this area is a must-visit destination for food lovers,” he says.
Related story: Food tours introduce residents to Annandale’s Korean restaurants
Mina takes groups of people on walking tours in Annandale every Saturday. They try the food at several restaurants, while she talks about the culture and history of Korean cuisine.
Some of those who take the tour told her they’ve lived in Annandale for decades and had never been to a Korean restaurant. “Now they know what to order and how to eat the dishes so they can come back to these restaurants on their own.”
Clients have booked tours to celebrate birthdays and to host team-building events, family get-together meals, and private parties, she says.
Virginialicious has gotten so popular, Mina added another tour guide and is considering adding a tour of Korean grocery stores and special seasonal tours. “If anyone has another idea, please reach out to us,” she says.
When she launched Virginialicious last April, Mina had three goals: She wanted to share her love of food, love of community, and love of giving back. A portion of the proceeds is donated to Food for Others, a nonprofit that assists food-insecure families.
“We go to restaurants during their off-peak hours,” she says. “That way the restaurants are able to accommodate the group better while getting some extra business from us.”
“I’ve always loved the diversity of this area and have loved taking family and friends out to Korean restaurants and ordering everything for them,” Mina says. “I loved it so much that I decided to do it more often with more people, and that’s how Virginialicious was born.”
“Sharing food really inspired me,” she says. “I am so grateful for the support from the local community.” Tours can be booked here.
Jimenez says, “Virginialicious showcases why Mason District is the cultural hub of Fairfax County.”
