Madame Butterfly is one of those rare experiences that are both fun and chique. Nice enough for any date and fun enough for the whole family. While they have normal table options, we decided to do the Korean BBQ. If you’re looking for something out of ordinary, this is going to be a great option.
Each table in the Korean BBQ section of the restaurant has a grill in the middle, where you and your party will grill vegetables and various cuts of meat. While a few in your party might grumble about having to cook your own food at the restaurant, just ignore them. By the end of dinner, I’m sure they’ll have warmed up to the idea.
(Note: This might not be fun for families with smaller children. Grilling is a part of the experience. If you wouldn’t trust your kid to sit in front of a grill, this might not be the best option.)
FOOD
Our group of five chose the meat lovers feast, which was a terrific choice. The meat lovers feast came with ribeye, filet, short rib, hangar steak, skirt steak and pork tenderloin. All were expertly cut and prepared.
We purchased additional shiitake mushrooms and rice to go along with the meal.
While I wish I could review each cut separately, my family decided to take charge and I quickly lost track of what I was eating. Luckily, every piece of meat melted in my mouth all the same. To be honest, I was a little skeptical when they brought out the simple array of meats and sauces. It’s not flashy at first glance, but the minute you look closer, you’ll see how much attention these little pieces of meat were given.
Each piece of meat was just as good as the next. Coupled with the three main sauces they provide, this was a near perfect meal. I couldn’t believe how good such simple food could be.
I would recommend getting a few extra veggies and some extra kimchi. The meal was good but sometimes I wish I had a little extra kimchi or veggies to eat along with the steak.
DRINKS
The drinks at Madame were also something special. In my opinion the Hiroshima signature cocktail is one the most interesting drinks I’ve ever tried. The drink is surprisingly refreshing and spicy at the same time. The balance of fresh citrus flavors and Thai chili worked well with each other. It’s definitely something to experience.
The Coconut Jewel was an equally interesting drink. It tasted like a light sweet milk with hints of lime.
If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Hiroshima, otherwise you can’t go wrong with the Coconut Jewel. Both are aesthetically pleasing and unique in their own way.
While we didn’t have this time, my wife usually gets the Secrets of Seoul. She touts as being the best drink she’s ever had. For some reason, they did not have during this visit.
AMBIENCE
Walking up to Madame Butterfly, you can tell this restaurant has a little more polish than your average restaurant. The electronic, neon pink butterflies add some additional flair to the front entrance. Those pops if neon run throughout the entire restaurant, giving it a very modern but distinct Asian aesthetic. The first floor is bright and inviting.
Then moving to the third floor, where the Korean BBQ is located, it feels a little more private with the addition of red lighting and less natural light. The whole upstairs is atmospheric and great for picture taking. Every table has a different look, which makes your experience feel that much more unique.
BOTTOM LINE
While southern comfort food is probably a more traditional choice here in Savannah, Madame Butterfly and several other restaurants by Ele and the Chef have solidified themselves as Savannah main staples.
The entire experience at Madame Butterfly is as polished as it is unique. While not the only option, the Korean BBQ is not something I would skip if you’re planning to make reservations.
This is a Savannah Secret Society favorite.