www.youtube.com/embed/0PODVjc2jHg

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Jeonju Revisit: Discovering Hidden Culinary Gems Beyond the Baguette – A True Local’s Food Tour

Jeonju, a city renowned for its rich culinary heritage in South Korea, became the spotlight once again in a special “revisit” episode of a popular food review show. Having previously visited and focused on the famous “baguette” ( 길거리야 – Gilgeoriya ), the show received a wave of feedback from locals expressing their disappointment that the true depth of Jeonju’s gastronomy was missed. Fueled by this passionate outcry – ranging from humorous demands to “step down” if Jeonju wasn’t properly showcased, to earnest pleas from city officials – the team decided to return and explore the city’s hidden 맛집 (mat-jib – delicious restaurants).

A Mission to Uncover Authentic Jeonju Flavors

This time, the mission was clear: to delve beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and uncover the authentic flavors loved by Jeonju locals. Embracing a “beginner’s mindset,” the hosts embarked on a culinary adventure, determined to redeem their initial exploration and present Jeonju’s true gastronomic identity. The episode promised a deep dive, searching for restaurants that even seasoned locals would vouch for, moving away from just the popular street food.

Restaurant Highlights from the Jeonju Revisit Episode

1. Sushi Mirai (스시미라이): Fresh Sushi & Life-Changing 가지튀김 ( 가지튀김 – Eggplant Fries)

The first stop was Sushi Mirai (스시미라이), a sushi restaurant chosen as the “opening door” to Jeonju’s hidden gems. Praised for its incredibly thick slices of fresh fish and exceptional sushi, Sushi Mirai truly stood out with its 가지튀김 ( 가지튀김 – eggplant fries) with miso sauce. Described as 인생 가지튀김 (in-saeng gaji-twigim – life’s eggplant fries), this dish alone was considered worthy of being the number one highlight if discovered on their first visit. The combination of sweet and savory miso sauce with perfectly crispy eggplant was a revelation.

• Must-Try Dish: Mirai Sushi Set A, 가지튀김 ( 가지튀김 – Eggplant Fries)
• Highlight: Exceptionally fresh and thick-cut sushi, life-changing 가지튀김 ( 가지튀김 – eggplant fries).
• General Sentiment: Highly recommended, a must-visit for sushi lovers and anyone seeking unique fried eggplant.

2. Daeji Baksa (돼지박사): Spicy Pork Bulgogi ( 양념불고기 – Yangnyeom Bulgogi) Loved by Locals for Decades

Next, the team visited Daeji Baksa (돼지박사), a Pork Bulgogi restaurant recommended by a Jeonju local who has been a patron since high school (over 20 years!). This spot is a true local favorite, known for its 양념불고기 (yangnyeom bulgogi – marinated pork bulgogi) and the unique way locals enjoy it – by mixing the bulgogi with bean sprouts and garlic, then stir-frying it all together. The nostalgic, familiar flavor was highlighted, differentiating it from the typical 간장 불고기 (ganjang bulgogi – soy sauce bulgogi) often found in Seoul. The reasonable price and generous portion of domestic pork added to its appeal.

• Must-Try Dish: Spicy Pork Bulgogi ( 양념불고기 – Yangnyeom Bulgogi)
• Highlight: Authentic local style of eating Bulgogi, nostalgic flavor, great value.
• General Sentiment: A true local gem, perfect for experiencing Jeonju’s everyday comfort food.

3. Ttosoonine (또순이네): 인생 김치찜 (In-saeng Kimchi Jjim – Life’s Best Kimchi Jjim) – A Kimchi Jjim Revelation

The final destination, and crowned as the ultimate “또간집 (Tto-gan-jip – revisit restaurant)” of Jeonju, was Ttosoonine (또순이네), a 김치찜 (kimchi jjim – kimchi stew) restaurant. Recommended by multiple locals, including a young student and another interviewee who mentioned it as their go-to for over 7 years, Ttosoonine exceeded all expectations. The 김치찜 (kimchi jjim) was described as 인생 김치찜 (in-saeng kimchi jjim – life’s best kimchi jjim), with a deep, rich flavor achieved simply through perfectly aged kimchi, slow-cooked to perfection. The addition of a rolled omelet (계란말이 – gyeran-mari) was deemed “cheatingly delicious.” The pure, unadulterated kimchi flavor was so profound that the hosts declared it a “restaurant they wished they didn’t have to broadcast,” an ultimate personal favorite.

• Must-Try Dish: Kimchi Jjim ( 김치찜) with 계란말이 (Gyeran-mari – Rolled Omelet)
• Highlight: Exceptional, deeply flavored 김치찜 (kimchi jjim) made with perfectly aged kimchi, simple yet sublime.
• General Sentiment: A must-visit, crowned as the best revisit restaurant in Jeonju, a life-changing 김치찜 (kimchi jjim) experience.
• Rating: Declared as “내 인생 1등 (Nae in-saeng 1-deung) – My life’s number 1” by the hosts, implying a top rating.

4. Keunjip Sundaegukbap (큰집순대국밥): Deep & Rich Sundaegukbap ( 순대국밥 – Sundae Soup) with a Unique 초장 (Chojang – Vinegar-Red Pepper Paste) Dipping Sauce

Lastly, the show explored Keunjip Sundaegukbap (큰집순대국밥), a 순대국밥 (sundaegukbap – Korean sausage soup) restaurant recommended by a local with 50 years of Jeonju residency. While Jeonju is famous for various 순대국밥 (sundaegukbap) spots, Keunjip stood out for its exceptionally deep and rich broth and its unique 초장 (chojang – vinegar-red pepper paste) based dipping sauce for the 순대 (sundae – Korean sausage). This local touch, using 초장 (chojang) instead of the usual salted shrimp, was highlighted as a key element making Keunjip’s 순대국밥 (sundaegukbap) distinct and truly Jeonju style.

• Must-Try Dish: Sundaegukbap ( 순대국밥) with 피순대 (Pi-sundae – Blood Sausage)
• Highlight: Deep and rich broth, unique 초장 (chojang) dipping sauce for 순대 (sundae), authentic local flavor.
• General Sentiment: Highly recommended for 순대국밥 (sundaegukbap) lovers seeking a truly authentic Jeonju experience.

Jeonju: A Culinary City Worthy of Multiple Visits

This “revisit” episode successfully showcased that Jeonju’s culinary scene extends far beyond just one or two famous dishes. It reaffirmed Jeonju as a city brimming with 맛집 (mat-jib – delicious restaurants) waiting to be discovered. For anyone planning a food tour in Korea, Jeonju should be high on the list, promising a journey of authentic flavors and unforgettable culinary experiences. It might even warrant 12 revisits, as suggested by the enthusiastic hosts!

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