Discover Fresh Oysters and Steamed Seafood at Gulgwa Jjim Sarang: A Must-Visit Korean Restaurant

Looking for the freshest oysters and delicious steamed seafood in Korea? Look no further than Gulgwa Jjim Sarang (굴과 찜 사랑)! Recently featured on the popular Korean YouTube channel “Muk-eul tende (먹을 텐데),” this restaurant is quickly gaining buzz for its generous portions, incredible value, and, most importantly, its supremely fresh and flavorful oysters.

A New Year’s Feast at Gulgwa Jjim Sarang

The “Muk-eul tende” team, known for their honest and enthusiastic food reviews, kicked off their new year with a visit to Gulgwa Jjim Sarang. After a week-long break, they were eager to start the year with a delicious meal, and Gulgwa Jjim Sarang did not disappoint. They specifically came for the oysters, and the experience was clearly a highlight. Even the filming crew joined in for what felt like a company dinner, emphasizing the hearty and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant.

Generous Portions and Unbeatable Value

One of the first things mentioned about Gulgwa Jjim Sarang is its incredible value for money. The portions are described as very generous, making it perfect for groups and those with hearty appetites. They ordered a large steamed oyster platter (굴찜 대자), and the sheer amount of food was impressive. This makes Gulgwa Jjim Sarang an excellent choice if you’re looking for a satisfying and affordable seafood feast.

Fresh Oysters and a Variety of Seafood Delights

The star of the show at Gulgwa Jjim Sarang is undoubtedly the oysters. The reviewers raved about the freshness of both the raw oysters (생굴) and steamed oysters (굴찜). They were described as incredibly fresh and flavorful, with a distinct sea-fresh taste. Beyond just oysters, the restaurant also offers other seafood dishes, including a complimentary side of crispy fried dried pollack skin (명태 껍질 튀김), which adds a delightful crunchy texture to the meal. They also enjoyed a comforting and flavorful Mosaengi soup (매생이국), a healthy and light option.

Perfect Pairings: Makgeolli, Soju, or Wine?

When it comes to drinks to pair with oysters, the options are plentiful at Gulgwa Jjim Sarang. While champagne or white wine might be the classic Western pairing, the reviewers opted for Korean favorites: Makgeolli (막걸리, Korean rice wine) and Soju (소주, Korean distilled spirit). They even brought their own Makgeolli to try! The restaurant also offers wine and has wine glasses available, with a corkage fee of 20,000 won per bottle, making it flexible for various preferences. For soju lovers, they even recommended adding ice for a refreshing twist.

More Than Just Oysters: Gukbap and Kalguksu

Beyond steamed and raw oysters, Gulgwa Jjim Sarang also offers satisfying meal options like oyster gukbap (굴국밥 – oyster rice soup) and oyster kalguksu (굴칼국수 – oyster noodle soup). The oyster gukbap was particularly praised for its clean and mild flavor, reminiscent of Bokguk (pufferfish soup), and was highly recommended, especially the Mosaengi oyster gukbap. These dishes provide a warm and comforting finish to your seafood experience.

A Great Spot for Dates, Groups, and Healthy Eating

Gulgwa Jjim Sarang seems to cater to a diverse crowd, from couples on dates to groups of friends and families. It was even mentioned as a potentially good spot for a first date! The focus on fresh, healthy seafood also makes it appealing to those conscious about their well-being. The mild flavors and emphasis on natural ingredients are highlighted as a positive aspect, especially for those looking for a healthy and delicious dining experience. If you are seeking a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious seafood without feeling heavy or overly indulgent, Gulgwa Jjim Sarang is an excellent choice.

Overall Impression and Recommendation

Gulgwa Jjim Sarang receives a resounding recommendation from the “Muk-eul tende” team. They were impressed by the freshness of the oysters, the generous portions, the value for money, and the overall welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re an oyster enthusiast, a seafood lover, or simply looking for a healthy and delicious Korean meal, Gulgwa Jjim Sarang is a must-visit restaurant. Highly Recommended!

Restaurant: Gulgwa Jjim Sarang (굴과 찜 사랑)

Cuisine: Korean Seafood, Oysters, Steamed Dishes

General Rating: Highly Recommended

Location: Korea (Specific location details may require further research)