www.youtube.com/embed/_rlFkV73SlE

“`html

Walkerhill Myungwolgwan Korean BBQ: A Luxurious Dining Experience with Han River Views in Seoul

Nestled within the prestigious Walkerhill Hotel in Seoul, Myungwolgwan offers a premium Korean BBQ experience with breathtaking views of the Han River. This renowned restaurant, specializing in charcoal-grilled Hanwoo beef, provides a sophisticated ambiance and top-notch service, making it a perfect destination for special occasions and discerning diners.

Location and Ambiance: Dining with a View

Myungwolgwan is located in Walkerhill Hotel, situated in the Gwangjin-gu district of Seoul. Walkerhill itself is famous for its stunning Han River views, and Myungwolgwan perfectly leverages this prime location. The restaurant offers panoramic river views, creating a truly memorable dining atmosphere. While slightly removed from the subway (about 1km from Gwangnaru Station), it’s easily accessible by taxi or hotel shuttle. The journey to Walkerhill, especially in autumn with its tree-lined roads, is pleasant and adds to the overall experience.

Recently renovated, Myungwolgwan boasts a modern yet elegant interior, moving away from an outdated feel. The restaurant features both hall seating and private rooms (Byulchae), catering to different preferences. While the main hall can be lively and somewhat noisy due to its spaciousness and number of tables, the table spacing is comfortable. Outside, a beautiful garden area provides a tranquil space for a post-meal stroll, enhancing the overall dining experience at Walkerhill.

Price and Menu: Premium Hanwoo and Course Options

Myungwolgwan is known for its premium pricing, often considered one of the most expensive Korean BBQ restaurants in Korea, particularly for individual meat cuts sold in 100g portions. The menu features high-quality Hanwoo beef, with cuts like Anchangsal (skirt steak) and Ansim (tenderloin) priced at premium levels per 100g. While the à la carte menu can be quite costly, Myungwolgwan also offers course menus that provide a more accessible entry point to their exquisite cuisine. These courses typically include a selection of appetizers like Yukhoe (beef tartare), a generous portion of premium beef (like Deungsim – sirloin), rice, and side dishes, offering a more comprehensive dining experience at a (relatively) better value.

The review highlights several dishes:

• Hanwoo Ansim (Tenderloin): Praised for its delicate flavor and tenderness, a classic premium cut.
• Hanwoo Deungsim (Sirloin): A well-marbled and flavorful cut, expertly grilled by the staff.
• Hanwoo Yangnyeom Galbi (Marinated Short Ribs): While delicious and juicy, the marinade is noted to be on the sweeter side, which may be a matter of personal preference.
• Yukhoe (Beef Tartare): Included in the course, the Yukhoe is well-received, suggesting high meat quality.
• Banchan (Side Dishes): A variety of banchan are served, with a focus on fresh, home-style flavors that are not overly seasoned.
• HoBakjuk (Pumpkin Porridge): A warm and comforting starter, especially enjoyable in colder months.
• Galbitang (Beef Short Rib Soup): Highly recommended, the Galbitang features generous portions of high-quality, flavorful beef short ribs in a rich broth. It’s considered a standout dish.
• Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles): The Mul Naengmyeon (water-based cold noodles) is described as a unique style, somewhere between Hamheung and Pyeongyang styles, offering a refreshing and flavorful option, although opinions may vary among diners.
• Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew): Myungwolgwan’s Doenjang Jjigae is also known for its high price point when ordered à la carte, even the mini version in the course is flavorful.

Dining Experience and Overall Impression

Dining at Myungwolgwan is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of premium Hanwoo beef, impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and stunning Han River views creates a truly luxurious setting. While the prices are undoubtedly high, especially for à la carte meat orders, the quality of the ingredients and the overall experience justify the cost for special occasions or when seeking a top-tier Korean BBQ experience. The Galbitang, in particular, stands out as a must-try dish, even as a standalone meal.

For those seeking an exceptional Korean BBQ experience in Seoul with breathtaking scenery, Myungwolgwan at Walkerhill is a worthy consideration. Be prepared for premium pricing, but expect a memorable dining experience that delivers on quality and atmosphere.

Restaurant Information

Restaurant: Myungwolgwan (명월관)

Location: Walkerhill Hotel, 177 Walkerhill-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cuisine: Korean BBQ (Hanwoo Beef)

General Rating: Highly Recommended for Luxury Dining and Quality

Price: Very Expensive

Parking: Available

“`