Craving authentic Korean BBQ in Seoul? Look no further than Namyeongdon (남영돈), a popular restaurant in the Yongsan district known for its flavorful charcoal-grilled pork. This review dives into my recent visit, highlighting what makes Namyeongdon a must-try for pork lovers, despite its notorious waiting times.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Namyeong-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Namyeongdon boasts excellent accessibility via public transportation. It’s conveniently situated near both Namyeong Station (남영역) and Sookmyung Women’s University Station (숙대입구역), making it easy to reach by subway. However, like many restaurants in this area, parking is limited. It’s recommended to either take a taxi, as I did, or utilize nearby private parking facilities if you’re driving.

The Namyeong Station area is a vibrant food district with a variety of dining options, from budget-friendly Korean BBQ joints to “Daepo-jip” style restaurants serving meat by the “keun” (a Korean unit of weight). You’ll also find places like Chowon (초원), known for its Hanwoo beef, and Ichizen Tempura Meshi (이치젠 덴푸라메시), a tempura restaurant, all within walking distance. The area buzzes with energy, making it a great place to enjoy food and drinks.

The Food: Premium Pork and Charcoal Grill

Namyeongdon specializes in delicious pork, grilled over charcoal placed directly beneath the grill. This unique grilling method ensures the meat cooks quickly and absorbs a rich, smoky charcoal flavor. While this intense smoky aroma is a major draw for many, it’s worth noting that it might be a bit overpowering for some.

The menu features four cuts of pork: pork jowl (항정살), pork skirt meat (가브리살), and pork shoulder butt (목살). During my visit, I sampled the jowl, skirt, and shoulder butt, and was particularly impressed with the pork skirt meat (가브리살). Its exceptional flavor and texture made it stand out. While all the cuts were enjoyable, the skirt meat was definitely the highlight. Sides include various kimchi types perfect for pairing with grilled pork, along with five types of dipping sauces, salt, wasabi, and two types of salted seafood (jogaet-jeot – 조개젓 and garibi-jeot – 가리비젓). These flavorful jeotgal were a delightful addition and could easily accompany a bowl of rice on their own. A complimentary and flavorful Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개), packed with pork, is also served, adding a comforting warmth to the meal.

For a refreshing side, I ordered Naeng-jjolmyeon (냉쫄면), cold chewy noodles in a spicy sauce, a great complement to the rich pork. While they don’t offer Bibim-naengmyeon (비빔냉면), the Naeng-jjolmyeon serves a similar purpose of cleansing the palate and adding a cool contrast.

The staff expertly grills the meat for you, ensuring it’s cooked to perfection. This is a convenient service, though it can feel slightly awkward if you prefer a more private dining experience, especially on a date. However, the benefit of perfectly grilled, non-burnt meat is undeniable.

Waiting and Tips for Visiting

Namyeongdon is notorious for its long waiting times. Weekends are particularly challenging, with opening at noon. On weekdays, they start taking waitlist numbers from 4 PM, with seating beginning at 4 PM. Even arriving 30 minutes early might not guarantee a spot in the first seating. Waiting times can be unpredictable, sometimes extending to two seating rotations. Therefore, be prepared to wait, especially if visiting during peak hours. Nearby cafes offer a comfortable place to wait. Despite the wait, the quality of the food often makes it worthwhile.

Atmosphere and Service

The restaurant’s interior is surprisingly spacious, with 16 tables spread across two dining areas. The ambiance is lively and bustling, reflecting its popularity. The staff is attentive and skilled at grilling the meat, ensuring a seamless dining experience. The charcoal grill’s proximity to the grill plate results in fast cooking, allowing for a quick turnover of tables, which is perhaps necessary given the constant demand.

Rating

General Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Namyeongdon delivers an exceptional Korean BBQ experience centered around high-quality pork and a distinctive charcoal grilling method. The pork skirt meat (가브리살) is a standout dish, and the complimentary sides and Kimchi Jjigae enhance the meal. While the long waiting times can be a deterrent, the delicious food and authentic flavors make it a worthwhile visit for Korean BBQ enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Namyeongdon is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and flavorful charcoal-grilled pork in Seoul. While the waiting times can be daunting, the exceptional taste, especially of the pork skirt meat, and the overall dining experience justify the effort. If you’re a fan of smoky, charcoal-infused BBQ, Namyeongdon is highly recommended. Just be prepared to wait or plan your visit for off-peak hours to minimize wait times. And perhaps grab a refreshing Patbingsu (팥빙수) at Lotteria across the street afterward to complete your meal!