Discover a 36-Year-Old Hidden Gem Korean BBQ in Jamsil: Gaboja Sikdang – Must-Try Kimchi and Pork Belly!

Looking for an authentic and time-tested Korean BBQ experience in Seoul? Venture into the depths of Jamsil’s Jangmi Shopping Center and uncover a culinary treasure that has been delighting locals for 36 years. Gaboja Sikdang (가보자 식당), located just a short walk from Jamsil Station, is not just a restaurant; it’s a testament to enduring flavor and hearty Korean cuisine.

A Taste of Old Seoul in an Unexpected Location

Gaboja Sikdang resides in the basement of the 장미 종합상가 (Jangmi Shopping Center), a building with a history as rich as the restaurant itself. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you. Stepping inside Gaboja Sikdang is like entering a lively food court, buzzing with energy and the tantalizing aromas of Korean comfort food. Despite being underground, the atmosphere is surprisingly vibrant and welcoming, a stark contrast to the perhaps aged facade of the building above.

Located conveniently near Jamsil Station Exit 9 (a 7-minute walk), Gaboja Sikdang offers an easily accessible escape into a world of delicious Korean flavors.

The Kimchi is King: A Symphony of Fermented Goodness

Prepare to be amazed by Gaboja Sikdang’s banchan (side dishes), especially their phenomenal kimchi. This isn’t just your average kimchi; it’s a kimchi parade! From perfectly fermented 배추김치 (baechu kimchi – napa cabbage kimchi) to the pungent and flavorful 갓김치 (gat kimchi – mustard leaf kimchi) and the refreshing 파김치 (pa kimchi – scallion kimchi), their kimchi selection showcases true Kimjang (kimchi-making) mastery. The vibrant colors and deep flavors of the kimchi are a testament to their quality and freshness. It’s so good, it deserves its own spotlight!

Pork Lover’s Paradise: From Thinly Sliced to Thick and Juicy

Gaboja Sikdang excels in pork BBQ, offering a variety of cuts to satisfy every craving. Start your culinary journey with their 대패 삼겹살 (daepae samgyeopsal – thinly sliced pork belly). The high-quality pork, with its perfect lean meat to fat ratio, is presented in long, uncut strips – a unique and satisfying touch. Grill it to your liking and wrap it in their fresh 쌈채소 (ssam vegetables) or, even better, embrace the Korean way and pair it with their incredible pa kimchi for an unforgettable bite.

For a heartier option, indulge in the 오겹살 (ogyeopsal – pork belly with skin), cut to a satisfying 5mm thickness. The juicy and flavorful ogyeopsal offers a delightful chewiness that perfectly complements the grilled kimchi. And for those who prefer a leaner cut, the 차돌박이 (chadolbagi – beef brisket), while not heavily marbled, is wonderfully savory and satisfyingly tender.

Don’t Miss the Dosirak: A Retro Treat

Complete your Gaboja Sikdang experience with their 3,000 won 도시락 (dosirak – lunch box). This isn’t your typical lunch box; it’s a nostalgic trip back to Korean school days, filled with 김 (gim – seaweed), 멸치볶음 (myeolchi bokkeum – stir-fried dried anchovies), 분홍 소시지 (pink sausage), and a perfectly cooked 계란 후라이 (fried egg). Take it to the next level by adding sizzling samgyeopsal oil and grilled kimchi to the dosirak and shaking it all together – a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Authentic Korean BBQ

Gaboja Sikdang is more than just a restaurant; it’s a hidden gem that embodies the heart and soul of Korean comfort food. From the exceptional kimchi to the high-quality pork and the friendly service, every aspect of Gaboja Sikdang screams authenticity and deliciousness. If you are in Jamsil and looking for a truly satisfying Korean BBQ experience, Gaboja Sikdang is a must-visit. Prepare to be charmed by its old-school vibes and blown away by its timeless flavors. Highly recommended!

Restaurant Information

• Name: Gaboja Sikdang (가보자 식당)
• Location: Jangmi Shopping Center B 지하 (Basement), near Jamsil Station Exit 9 (7-minute walk)
• Address (Approximate): 장미종합상가 지하, Sincheon-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea (서울 송파구 신천동 장미종합상가 지하)
• General Rating: Highly Recommended