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Discover Seoul’s Best-Kept Secret: Ian Jin Aged – Legendary Aged Kwang-eo Sashimi Restaurant in Cheonho-dong

Welcome back to Kim Sa-won’s food adventures! Today, we’re venturing into a place renowned for its mastery of aging fish – Ian Jin Aged (이안진 숙성). Located near Cheonho Station in Seoul, this restaurant has been perfecting its aging techniques for an impressive 32 years. You know a place is serious about aging when even the building seems to have aged gracefully alongside their expertise! Let’s dive into what makes this place a legendary sashimi spot in Gangdong-gu.

Location and Ambiance

Ian Jin Aged is conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Cheonho Station, Exit 5. Interestingly, despite its long history and status as a ‘nopo’ (old established restaurant), it attracts a surprisingly young crowd, the ‘MG generation’. Perhaps being situated on the second floor subtly deters older generations, leaving this gem for those in the know.

The Star of the Show: Aged Kwang-eo Sashimi

The menu is wonderfully simple: Aged Kwang-eo (flounder). No need to agonize over choices here! What sets Ian Jin Aged apart is their patented aging process. While patents are impressive, for Kim Sa-won, it all boils down to taste. And let me tell you, the taste is exceptional.

Forget any unnecessary side dishes or ‘ski-da-shi’ (small side dishes). This place is all about the pure, unadulterated flavor of aged Kwang-eo. The confidence of the owner in their Kwang-eo is palpable, and rightfully so.

A Culinary Masterpiece Unveiled

Behold, the magnificent aged Kwang-eo sashimi! The presentation is exquisite, resembling blooming flower petals. Accompanied by sushi rice, it’s an invitation to create your own perfect bite. For today’s drink pairing, we’re going with the legendary Baekseju rice wine – a fantastic complement to seafood, as proven in our previous Korean cuisine adventures. And the price here? Excellent for Baekseju!

Texture and Taste Sensation

The aged Kwang-eo boasts a delightful chewiness thanks to its generous thickness. Each bite releases a savory, nutty flavor that is simply addictive. The restaurant’s commitment to using only premium, large Kwang-eo is evident in the quality. The umami of the aged fish harmonizes beautifully with the umami of Baekseju, creating a smooth and flavorful experience. Even those who aren’t avid drinkers will find Baekseju approachable and enjoyable.

DIY Sushi and Hidden Treasures

Don’t hesitate to make your own sushi! It’s like having an ‘omakase’ experience right at your table – a truly interactive and delicious way to enjoy the sashimi. At first glance, the portion might seem modest, but the thickness and size of each slice are substantial. And within the ‘flower petals’ lies a hidden treasure: ‘Engawa’, the flounder fin muscle, and the ‘Ago’, the nape fin – prized cuts known for their incredible textures and concentrated flavor. The Engawa offers a delightful crunch, while the Ago provides a wonderfully chewy and rich experience.

Spicy Fish Stew (Maeuntang) and Ramen Finale

No sashimi feast is complete without Maeuntang, the spicy fish stew. The broth is a vibrant, inviting color, enriched with the flavorful oils from fish innards. It’s a soul-warming, deeply satisfying broth that feels like a restorative tonic. And of course, we added ramen noodles! The noodles, cooked slightly underdone to my friend’s preference for a ‘꼬들면’ (꼬들꼬들한 면 – chewy noodle) texture, were a perfect addition. Paired with another bottle of Baekseju, the spicy, savory stew and the clean finish of the rice wine create a truly harmonious pairing.

Final Verdict

Ian Jin Aged is a true gem in Gangdong-gu, a neighborhood known for its excellent sashimi restaurants. Their patented aging technique is clearly a success, resulting in incredibly flavorful and textured Kwang-eo. While the wasabi was a minor letdown, not quite matching the exceptional quality of the sashimi, it’s a small flaw in an otherwise outstanding dining experience. The consistent crowds are a testament to the restaurant’s well-deserved reputation. With 32 years of history and a distinct specialty, Ian Jin Aged is a must-visit for sashimi lovers in Cheonho-dong.

Ian Jin Aged (이안진 숙성)
Location: Near Cheonho Station (천호역), Exit 5, Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Rating: ★★★★₉⁄₅ (4.5/5)

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