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Discover Seoul’s Hidden Gem: Hoya Sushi – An Unforgettable Omakase Experience in Konkuk University Area

Seoul is a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, and among the countless dining options, sushi restaurants hold a special place. Today, we delve into one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets, a sushi restaurant that locals rave about – Hoya Sushi (호야초밥). Located near the bustling Konkuk University area, Hoya Sushi isn’t just another popular spot; it’s a destination for those seeking an extraordinary omakase experience without breaking the bank. Get ready to explore a culinary adventure that will leave you breathless, quite literally, with its overwhelming generosity and exquisite flavors!

Unveiling Hoya Sushi’s Secret: The Omakase Course

While Hoya Sushi is known for its a la carte sushi, the true hidden gem lies in their omakase course. For a surprisingly reasonable price of 60,000 KRW per person, you are treated to a parade of dishes that redefine value and quality. Unlike pretentious omakase establishments, Hoya Sushi maintains a casual and welcoming atmosphere where you can even enjoy soju and beer alongside your exquisite meal. But don’t let the casual vibe fool you; the omakase lineup is anything but ordinary.

A Culinary Journey: Dish by Dish Highlights

Prepare for a non-stop culinary journey as Hoya Sushi’s omakase unfolds. The experience begins with a delightful array of appetizers and sashimi, setting the stage for the sushi spectacle to come. Here are some of the standout dishes you can expect:

Fresh and Exquisite Sashimi & Sushi

• Thick-Cut 숙성 ( 숙성 ) Sashimi: The meal starts strong with perfectly aged and thick-cut sashimi, showcasing the chef’s mastery in preparing raw fish. The texture is incredibly chewy and flavorful.
• 참복 (Cham-bok/Pufferfish) 회: A delicate and subtly flavored pufferfish sashimi served with a refreshing yuzu ponzu sauce, freshly made in-house. The texture is wonderfully elastic and unique.
• Premium Sushi Selection: A trio of sushi featuring vibrant 연어 배꼽살 (salmon belly), elongated 광어 (halibut), and luxurious 참다랑어 뱃살 (bluefin tuna belly). The salmon belly is incredibly rich and fatty, while the bluefin tuna is melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
• 놀래미 (Ishigari/Kelp Grouper): A truly special offering, ishigari, known as one of the most expensive and prized sashimi fish. Despite being farmed, its taste is unbelievably delicate and exquisite.
• 대방어 (Daebang-eo/Large Yellowtail) Kama-sal: In season, you might be treated to the prized kama-sal (collar) part of the large yellowtail, considered the best cut. It’s rich, fatty, and has a unique, slightly crunchy texture.

Beyond Sushi: A Feast of Seafood Delights

The omakase doesn’t stop at sushi and sashimi. Hoya Sushi continues to impress with a diverse range of cooked seafood and appetizers:

• 모찌리 도우 (Mozzarella Tofu): A creamy and savory appetizer to whet your appetite.
• 간장새우 버터구이 (Soy Sauce Shrimp Butter Grill): Savory and buttery grilled shrimp, a perfect 술안주 (drinking snack).
• 코끼리 조개 (Elephant Clam): A rare and premium ingredient, the elephant clam is served live to showcase its freshness. The chewy and flavorful 관자 (adductor muscle) is a true delicacy.
• 갑오징어 (Cuttlefish) 회 with 참치 내장 젓갈 (Tuna Innards Jeotgal): Thick and succulent cuttlefish sashimi paired with salty and umami-rich tuna innards jeotgal, creating a unique and addictive flavor combination.
• 금태 (Geumtae/Goldeneye Seabream) 구이: Grilled goldeneye seabream, a high-end fish known for its rich flavor and tender flesh.
• 랍스타 버터 구이 (Lobster Butter Grill): A whole lobster grilled with butter, showcasing the restaurant’s generosity and commitment to using premium ingredients.
• 참치 가마살 (Tuna Kama-sal) 구이: Grilled tuna kama-sal, further enhancing its rich and oily flavor.
• 금태 (Geumtae/Goldeneye Seabream) 튀김: Goldeneye seabream tempura, offering a crispy and flavorful contrast.
• 돌멍게 (Stone Sea Squirt): A refreshing and slightly tangy sea squirt, perfect for cleansing the palate.
• 자연산 홍합탕 (Natural Mussel Soup): A hearty and flavorful mussel soup made with natural, non-farmed mussels, highlighting the quality of ingredients even in the soup.
• 알밥 (Bibimbap with Fish Roe): A satisfying 마무리 (closing) dish of bibimbap with fish roe.

Atmosphere and Value

Hoya Sushi offers a comfortable and casual dining experience. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy exceptional food without any pretension. The value for money is simply outstanding. The sheer quantity and quality of the dishes served in the omakase course are beyond expectations, making it a truly unforgettable and worthwhile culinary adventure.

Location and Rating

Location: Hoya Sushi is conveniently located near Konkuk University Station (건대입구역), Exit 2, in Seoul. It’s approximately a 5-minute walk from the station.
Address in Korean: 서울 광진구 동일로22길 117-3
General Rating: Consistently praised and considered one of the top sushi restaurants in Seoul, especially for its omakase value and quality. Highly Recommended.

Final Verdict

Hoya Sushi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the chef’s skill, generosity, and passion for providing exceptional omakase at an accessible price. If you’re in Seoul and looking for an unforgettable sushi experience that won’t break the bank, Hoya Sushi is an absolute must-visit. Prepare to be amazed by the endless parade of fresh, high-quality seafood and leave with a truly satisfied palate and a desire to return.

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