Dongdaemun’s Hidden Gem: Bokji – Experience Delicious and Affordable Blowfish Cuisine Near DDP Station

Are you looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience in Seoul? Look no further than Bokji (복지), a fantastic blowfish (Bok) restaurant located just a short walk from Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (DDP Station).

Unveiling the Mystery of Bokji: A Blowfish Paradise

My friend once told me about a restaurant near DDP where he went in and seemingly never came out – not in a bad way, but because he was completely captivated by the food and drinks! Intrigued by this “mystery,” I had to visit Bokji myself, and let me tell you, it lived up to the hype.

Bokji boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a menu packed with various blowfish dishes, highlighting the health benefits and exquisite taste of this unique ingredient. Forget about just having a meal; dining at Bokji feels like a health and wellness treatment thanks to the nutritious properties of blowfish!

A Culinary Journey: The Bokji Set Menu

I opted for the “Kkokji Set” for two people, a set menu that offers a comprehensive experience of Bokji’s best dishes. While prices have slightly increased recently (around ₩27,000-₩30,000 per person), it still offers incredible value considering the quality and quantity of food.

Course 1: Appetizing Blowfish Skin Salad (복껍질 무침)

The first course, Blowfish Skin Salad (복껍질 무침), is a delightful surprise. Don’t mistake it for a simple appetizer! This dish is bursting with flavor, featuring chewy and collagen-rich blowfish skin mixed with fresh vegetables and fragrant Korean parsley (Minari) in a sweet and spicy dressing. The aroma alone is intoxicating, a delicious warning of the feast to come. Pace yourself here, as many more courses are on their way!

• Key Features: Chewy texture, collagen-rich, sweet & spicy dressing, aromatic Korean parsley.
• Tip: Enjoy the flavors, but don’t fill up too much – more delights are coming!

Course 2: Sizzling Grilled Blowfish (복불고기)

Next up is the mouthwatering Grilled Blowfish (복불고기). The sizzling sound and the spicy, fragrant aroma instantly heighten your anticipation. Generous portions of tender blowfish meat are marinated in a flavorful, slightly spicy sauce and grilled to perfection with plenty of Korean parsley. The blowfish is incredibly tender and chewy, perfectly complemented by the aromatic parsley. This dish is addictive and pairs perfectly with drinks – maybe a bit too perfectly, so plan your trip home in advance!

• Key Features: Spicy and fragrant, tender and chewy blowfish meat, generous portion of parsley.
• Tip: Consider pre-booking a taxi – you might need it after this course!

Course 3: Crispy Fried Blowfish (복 생선 튀김)

The third course is Fried Blowfish (복 생선 튀김), essentially Korean-style fish and chips. Served piping hot straight from the fryer, the crispy, thin batter gives way to succulent and meaty blowfish inside. The texture is fantastic, with a satisfyingly firm and bouncy bite. While blowfish isn’t known for being budget-friendly, Bokji offers exceptional value for the quality and quantity.

• Key Features: Crispy batter, succulent and meaty blowfish, fresh out of the fryer.
• Tip: Think of it as Korean-style, high-quality fish and chips.

Course 4 & 5: Spicy Fried Rice & Refreshing Blowfish Jiri Soup (복지리탕)

The set menu continues with Fried Rice (볶음밥), prepared in two delicious ways: one using the leftover spicy sauce from the grilled blowfish, and another made with the broth from the upcoming Jiri soup. Both options are incredibly flavorful and a perfect way to savor every last bit of the meal.

Finally, the highlight – the Blowfish Jiri Soup (복지리탕). You can choose between Jiri (clear) or spicy soup, and I highly recommend the Jiri. The clear broth is incredibly refreshing and clean, almost like mountain spring water! The soup is packed with generous chunks of tender blowfish meat and more fresh Korean parsley. For those seeking a hangover cure, look no further – Bokji’s Jiri soup is legendary!

• Fried Rice: Two delicious versions – spicy and savory.
• Blowfish Jiri Soup: Refreshing, clear broth, packed with blowfish and parsley, the ultimate hangover cure.

Final Verdict: Exceptional Value and Flavor

Blowfish is considered a delicacy, often compared to caviar, truffles, and foie gras as one of the world’s top four delicacies. At Bokji, you can experience this premium ingredient in a fantastic set menu that offers incredible value for money. Each course is meticulously prepared and packed with flavor.

While blowfish might be unfamiliar to younger diners, those with a refined palate will truly appreciate the quality and taste of Bokji. If you are in the Dongdaemun area, Bokji is a must-visit for an unforgettable and affordable blowfish dining experience.

Restaurant Information: Bokji (복지)

• Location: Near Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Exit 7, 4-minute walk)
• Address: (Korean Address – please use Naver Map or KakaoMap for precise location) 동대문 역사 문화공원역 7번 출구 인근
• Rating: Highly Recommended for Value and Taste