Nari’s House: Seoul’s Legendary Frozen Pork Belly 맛집 in Hannam-dong

Seoul, known for its trendy neighborhoods, is home to countless culinary gems. Among these, Hannam-dong stands out as a particularly hip and stylish district, attracting food lovers and trendsetters alike. In the heart of this vibrant area, you’ll find Nari’s House (나리의 집), a restaurant with a surprisingly unassuming exterior that belies its immense popularity. Let’s dive into why this place is constantly buzzing with eager diners, and why it’s considered a must-visit for frozen pork belly (냉삼 – naengsam) in Seoul.

A Taste of History: Nari’s House – 35 Years of Tradition

Established in 1989, Nari’s House boasts an impressive 35-year history. Stepping inside feels like taking a trip back in time. The interior, with its retro bathroom tile décor, evokes a nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of old public bathhouses. This vintage charm, combined with its reputation for delicious food, has made Nari’s House a beloved institution in Hannam-dong.

Why the Queue? The Secret of Nari’s House’s Popularity

Despite its seemingly humble appearance, Nari’s House consistently draws long queues of people waiting to get a taste of its famous frozen pork belly. This isn’t just any pork belly; Nari’s House is often credited as being the originator, the “mother” of the current frozen pork belly trend in Korea. Its legendary status is further cemented by visits from numerous Korean celebrities, including the likes of Baek Jong-won, Yoo Jae-suk, Shin Dong-yup, and even Cha Seung-won. This star-studded patronage speaks volumes about the restaurant’s enduring appeal and quality.

Must-Try Dishes at Nari’s House

While the menu is reasonably priced and typical for a Korean BBQ restaurant, the real stars of the show at Nari’s House are its signature dishes:

• Frozen Pork Belly (냉삼): The undisputed highlight. Thinly sliced and quickly grilled, the frozen pork belly is flavorful and tender. It’s the quintessential dish that keeps people coming back for more.
• Green Onion Salad (파절임): This side dish is repeatedly praised as a game-changer. The flavorful and slightly pungent dressing elevates the pork belly experience to another level. It’s so good, it’s said to revive even the most lackluster meat!
• Cucumber Salad (오이무침): Another standout side dish with a deliciously spicy and tangy seasoning. It provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pork belly.
• Soybean Paste Stew (청국장): While Nari’s House is known for its pork belly, the Cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew) is equally, if not more, famous. This intensely flavored stew, with a slightly spicy kick and a thick, hearty texture, is considered by many to be a must-order item. Some even claim Nari’s House is secretly a Cheonggukjang 맛집 (delicious restaurant)!

Ambiance and Vibe

Located in the trendy Hannam-dong neighborhood, Nari’s House offers a unique blend of old-school charm and hip atmosphere. The reviewer humorously mentions the “dress code” of the neighborhood being “baggy pants and carrying an 항아리 (hangari – large earthenware jar),” highlighting the area’s trendy and slightly unconventional style. Be prepared for a wait, and remember to take a number from the restaurant upon arrival, not just stand in line.

Location and General Information

Nari’s House (나리의 집) is located in the vibrant Hannam-dong area of Seoul. It is conveniently accessible from Hangangjin Station (한강진역), Exit 1, and is approximately a 7-minute walk away.

General Rating: Highly Recommended. While no specific rating is given, the overwhelmingly positive review and celebrity endorsements suggest Nari’s House is a top-tier dining experience.

Final Verdict: When discussing frozen pork belly in Seoul, Nari’s House is undeniably a name that comes up. It’s a legendary, old-school establishment that has stood the test of time. While frozen pork belly might be a common dish, Nari’s House offers an experience that transcends the ordinary, especially with its incredible side dishes and famous soybean paste stew. Perhaps not worth traveling across the city solely for frozen pork belly, but if you’re in Hannam-dong, Nari’s House is an absolute must-visit for an authentic and delicious Korean dining experience.