Seoul’s Hidden Gems: Exploring Future Heritage Restaurants for Timeless Tastes

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Seoul’s Hidden Gems: Exploring Future Heritage Restaurants for Timeless Tastes

Seoul, a vibrant metropolis constantly evolving, also treasures its rich history and culinary traditions. The Seoul Metropolitan Government has designated certain establishments as “Seoul Future Heritage” – places that are valuable to preserve for future generations. This blog post takes you on a delicious journey through some of these gastronomic gems, as highlighted by a popular Korean food vlogger, 김사원 새끼 (Kim Sa-won Sae-kki).

Jinju Hoegwan: Iconic Kongguksu with a Rich History (Since 1962)

Our first stop is Jinju Hoegwan (진주회관), a restaurant serving up legendary Kongguksu (cold soybean noodle soup) since 1962. Located just a 2-minute walk from City Hall Station Exit 9, this establishment is a true Seoul institution. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s not an old folks’ community center, but a bustling eatery famous for its incredibly rich and creamy Kongguksu.

Listed as a Seoul Future Heritage, Jinju Hoegwan’s Kongguksu is priced at ₩15,000 a bowl, which might seem steep for some. However, the quality and generous portions justify the price. The broth is described as incredibly thick and almost cement-like in its consistency, boasting a deep, savory flavor without needing extra salt or sugar – neither of which are even available on the tables! Paired with their delicious kimchi, a bowl of Jinju Hoegwan’s Kongguksu is a truly satisfying and almost heavenly experience.

Adding to its prestige, Jinju Hoegwan is rumored to be a favorite of Samsung’s chairman, Lee Jae-yong. This detail further emphasizes the restaurant’s high quality and enduring appeal. If you’re looking for the ultimate Kongguksu experience in Seoul, Jinju Hoegwan is a must-visit.

  • Restaurant Name: 진주회관 (Jinju Hoegwan)
  • Established: 1962
  • Address: [To be added – please find the exact address for SEO benefit] Near City Hall Station Exit 9, Seoul, South Korea
  • Famous for: Kongguksu (Cold Soybean Noodle Soup)
  • Rating: Highly Recommended

Juklimjang: A Taste of Tradition with Suyuk and Seolleongtang (Since 1972)

Next on our historical culinary journey is Juklimjang (죽림장), located a short 3-minute walk from Chungjeongno Station Exit 4. Established in 1972 and also designated as a Seoul Future Heritage, Juklimjang offers a different but equally captivating dining experience. The exterior, especially at night, is described as romantic and inviting, perhaps even suitable for a first date!

Inside, Juklimjang has a lively, convivial atmosphere, affectionately described as an “ajeossi (middle-aged men) club.” Instead of fancy cocktails, you’ll find soju and kkakdugi (radish kimchi) juice taking center stage. Juklimjang is renowned for its Suyuk (boiled pork) and Seolleongtang (ox bone soup). Ordering Suyuk will also get you a complimentary bowl of Seolleongtang broth – a fantastic deal! The Suyuk is praised for its generous portion size, featuring both lean and collagen-rich cuts, served with flavorful kimchi that’s presented whole, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to tradition.

The vlogger highlights the immersive experience of enjoying Suyuk at Juklimjang, complete with dipping sauces and the lively sounds of conversation and clinking glasses creating a unique “super concert” ambiance. The Seolleongtang is equally impressive, packed with meat and offering a comforting and deeply flavorful taste, especially when paired with the restaurant’s excellent kimchi and kkakdugi. Juklimjang is truly a living legend, offering a taste of classic Korean comfort food in a vibrant setting.

  • Restaurant Name: 죽림장 (Juklimjang)
  • Established: 1972
  • Address: [To be added – please find the exact address for SEO benefit] Near Chungjeongno Station Exit 4, Seoul, South Korea
  • Famous for: Suyuk (Boiled Pork), Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)
  • Rating: Highly Recommended

Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk: Seoul’s Oldest Sundaeguk House (Since 1959)

Our final destination on this Seoul Future Heritage food tour is Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk (삼거리 먼지막 순대국). This restaurant, nestled between Sinpung Station and Guro Digital Complex Station, holds the title of Seoul’s oldest Sundaeguk (blood sausage soup) establishment, dating back to 1959. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a proud member of the Seoul Future Heritage program.

Stepping into Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk is like stepping back in time. The interior, jokingly compared to “King Sejong’s living room,” exudes a traditional and historical charm. Despite its long history, the prices are remarkably reasonable, especially considering the generous portions. Ordering the Sundaeguk “special” size is recommended for true enthusiasts – or even for future generations, according to the vlogger’s humorous take on inflation!

The Sundaeguk at Samgeori Meonjimak is known for its incredibly generous amount of meat and organ meat, yet surprisingly, it remains clean and non-gamey in flavor. This makes it approachable even for those new to Sundaeguk. Enjoy it with a side of dajin maneul (minced garlic) and immerse yourself in the historical ambiance of this culinary landmark. The vlogger even points out a 1962 photo of the restaurant, further solidifying its status as a true Seoul institution. For an authentic and historically significant Sundaeguk experience, Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk is unparalleled.

  • Restaurant Name: 삼거리 먼지막 순대국 (Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk)
  • Established: 1959
  • Address: [To be added – please find the exact address for SEO benefit] Between Sinpung Station and Guro Digital Complex Station, Seoul, South Korea
  • Famous for: Sundaeguk (Blood Sausage Soup)
  • Rating: Highly Recommended

Bonus Recommendation: Sunheungok

As a bonus, the vlogger briefly mentions Sunheungok (순흥옥) in Euljiro, another Seoul Future Heritage restaurant. Famous for operating only 3 hours a day and boasting an 80-year pressure cooker tradition, Sunheungok is worth checking out if you’re in the area and manage to catch their limited operating hours. [Further details about Sunheungok can be researched and added for a more comprehensive post.]

Exploring Seoul’s Future Heritage restaurants offers a unique and delicious way to connect with the city’s history and culinary soul. From creamy Kongguksu to hearty Suyuk and traditional Sundaeguk, these establishments are more than just restaurants – they are living monuments to Seoul’s enduring gastronomic legacy. Make sure to add these to your Seoul food itinerary!

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