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Yaongjima: Discover Seoul’s Hidden Gem Late-Night Izakaya in Mullae-dong

Venture into the heart of Mullae-dong’s ironworks alley and you’ll stumble upon a mysterious and enchanting late-night diner, Yaongjima. Far from the bustling main streets, this hidden gem offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience, perfect for those seeking authentic Japanese Izakaya cuisine with a Korean twist.

A Hidden Gem in an Unexpected Location

Mullae-dong, known for its gritty charm and industrial past, might seem like an unlikely place for a sophisticated dining experience. Yet, nestled within its 철공소 (ironworks) alleyways, Yaongjima emerges as a delightful surprise. As the sun sets, this unassuming spot transforms into a vibrant 심야식당 (late-night diner), beckoning those in the know to discover its secrets. The unique ambiance, a blend of rustic industrial surroundings and warm, inviting interiors, sets the stage for a truly special evening.

Unique Omakase Experience with Ever-Changing Menu

Yaongjima operates as an Omakase-style Izakaya, meaning you entrust the chef to curate your dining journey. For a set price of ₩50,000 per person, including a generous flow of alcoholic beverages, you’ll be treated to a series of exquisite dishes that change daily depending on the freshest ingredients and the chef’s inspiration. This “freestyle” approach ensures that each visit to Yaongjima is a new culinary adventure. Be prepared to be surprised and delighted by the ever-evolving menu, a testament to the chef’s creativity and passion.

This is definitely a place for 술 (alcohol) enthusiasts. The experience is designed to be enjoyed with drinks, and the more you appreciate a good drink, the more elaborate and generous the accompanying dishes become. It’s a true 실비집 (a restaurant where the food cost is practically free because you order drinks), where the focus is on the harmonious pairing of premium drinks and exceptional food.

Exquisite Dishes and Generous Portions – A Foodie’s Paradise

Prepare your palate for an array of meticulously prepared dishes. On my visit, the experience began with incredibly fresh, 숙성 (aged/matured) sashimi. The quality was exceptional, comparable to high-end Izakayas charging significantly more for a single plate. The chef’s expertise in 숙성 (aging) truly elevated the flavors and textures of the fish.

The culinary journey continued with a parade of stunning dishes, including:

• 숙성 사시미 (Aged Sashimi): Impeccably fresh and flavorful, showcasing the chef’s mastery of aging techniques.
• 한치 with 우니 (Squid with Sea Urchin): A luxurious combination of textures and flavors, featuring high-quality 우니 (sea urchin).
• 병어회 (Butterfish Sashimi): Delicate and flavorful butterfish, perfectly complemented by a savory 양념 (sauce).
• 가리비 관자 with 우니크림 (Scallop Mantle with Sea Urchin Cream): Sweet grilled scallops topped with a rich and decadent uni cream sauce.
• 장어 (Eel): Savory and perfectly grilled eel, offering a satisfyingly rich flavor.
• 규동 (Beef Bowl): A comforting and flavorful beef bowl with a sweet and savory sauce, ideal for pairing with drinks.
• 참치 뱃살 with 낫또 (Tuna Belly with Natto): A unique and adventurous dish combining rich tuna belly with fermented soybeans (natto) for a complex and umami-rich experience.
• 메밀면 (Buckwheat Noodles): High-quality buckwheat noodles served as a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the rich dishes.
• 스팸 (Spam): A playful and unexpected dessert, demonstrating the chef’s whimsical approach.

Each dish was not only beautifully presented but also incredibly generous in portion size, ensuring a truly satisfying and abundant dining experience. Yaongjima is a testament to exceptional value and quality.

How to Visit Yaongjima

Due to its popularity and intimate setting, reservations are essential at Yaongjima. Reservations can be made through the Catch Table application. Weekly reservations open every Monday for the upcoming week, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

Location: Mullae-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Approximately 10 minutes walk from Mullae Station Exit 1)

• Reservations: Required via Catch Table app
• Reservation Day: Every Monday for the week
• Price: ₩50,000 per person (including drinks)
• Location: Near Mullae Station Exit 1, Mullae-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Conclusion

Yaongjima is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination. Its hidden location, ever-changing Omakase menu, exceptional food quality, and focus on drink pairings create a truly unique and memorable dining experience. If you are a 술 (alcohol) lover and appreciate adventurous and high-quality Izakaya cuisine, Yaongjima in Mullae-dong is an absolute must-visit in Seoul. Prepare to be amazed by this legendary hidden gem!

Highly Recommended!

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