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Discover Seoul’s Hidden Gem: Harlem Lamb – Unforgettable Korean BBQ Lamb in Yeongdeungpo

Craving an exceptional lamb experience in Seoul? Look no further than Harlem Lamb (할렘 양고기), a restaurant discreetly nestled in Yeongdeungpo that is rapidly gaining acclaim as one of the city’s best. Forget your typical lamb dishes; Harlem Lamb offers a culinary journey that transcends expectations, placing it among the top restaurants in Seoul, regardless of cuisine. Let’s dive into a detailed review of this must-visit gastronomic haven.

Location and Atmosphere

Harlem Lamb might surprise you with its unassuming exterior. Located on the first floor of a slightly aged building in the back alleys of Times Square, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Conveniently accessible from Yeongdeungpo Station (영등포역), Exit 6, Harlem Lamb provides a cozy and authentic dining experience away from the bustling main streets.

Address: While a precise address wasn’t provided in the text, it is located near Yeongdeungpo Station, Exit 6, behind Times Square, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul.

Must-Try Menu Items

Harlem Lamb boasts a diverse menu centered around high-quality lamb cuts. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

• Main Lamb Dishes:
  • 양갈비 (Yang Galbi): Lamb Ribs – a classic and flavorful choice.
  • 양등심 (Yang Deungsim): Lamb Loin – tender and lean.
  • 양 어깨살 (Yang Eokkaesal): Lamb Shoulder – rich in flavor and succulent.
  • 양 통갈비 (Yang Tong Galbi): Whole Lamb Rib – the star dish, available on “workdays.”
  • 양꼬치 (Yang Kochi): Lamb Skewers – a popular street food style, elevated here.
• Side Dishes:
  • 꽃빵 (Kkotppang): Flower Bread – soft and fluffy steamed buns.
  • 군만두 (Gunmandu): Fried Dumplings – crispy and savory.

The Highlight: 양 통갈비 (Yang Tong Galbi) on Workdays

For a truly exceptional experience, plan your visit on a “workday” (작업일) to indulge in the Yang Tong Galbi (양 통갈비). It’s essential to inquire about these “workdays” when making your reservation, as this dish is not always available. The Yang Tong Galbi is a whole lamb rib, a magnificent cut encompassing 양갈비 (Lamb Ribs), 양등심 (Lamb Loin), and even a portion of the rare 양 살치살 (Lamb Sirloin Tip), which is no longer on the regular menu. This generous serving of pure, high-quality lamb is a carnivore’s dream.

If you visit on a workday, opt for the 양 통갈비 세트 (Yang Tong Galbi Set). On other days, the 할램 세트 (Harlem Set) is an excellent alternative. Both sets are designed to be enjoyed with 꽃빵 (Kkotppang) with condensed milk and the flavorful 얼큰 양탕 (Spicy Lamb Stew).

Dining Experience and Flavor

Upon ordering, you’ll be greeted with complimentary side dishes like refreshing 양배추무침 (cabbage salad) and 양파절임 (onion salad). The cabbage salad is particularly noteworthy – its fresh and tangy flavor perfectly complements the rich lamb. Start your meal with the 꽃빵 (Kkotppang), which the friendly owner will expertly guide you on how to prepare. These buns are not just a side; they are the foundation for creating your own “Harlem Style Lamb Burger” later in the meal.

The grilling process is a spectacle in itself. Your 양 통갈비 (Yang Tong Galbi), along with mushrooms and garlic, is cooked to perfection on the grill. The garlic cloves are flipped every 20 seconds to ensure even roasting, while the lamb and mushrooms are turned about once a minute. Once cooked, the succulent meat, garlic, and mushrooms are placed on a heated steak plate, keeping them warm throughout your meal. Enjoy a “Yeonmaek” (연맥 – beer with lamb) with a refreshing Havi beer while anticipating the delicious lamb.

The owner expertly prepares a perfect lamb ssam (wrap) for you, demonstrating how to best enjoy the flavors: 꽃빵 (Kkotppang), mushroom, garlic, cabbage salad, and tender lamb, all in one harmonious bite. Harlem Lamb provides a variety of dipping sauces to enhance your experience: classic salt, aromatic curry powder, and the essential Ziran (쯔란) for lamb.

Even on Non-“Workdays”: Quality Lamb Cuts

Even if you can’t visit on a “workday” for the Yang Tong Galbi, don’t fret! The regular lamb cuts like 양갈비 (Lamb Ribs), 양등심 (Lamb Loin), and 양 어깨살 (Lamb Shoulder) are still exceptionally fresh and flavorful. The 양 어깨살 (Lamb Shoulder), known for its tenderness and rich, savory flavor, is especially recommended.

마무리: Spicy Lamb Stew (얼큰 양탕) and Lamb Ramen (양상 오면)

As part of the set menu, the 얼큰 양탕 (Spicy Lamb Stew) arrives as a delightful finale. This hearty stew features generous chunks of lamb bones, reminiscent of 감자탕 (Pork Bone Stew). After simmering for 10 minutes, you can savor the tender meat from the bones. Then, the magic happens – add 옥수수면 (corn noodles) to the remaining stew, transforming it into a flavorful 양상 오면 (Lamb Ramen). The soup, with its kimchi-jjigae-like base and a hint of spicy Onmyeon broth from lamb skewer restaurants, is incredibly satisfying. This hearty and flavorful conclusion to your meal is almost like starting a second round, leaving you utterly content.

Conclusion

Harlem Lamb is more than just a lamb restaurant; it’s a culinary destination that promises an unforgettable dining experience. The exceptional quality of the lamb, the diverse menu, the friendly service, and the hidden gem atmosphere make it a standout in Seoul’s vibrant food scene. Whether you are a lamb enthusiast or simply seeking a delicious and unique Korean BBQ experience, Harlem Lamb is highly recommended. It’s a place you’ll confidently bring your friends, knowing they’ll be equally impressed. Don’t just take my word for it – visit Harlem Lamb and discover your new favorite lamb restaurant in Seoul!

General Rating: Highly Recommended (Based on the extremely positive review)

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