www.youtube.com/embed/qyIBKDbR3SQ

“`html

Yangjae Station Pocha: Bakobolle – A Seoul Hidden Gem for Delicious Anju & Seafood

Looking for an authentic Korean pocha experience in Seoul? Look no further than Bakobolle (바코볼레), a hidden gem located near Yangjae Station. Originally starting as a seafood-focused pocha, Bakobolle has evolved into a beloved spot renowned for its incredible anju (Korean dishes served with alcohol). While it now boasts a broader menu, its roots in fresh seafood remain strong, especially evident in their must-try mulhoe.

Location and Ambiance

Finding Bakobolle is a breeze! Just take Yangjae Station (양재역) Exit 8 and walk straight – you’ll easily spot the large sign. Don’t let the slightly suggestive name fool you! It’s actually a heartwarming story of two friends, ‘Hak-gun’ and ‘Ko-gun,’ who met while cheering for the 2002 World Cup and started this pocha together. In the ever-changing Gangnam area, Bakobolle’s longevity speaks volumes about its consistent quality and delicious food.

Stepping into Bakobolle feels like entering a classic Korean pocha. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, perfect for gatherings with friends or colleagues. As soon as you’re seated, you’re greeted with complimentary, steaming hot oden soup – a quintessential pocha staple and a great way to warm up and start your evening.

Must-Try Dishes at Bakobolle

Bakobolle offers a diverse menu accessible via individual table ordering systems. During our visit, we sampled some of their signature dishes, starting with:

Snowflake Squid Twigim (오징어튀김)

The Squid Twigim (오징어튀김) was a standout. The batter was incredibly light and airy, resembling delicate snowflakes clinging to perfectly cooked squid. It had a subtle Japanese tempura-like quality, offering a delightful crispy exterior and tender, succulent squid within. Each piece was generously sized, requiring a quick cut for easier enjoyment. It was a welcome and satisfying dish, especially paired with a refreshing drink.

Fresh Yukhoe (육회)

Next up was the vibrant Yukhoe (육회), Korean-style beef tartare. The beef was beautifully colored and tasted incredibly fresh and sweet, perfectly seasoned for an anju that hits all the right notes. While debates rage about whether to mix or dip the egg yolk (we opted for direct mixing!), the combination of the rich yolk and the flavorful beef was simply irresistible.

Signature Mulhoe (물회)

The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly Bakobolle’s Mulhoe (물회). This is their 대표 메뉴 (signature menu) for a reason! Served in a large bowl overflowing with vibrant vegetables, various seafood, and a generous helping of ice-cold, spicy broth, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. The mulhoe featured a variety of seafood, primarily focusing on flounder (광어), and we were especially impressed by the inclusion of flounder belly (광어 뱃살) – a testament to their quality ingredients. The broth was perfectly balanced – spicy, tangy, and refreshing, and the accompanying somyeon noodles were expertly mixed in for us. This mulhoe is a must-order and delivers consistent quality on every visit.

Spicy Stir-fried Squid (오징어볶음) with Somyeon

Not stopping there, we also indulged in the Ojingeo Bokkeum (오징어볶음), spicy stir-fried squid. Customizing our order to exclude cucumbers, we were presented with a perfectly spicy and flavorful dish. Paired with somyeon noodles, this is a classic Korean combination that never fails to satisfy. The spicy kick and the chewy noodles made it another fantastic anju.

Highly Recommended Yukjeon (육전)

Lastly, based on numerous recommendations, we tried the Yukjeon (육전), beef pancakes. This dish truly lived up to the hype! The portion size was generous, and the yukjeon itself was incredibly moist and tender – reminiscent of what you’d expect from a specialized jeon restaurant. Wrapped in fresh pa-chae (scallion salad), it was an absolute delight and a perfect way to round out our meal.

Conclusion

Bakobolle 실내포차 in Yangjae Station is a true 맛집 that offers a fantastic pocha experience. From their fresh and flavorful seafood dishes like mulhoe and ojingeo twigim to their delicious anju options like yukhoe and yukjeon, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for casual gatherings and enjoying authentic Korean pocha fare. If you’re in the Yangjae area and craving delicious Korean food and a fun atmosphere, Bakobolle is definitely worth a visit!

Restaurant Information

• Name: Bakobolle Silnae Pocha (바코볼레 실내포차)
• Location: Near Yangjae Station Exit 8, Seoul, South Korea
• Rating: 4.5/5 Stars (General Rating based on review)

“`