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Explore Seoul’s Hidden Gem: Kyungdong Market Street Food Adventure & Gamcho Sikdang Pork Ribs

Seoul, a city brimming with modern skyscrapers and bustling streets, also hides charming traditional markets that offer a taste of authentic Korean culture and cuisine. Among these, Kyungdong Market (경동시장) stands out as a vibrant hub for fresh produce, traditional goods, and, most excitingly, delicious street food and hidden 맛집 (matjib – 맛있는 집, delicious restaurant) gems. Join us on a culinary adventure through Kyungdong Market, where we uncover a unique street food experience and savor mouthwatering pork ribs at the renowned Gamcho Sikdang (감초식당).

Kyungdong Market Street Food: A Makgeolli & Duck Delight

Our initial plan was to visit a well-known 전골 (jeongol – hot pot) place, but the bustling atmosphere of Kyungdong Market, especially during the 설 (Seollal – Lunar New Year) holiday season, drew us towards an impromptu street food exploration. Right in front of the Produce Market Gate 3 (청과물 시장 3 출입구 앞), we stumbled upon a fascinating stall offering a unique combination: duck and 막걸리 (makgeolli – Korean rice wine) for just ₩10,000!

This wasn’t your typical restaurant setting; it was a humble yet inviting tent within the market. The aroma of roasted duck filled the air, and the sight of locals enjoying their 낮술 (najsul – daytime drinking) added to the authentic market vibe. We were warmly welcomed and quickly served a plate of succulent, oven-roasted duck paired perfectly with a bottle of chilled 막걸리.

The duck, surprisingly tender and flavorful, was cooked in a way that rendered the fat beautifully, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat. For just ₩10,000, the portion was incredibly generous, especially considering the price of 술 (sul – alcohol) alone in Seoul. It was a true market experience – affordable, delicious, and full of local charm. The friendly vendors and the lively market atmosphere made this impromptu stop an unforgettable part of our Kyungdong Market journey.

Gamcho Sikdang (감초식당): Must-Try Pork Ribs in Kyungdong Market

After our delightful street food appetizer, we headed to our main destination: Gamcho Sikdang, famous for its 돼지갈비 (dwaeji galbi – pork ribs). This restaurant has gained significant attention, even being featured on popular Korean TV shows like 백종원의 골목식당 (Baek Jongwon’s Alley Restaurant) and 맛있는 녀석들 (Delicious Guys), solidifying its reputation as a must-visit 맛집.

Gamcho Sikdang specializes in 연탄 돼지갈비 (yeontan dwaeji galbi – charcoal-grilled pork ribs). The use of 연탄 (yeontan – coal briquette) for grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor that elevates the pork ribs to another level. Unlike restaurants where you grill the meat yourself, Gamcho Sikdang cooks the ribs in the kitchen, ensuring they are perfectly grilled and ready to eat as soon as they arrive at your table. This method also keeps the price reasonable and the turnover quick, perfect for hungry market-goers.

We ordered 3 servings of 돼지갈비 and 소주 (soju – Korean distilled spirit). The ribs were incredibly tender, juicy, and infused with that irresistible smoky 연탄 aroma. The 양념 (yangnyeom – marinade) was perfectly balanced, not too sweet and not too spicy, allowing the natural flavor of the pork to shine through. The fact that they are pre-grilled meant we could immediately dive into the deliciousness without any waiting or grilling fuss. Each bite was a perfect harmony of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors – truly satisfying!

Location & General Rating of Gamcho Sikdang

Location: Kyungdong Market (경동시장), Seoul, South Korea. (Specific location within the market – please search for “감초식당 경동시장” on Korean map apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap for precise directions.)

General Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars) – Highly Recommended for taste, value, and authentic Korean BBQ experience.

Alongside the star dish, Gamcho Sikdang also offers complimentary 순두부찌개 (sundubu jjigae – soft tofu stew) and 멸치 된장찌개 (myeolchi doenjang jjigae – anchovy soybean paste stew) as 서비스 (seobiseu – service, complimentary side dish), further enhancing the dining experience and providing incredible value for money.

Conclusion: Kyungdong Market – A Seoul Culinary Adventure Awaits

Kyungdong Market is more than just a traditional market; it’s a vibrant culinary destination in Seoul. From the unexpected delight of street duck and 막걸리 to the unforgettable 돼지갈비 at Gamcho Sikdang, our visit to Kyungdong Market was a true gastronomic adventure. If you are looking to experience authentic Korean flavors, explore a bustling local market, and enjoy delicious food at reasonable prices, Kyungdong Market should be at the top of your Seoul itinerary. Don’t miss out on the hidden gems and 맛집 that this market has to offer – your taste buds will thank you!

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