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Busan’s Best Pork Rice Soup: Discovering a Hidden Gem Voted by Locals

Busan, a vibrant city in South Korea, is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and among its culinary treasures, Dwaeji Gukbap (돼지국밥), or pork rice soup, stands out as a 대표적인 (representative) and beloved dish. Recently, a local Busan newspaper conducted a poll asking Busan natives to vote for their favorite Dwaeji Gukbap restaurants. Out of 39 후보 (candidates), the results highlighted the top three contenders, sparking my curiosity to experience these acclaimed flavors firsthand.

The Top 3 Pork Rice Soup Restaurants in Busan According to Locals

The poll revealed the following ranking:

1. Yangsan House (양산집): Secured the coveted 1st place with an overwhelming 51% of the votes. Located in Jung-gu, Busan.
2. Youngjin Dwaeji Gukbap (영진돼지국밥): Claimed the 2nd spot with 27% of the votes. Known for its numerous chain locations throughout Busan.
3. Yangsang Gukbap Haeundae Main Branch (양상국밥 해운대본점): Ranked 3rd with 8% of the votes. Situated in Haeundae, Busan.

Interestingly, it was noted that none of these top 3 restaurants were featured in the popular “Baek Jong-won’s Alley Restaurant” TV show. Intrigued, I decided to embark on a culinary journey to sample the 1st and 3rd ranked restaurants.

Unexpected Delight at Yangsang Gukbap (3rd Place)

My initial plan to visit the top-ranked Yangsan House on New Year’s Day was thwarted by unexpected closure. Attempts to contact them were unsuccessful, leading me to reluctantly head to the 3rd ranked Yangsang Gukbap (양상국밥) in Haeundae. With no prior expectations and a slightly begrudging attitude, I ordered the “Separate Soup” Dwaeji Gukbap (프램 국밥) as I prefer a less starchy soup.

To my utter surprise, the Yangsang Gukbap (양상국밥) experience was nothing short of phenomenal. As a self-proclaimed pork rice soup enthusiast, I can honestly say, without exaggeration, that this was the best Dwaeji Gukbap I have ever tasted. Unlike the typical milky and sometimes murky broth of Dwaeji Gukbap I was accustomed to, Yangsang Gukbap presented a clear, broth-like soup, completely devoid of any porky odor. The broth was deeply flavorful, clean, and rich – a truly exceptional and unique take on the classic dish. This was not your average, everyday Dwaeji Gukbap.

Revisiting the Champion: Yangsan House (1st Place)

After such an incredible experience at Yangsang Gukbap, my curiosity about the top-ranked Yangsan House (양산집) intensified. Could the restaurant that garnered over 50% of the local vote be even more extraordinary? The next day, I returned to Yangsan House. As expected from a top-rated spot, there was a 15-minute wait. I ordered the Dwaeji Gukbap and eagerly anticipated another culinary revelation.

While Yangsan House (양산집) was undoubtedly delicious, it didn’t quite reach the heights of Yangsang Gukbap for me. It tasted like a very good, standard Dwaeji Gukbap that you could find across the country. It was flavorful and well-prepared, but it lacked the unique character that made Yangsang Gukbap so memorable. It felt familiar, almost generic in comparison. In my opinion, a truly exceptional 맛집 (tasty restaurant) should not only be delicious but also offer something distinct, something that sets it apart.

Conclusion: A Matter of Taste and Uniqueness

While Yangsan House (양산집), the 1st place winner, offered a solid and enjoyable Dwaeji Gukbap experience, it was Yangsang Gukbap (양상국밥), the 3rd place contender, that truly captured my palate. Its clear, gomtang-like broth was a revelation, offering a refreshing and sophisticated twist on a Busan classic. The visual difference alone is striking – Yangsang Gukbap’s broth is transparent and clear, unlike the typical milky or reddish Dwaeji Gukbap broth.

Ultimately, taste is subjective. My review is based on my personal experience and preference. However, if you are in Busan and looking for a Dwaeji Gukbap experience that is both authentic and uniquely delicious, I highly recommend venturing beyond the top spot and discovering the hidden gem that is Yangsang Gukbap Haeundae Main Branch. For me, it was the true champion of Busan’s Dwaeji Gukbap scene.

Restaurant Information (Yangsang Gukbap Haeundae Main Branch):

• Name: Yangsang Gukbap Haeundae Main Branch (양상국밥 해운대본점)
• Location: Haeundae, Busan, South Korea
• Rating (based on reviewer’s experience): 5/5 (Exceptional and Unique)