Discover Authentic Wando Flavors in Seoul: Sorangdo Restaurant Review – Fresh Seafood & Exquisite Sashimi in Gwangjin-gu

Craving truly authentic Korean seafood in Seoul? Look no further than Sorangdo (소랑도), a hidden gem located in Gwangjin-gu. This isn’t just another seafood restaurant; Sorangdo brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of Wando, a renowned island in South Jeolla Province known for its pristine waters and exceptional seafood, straight to your table.

A Taste of Wando in the Heart of Seoul

As soon as you step into Sorangdo, you can feel the authenticity. Run by a warm and welcoming family, originally from Wando’s Sorangdo Island, this restaurant exudes a genuine, down-to-earth charm. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for enjoying a relaxed and delicious meal.

My recent visit to Sorangdo was nothing short of a culinary revelation. I was on a quest for autumn’s quintessential dish, Jeoneo (전어), or Pacific Saury Sashimi, and Sorangdo exceeded all expectations. But it wasn’t just the Jeoneo that captivated me; it was the entire experience of savoring dishes crafted with the heart and soul of Wando.

Masterful Sashimi & Fresh Seasonal Delights

The menu at Sorangdo is a seafood lover’s dream, showcasing the freshest catches of the season. During my visit, I was particularly impressed by their selection of:

• Samchi (삼치), Korean Spanish Mackerel: Served as impeccably fresh Seon-eo (선어) sashimi, Sorangdo’s Samchi is unlike anything I’ve tasted before. Thickly sliced for a satisfyingly full bite, the Samchi is incredibly rich and buttery. The recommended way to enjoy it? Wrapped in roasted 김 (gim, seaweed) with a generous dollop of Korean-style soybean paste (막장, makjang), a touch of wasabi, and even some savory salted shrimp (새우젓, saeujeot) for an explosion of flavors. The texture is so tender, it practically melts in your mouth.
• Jeoneo (전어), Pacific Saury Sashimi: Prepared with artistic precision, the Jeoneo sashimi at Sorangdo is thinly sliced, showcasing the chef’s exceptional knife skills. Served with a special, flavorful sauce that’s both sweet and savory, the Jeoneo is incredibly fresh with no fishy taste whatsoever. They even offer Jeoneo Muchim (전어무침), a spicy and refreshing Pacific Saury salad, brimming with vibrant flavors.
• Byeongeo (병어), Butterfish Sashimi: Sourced directly from Yeosu, the Byeongeo sashimi is another must-try. Its delicate flavor and smooth texture are simply divine. It’s evident that Sorangdo prioritizes sourcing the highest quality ingredients for all their dishes.

Beyond the sashimi, Sorangdo also impressed with their generous and delicious side dishes. The Gat-kimchi (갓김치), a local specialty of Jeolla province, was exceptionally crisp and flavorful, hinting at a past kimchi-making business. And to my surprise, a complimentary bowl of Ganjeomi Tang (간재미탕), Skate Bone Soup, arrived at our table. This unique, savory soup, reminiscent of a light miso stew with a deep, refreshing flavor from the skate and radish, was a delightful and unexpected bonus.

A Culinary Experience Worth Returning For

What truly sets Sorangdo apart is not just the freshness of their seafood or the exceptional knife skills of the chef, but the overall dedication to flavor and quality. From the homemade sauces and seasonings to the carefully selected ingredients, every dish at Sorangdo is crafted with passion and expertise. The enthusiastic praise from the owner (“I am confident, it’s the most delicious in Korea!”) is not an exaggeration – it’s a testament to the genuine culinary experience they offer.

If you’re searching for an authentic taste of Wando seafood in Seoul, Sorangdo is an absolute must-visit. Prepare to be amazed by the freshness, the flavors, and the warm hospitality. This is a restaurant I know I’ll be returning to again and again.

Restaurant Information:

• Restaurant Name: Sorangdo (소랑도)
• Location: Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Specific address not provided in text, further search recommended for exact address)
• Cuisine: Korean Seafood, Wando Cuisine
• Rating: (Based on text sentiment) Highly Recommended