‘www.youtube.com/embed/_ezukiQs48Y’

“`html

Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang: Seoul’s Must-Visit Oyster Hotspot Near Wangsimni Station

Hello food lovers! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to one of my winter season favorites – Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang (굴과 찜 사랑), a renowned oyster restaurant in Seoul. This place is so popular, it’s been featured on famous Korean food shows like Tzuyang and Sung Sik Hyung’s “Eating Show,” attracting both locals and international visitors. Known for its incredible flavors and visually stunning dishes, let’s dive into a detailed review of Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang.

Location and Atmosphere

Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang is conveniently located near Wangsimni Station, specifically Exit 10. Walking towards Haengdang Station, you’ll easily find it. The area around the restaurant is bustling with eateries, making it perfect for a delightful oyster meal followed by a stroll around the neighborhood.

Upon entering, you’ll notice the restaurant’s lively ambiance, often filled with both Korean and international diners. The popularity of Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang is evident, and you might even encounter a short waiting time, especially during peak hours. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for oyster enthusiasts.

Must-Try Menu: The Oyster Pot (굴찜)

While Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang offers a diverse menu, the star of the show is undoubtedly their Oyster Pot (굴찜). For three of us, the small size Oyster Pot was just perfect – a generous serving that was satisfying without being overwhelming.

Before the main dish arrives, you’ll be treated to a delightful array of side dishes. These include fresh vegetables, kimchi, and the addictive baby crab fries (아기 껍질 튀김). The baby crab fries are particularly noteworthy – crispy, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible. We couldn’t help but ask for refills!

The Star: Fresh and Plump Oysters

When the Oyster Pot arrives, you’ll immediately understand the hype. Steaming hot and visually impressive, the pot is brimming with fresh, plump oysters. The experience of wrapping these succulent oysters with kimchi and napa cabbage is simply divine. The kimchi tasted incredibly fresh, like it was just made – complementing the oysters perfectly.

Shucking the oysters is part of the fun! Equipped with gloves and a provided oyster knife (or even a 돈가스 칼 – donkatsu knife for stubborn ones!), you can enjoy the process of unveiling these ocean treasures. The oysters are impressively large and bursting with flavor, a true delight for seafood lovers.

Hidden Gem: Boiled Eggs and Oyster Kalguksu

Once you’ve savored the oysters, lift the center bowl within the pot to reveal perfectly boiled eggs – one for each person. These eggs, seemingly simple, have a uniquely delicious taste after the oyster feast.

To round off the meal, we highly recommend the Oyster Kalguksu (굴칼국수). This oyster noodle soup is the perfect warm and comforting finish. Packed with an amazing amount of oysters, the kalguksu broth is rich and flavorful. It’s a definite must-order to conclude your oyster experience at Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang.

Final Thoughts & Rating

Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang truly lives up to its reputation as an oyster 맛집 (delicious restaurant). From the incredibly fresh and flavorful oysters to the delightful side dishes and the comforting kalguksu, every aspect of the meal was fantastic. The restaurant’s popularity, even among international visitors, speaks volumes about its quality and experience.

General Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 stars)

Location: Near Wangsimni Station Exit 10, Seoul, South Korea

If you’re in Seoul during the oyster season, Gul-gwa-jjim Sarang is an absolute must-visit. Be prepared for a potentially short wait, but trust me, it’s well worth it for this exceptional oyster experience!

“`