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Michelin Bib Gourmand Chinese Restaurant in Seoul: Lee Hangu Review – Affordable Fine Dining Experience

Seoul is a city brimming with culinary delights, and among its hidden gems is Lee Hangu (이한구), a Chinese restaurant located in the Mapo-gu district, specifically in Gyo-dong. This restaurant isn’t just any ordinary eatery; it boasts a Michelin one-star history and is currently recognized as a Michelin Bib Gourmand establishment. What makes Lee Hangu truly special is its commitment to serving high-quality, authentic Chinese cuisine at remarkably reasonable prices. For those seeking a refined dining experience without breaking the bank, Lee Hangu is an absolute must-visit.

A Culinary Adventure with No Brain’s Lee Sung-woo

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Lee Hangu with my friend and a very special guest – Lee Sung-woo from the renowned Korean rock band No Brain! Being a known foodie and a fan of Chinese cuisine, Lee Sung-woo’s presence further highlighted the restaurant’s reputation. We embarked on a delightful culinary journey, eager to sample the dishes that have garnered Lee Hangu such acclaim.

Must-Try Dishes at Lee Hangu

Our gastronomic adventure included a selection of Lee Hangu’s signature dishes. Here’s a glimpse into what we tasted:

• Ggaesal Bbong (게살 뽕): Recommended by our local foodie friend, this crab meat noodle soup is a star dish. It’s known for its generous crab meat content and rich, flavorful broth. The soup had a delightful spicy and savory kick, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the crab meat. Adding a touch of coriander, as suggested by Dong-hyung, elevated the dish, offering a refreshing twist to the robust flavors.
• Menseo Sha (멘보샤): Lee Hangu’s Menseo Sha, or shrimp toast, is another standout. The toast was incredibly crispy, encasing a moist and flavorful shrimp filling. The texture and taste were perfectly harmonized, making it an addictive appetizer. Even my friend, who frequently enjoys Menseo Sha, was thoroughly impressed, stating it was exceptionally delicious.
• Sogogi Yangsangchu Ssam (소고기 양상추 쌈): Initially, I was hesitant about ordering beef lettuce wraps, but it turned out to be a surprising highlight. The dish featured tender, flavorful beef served with crisp lettuce and fried noodles. The combination of textures and the refreshing celery aroma in the beef made it a light yet satisfying dish, perfect as a palate cleanser amidst richer flavors.
• Mapo Tofu (마파두부): Lee Hangu’s Mapo Tofu is a unique rendition. Unlike typical sweet Mapo Tofu, this version is savory, slightly spicy, and intensely flavorful. The absence of sweetness initially surprised me, but the depth of flavor and the perfect balance of savory and spicy notes quickly won me over. Paired with rice, it was an absolute delight.
• X.O. Sauce Fried Rice (XO 볶음밥): As a surprise, the chef, Dong-hyung, personally prepared X.O. sauce fried rice when we expressed our appreciation for the food. This wasn’t on the regular menu, showcasing the chef’s passion and dedication. The fried rice was expertly cooked, with perfectly separated grains and a wonderful savory flavor from the X.O. sauce. It was a testament to the chef’s culinary skills and a truly special ending to our meal.

Ambiance and Service

The restaurant itself exudes a welcoming and authentic Chinese dining atmosphere. It’s a popular spot, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours. We noticed many patrons, indicating its local popularity and reputation. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive dining experience.

Value and Membership

One unique aspect of Lee Hangu is its “Hae-won” membership system. Members receive a 20% discount, making the already reasonable prices even more attractive. While membership is optional and presumably based on customer satisfaction, it reflects the restaurant’s confidence in its food and service.

Final Verdict

Lee Hangu is a true gem in Seoul’s culinary scene. It offers Michelin-level Chinese cuisine without the exorbitant price tag. From the flavorful Ggaesal Bbong to the crispy Menseo Sha and the unique Mapo Tofu, each dish impressed us with its quality and authenticity. The passionate chef, the inviting ambiance, and the reasonable prices make Lee Hangu a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Chinese food in Seoul. Don’t forget to make a reservation!

Location: Seoul, Mapo-gu, Gyo-dong (서울 마포구 교동)

Rating: Michelin Bib Gourmand (Highly Recommended)

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