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Hidden Gems of Euljiro: A 70-Year Journey Through Seoul’s Best Kept Culinary Secrets

Get ready to dive into the heart of Euljiro, Seoul, with a curated 1st and 2nd course dining experience that boasts nearly 70 years of combined history! Forget trendy spots and Instagrammable facades – this is where true Seoul locals go for authentic flavors and an unforgettable night out. Prepare for a culinary adventure where every dish is a knockout and the soju flows freely.

First Stop: Byulmi House (별미집) – Where Flavor and Value Collide

Our first destination is Byulmi House (별미집), located about a 7-minute walk from Euljiro 3-ga Station (Line 2 & 3, Exit 8). As you approach, you’ll immediately notice a scene dominated by seasoned regulars – a testament to the restaurant’s genuine appeal. You won’t find many young trendsetters here; this is a haven for those who truly appreciate good food and drink.

Inside, the simple red chairs and unpretentious atmosphere set the stage for a no-frills, all-flavor experience. Let’s take a look at the menu:

Unbeatable Prices and Generous Portions

The prices at Byulmi House are incredibly reasonable, especially considering its prime Euljiro location. In today’s Seoul, finding a place with such quality and value is a rare treat. What immediately caught my attention was the fish tank outside a restaurant specializing in dakgomtang (chicken soup) – a peculiar sight with a delicious explanation.

Before we even ordered, we were presented with a complimentary pot of mussel soup – a generous gesture that immediately set the tone for the evening. Across the street in the Jongno 3-ga pocha street, a similar pot would easily cost ₩15,000! This alone speaks volumes about Byulmi House’s generosity.

Next came a vibrant salad tossed in fragrant sesame oil. The aroma alone was enough to make us reach for our soju glasses. With anticipation building, our first dish arrived:

Delectable Flatfish Sashimi (광어 세꼬시)

For just ₩23,000, the flatfish sashimi was an absolute steal, especially considering the generous portion size. The slices were surprisingly thick, promising a delightfully chewy texture. You could practically see the springiness on the screen!

A quick dip in soy sauce, followed by a generous coating of chojang (vinegar-based chili sauce), and we were in heaven. The key to good saekkochi (sashimi with bones) lies in the chef’s knife skills. Apparently, the chef honed his skills over decades of preparing dakgomtang, mastering the art of perfectly slicing meat. The result is a sashimi that rivals those found in upscale Japanese restaurants.

Spicy Stir-Fried Sea Eel (꼼장어 볶음)

Next, we ordered the spicy stir-fried sea eel for ₩15,000. The enticing aroma of sesame oil filled the air, igniting our appetites. The eel was perfectly cooked, with a satisfyingly chewy texture and a deliciously sweet and spicy sauce. The pace at which we were emptying our soju glasses was a clear indication of how much we enjoyed this dish!

The Star of the Show: Dakgomtang (닭곰탕)

To complete our Byulmi House experience, we ordered their signature dakgomtang, treating it like a soup to accompany our drinks. The broth was perfectly seasoned, requiring only a sprinkle of chives for added flavor.

The tender, slow-cooked chicken and the chewy skin created a harmonious blend of textures that made for an excellent anju (food to eat while drinking). The milky broth, while rich, wasn’t heavy or greasy. It reminded us of tori paitan ramen, with its deep and complex flavor.

Second Stop: Youngsimmin (영심이네) – A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time

After Byulmi House, we took a short taxi ride to our second destination: Youngsimmin (영심이네), located near Chungmugeuro Station (Line 3 & 4, Exit 8). As soon as you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the comforting presence of older gentlemen enjoying classic Korean dishes.

The menu at Youngsimmin is a testament to traditional Korean comfort food. We decided to try two of their most highly recommended dishes:

Important Note: The side dishes served at Youngsimmin vary daily, so be prepared for a pleasant surprise!

Tofu Grilled in Sesame Oil (두부구이)

The first dish we ordered was the tofu grilled in sesame oil (₩10,000). Ordering this dish is a must. Then consider your other options.

Served in a well-worn pot that has clearly witnessed countless meals, the tofu is grilled right at your table with generous amounts of fragrant sesame oil. The owner uses homemade sesame oil, which explains the incredibly rich aroma that evokes memories of a countryside home in Gangwon Province. This is a sensory experience that tantalizes long before the first bite.

The tofu is grilled to a perfect golden-brown, creating a slightly crispy exterior with a soft and delicate interior. The contrast in textures is incredibly satisfying, offering a culinary experience that blends both hip-hop and ballads in perfect harmony! In a single bite, you can experience both Choi Baek-ho and Sung Si-kyung!

Spicy Pork Stew (돼지 짜그리)

Next, we ordered the spicy pork stew (dwaeji jjageuri). The aroma of the pork alone was incredible, indicating the quality of the meat. The spicy and savory broth was perfectly balanced, making it an irresistible accompaniment to our drinks. The pork was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of fat for a delightfully chewy texture.

Final Thoughts: A Truly Authentic Euljiro Experience

This Euljiro culinary journey is perfect for those seeking an authentic experience, free from the frills and pretenses of trendier establishments. These are the kinds of places where you won’t be compelled to post pictures on social media – they are for those who truly appreciate the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and good drinks. So, if you’re looking to escape the ordinary and perhaps lose yourself in the moment, venture into Euljiro and discover these hidden gems for yourself!

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Google Search Assessment

A quick Google search for “Byulmi House Euljiro” and “Youngsimmin Euljiro” confirms their existence and reveals positive reviews, albeit mostly in Korean. These establishments are known locally but not widely publicized in English-language travel guides, making them truly hidden gems. The search results highlight their authentic Korean cuisine, affordable prices, and the local atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the dakgomtang at Byulmi House and the grilled tofu at Youngsimmin, echoing the sentiments expressed in the blog post. Google Maps confirms their respective locations and provides user ratings that generally skew positive, emphasizing the value and genuine experience offered.