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Welcome back to the second day of our Jeju food adventure! After a night that might have involved a bit too much celebrating (and maybe some impromptu foot volleyball), the morning calls for a powerful hangover cure. And there’s no better place for it than Akbaengdi Restaurant, a place so good, even Chef Park Chan-il has sung its praises.

Discovering Akbaengdi Restaurant: A Jeju Gem

Located near Jeju Jungang Middle School and conveniently just about 5 minutes from Jeju Airport, Akbaengdi 식당 (Restaurant) is a long-standing establishment, serving the local community for roughly 30 years since 1995. It’s renowned for its authentic Jeju flavors, particularly dishes featuring local seafood.

On this visit, guided by our unofficial “Jeju branch manager” (the ever-knowledgeable musician Lee Jae-hoon), the mission was clear: hangover recovery via two signature dishes – Gakjaegi-guk and Mel-twigim.

Must-Try Dishes: Gakjaegi-guk and Mel-twigim

The stars of the show are undoubtedly the Gakjaegi-guk and Mel-twigim.

Gakjaegi-guk (각재기국): Gakjaegi is the local Jeju name for a type of horse mackerel (전갱이 or 아지). While horse mackerel is a common fish in Japan, often used for ‘aji fry’, in Korea, especially Jeju, it’s treated as a more premium ingredient, particularly when fresh. Akbaengdi’s Gakjaegi-guk is a clear, refreshing soup known for its clean yet deeply flavorful broth. The key is using extremely fresh fish, which prevents any fishiness and allows the natural sweetness of the fish to shine. Cooked quickly, the large pieces of horse mackerel, often including the bone, lend a rich, savory depth to the soup. It’s considered a perfect dish for warming the stomach and chasing away the effects of a night out – truly a local’s choice for 해장 (haejang), or hangover relief.

Mel-twigim (멜튀김): “Mel” (멜) refers to anchovies or small sardines, and “twigim” (튀김) means fry. Mel-twigim is crispy fried small fish, often served whole. At Akbaengdi, this dish is described as incredibly delicious, offering a satisfying crunch and rich flavor. It’s a fantastic accompaniment to the soup or simply enjoyed on its own. Eating it whole, including the bones, is said to enhance the savory, nutty taste.

Exploring Other Flavors

While Gakjaegi-guk and Mel-twigim were the primary targets, the meal often includes complimentary side dishes. On this visit, the group received a generous service of Godeungeo-gui (고등어구이), grilled mackerel. This is a popular Korean fish dish and a delightful bonus alongside the main orders.

They also had the opportunity to taste Gakjaegi Jorim (각재기 조림), braised horse mackerel. Unlike the soup, the jorim is cooked in a seasoned sauce, offering a different texture and depth of flavor. The large size and freshness of the fish make the braised version particularly impressive, highlighting the versatility of the local ingredient. It’s noted for its slightly coarse yet delicious seasoning.

Another dish mentioned from a previous day’s meal was Sundubu (순두부), soft tofu stew, highlighting the variety of delicious food available in Jeju beyond just seafood.

Why Akbaengdi Stands Out

Akbaengdi represents authentic Jeju dining. It’s not a fancy spot, but a place dedicated to serving traditional local dishes with fresh, quality ingredients. The focus is squarely on the food – simple, delicious, and effective, especially when you need a hearty meal to recover or simply experience true local flavor. The consistent quality over its 30-year history speaks volumes about its dedication.

The combination of the clean, revitalizing Gakjaegi-guk and the crispy, flavorful Mel-twigim offers a unique culinary experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, making it a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Jeju, particularly those looking for an authentic taste and perhaps a remedy after a night out.

If you find yourself in Jeju, craving a taste of local tradition or in need of a powerful hangover cure, make your way to Akbaengdi Restaurant. Its proximity to the airport also makes it a perfect last stop before departing the island.

Location:

Akbaengdi 식당 (Restaurant)
Near Jeju Jungang Middle School, Jeju City
Approx. 5 minutes from Jeju International Airport

While no formal rating was given in the text, the strong recommendations, repeated visits, and praise from food experts indicate a highly positive general rating among those who appreciate authentic local cuisine.