Embark on a unique culinary journey through the vibrant cities of Daegu and Gyeongsan, South Korea! Forget everything you thought you knew about Korean food, because we’re diving into some truly extraordinary dining experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From revolutionary sashimi to unbelievably generous portions of classic comfort food, these hidden gems offer incredible flavors and unbeatable value.

A Revolution in Raw Fish: Noodle-Style Sashimi in Daegu

Our first stop takes us to a groundbreaking seafood restaurant located in **Suseong-gu, Daegu**. This establishment boasts a rich history, having served customers in the Suseong-gu area for 30 years, with 10 years at its current, beloved location. What makes this place a must-visit? They’ve completely redefined how raw fish, or hoe (회), is served.

The Deupo Style: Sashimi Like You’ve Never Seen

Unlike traditional sashimi slices, this restaurant specializes in “Deupo” (드포) style, where the fish is meticulously sliced into long, thin strips, resembling noodles! We tried their signature Flounder (도다리) and Sea Bream (돌돔) set, priced at 70,000 KRW. The visual appeal alone is stunning, but the real magic happens when you taste it.

• Unique Texture: The noodle-like slicing gives the fish an incredibly unique, springy, and chewy texture. It bounces delightfully in your mouth, almost like a “쫄면” (jjolmyeon – chewy noodles), offering a satisfying bite that’s rarely found with conventional sashimi. The flounder, in particular, stood out for its exceptional texture and rich, sweet flavor.
• Generous Set Meal: The 70,000 KRW set is an absolute feast. Beyond the incredible sashimi, it includes:
  • A hearty and deeply flavorful Spicy Fish Stew (매운탕), simmered to perfection with fish bones and vegetables, described as having a rich, addictive broth.
  • Fluffy Steamed Egg
  • Deliciously grilled Sole (가자미 구이)
  • A variety of fresh side dishes and their special makjang (spicy soybean paste dip), which is highly recommended for pairing with the sashimi.

General Rating: Highly Recommended for its Unique Experience and Exceptional Value. The host enthusiastically claimed it would cost at least 150,000 KRW in Seoul’s Gangnam district, making this a true bargain for such high quality.

Gyeongsan’s Legendary 10,000 Won Tangsooyuk

Next, we journey to **Jungang General Market in Gyeongsan** for a classic Korean-Chinese dish that defies expectations: Tangsooyuk (탕수육), or sweet and sour pork. This market stall is famous for serving a colossal portion of Tangsooyuk for an unbelievable 10,000 KRW.

Unbeatable Value and Old-School Flavor

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer quantity! The dish arrives as a mountain of crispy pork, generously doused in a delectable, slightly spicy, old-school sweet and sour sauce. The pork is perfectly crispy, free from any unpleasant odors, and the sauce is abundant, covering every piece beautifully.

• Massive Portions: For just 10,000 KRW, you receive an amount of Tangsooyuk that would typically cost two to three times more elsewhere.
• Authentic Taste: Described as “true 옛날 탕수육” (old-school Tangsooyuk), it brings back nostalgic flavors with its perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and a hint of spicy sauce.
• Crispy Perfection: Each piece of pork retains its crunch, making every bite satisfying.

General Rating: Exceptional Value and Delicious Comfort Food. Despite being a market stall, the taste and portion size are phenomenal, making it an absolute must-try for budget-conscious foodies seeking an authentic Korean experience.

A Useful Companion for Your Culinary Adventures

No great food adventure is complete without a little something to keep you going! We also briefly featured “Sulgge Q,” a convenient film-type hangover remedy. Its sweet, honey-like taste makes it pleasant to consume, and its compact size means you can easily carry it in your wallet or bag, making it a handy companion for enjoying local soju with your delicious meals.

Conclusion: A Foodie’s Paradise

Daegu and Gyeongsan truly stand out as culinary destinations, offering unique dishes and incredible value that even a seasoned food critic from Seoul finds impressive. From the innovative “Deupo” style sashimi that redefines texture to the heartwarming, gigantic portions of Tangsooyuk, these cities deliver unforgettable dining experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Korea, make sure to add Daegu and Gyeongsan to your itinerary for an authentic and utterly delicious adventure!

Have you discovered any other hidden gems in Daegu or Gyeongsan? Share your recommendations!