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Yeongdong Jang-eo: The Pinnacle of Luxury Grilled Eel in Gangnam

For an unparalleled dining experience that blends tradition with opulence, Yeongdong Jang-eo stands out as Gangnam’s premier destination for grilled eel. Renowned for its exquisite mudflat eel and exceptional service, this restaurant, famously visited by K-pop star and gourmet Sung Si-kyung on his popular “Meokultende” series, promises a meal that transcends mere sustenance. Located prominently near Dosan Intersection, opposite Nanuri Hospital, Yeongdong Jang-eo carries the reputation of being the most expensive eel restaurant in Gangnam, a title it lives up to with both its pricing and its sublime quality.

Location, Ambiance, and Celebrity Appeal

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Gangnam, Yeongdong Jang-eo offers an atmosphere of refined elegance, perfect for special occasions – be it an anniversary, a family celebration, or a memorable date night. The restaurant is a known haunt for celebrities, including the famous comedian Shin Dong-yup, a frequent and enthusiastic patron. This discreet yet star-studded environment adds an extra layer of allure to an already luxurious setting.

The Grand Eel Experience: Mudflat vs. Freshwater Delights

Yeongdong Jang-eo’s specialty is its plump, thick Gaeppeol Jang-eo (mudflat eel). A single mudflat eel typically serves three, weighing around 1.2kg (live weight), with each 350g serving priced at 82,000 KRW. The dining ritual includes a unique “eel performance” where guests are shown the live eel before it undergoes an initial grilling (초벌구이) for 10-15 minutes, building anticipation.

For connoisseurs, the restaurant also offers Minmul Jang-eo (freshwater eel), allowing for a fascinating comparison. The mudflat eel is celebrated for its rich fattiness and robust texture, often appealing to younger diners. In contrast, the freshwater eel offers a more nuanced, chewy, and delicate flavor, a favorite of Sung Si-kyung for its depth and “human-like” quality. While the mudflat eel provides satisfying quantity, the freshwater eel excels in intricate flavor profiles.

Beyond the Grill: Signature Sides and Soups

Beyond the magnificent eels, Yeongdong Jang-eo prides itself on its meticulously prepared accompanying dishes. The basic side dishes (기본 찬) are impeccably neat and delicious, with the pa-kimchi (green onion kimchi) and dongchimi (radish water kimchi) receiving special commendation. For those seeking unique traditional health tonics, offerings like eel liver (간), eel stomach (위), and a special liquor infused with eel gallbladder bile (쓸개즙) are available.

Two non-eel dishes are highly recommended:

• Jang-eo-tang (Eel Soup): A rich and savory soup, a true testament to the restaurant’s mastery of eel cuisine. It’s a must-try for any eel enthusiast.
• Baegap Guksu (Clam Noodle Soup): A deceptively simple yet profoundly delicious noodle dish, its pure, clean clam broth offers a refreshing contrast to the rich eel.

The Price of Perfection: Is Yeongdong Jang-eo Worth the Splurge?

Undoubtedly, dining at Yeongdong Jang-eo is a luxurious indulgence. However, the premium price encompasses more than just the ingredients. It reflects the prime Gangnam location, the impeccable table-side grilling service, years of culinary expertise, and the sophisticated ambiance. It’s an investment in a memorable experience, a celebration of Korean fine dining, and a taste of the absolute best. As Sung Si-kyung suggests, it’s about appreciating the unique value of such a premium offering, making it ideal for those who seek the pinnacle of luxury dining.

Your Next Special Occasion Destination

For an unforgettable culinary journey and a truly luxurious experience in Seoul, Yeongdong Jang-eo stands as a top recommendation. It’s a destination for celebrating life’s moments with exceptional food and service.

Restaurant Information:

• Name: Yeongdong Jang-eo (영동 장어)
• Location: Near Dosan Intersection, Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea (opposite Nanuri Hospital)
• General Rating: Exceptionally high for taste and luxury dining experience; premium pricing.