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Welcome to Cheonbok Oyster Complex in Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do! As an annual visitor for the past four years, I can attest to this place being an absolute haven for oyster lovers. Every year, as the seasons change, I find myself drawn back to this vibrant complex to indulge in the freshest, plumpest oysters Korea has to offer. This time, I’m here not just to feast but also to give you the lowdown on current prices and the incredible experience that awaits.

Discovering Cheonbok Oyster Complex

Cheonbok Oyster Complex isn’t just one restaurant; it’s a bustling hub of over 100 individual shops, sprawled across what seems like four distinct sections. Even on a Saturday evening, the sheer number of cars and people enjoying their oyster dinners speaks volumes about its popularity. Each shop, while offering a similar range of oyster dishes, promises its unique ‘son-mat’ or the distinctive touch of the owner’s culinary skill.

The complex is designed for a truly immersive seafood experience. As you walk through, you’ll see row upon row of shops, each ready to serve up the freshest catches. It’s an energetic, lively atmosphere that perfectly complements the joy of sharing a meal with friends or family.

The Star of the Show: Boryeong’s Fresh Oysters

A Feast for the Senses: Steamed, Grilled, and Raw

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer variety and quality of oysters here. My usual order is a mix of half grilled (굴구이) and half steamed (굴찜). The grilled oysters, cooked right before your eyes, often pop open with an exciting hiss, revealing their succulent, steaming flesh. The steamed oysters, on the other hand, are perfectly cooked, maintaining their natural sweetness and tenderness. They are incredibly fresh, well-purified, and boast an impressive size and plumpness – so plump, they look like they’ve swelled up!

During this visit, our steamed oyster dish received a delightful upgrade, featuring not just oysters but also fresh shrimp and scallops – a special treat from the generous owner, making the experience even more memorable.

Beyond Oysters: Delectable Side Dishes and More

While oysters are undoubtedly the main event, the accompanying dishes are equally delightful. Our table was adorned with:

• Dongchimi: A refreshing, clear radish kimchi that cleanses the palate.
• Ssam Baechu: Crisp wrapping cabbage, perfect for wrapping a fresh oyster or two.
• Oyster Pancake (Gul Jeon): A savory pancake studded with fresh oysters, a crispy and flavorful complement.
• Fresh Whelk (Sora): Served incredibly fresh, even the whelk’s rich innards were a flavorful delicacy.

Each side dish is prepared with care, elevating the overall dining experience.

The Grand Finale: Oyster Kalguksu

No meal at Cheonbok Oyster Complex is complete without a steaming bowl of Oyster Kalguksu (noodle soup). This comforting dish is a hearty blend of chewy noodles, generous portions of fresh oysters, zucchini, and even crab, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. The accompanying fresh radish salad kimchi (mu-saengchae geotjeori), enhanced with a touch of sesame oil, adds a delightful crunch and zest that perfectly balances the rich soup.

Value and Pricing at Cheonbok Oyster Complex

Oyster prices, like many things, have seen an increase over the years. Four years ago, steamed oysters were around 35,000 KRW, with raw oysters going for 20,000 KRW. Today, a large net (approximately 8-9kg) of steamed oysters is priced at 50,000 KRW, while grilled oysters are 60,000 KRW. While these prices might seem higher, they are consistent across all shops within the complex, ensuring fair competition based on quality and service.

Don’t let the price deter you; the quantity is truly generous. One net of oysters is more than enough to satisfy three people, especially when combined with other dishes like kalguksu. You’ll definitely leave feeling full and content!

Location and General Rating

Location: Cheonbok Oyster Complex, Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea.

General Rating: Highly Recommended (5/5 stars for freshness, variety, and the overall vibrant dining experience).

Why Visit Cheonbok Oyster Complex?

Cheonbok Oyster Complex offers an unparalleled oyster dining experience. From the vast selection of shops to the incredible freshness and delicious preparation of every dish, it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re craving plump steamed oysters, smoky grilled oysters, or a comforting bowl of oyster kalguksu, this complex has it all. The friendly atmosphere and the assurance of quality make it a must-visit destination.

If you find yourself traveling along the beautiful West Coast of South Korea, particularly near Boryeong, make sure to detour to Cheonbok Oyster Complex. It’s an annual tradition for me, and I highly recommend you make it one of yours too. Come and savor the truly fresh and flavorful oysters!