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Yihangu: Michelin Bib Gourmand Chinese Restaurant in Seoul – Must-Try Dishes & Review

Are you a fan of authentic Chinese cuisine? Then you absolutely must visit Yihangu (이한구), a hidden gem located in the charming neighborhood of Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. This restaurant isn’t just any ordinary Chinese eatery; it boasts a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, previously holding a Michelin One-star, ensuring a delightful culinary experience at a reasonable price.

Located in Seoul, specifically in the Mapo-gu area, Yihangu has become a beloved spot for locals and food enthusiasts alike. Known for its authentic flavors and expertly crafted dishes, Yihangu offers a menu that perfectly balances tradition and innovation. My recent visit, accompanied by my friend and the legendary Lee Sungwoo from the band Nobrain, was nothing short of spectacular. We were eager to explore the culinary delights this restaurant had to offer, and it certainly didn’t disappoint!

Must-Try Dishes at Yihangu

Yihangu’s menu is filled with tantalizing options, but here are some dishes that are absolute must-tries, based on our delicious experience:

Gesal Bboong (게살볶음)

Our culinary journey began with the Gesal Bboong (게살볶음), a dish highly recommended by my companion, a true connoisseur of local eats. This dish is described as a soup noodle dish with a generous amount of crab meat. The rich and savory broth, combined with the sweetness of the crab meat, created a harmonious and deeply satisfying flavor. The reviewer noted that the high crab content makes it a pricier dish when crab prices rise, but it’s definitely worth the splurge. Adding a touch of coriander enhances the experience, bringing a refreshing zest to the robust flavors.

Menbosha (멘보샤)

Next up was the Menbosha (멘보샤), a dish that many Chinese food lovers consider a top choice at Yihangu. The Menbosha here is truly exceptional. Crispy, golden-brown bread encases a flavorful shrimp filling. The texture is perfectly balanced – crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. The shrimp filling is substantial and well-seasoned, offering a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. Even those who frequently enjoy Menbosha will find Yihangu’s version outstanding and utterly addictive.

Beef Lettuce Wraps (소고기 양상추 쌈)

Initially, I was a bit skeptical about ordering Beef Lettuce Wraps (소고기 양상추 쌈), but I’m incredibly glad I trusted the recommendation. The dish was visually stunning, featuring tender and flavorful beef stir-fried to perfection and served with crisp, fresh lettuce. The combination of textures and flavors was remarkable. The method to enjoy this dish involves wrapping the savory beef mixture and crispy fried noodles in a lettuce leaf – a delightful and interactive culinary experience. It’s a refreshing and lighter option amidst richer dishes, perfect for cleansing the palate and preparing for the next course.

Mapo Tofu (마파두부)

For those who love the fiery kick of Mapo Tofu, Yihangu’s version is a revelation. Their Mapo Tofu (마파두부) is authentically prepared, boasting a rich, aromatic sauce with a noticeable spicy kick. What sets it apart is the absence of sweetness, allowing the savory, spicy, and slightly numbing flavors to truly shine. Packed with soft tofu and minced meat, this dish is incredibly flavorful and pairs perfectly with a bowl of white rice. It’s a robust and satisfying dish that will leave you craving more.

XO Fried Rice (XO 볶음밥)

As a special treat, the chef at Yihangu, inspired by Nobrain’s Sungwoo’s love for Chinese food, prepared a custom XO Fried Rice (XO 볶음밥). This wasn’t on the regular menu, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to pleasing its guests. The fried rice was impeccably cooked – each grain perfectly separated and infused with savory XO sauce. The vegetables retained a pleasant texture, and the overall flavor profile was rich and deeply satisfying, even without needing any extra seasoning like soy sauce. This dish exemplified the chef’s skill and passion for Chinese cuisine.

Atmosphere and Service

Yihangu is a popular dining destination, and for good reason. The restaurant was bustling with patrons during our visit, indicating its popularity. Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours. The service was attentive and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience.

Conclusion

Yihangu is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine in Seoul. With its Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, reasonable prices (around ₩20,000-₩30,000), and exceptional dishes like Gesal Bboong, Menbosha, and Mapo Tofu, it promises a memorable culinary adventure. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler exploring Seoul, make sure to add Yihangu to your dining list. You won’t be disappointed!

Yihangu (이한구)
Address: 서울특별시 마포구 서교동 (Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea)
Rating: 4.5/5 (General Estimated Rating)