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Seoul, a city renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, is a treasure trove of dining experiences, from trendy cafes to traditional eateries. But beyond the well-trodden paths, there are hidden gems that offer not just exceptional food but also a unique atmosphere that captures the city’s true charm. Join us on a virtual food tour as we delve into some of Seoul’s most intriguing and delicious spots!

The Han River’s Romantic BBQ Spot: A Supermarket’s Culinary Transformation

Imagine a breezy evening, the Han River glistening nearby, and the enticing aroma of sizzling pork belly filling the air. This isn’t just any BBQ joint; it’s a place that started as a humble supermarket. Locals loved the “sonmat” (hand taste) of their homemade side dishes so much that they expanded into a full-fledged Samgyeopsal (pork belly) restaurant right next door. The atmosphere is nothing short of romantic and nostalgic, reminiscent of old-school Korean pubs, offering a truly unique outdoor dining experience in the heart of Seoul.

What to Expect:

• Location: Right by the Han River, providing a refreshing breeze and scenic backdrop.
• Signature Dish: Samgyeopsal, served with an array of incredibly flavorful traditional Korean side dishes and refreshing barley tea. The focus here is on quality and authentic taste.
• Vibe: Relaxed, unpretentious, and full of “낭만” (romance or charm), perfect for enjoying good food and conversation.
• General Rating: Highly recommended for its superb pork belly and unforgettable riverside ambiance.

Nostalgic Gyeongyangsik Delights: A Taste of Old-School Western

Next on our culinary adventure, we step back in time to a Gyeongyangsik (Korean-style Western food) restaurant. This classic style, featuring hearty dishes like hamburger steak, often served with a rich brown sauce, rice, and a side of soup, is a nostalgic favorite for many Koreans. This particular spot nails the traditional essence, making it a rare find in today’s modern culinary landscape.

Highlights of the Menu:

• Hamburger Steak: Available in both original and fried (tempura-style) variations. Both are incredibly juicy and tender, with a rich, savory sauce that complements the meat perfectly. Some even claim it surpasses famous Japanese hamburger steaks in texture and flavor!
• Self-Serve Soup: A delightful nod to tradition, with a warm, comforting soup available for self-service, adding to the authentic Gyeongyangsik experience.
• Unique Toppings: Don’t miss the mentaiko (spicy pollack roe) topping, which adds an exciting layer of flavor.
• General Rating: Praised for its juicy patties, exceptional sauce, and ability to evoke wonderful memories of classic Korean dining.

A Taste of Traditional Chinese Innovation: Beyond the Usual Jajangmyeon

Our journey continues to a Chinese restaurant that offers a refreshing take on familiar dishes. While serving classics like Jajangmyeon and Jjamppong, this place distinguishes itself with unique preparations and a clean, non-greasy approach to Chinese cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Junggan: A special version of Jajangmyeon featuring incredibly thin noodles and finely minced vegetables, offering a surprisingly light and savory flavor profile that’s distinct from regular Jajangmyeon.
• Jjamppong: A clear, invigorating soup with beef brisket (yusul gogi), noted for its perfect balance that keeps you from feeling thirsty afterward – a common issue with some Jjamppong.
• “Tempura” Tangsuyuk: Their sweet and sour pork (Tangsuyuk) is described as “tempura” style, indicating a light, crispy batter, served with an authentic, old-school sauce that evokes childhood memories.
• Baekgolbaengi (White Snail): A rare and delicious delicacy, often described as the “aristocrat of sea snails,” known for its delicate texture and rich flavor.
• General Rating: Highly recommended for its innovative yet traditional approach, clean flavors, and unique noodle texture.

Korea’s Only Boneless Crab Specialty: The Ultimate “Rice Thief”

Perhaps the most unique stop on our tour is a restaurant specializing in crab dishes that are almost unheard of elsewhere in Korea. This place has perfected the art of making crab accessible and incredibly delicious, a concept that has evolved over three decades.

An Unrivaled Crab Experience:

• Specialties:
  • Kkotge Sal: Succulent, meticulously hand-picked boneless crab meat, perfectly seasoned for mixing with rice. It’s so convenient and flavorful, it’s dubbed a “rice thief” – you won’t be able to stop eating!
  • Kkotge Muchim: Spicy seasoned whole crab pieces, where the freshness of the crab shines through in a vibrant, unique sauce.
• History: For about 30 years, this spot served whole seasoned crabs as a drinking snack. However, customers constantly requested more rice, leading to its transformation into a beloved “rice house” focusing on these incredible crab dishes.
• Seasonality: The restaurant emphasizes using fresh, in-season crabs (autumn for meat, spring for roe), ensuring peak flavor.
• Kkotge Tang (Crab Stew): Also a must-try, brimming with generous amounts of crab meat and a deeply flavorful broth, described as a perfect, clean-tasting seafood doenjang jjigae.
• General Rating: Unanimously praised as a truly unique, convenient, and incredibly delicious dining experience, especially for crab lovers. The sauce is particularly highlighted as a key to its addictive quality.

Winter’s Delight: Savory Gwamegi

As the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like enjoying Gwamegi, a traditional Korean winter delicacy made from dried Pacific saury. This restaurant serves it perfectly, allowing its natural flavors to shine.

The Gwamegi Experience:

• Dish: Gwamegi, served with an assortment of accompaniments like fresh kimchi, garlic, green chili, ssamjang, and chogochujang.
• Vibe: Best enjoyed in colder weather, it evokes a feeling of warmth and comfort.
• General Rating: A perfectly prepared seasonal treat that is delicious and satisfying, especially when paired with its traditional accoutrements.

Concluding Our Culinary Journey

This culinary tour through Seoul’s hidden gems showcases the incredible diversity and depth of the city’s food scene. From innovative takes on traditional dishes to unique specialties, each spot offers not just a meal but an unforgettable experience. So next time you’re in Seoul, venture beyond the popular tourist spots and discover these authentic, flavorful havens – your taste buds will thank you!