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Paldo Hoetjip: Jongno 5-ga’s Hidden Gem for Unbeatable Value Sashimi in Seoul

Nestled in the bustling heart of Seoul, in the vibrant Jongno 5-ga district, lies a culinary secret that only true locals and seasoned elders seem to know. Directly across from the famous Gwangjang Market, a place renowned for its street food and traditional atmosphere, you’ll find an unexpected treasure: Paldo Hoetjip (팔도횟집). This humble raw fish restaurant, surprisingly located in a building that also houses a hardware store, is celebrated for offering arguably the best value sashimi in the entire neighborhood. If you’re looking for an authentic, generously portioned, and incredibly fresh seafood experience without breaking the bank, look no further.

Unveiling Jongno’s Best-Kept Secret

Paldo Hoetjip is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Jongno 5-ga Station, Exit 1. Despite its prime location, it remains somewhat off the radar for most tourists, making it a genuine “hidden gem.” For years, it seems the savvy senior residents of Jongno have been discreetly enjoying this fantastic establishment. Stepping inside, you might be surprised by the clean and well-maintained interior. The reviewer even jokingly called it “a 5-star hotel in Jongno” given its relative cleanliness compared to some other local eateries, setting a comfortable stage for your meal.

The Paldo Hoetjip Experience: A Culinary Journey

An Abundance of Exceptional Side Dishes

What truly sets Paldo Hoetjip apart, even before the main event arrives, is its astonishing array of side dishes (banchan). These aren’t just mere accompaniments; they are generous, high-quality appetizers in their own right, designed to perfectly complement your drink of choice. Prepare to be delighted by:

• Oyster Salad: A fresh and zesty start.
• Crispy Fried Fish: Perfectly golden and savory, practically begging for a toast.
• Steamed Fish Roe: A rich and unique offering, signaling the depth of the chef’s culinary skill.
• Quail Eggs: Simple yet satisfying.
• Savory Crispy Pancake (Jeon): Another delightful treat that could easily be a standalone appetizer.

Seriously, be warned: these banchan are so plentiful and delicious, you might fill up before the main sashimi platter even graces your table! It’s a testament to the restaurant’s incredible generosity and the skill of the elderly chef, whose years of experience are evident in every dish.

The Star of the Show: Fresh Sashimi Platter

Finally, the moment arrives: the grand sashimi platter. For two people, the portions are incredibly generous. On our visit, the selection was a vibrant display of the freshest catches:

• Fresh Abalone: A luxurious and tender delight.
• “Hiras” (Summer Amberjack/Buri): Often compared to winter yellowtail, offering a rich, buttery texture.
• Flatfish (Gwang-eo): A classic, known for its firm texture.
• Red Sea Bream (Domi): Served with its skin on, providing an interesting textural contrast.
• Sea Bass (Nong-eo): Especially flavorful during its peak season.

While the specific types of fish might vary with the season, the freshness and quality are consistently top-notch. And for the authentic Korean experience, don’t hesitate to try your sashimi with chojang (spicy chili sauce), ssamjang (savory dipping sauce), or wrapped in crisp lettuce with garlic – it’s a taste of Korea that’s truly unique to these traditional hoetjip.

A Never-Ending Feast: More Culinary Delights

Just when you think the meal might be winding down, Paldo Hoetjip continues to surprise with an additional course of dishes, proving its commitment to value and a complete dining experience:

• Grilled Herring (Cheong-eo Gui): Unlike the common grilled mackerel, this restaurant serves a beautifully grilled herring, known for its rich flavor and tender flesh that can often be eaten whole due to its fine bones.
• Braised Fish (Jogi Jorim): Two succulent fish simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, tender and utterly delicious.
• Flying Fish Roe Gimbap (Nalchial Gimbap): A unique and delightful twist on the classic gimbap, packed with flavor and perfect for when you crave a carb fix. This could easily be a standalone menu item!
• Choice of Soup: To finish the meal, you can choose between a spicy fish stew (Maeuntang) or a clear fish stew (Jiri-tang). The clear Jiri-tang is a highly recommended choice, offering a remarkably refreshing and clean broth that perfectly cleanses the palate.

Throughout the meal, we even found a rare bottle of Baekseju, a traditional Korean liquor, which paired perfectly with the diverse flavors of the seafood.

The Verdict: An Unmissable Value in Jongno 5-ga

In a city where dining experiences can range from exorbitant to mediocre, Paldo Hoetjip stands out as a rare and precious find. Its insane value (gasungbi), combined with an unbelievably generous and high-quality course menu, makes it a truly special place. It’s no wonder the local elders have kept this gem to themselves for so long! From the profound depth of flavor in its initial banchan to its sophisticated multi-course offerings, Paldo Hoetjip provides a level of quality and abundance that is increasingly rare in Seoul’s competitive culinary landscape.

If you find yourself in the Jongno area, especially near Gwangjang Market, make a detour to Paldo Hoetjip. It’s an authentic Korean seafood experience that delivers incredible taste and value, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.