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Taste Tradition: Ttak Han Jan, Cheolsan-dong’s Iconic Raw Fish Restaurant

There’s nothing quite like stumbling upon a true hidden gem, a place that carries the stories of decades and serves food straight from the heart. Recently, while scrolling through Instagram, a picture of incredibly tempting Dodari Saekkkosi (flounder bone-in sashimi) caught my eye. The image alone was enough to make my mouth water, and I knew I had to experience it for myself. That craving led me to a charming spot in Cheolsan-dong, a neighborhood I hadn’t explored before, but one that has now firmly etched itself into my culinary map: Ttak Han Jan (딱 한잔).

Discovering Ttak Han Jan: A Hidden Gem in Geumcheon-gu

Ttak Han Jan is nestled in a bustling food alley in Cheolsan-dong, Geumcheon-gu, a district in southwestern Seoul. While it might sound a bit off the beaten path for those in central Seoul, it’s surprisingly accessible. My drive from Sinsa-dong in Gangnam took approximately 30 minutes, making it a feasible trip for a memorable meal. The restaurant’s exterior immediately caught my attention – it exuded a rustic charm, bearing the beautiful “traces of time” that speak of a long-standing establishment. This is precisely the kind of authentic atmosphere I adore.

The restaurant is conveniently located near Cheolsan Station, specifically close to Exit 1. Even amidst a street full of eateries, Ttak Han Jan stands out with its slightly retro, almost “pocha” (tent bar) like ambiance. This unpretentious and inviting vibe instantly made me feel at home, adding to the anticipation of the delicious meal to come.

A Taste of Tradition: The Dodari Saekkkosi Experience

My main mission was to try their famed Dodari Saekkkosi, and it did not disappoint. The moment the dish arrived, I understood why that Instagram photo had such an impact. The flounder was expertly sliced, thin and delicate, promising a delightful texture. The portion size for 45,000 won was incredibly generous, offering fantastic value for such fresh, high-quality sashimi.

The beauty of Saekkkosi lies in its unique texture – the fine bones add a satisfying chewiness without being intrusive. I enjoyed it in various ways:

• Dipped simply in soy sauce with a touch of wasabi, allowing the fresh flavor of the flounder to shine.
• With the special ssamjang (a savory, spicy dipping sauce made with fermented bean paste, gochujang, garlic, and sesame oil) provided by the restaurant, which perfectly complemented the fish.
• Paired with chogochujang (sweet and sour chili paste), adding a tangy kick.

The rich, nutty notes of the sesame oil in the ssamjang truly enhanced the natural sweetness of the flounder. Alongside the sashimi, a delightful array of side dishes was served, including flavorful cockles (꼬막) and fresh cucumber (오이), which provided a refreshing contrast to the main dish. I even brought my own soju from a nearby convenience store, a common practice in many traditional Korean eateries, to complete the authentic dining experience.

Beyond the Sashimi: Atmosphere and Other Delights

Ttak Han Jan is more than just a raw fish restaurant; it’s a piece of local history. It’s operated by an elderly couple who have dedicated 29 years to perfecting their craft and serving the community. The warm hospitality of the owner, even expressing slight concern about being too widely publicized (which I respectfully managed!), only added to the charm. Their dedication is palpable in every dish.

To round off the meal, the spicy fish stew (매운탕 – Maeuntang) is an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect savory and comforting finish, especially after enjoying the delicate sashimi. On some occasions, they even offer steamed conch (소라) as a service for their patrons, a lovely gesture that highlights their generosity.

Plan Your Visit: Hours & Tips

If you’re looking to experience this culinary gem, here are the details you’ll need:

• Restaurant Name: Ttak Han Jan (딱 한잔)
• Location: Cheolsan-dong, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul (near Cheolsan Station Exit 1).
• Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Please note that the closing time can vary slightly depending on customer flow, so calling ahead is recommended, especially if you plan a late visit.
• Closed: Sundays.
• Recommended Dish: Dodari Saekkkosi (Flounder bone-in sashimi) for 45,000 KRW.
• General Rating: Highly recommended for its authentic atmosphere, fresh seafood, generous portions, and traditional Korean dining experience.

Ttak Han Jan is a testament to timeless Korean culinary traditions. It’s a place where every dish tells a story, and the atmosphere wraps you in a comforting embrace of nostalgia. If you’re seeking an authentic, delicious, and value-for-money raw fish experience in Seoul, make your way to Cheolsan-dong and pull up a chair at Ttak Han Jan. You won’t regret it!