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Are you a true connoisseur of fine meats, especially premium Korean Hanwoo beef? If so, prepare to embark on a delectable journey to one of Seoul’s most anticipated new dining establishments. Located near Euljiro 2-ga Station, Soonwoo Black is a name that’s quickly generating buzz among discerning diners. Join us as we explore this unique Hanwoo specialist.

A Meat Maestro’s Masterpiece in Euljiro

Nestled in the bustling heart of Seoul, specifically in Jung-gu, Myeong-dong, Euljiro 2-ga, Soonwoo Black stands out as a premium Hanwoo restaurant. What sets it apart immediately is its operator: a renowned meat expert with extensive industry experience. This isn’t just any restaurant; it’s helmed by a professional whose deep understanding of meat selection, management, and preparation has earned him significant recognition. Our reviewer, having known the owner for years, was keen to provide an objective assessment of the overall dining experience, beyond the owner’s undisputed expertise in beef.

Stepping Inside: Ambiance and Concept

Location and Setting

Soonwoo Black occupies an entire four-story building in a quaint alleyway off Euljiro 2-ga Station. This district, known for its major corporations and upscale commercial establishments, perfectly matches Soonwoo Black’s premium positioning. The building itself, though compact, exudes an air of exclusivity, hinting at the high-quality experience within.

A Multi-Tiered Dining Experience

The restaurant offers a diverse dining environment across its floors:

• 1st & 2nd Floors: Designed for more casual dining experiences.
• 3rd Floor: Features private room spaces, ideal for intimate gatherings or business meals. Our reviewer enjoyed their meal here with fellow dining experts.
• 4th Floor: An exclusive, reservation-only Hanwoo Omakase course, providing a meticulously curated beef experience.

While the multiple levels offer variety, navigating the somewhat steep and narrow staircases throughout the four-story building (which lacks an elevator) might be a slight inconvenience for some guests and staff alike, affecting the overall flow.

The Culinary Journey: Flavors and Cuts

The Foundation: Impeccable Side Dishes

Soonwoo Black prides itself on its authentic Korean side dishes, or “banchan.” A standout feature is that all accompaniments are meticulously prepared in-house. Our reviewer noted their pleasantly low sodium content and their authentic, non-fusion Korean base. Even the Dongchimi (radish water kimchi) was a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality.

Appetizers: A Unique Hanwoo Yukhoe

The culinary adventure began with a Hanwoo Yukhoe (Korean beef tartare) made from the outer skirt cut. Lightly seasoned with a subtle soy sauce, it was elegantly topped with luxurious uni (sea urchin) and garnished with finely chopped watercress, peanut powder, and Grana Padano cheese. This innovative rendition offered a distinct, clean flavor profile, diverging from the typically sweet and spicy traditional yukhoe. While refreshing for those who appreciate nuanced flavors, its unique taste and texture might require a moment for some palates to adjust, potentially leading to varied preferences.

The Main Event: Premium Grilled Hanwoo

The star of the show, of course, is the grilled Hanwoo. Soonwoo Black utilizes high-grade white charcoal and a round copper grill known for its excellent heat conductivity, ensuring each cut is cooked to perfection. The beef undergoes a careful aging process of at least 14 days, enhancing its flavor and tenderness. Our order included premium 2++ grade Tenderloin (Ansim) and Sirloin (Deungsim).

• Tenderloin (Ansim): The cut presented a slightly deeper hue, promising a rich beefy aroma. The “Ansim Churi,” a specific part of the tenderloin, was particularly memorable for its thin sinews, which contributed to a wonderfully complex texture and a surge of concentrated beef flavor. A portion of the tenderloin was also rested for about 10 minutes post-grill, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.
• Sirloin (Deungsim): The striploin was grilled to a perfect medium-rare, advised to be slightly crisper due to its fat marbling. Each bite revealed a rich, unadulterated beef flavor, completely devoid of any blandness. The excellent selection process by the meat expert truly shone through, delivering a harmonious balance of savory meat and creamy fat.

A Memorable Finish: Mushroom Sotbap

Concluding the meal was a mushroom “sotbap” (stone pot rice). This seemingly simple dish left a profound impression. The rice, reportedly made with the finest ingredients, boasted a delightful texture and a natural sweetness. It was so flavorful and perfectly seasoned that it was enjoyable even on its own, a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality beyond just the meat.

The Verdict: A Premium Hanwoo Experience with Room for Growth

What Shines Bright (Pros)

Soonwoo Black’s greatest strength undoubtedly lies in its unparalleled meat quality. The owner’s deep expertise ensures that even within the same grade, only the finest and most flavorful cuts of Hanwoo are selected. Beyond the beef, the house-made banchan and the exquisite mushroom sotbap were genuinely memorable highlights, showcasing a commitment to culinary excellence across the board.

Areas for Refinement (Cons)

While the experience was largely satisfying, a few areas could benefit from refinement. Compared to other premium Hanwoo establishments in Euljiro, Soonwoo Black’s overall concept and system didn’t present significant “fresh” or unique differentiators. Additionally, while the server grilling was good, a bit more theatricality and detailed explanation, perhaps even in the choice of cutting tools, could enhance the professional impression. Lastly, the lack of an elevator in the four-story building, coupled with steep stairs, poses a practical challenge for both guests and the staff.

Overall Recommendation

Despite being relatively new, Soonwoo Black delivers a profoundly satisfying dining experience, especially for those who prioritize the absolute best in Hanwoo. The exceptional quality of the meat alone makes it a compelling destination. For anyone passionate about Korean beef and looking for a premium culinary adventure in Seoul, Soonwoo Black offers an experience that is truly worth exploring.

Location: Seoul, Jung-gu, Myeong-dong, Euljiro 2-ga (near Euljiro 2-ga Station)
General Rating: Highly recommended for its superior meat quality, offering an overall satisfying experience with compelling reasons to visit for any Hanwoo aficionado.