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Discovering Sansu Gapsan: Euljiro’s Hidden Gem for Offal Lovers

Nestled in the bustling streets of Euljiro, Seoul, Sansu Gapsan (산수 갑산) stands out as a distinctive destination for adventurous food enthusiasts. This popular eatery has carved a niche for itself by offering a unique take on sundae, the beloved Korean blood sausage, particularly by utilizing various internal organs like large intestines (daechang) and abomasum (makchang) as casings, filled with flavorful ingredients. If you’re looking to explore the authentic and diverse world of Korean offal cuisine, Sansu Gapsan promises an unforgettable experience.

Ambiance and Atmosphere: A Lively Euljiro Vibe

The moment you step into Sansu Gapsan, you’re greeted by a lively and bustling atmosphere that is characteristic of many traditional Korean eateries. The air buzzes with conversations and the clinking of dishes, creating an authentic and energetic dining environment. While the overall vibe is vibrant, some inner sections of the restaurant feature slightly lower ceilings, adding a cozy, intimate touch. There’s even a mezzanine level, offering different perspectives and nooks for diners. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of local Seoul dining.

Our Culinary Journey: What We Ordered

Eager to sample their renowned specialties, we placed our order: a regular Sundae Gukbap (Korean blood sausage soup with rice) for 9,000 KRW and a medium-sized Sundae Assortment (Sundae Modum) for 26,000 KRW. A delightful surprise was the complimentary soup base, a rich broth typically served with suyuk (boiled meat slices). The best part? It’s endlessly refillable, allowing you to warm up and cleanse your palate throughout your meal – a fantastic bonus, especially on a chilly day.

Unveiling the Unique Sundae Assortment

The Sundae Assortment truly lives up to its name, presenting a captivating array of textures and flavors. Each piece is a testament to Sansu Gapsan’s expertise in preparing offal.

• Makchang Sundae: Situated on the far right of the platter, this was a personal favorite. The abomasum casing offers a wonderfully chewy and satisfying texture that perfectly complements the savory filling within. Its rich flavor and unique mouthfeel make it a standout dish.
• Daechang Sundae: Adjacent to the makchang sundae, these are made using large intestines. While still delicious, they were noticeably thinner compared to the makchang variety, offering a slightly different, perhaps more delicate, chewing experience.
• Gui (Pork Ear): Easily identifiable by their white, strip-like appearance, these pieces provide a delightful crunch and gelatinous texture, a popular inclusion in offal platters.
• Osori Gamtu (Pork Stomach/Spleen): Located beneath the pork ear, these cuts are known for their distinct, firm texture and robust flavor, adding another layer of complexity to the assortment.
• Gi (Brain-like Organ): The most intriguing piece, described as looking “like a brain,” offers a truly unique and exotic culinary adventure for those willing to try something different. Its appearance alone sparks curiosity!
• Gan (Liver): Also part of the platter, the liver was, in my opinion, fairly average, but still a solid component of the diverse selection.

A Matter of Temperature: Hot Soup, Cold Assortment

One interesting aspect of the dining experience at Sansu Gapsan is the temperature contrast. While the Sundae Gukbap arrived piping hot, ready to comfort and warm, the Sundae Assortment, along with other suyuk components, was served cold. This presentation is a matter of personal preference. For some, the cool, firm texture of the offal enhances its unique characteristics, while others might prefer it warm. It’s an important point to note for those new to this style of Korean cuisine.

The Verdict: A Must-Try for the Adventurous Foodie in Euljiro

Overall, Sansu Gapsan in Euljiro offers an authentic and distinctly unique Korean dining experience. The Makchang Sundae unquestionably stole the show for me, thanks to its delightful chewiness and richly flavored filling. While the Daechang Sundae was a bit thin and the Gan just average, the overall assortment provides an incredible journey through various textures and tastes of Korean offal.

The Sundae Gukbap itself is generously portioned, making it a hearty meal. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not served simmering in a pot, and it features a higher proportion of offal compared to some other establishments. This focus on internal organs makes it a true haven for offal aficionados, though it might be a matter of preference for those less accustomed to it.

For anyone exploring the vibrant food scene of Seoul, particularly in Euljiro, and possessing an adventurous palate, Sansu Gapsan is highly recommended. It’s a place where traditional Korean flavors meet unique preparations, promising a memorable meal that truly embodies the spirit of local Korean cuisine. Come prepared for a lively atmosphere and a culinary adventure!

Restaurant Details

• Name: Sansu Gapsan (산수 갑산)
• Location: Euljiro, Seoul, South Korea
• General Rating: Highly regarded for its unique and authentic offal-based sundae dishes, popular among locals and adventurous foodies.