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Hyuje Restaurant Review: Discover Authentic Chinese Flavors in Hapjeong, Seoul

What a beautiful day! Today, we ventured out to a restaurant that’s been on our radar – Hyuje. One thing to note right off the bat is that Hyuje doesn’t have its own parking. However, there’s a small paid parking lot nearby, just a short walk across the street. As we strolled down the street, we passed by a charming old studio, a nostalgic reminder of neighborhood photo studios of the past. Continuing on, and turning left just ahead, we arrived at our destination: Hyuje!

A Hidden Gem with a Dedicated Following

Originally, we considered trying their Sundaeguk (Korean sausage soup) today, but decided to save that for another time and introduce you to Hyuje instead. Let’s step inside and share our experience! Hyuje is a Chinese restaurant with a fascinating backstory. The owner previously ran a very popular Chinese restaurant elsewhere before taking a break. Fortunately for us and many fans, he decided to reopen here, and his loyal customers have followed! This chef has built a strong reputation, and for good reason. He’s been passionately cooking Chinese cuisine for over 20 years, despite being younger than me! If you look him up, you’ll find he’s a chef with a distinctive style and undeniable charm, and most importantly, incredibly delicious food. Interestingly, he’s also friends with guitarist Gemi, whom I’ve often mentioned. It creates a sense of connection and familiarity with this place.

Must-Try Dishes: Tangsuyuk and Palbochae – A Culinary Revelation

We ordered the small size Tangsuyuk (Sweet and Sour Pork) and a serving of Palbochae (Eight Treasures Vegetables), along with some drinks. Today’s review is also sponsored by Tizen tea! This tea is known for stimulating appetite, aiding digestion, and being low in sugar, making it quite popular. We’ve actually collaborated with Tizen before. What’s new and exciting this time is their Highball flavor! It genuinely smells like a highball cocktail! But it’s a healthy tea, which is perfect for me. Some people enjoy mixing it with alcohol, but I prefer it as a refreshing iced tea with sparkling water. It’s a great option for those who want the essence of a highball without the alcohol, or for those who can’t drink but want to feel included in social gatherings.

Palbochae: Experience the True Flavors of Ingredients

Let’s talk about the Palbochae first. Wow! The ingredients are cut incredibly large – the squid, the vegetables – everything is substantial. This was such a pleasant surprise. It’s probably the most generously cut Palbochae I’ve ever had. The best part is that you can truly taste each individual ingredient. It’s not just a dish overwhelmed by sauce. You actually experience the distinct flavors of each component, like the shiitake mushrooms. I don’t usually enjoy shiitake mushrooms, but here, they were prepared in a way that was absolutely delicious. It felt deliberate and thoughtful. It reminds me of how ramen or soy sauce eggs taste different depending on who makes them and how they are served. The size and preparation of ingredients here truly elevate the dish to another level. Seeing such large pieces of squid was a delightful shock. It’s incredibly satisfying and filling, despite potentially looking like it might not be a huge portion at first glance. The quality and size of the ingredients are truly impressive. Everyone at the table agreed – it was delicious! It’s easy to see why this restaurant has such a strong fan base.

Tangsuyuk: Crispy Perfection Beyond Expectations

Now, for the Tangsuyuk. The texture is phenomenal. It’s coated almost like candy, creating a super crispy, “kasak kasak” sound when you bite into it. Remarkably, it stays crispy even as it cools down, which is quite different from typical Tangsuyuk. While other dishes are also tempting, today we decided to focus on the main meals. But back to the Tangsuyuk – the coating is the star here, alongside the wonderful shiitake mushrooms again. Even the pepper seasoning is spot-on, not overpowering. When comparing Hyuje’s Tangsuyuk to a famous Tangsuyuk restaurant like “Ipoom,” it’s hard to choose which is better. It’s really a matter of personal preference. Both are incredibly crispy, but Ipoom might have a slightly more saucy feel, while Hyuje’s coating is more thoroughly and perfectly adhered, giving it a beautiful, glossy look. There’s no single “right” way to make Tangsuyuk, but Hyuje’s style is definitely exceptional.

Beyond the Signature Dishes: Jjajangmyeon, Jjamppong and Fried Rice

We also ordered Jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles), Jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup), and fried rice. The Jjajangmyeon was savory and not overly sweet, aligning with a more classic, less sugary style. The Jjamppong, described as having pork and seafood, was flavorful and not excessively spicy, which is a welcome balance. The fried rice deserves special mention – it was incredibly fluffy, almost dancing in your mouth, and had a wonderful smoky flavor. The aroma was fantastic, and the texture was perfectly achieved, with each grain separate and light. It wasn’t the typical greasy fried rice; it felt lighter and more refined.

Tizen Highball Tea – A Refreshing Surprise

The Tizen Highball tea was a pleasant addition to the meal. It offered a refreshing and flavorful beverage option that complemented the rich Chinese cuisine. The “highball” flavor was surprisingly accurate, providing a similar aromatic experience to the cocktail without any alcohol. It’s a great choice for a healthier alternative to sugary drinks or for designated drivers who still want a festive drink option.

Location and Overall Impression

Hyuje is located in the Hapjeong area of Seoul. While parking is limited to a nearby paid lot, the culinary experience is well worth the minor inconvenience. Overall, Hyuje is a truly impressive Chinese restaurant. The quality of ingredients, the chef’s unique style, and the delicious flavors make it a standout. It’s not just about cooking well; it’s about having a distinct culinary identity, which Hyuje undoubtedly possesses. If you’re looking for authentic and exceptional Chinese cuisine in Seoul, Hyuje is a must-visit. Be sure to try their Palbochae and Tangsuyuk – you won’t be disappointed!