Discovering a Hidden Gem in Jeonju: A Local Baekban Restaurant Featured in “The Solitary Gourmet”

Have you heard of “The Solitary Gourmet” (孤独のグルメ)? It’s a wildly popular Japanese drama known for featuring real, unassuming restaurants across Japan. What many international fans might not know is that this beloved series actually filmed a special season in Korea, showcasing local eateries. And guess what? One of these featured restaurants is not a famous tourist hotspot, but a humble Baekban (Korean set meal) restaurant tucked away in a regular neighborhood in Jeonju!

A Surprising Discovery in My Own Neighborhood

As someone from Jeonju, often dubbed the “city of taste” in Korea, I was thrilled and utterly surprised to learn that “The Solitary Gourmet” had chosen a restaurant in my hometown for their Korean episode. But the real shocker? It was Tobang, a 백반 (Baekban) restaurant literally right in front of my parents’ apartment! Growing up in this neighborhood, I’ve passed by Tobang countless times, but it never struck me as a place worthy of being featured in a globally recognized food drama. It’s just always been… there.

My curiosity piqued, I had to visit and experience this “Solitary Gourmet” approved restaurant for myself. Was it truly a hidden gem that even locals like myself had overlooked?

Dining at Tobang: A Taste of Authentic Korean Home-Style Meal

Walking into Tobang, it felt like stepping into a typical, cozy Korean diner. There were no fancy decorations or “Solitary Gourmet” banners – in fact, it looked just like any other local Baekban place. This unassuming atmosphere, in a way, added to its charm and authenticity.

The Star of the Show: Cheonggukjang Bibimbap

Just like in the drama, I ordered the 가정식 백반 (Gajeongsik Baekban – homemade set meal), and on this day, the main dish was 청국장 비빔밥 (Cheonggukjang Bibimbap). For just ₩7,000 (around $6 USD), the spread was incredible! A steaming bowl of Cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew), an array of delicious 반찬 (banchan – side dishes) including 잡채 (Japchae – glass noodles), 김치 (Kimchi), 나물 (Namul – seasoned vegetables), and of course, 제육볶음 (Jeyukbokkeum – stir-fried pork).

• Jeyukbokkeum (Stir-fried Pork): While not exceptionally unique, the Jeyukbokkeum was flavorful and satisfying, exceeding expectations for a side dish. It could easily be a main dish on its own.
• Cheonggukjang Bibimbap: The Cheonggukjang itself was mild, perhaps intentionally to be mixed with rice and other ingredients in the bibimbap. Following Goro’s lead from the drama, I mixed everything – rice, Cheonggukjang, vegetables, and even some Jeyukbokkeum and kimchi – into a hearty and flavorful bibimbap.

The taste? Honest and wholesome. It wasn’t about extravagant flavors, but rather the comforting, home-style taste that reminded me of a hearty meal at home. It was delicious in its simplicity, especially when everything was mixed together in the bibimbap.

Beyond the Food: Generosity and Warmth

What truly stood out at Tobang was not just the tasty and affordable food, but also the incredible generosity and warm hospitality. The portions were generous, the side dishes plentiful, and the service was incredibly fast. When I was finishing my meal and still wanted more, the owner kindly offered to warm up the Cheonggukjang and even gave me an extra bowl of rice and more Jeyukbokkeum, all without any extra charge! This kind of heartwarming 인심 (Insim – generosity, kindness) truly made the dining experience special.

Final Verdict: A Must-Visit Hidden Gem in Jeonju

While Tobang might not boast Michelin-star cuisine, it offers something far more valuable: a taste of authentic, affordable Korean home-style cooking with incredible generosity and warmth. It’s a place where you can enjoy a satisfying and heartwarming meal without breaking the bank.

Whether you are a local resident or a tourist exploring Jeonju, I highly recommend adding Tobang to your list. It’s a chance to experience the kind of everyday Korean restaurant that truly captures the spirit of “The Solitary Gourmet” – a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Restaurant Information: Tobang (토방)

• Location: Jeollabuk-do Jeonju-si Wansan-gu Pyeonghwa-dong 1-ga, near Kolon Apartment (전라북도 전주시 완산구 평화동1가 코오롱아파트 근처)
• Cuisine: Baekban (Korean Set Meal)
• Main Dish Featured in “The Solitary Gourmet”: Cheonggukjang Bibimbap
• Price: Around ₩7,000 for Baekban
• Rating: 4.5 / 5 (Based on overall experience – delicious, affordable, generous, and heartwarming)