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Yang Sikgwan Restaurant: A 15-Year-Old Kimchi Jjigae Hotspot Loved by Office Workers in Seoul

Hidden away in Seoul’s bustling office district, Yang Sikgwan (양 식관) is a true gem that has been serving up delicious and authentic Korean cuisine for 15 years. This unassuming restaurant, whose name simply means “Dining Hall,” has earned a loyal following, especially among local office workers and even journalists known for their discerning palates. Recently featured on MBN, a Korean broadcasting station, Yang Sikgwan is recognized as a true 맛집 (mat-jib), a local term for a must-visit, delicious restaurant.

A Taste of Authentic Korean Home Cooking

Stepping into Yang Sikgwan feels like entering a cozy, familiar space. While the restaurant might look a bit 오래되 보인다 (old) as mentioned in a recent visit, this only adds to its charm and hints at its long history of serving quality food. The heart of Yang Sikgwan’s menu is undoubtedly their Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개). They proudly proclaim to only use top-grade domestic pork (“안태지 1등급만 취급한다”) and even showcase photos of their kimchi-making process, highlighting their commitment to fresh, quality ingredients.

What sets their Kimchi Jjigae apart? According to the owner, the secret lies in the addition of Gochujang (고추장), Korean chili paste. While many Kimchi Jjigae recipes avoid Gochujang, Yang Sikgwan’s version incorporates it subtly, adding depth and a unique savory flavor profile without being overly spicy or muddy. The result is a rich, flavorful broth that is both comforting and invigorating. As one reviewer enthusiastically exclaimed, “국물 너무 좋다!” (The soup is so good!).

Must-Try Dishes at Yang Sikgwan

Beyond their signature Kimchi Jjigae, Yang Sikgwan offers a delightful array of Korean comfort food. Here are some dishes you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

• Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개): The undisputed star. Made with high-quality pork, homemade kimchi, and a touch of gochujang for a unique and deeply flavorful experience.
• 계란말이 (Gyeranmari – Egg Roll): A perfectly executed classic. Simple yet satisfying, Yang Sikgwan’s egg roll is praised for its “오리지널리티,” its authentic, no-frills flavor, focusing on the pure taste of egg with minimal additions like carrots and scallions. It’s described as “딱 제가 좋아하는 맛이에요” (exactly the taste I like).
• 제육볶음 (Jeyuk Bokkeum – Spicy Stir-fried Pork): Part of the “밥도둑 삼인방” (rice thief trio) along with Kimchi Jjigae and Egg Roll, this spicy pork dish is guaranteed to stimulate your appetite.
• 쭈꾸미 볶음 (Jukkumi Bokkeum – Spicy Stir-fried Baby Octopus): For spice lovers, the Jukkumi Bokkeum is a must-try. Yang Sikgwan uses domestic Korean baby octopus (“국내산”) and a chili powder-based spicy sauce that delivers a clean, delicious heat that builds gradually.

Don’t forget to try their 야채 고로케 (Yachae Goroke – Vegetable Croquette) and 살고 박 (Salgo-bak), old-fashioned snacks that are a delightful throwback. They also offer a variety of 나물 (Namul – seasoned vegetables) and hearty 된장찌개 (Doenjang Jjigae – Soybean Paste Stew), showcasing the breadth of authentic Korean home-style cooking.

Location and General Impression

While the exact address isn’t explicitly mentioned in the text, Yang Sikgwan is located in an area frequented by office workers and journalists in Seoul. It’s described as a long-standing local favorite, suggesting a central, accessible location within the city’s business or media districts.

General Rating: Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews and enthusiastic descriptions in the text, Yang Sikgwan receives a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s praised for its authentic flavors, quality ingredients, generous portions, and comforting atmosphere.

If you are looking for a truly authentic and delicious Korean dining experience in Seoul, especially if you’re craving a top-notch Kimchi Jjigae, make sure to visit Yang Sikgwan. You’ll be joining a long line of satisfied locals and discovering a hidden gem that truly deserves its “맛집” title.

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