Discover Hidden Gem: Fresh Mackerel Sashimi and Warm Hospitality at This Seoul Neighborhood Restaurant

Looking for an authentic and heartwarming dining experience in Seoul? Let me introduce you to a charming, long-standing seafood restaurant tucked away in my neighborhood. While not extravagant in size, this place wins hearts with its exceptionally fresh mackerel sashimi (고등어회), a rare find, and the incredibly generous hospitality of its owners. Let’s dive into my review of this delightful local eatery!

A Taste of Japan in a Cozy Korean Setting

The restaurant’s menu, presented in a quaint style reminiscent of a Japanese izakaya, boasts a variety of fresh seafood. From familiar favorites like flatfish (광어) and rockfish (우럭) to their star attraction, mackerel, there’s something for every seafood lover. On this visit, I opted for the “medium” size of their Assorted Sashimi Platter (활어 모듬회 중).

Before the main event, we were treated to a delightful array of side dishes. Fresh fruits, ssam vegetables for wrapping, and vibrant flying fish roe were beautifully arranged. The owner even offered us something “good for men’s stamina,” which we gladly accepted! To accompany our meal, we ordered soju, which came with a unique twist – pomegranate! Adding a splash of pomegranate juice to the soju enhanced the drink with a refreshing sweetness, a perfect complement to the fresh seafood.

Generous Portions and Delightful Surprises

While enjoying our first drinks, a complimentary steamed egg (계란찜) arrived, soft and savory. The initial setup also included a generous platter of fresh vegetables and flying fish roe – perfect for creating little wraps and enjoying before the sashimi arrived. Many regulars, I’ve noticed, are big fans of these pre-sashimi delights!

The Star of the Show: Mackerel Sashimi and Assorted Delights

Finally, the Assorted Sashimi Platter arrived, a feast for the eyes and the palate. The presentation was impeccable, arranged on a beautifully crafted plate adorned with charming, rustic decorations collected by the owner herself. Our platter featured flounder (도다리), mullet (숭어), flatfish (광어), and, of course, the prized mackerel sashimi on either side. The thick slices promised a satisfying and flavorful experience.

While mackerel sashimi is becoming more widely available thanks to aquaculture, this restaurant’s version in the University Village area stands out. Instead of the usual ssamjang or gochujang, they serve mackerel sashimi with a special sesame-based sauce, a unique blend created by the owner. This sauce was incredibly delicious, enhancing not only the mackerel but also the other sashimi on the platter.

Although I initially came for the mackerel, the flounder, mullet, and flatfish were equally fresh and flavorful. The platter also included complimentary sushi, with the selection varying each time. The sushi is so good, in fact, that it’s a popular standalone menu item. The slight sweetness of the sushi rice was perfectly balanced, making it a true highlight. We enjoyed it so much we considered ordering extra sushi later!

Family Warmth and Heartfelt Service

As we were enjoying our meal, we ran out of pomegranate juice and were promptly offered a refill. It’s these small touches that make this place special. University Village Restaurant is family-run, with the kind and welcoming female owner greeting guests and her two sons managing the kitchen. The owner, a former teacher, exudes warmth and genuine hospitality, often surprising guests with small gifts – a testament to her caring nature and adding to the overall delightful experience.

The restaurant is cozy, making it ideal for smaller groups of up to four people. The intimate setting, combined with the delicious food and warm service, creates a truly enjoyable dining atmosphere. Later, a friend joined us, and we added Spicy Fish Stew (매운탕) to our order (a reasonable ₩10,000 extra). The maeuntang was a welcome addition – rich, flavorful, and perfect for a chilly evening. We added ramen noodles to soak up the delicious broth. The stew was perfectly seasoned, needing no extra additions, and was a fantastic way to conclude our meal. Though tempted to order a second helping of ramen noodles in that incredible broth, we decided to save room for next time!

Final Thoughts

This hidden gem in University Village is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. From the incredibly fresh mackerel sashimi and unique sesame sauce to the heartwarming hospitality of the family owners, this place is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Korean seafood and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend seeking out this local favorite for your next Seoul dining adventure!