The Historic BudaeJjigae Spot 🍲🔥
If you’re a fan of Budae Jjigae (a.k.a. Army Stew), you gotta know where it all began. This isn’t just any stew—it’s a piece of history simmering in a spicy, savory broth.
📍 “Odeng Sikdang” Where It All Started
Back in 1960, a small street food stall in Uijeongbu, near a U.S. military base, was just selling fish cakes. Soldiers from the base started bringing over surplus ham, sausage, and bacon. Mix that up with Korean essentials like kimchi and gochujang, and BOOM—Budae Jjigae was born.
The OG spot still stands in the same location today, proudly keeping its original name from its street stall days. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a legacy. They’ve stayed true to the original recipe, keeping that nostalgic taste alive for over six decades. The place even kept its humble, no-frills atmosphere, making every bite feel like a taste of history.
🎬 Featured in Pop Culture
- If you’ve ever read the legendary Korean food manga Sikgaek by Heo Young-man, you’ll know this place has serious food cred. It’s been recognized as a must-visit spot for authentic Budae Jjigae.
- And if you’re more of a visual person, check out 육식맨’s detailed review of this legendary restaurant.
🍜 The Real Budae Jjigae Experience
Ask any true BudaeJjigae fan, and they’ll tell you—the real MVP is the ramen(noodle). That springy, perfectly chewy goodness soaks up all the bold, spicy, umami-rich flavors of the broth. It’s the first thing you should dive into before it gets too soft. Trust us, timing is everything.
🔥 Step 1: Ramen comes first. Don’t wait. Scoop up a bundle while it’s still firm and bouncy. Let the rich, spicy broth coat every strand before slurping it down. BBU’s tip? Add a slice of American cheese on top and watch it melt into the noodles, adding a creamy, indulgent twist.
🍖 Step 2: The protein party. Next up, go for the hearty stuff—plump mandu bursting with juicy filling, thick slices of spam, smokey sausages, and tender bacon. These aren’t just toppings; they’re the soul of BudaeJjigae, bringing that perfect mix of salty, savory goodness.
🍚 Step 3: The grand finale—rice and broth. Once you’ve devoured the noodles and proteins, it’s time to go all in. Mix a bowl of rice into the bubbling stew, letting it soak up every last drop of that spicy, meaty broth. This is where the magic happens—the ultimate comfort food moment. If you’re feeling extra, crack a raw egg in, stir it up, and let the residual heat create a rich, velvety texture.
Bonus round? Pair everything with some crunchy, well-fermented kimchi that is already in for the perfect spicy-sour balance. One bite and you’ll understand why BudaeJjigae isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.
🏙️ Where We Had It
Even though the OG spot is in Uijeongbu, we hit up their branch at Lotte World Mall in Jamsil. If you’re around the area and craving a proper traditional BudaeJjigae, this place is a must.
Jamsil branch : Lotte World Mall 6F <Google map><naver map>
Main Uijeongbu : <Google map><naver map>
BBU’s Opinion : Korea is packed with incredible Budae Jjigae spots, so calling this the best would be a stretch. But if you’re all about soaking in history and tradition with every bite, this is the place to be. This spot isn’t just about flavor—it’s about the vibe, the legacy, and a taste of where it all began. 🔥🍲
If you are interested with our other food picks, <click here!>
Appendix :
If you visit the annex of the main branch in Uijeongbu, you’ll see numerous autographs left by famous figures over the years as you walk up the stairs.
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