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Tag: korean restaurant

Korean Restaurant #4: Budae Jjigae – The Ultimate Korean Historic restaurant, “Odeng Sikdang”
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.

Branch at Lotte World Mall in Jamsil

📍 “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.
Menu

Ban Chan, and How it looks first

Boom! Magical Jjigae!

🍜 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.
Table of Contents
The Historic BudaeJjigae Spot 🍲🔥
📍 “Odeng Sikdang” Where It All Started
🎬 Featured in Pop Culture
🍜 The Real Budae Jjigae Experience
🏙️ Where We Had It
Appendix :
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- how to eat budae jjigae like a local
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February 5, 2025
Korean Restaurant #3: Seolleongtang – The Ultimate Korean Comfort Food
When you’re craving a hearty Korean meal, Seolleongtang (설렁탕) is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that warms not just your stomach but also your soul, making it a go-to option for many Koreans, especially during colder months or when you’re in need of some rejuvenation.

Recently, We stopped by a 24-hour Korean restaurant, Yeongdong Seolleongtang, after visiting the <Wonjo Masan Halmae Ganjang Gejang> nearby. My sister had recently given birth and needed nourishing, simple meals. Since she couldn’t eat everything, I thought Seolleongtang would be a perfect choice as a healthy and delicious pick-me-up.

I ordered two bowls of Seolleongtang and a plate of boiled pork slices (sooyuk) for takeout. Although I didn’t get to eat it myself, I wanted to share this experience because this dish is too iconic not to talk about!

🥣 What is Seolleongtang?

It is a traditional Korean soup made by simmering ox bones for hours until the broth turns a rich, milky white. Its mild flavor makes it the perfect customizable comfort food for any palate. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a favorite for those seeking a health-boosting meal.

💡 Why You’ll Love It
- 🌟 Light yet Flavorful:
  The broth is delicately seasoned but rich in taste, offering a wholesome and nourishing experience.
- 🥩 Hearty Ingredients:
  Inside the bowl, you’ll find tender slices of beef and thin wheat noodles, creating a filling and satisfying meal with every bite.
- 🔧 Customizable to Your Taste:
  - Whether you like it simple or jazzed up with salt, pepper, green onions, or even a touch of kimchi juice, it’s all about making it your own!
For me, this is all about customizing to perfection! Here’s how I like to enjoy it:
- Add a generous sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of red chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Throw in a hefty handful of sliced green onions (the more, the better).
- Sometime, I’ll even pour in a little kimchi juice for that tangy punch.
If you’re not into spicy food, stick to green onions and a dash of salt—it’s all about tailoring it to your taste. But remember, the broth is served piping hot, so take your time to savor every sip!

🥬 Kimchi & Radish Cubes (깍두기): The Ultimate Sidekicks

In Korean restaurants, the quality of kimchi and kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi) is often a make-or-break factor. If the side dishes are top-notch, you know you’re in a legit spot. At this place, both were on point—spicy, tangy, and perfectly fermented. They paired beautifully with the Seolleongtang, balancing the mild flavors of the soup with a burst of flavor.

📍 Why Yeongdong Seolleongtang Stands Out
- Celebrity Reputation🌟: This spot got the ultimate shoutout on Sung Si-kyung’s YouTube series “Eat’s Okay”—aka the man’s go-to place for seriously good eats. 🥢🔥 If it’s good enough for him, you know it’s a vibe. 😎✨
- Open 24 Hours🕒 : Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a midnight snack, you can always count on Yeongdong Seolleongtang.
  - 🚨 Break Time: Closed from 3 PM to 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly!
- Spacious Parking🚗 : No need to stress about parking, a rare luxury in Seoul.
- Location: Near Sinsa Station, right in the heart of Seoul
  - <Google map> <Naver map>
💸 Price Point: Worth It?

Admittedly, the sooyuk (boiled pork slices, 52,000 KRW) is on the pricier side—unsurprising since it’s in the bustling Gangnam area, where food tends to cost more. But as a treat for my sister and her family, it was worth it. She later told me they enjoyed it thoroughly, which made my day!

🌟 Final Thoughts

Seolleongtang isn’t just food; it’s an experience—a bowl of warmth, comfort, and customizable goodness. Whether you like it spicy, salty, or plain, it adapts to your style. And don’t forget, kimchi and kkakdugi are non-negotiable companions for the full Korean dining experience!

If you’re ever in Korea, or if there’s a Korean restaurant near you, make sure to try this humble yet heartwarming dish. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to dive into Korean cuisine.

😋 Have you tried Seolleongtang before? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Let me know below! 🥢
Table of Contents
🥣 What is Seolleongtang?
💡 Why You’ll Love It
🥬 Kimchi & Radish Cubes (깍두기): The Ultimate Sidekicks
📍 Why Yeongdong Seolleongtang Stands Out
💸 Price Point: Worth It?
🌟 Final Thoughts
Related Keywords
Related Keywords
- Authentic seolleongtang restaurants in Seoul
- Best places to eat ox bone soup in Seoul
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- Must-try seolleongtang restaurants for food enthusiasts in Seoul
- Seoul’s hidden gems for ox bone soup
- Seolleongtang tasting tour in Seoul
- Best local restaurants serving seolleongtang in Seoul
- Authentic Korean comfort food: Seolleongtang in Seoul
January 27, 2025
Korean Restaurant #2 – Indulge in the Irresistible Flavor of Korean Soul Food: Ganjang Gejang (Soy Marinated Crab)
Hey, Explorer!

If you’re a foodie exploring Korea, you’re in for a treat! Today, let’s talk about Ganjang Gejang (Soy Sauce Marinated Crab) from the famous Wonjo Masan Halmae Ganjang Gejang restaurant near Sinsa Station in Seoul.

What’s Ganjang Gejang? 🦀

Ganjang Gejang is a traditional Korean delicacy that involves marinating raw crab in a rich soy sauce base. It’s often referred to as a “rice thief” (밥도둑) because its incredibly addictive flavor pairs so perfectly with plain rice that you can’t stop eating it! 🍚

Why It’s So Loved:
- 🦀 Umami Explosion: The soy sauce marinade of Ganjang Gejang brings out deep, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, making every bite irresistible.
- 🔥 Bold Spices with Yangnyeom Gejang: For spice lovers, Yangnyeom Gejang (Spicy Marinated Crab) offers a fiery twist. The crab is marinated in a rich, gochugaru-based (red chili powder) sauce that’s sweet, spicy, and addictive.
- 🌿 Freshness: Both Ganjang Gejang and Yangnyeom Gejang highlight the natural tenderness and juiciness of raw crab, with flavors that melt in your mouth.
- 🇰🇷 Unique Korean Experience: These dishes are one-of-a-kind, reflecting the bold and rich flavors of traditional Korean cuisine. Whether you prefer the umami-packed soy sauce version or the spicy chili marinade, it’s a true culinary adventure!
Before we begin : Why This Restaurant is Famous(Wonjo Masan Halmae Ganjang Gejang)🦀🍲

This restaurant is well-known thanks to the popular Korean mukbang YouTuber, Tzuyang! 🌟 Her visit showcased the restaurant’s signature dishes and turned it into a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Why Choose Wonjo Masan Halmae Ganjang Gejang? 🍴
- “Wonjo” means “original,”
- “Halmae” translates to “grandma,” representing the authentic, home-cooked flavors that have been passed down for generations.
- With 35 years of tradition, now managed by the third generation, this restaurant has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors in Gangnam.
Restaurant Details 🚗

Parking:
- Limited to 4 spots out front.
- Valet parking is available for added convenience.
Location:
- Near Sinsa Station, right in the heart of Seoul’s famous Agujjim Street
- Google Map | Naver Map
When you search on Google, it shows up as Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim, known for both Agujjim (Spicy Braised Monkfish) and Ganjang Gejang (Soy Sauce Marinated Crab). Today, I’m highlighting Ganjang Gejang, but stay tuned for Agujjim in the next post! 🦀🔥

Tablet Ordering System
- You can browse food photos on a tablet and place your order conveniently. For Chinese visitors, a staff member fluent in Chinese is available to assist.
Weekend Peak Hours
- Expect a wait during busy weekend hours. As shown in the photos, you can add your name to the waiting list and relax in the covered tent area, which is warm and comfortable.
👉 Ready to dive into the flavors? Let’s explore! ✨

How to Enjoy Like a Pro 🍚🦀

1️⃣ Start Smart: Prep Your Taste Buds
- Begin with side dishes like seaweed, kelp, or eggs to stabilize your blood sugar and prep your palate. This is really important. To avoid a blood sugar spike, I always make sure to eat some dietary fiber, seaweed, or nuts before the main meal. 🥗🌿✨
- Want to know why seaweed is so good for you? Check out this post!
2️⃣ The Main Event: Dive into the Crab
- Put on your disposable gloves and carefully crack open the crab.
- If it’s tricky to eat straight from the shell, squeeze the contents onto steamed rice for maximum flavor.
3️⃣ Mix and Match
- Pair the crab with a scoop of rice or wrap it in seaweed for a burst of flavor!
- Be sure to order the Crab Roe Rice (게알백반)—it’s a game-changer! 🦀🍚✨
4️⃣ Don’t Skip the Finale: The Shell Bowl Tradition
- After finishing the crab, scoop rice into the crab shell, mix it with leftover juices, and savor every bite.
- This is the “국룰” (golden rule) for Koreans—it’s a must-try!
Appendix

“A scene where SEVENTEEN mixes rice into a crab shell filled with soy sauce marinade (Ganjang Gejang). Iconic K-food meets K-pop vibes—pure gold!” 🎤🦀🍚✨
Table of Contents
Hey, Explorer!
How to Enjoy Like a Pro 🍚🦀
Appendix
Related Keywords
Related Keywords
- Authentic Korean soy sauce marinated crab in Seoul
- Best ganjang gejang restaurants in Seoul
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- Where to eat ganjang gejang in Seoul
- Must-try ganjang gejang spots for food enthusiasts in Seoul
- Seoul’s hidden gems for soy sauce marinated crab
- Ganjang gejang tasting tour in Seoul
- Best local restaurants serving ganjang gejang in Seoul
- Authentic Korean seafood delicacies: Ganjang gejang in Seoul
January 26, 2025
Korean Restaurant #1: Discover Seoul’s Top 1 Sundae Soup Spot, CheongWaOk
Discover Seoul’s Top 3 Sundae Soup Spots: CheongWaOk! 🇰🇷🍲

Korean restaurant! Have you ever seen scenes in Korean dramas where characters enjoy a warm, steaming bowl of Sundae soup? This hearty soup is a Korean comfort food made with pork broth, pork meat, and sundae (Korean sausage filled with sticky rice, glass noodles, and spices). It’s also a go-to hangover cure for many Koreans after a night out.

BBU’s Opinion : From a local’s perspective, it’s delicious, but I think foreigners should give it a try too. If you’re feeling confident, why not take on the challenge? lol

What Makes Sundae Soup Special as Korean Restaurant?

For visitors to Korea, it is an excellent dish to try for a taste of local flavors. In Seoul, the top 3 soup restaurants are Nongmin Baekam Wang Sundae, CheongWaOk, and Hamgyeongdo Glutinous Rice Sundae.

Having visited all three, my recommendation for first-timers—especially foreigners—is CheongWaOk, where you can enjoy a clean, accessible introduction to this classic dish.

Why CheongWaOk Is Perfect for Foreigners 🌟

1️⃣ Authentic Korean Atmosphere

Cheong-Wa-Ok’s design combines traditional hanok-style architecture with modern elegance. The soothing BGM of K-pop rearranged in a royal court music style creates an immersive cultural experience.

2️⃣ Clean and Mild Flavors

For those new to Sundae, CheongWaOk’s broth is free of strong odors, offering a mild, savory taste. If you’re not keen on trying pork intestines, you can customize your order to include only the sundae(sausage or meat). The spiciness level is also adjustable, making it a versatile choice. If you are not good at spicy, say NONO SPICY.

3️⃣ A Celebrity-Approved Spot

CheongWaOk was featured on the hit TV show ‘How Do You Play?’ with Yoo Jae-suk, Korea’s beloved MC. It’s also frequented by many other Korean celebrities, adding to its fame.

Yoo Jae-suk is ordering Spicy Sundae Soup in CheongWaOk in Eulji-ro branch

CheongWaOk: Essential Information 🏠

Location & Exterior

The restaurant’s modern and clean exterior makes it easy to spot. Even first-time visitors will find it welcoming and simple to navigate.
- Main Headquarter Address: 청와옥 (Cheongwaok)
  - Songpa-gu, Seoul서울특별시 송파구 위례성대로 48
  - 48, Wiryeseong-daero, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
  - <Naver map link>, <Google map link>
- Hours: Daily, 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Varies depends of branch)
- Many different branches! if you are staying near City Hall, Eulji-ro branch may be better to you.
  - Seoul, Jung District, Eulji-ro, 110 1층, <Google map link>
BBU’s Tip
Expect long lines during lunch hours! This main branch is so crowded with people any time, Use the <Tabling app> for remote queueing to save time.

Menu Recommendations 🍴

This is a menu that stands outside.

1️⃣ Classic Soup

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, start with the basic version. It’s mild, flavorful, and easy to enjoy. First one is the classic one.

2️⃣ Sundae & Meat Only

Not into pork intestines? No problem! Simply ask for “Sundae and meat only, please”, and they’ll customize your bowl.

3️⃣ Side Dishes

This soup is accompanied by delicious sides like kkakdugi (radish kimchi), mu saengchae (spicy radish strips), and seasoned chives, which perfectly complement the flavors of the soup. You can refill them as much as you want, but SELF!

mu saengchae (spicy radish strips)

kkakdugi (radish kimchi)

How to Enjoy Like a Local 🥢

1️⃣ Cool the Sundae First

Sundae can be extremely hot, so take it out of the broth and let it cool before eating to avoid burning your mouth.

2️⃣ Add Perilla Powder

Sprinkle perilla seed powder into your soup for a nutty, savory twist.

BBu’s secet tip : Do you see how much I put powders in it? Ya!! Lovely!

3️⃣ Top with Seasoned Chives

Add a generous portion of seasoned chives for a burst of flavor that elevates every spoonful.

Experience the Warm Taste of Korea!

CheongWaOk is the ideal place for foreigners to enjoy this magical soup for the first time. If you’re traveling in Seoul and looking for a hearty, comforting meal, don’t miss the chance to visit.

Warm your soul with a bowl of soup and dive deeper into the heart of Korean cuisine! 🇰🇷🍲

APENDIX :

“The scene where Lee Min-young and Na In-woo eat Sundae soup in “Marry My Husband““
Table of Contents
Discover Seoul’s Top 3 Sundae Soup Spots: CheongWaOk! 🇰🇷🍲
What Makes Sundae Soup Special as Korean Restaurant?
Why CheongWaOk Is Perfect for Foreigners 🌟
1️⃣ Authentic Korean Atmosphere
2️⃣ Clean and Mild Flavors
3️⃣ A Celebrity-Approved Spot
CheongWaOk: Essential Information 🏠
Location & Exterior
Menu Recommendations 🍴
1️⃣ Classic Soup
2️⃣ Sundae & Meat Only
3️⃣ Side Dishes
How to Enjoy Like a Local 🥢
1️⃣ Cool the Sundae First
2️⃣ Add Perilla Powder
3️⃣ Top with Seasoned Chives
Experience the Warm Taste of Korea!
Related Keywords
Other unrelated posts you might be interested in,

<click here>! This link has nothing to do with Locals Taste.

Thank you!

Related Keywords
- Best sundae soup restaurants in Seoul
- Authentic Korean sundae soup experiences in Seoul
- Top-rated sundae gukbap spots in Seoul
- Where to find traditional sundae soup in Seoul
- CheongWaOk sundae soup review in Seoul
- Must-try sundae soup places for foreigners in Seoul
- Seoul’s top 3 sundae soup restaurants
- Korean comfort food: Best sundae soup in Seoul
- Celebrity-approved sundae soup spots in Seoul
- How to enjoy sundae soup like a local in Seoul
January 17, 2025