Category: Seoul

Restaurant guides for Seoul neighborhoods popular with visitors.

  • Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon: Dan Dan Noodles & Honey Chashu Lo Mein

    Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon: Dan Dan Noodles & Honey Chashu Lo Mein

    In short

    Sammi Tantanmyeon (삼미탄탄면) Sinchon is a roomy Chinese noodle shop about 270 m from Sinchon Station Exit 3 (Line 2). The signature chashu dan dan noodles cost ₩10,500 (about $7.50), and the mild honey sauce chashu lo mein (₩13,000) is a hit with kids. It is open 11:00–22:20 daily and suits families, friends and solo diners who like a bit of heat.

    When people in Korea think of Chinese food, they usually picture jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup). Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon is a nice change from that. The menu is built around dan dan noodles, lo mein, rice bowls and dim sum, and the shop says it aims for Sichuan-style dan dan noodles adjusted for Korean tastes.

    We went for a weekend lunch with the kids after a long “what should we eat” debate. The first thing I noticed was the space: big, bright and comfortable, with an interior that honestly made me feel like I had stepped into a noodle shop in Taiwan. Even in the middle of busy Sinchon, it felt like a short trip abroad.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name삼미탄탄면 신촌점 (Sammi Tantanmyeon, Sinchon branch)
    • Address1F, 16 Myeongmul-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
      서울 서대문구 명물길 16 1층
    • SubwaySinchon Station (Line 2), Exit 3, about 270 m (3 to 4 minutes on foot)
    • HoursDaily 11:00–22:20, last order 22:00
    • PriceNoodles ₩9,500–13,000 (about $7–9), dim sum ₩9,500, larger dishes ₩13,000–26,000
    • Good forFamilies with kids, spicy-noodle fans, a casual lunch in Sinchon, solo meals
    • PhoneNot listed on Naver Place
    • NotesNo parking (use nearby paid lots). Group tables for 4 to 6. Takeout available. Wheelchair-accessible entrance.
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    Come out of Sinchon Station Exit 3 and walk toward the Hyundai Department Store U-Plex building, which takes about two minutes. In front of U-Plex, look to your right and you will see an ABC-Mart shoe store. Sammi Tantanmyeon is right next to it, with a white sign showing its Chinese name, 三味担担面.

    📍 Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon (삼미탄탄면 신촌점), 1F, 16 Myeongmul-gil, Seodaemun-gu · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Storefront of Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon with its Chinese sign 三味担担面
    The white sign reads 三味担担面, the Chinese name of Sammi Tantanmyeon.

    Inside there are booths along wood-paneled walls plus plenty of tables, and the spacing is generous. Even with kids at a busy weekend lunch, it never felt cramped or noisy.

    Booth seating and wood-paneled walls inside Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon
    Booth seating along the wall.
    Spacious dining room with tiled floor at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon
    The dining room is large, so groups and families fit easily.

    What is dan dan noodles?

    Dan dan noodles (担担面, tantanmyeon in Korean) are a Sichuan street noodle dish. The name comes from the shoulder pole vendors once used to carry their noodles around. Here the broth is red with chili oil and rounded out with peanut sauce, and the shop explains that its chashu is pork neck simmered in a house sauce and then rested so the flavor soaks in. The noodles are pulled when you order rather than prepared in advance.

    What we ordered

    We ordered three dishes and shared them: the chashu dan dan noodles, the honey sauce chashu lo mein and the pork and garlic scape rice bowl.

    1. Chashu dan dan noodles (차슈탄탄면, chasyu tantanmyeon)

    This one is genuinely spicy, and that is exactly why I liked it. The chili-oil broth clings to the noodles and I slurped through the bowl without stopping. The heat is strong but the finish is clean, not heavy or muddy, so you keep reaching for another bite. The chashu was tender with no gamey smell, and the pork flavor still came through the spicy broth.

    Chashu dan dan noodles in red chili oil broth at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon
    Chashu dan dan noodles: red chili-oil broth, chashu and minced pork on top.

    It is the bowl I would order on a day when I want something fiery to shake off stress. Next time I want to finish the leftover broth with rice, because it would work so well.

    Lifting noodles and chashu pork from the spicy dan dan broth at Sammi Tantanmyeon
    The chashu stays soft even sitting in the spicy broth.

    2. Honey sauce chashu lo mein (허니소스 차슈 로미엔, heoni soseu chasyu romien)

    This was the dish I fell for first. The chashu is sweet, salty and tender, with no porky smell at all, and the sauce coats medium-thick noodles evenly. One bite of the pork honestly made my eyes go wide. It looks bold and heavily sauced, yet it does not taste harsh, and I did not get tired of it all the way to the bottom of the bowl. Even the bok choy on the side was good enough that nothing was left.

    Honey sauce chashu lo mein with sliced pork and bok choy at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon
    Honey sauce chashu lo mein, our favorite of the day.

    The kids loved this one. One of mine is usually picky about meat, but asked for this before anything else. It is sweet without being greasy, so it works for adults too. If you are eating Chinese food in Sinchon with children, this is the bowl to order.

    Close-up of glossy honey sauce chashu pork over lo mein noodles
    Glossy honey-glazed chashu over the noodles.

    3. Pork and garlic scape rice bowl (돼지고기 마늘쫑 덮밥, dwaejigogi maneuljjong deopbap)

    The portion is generous on both the topping and the rice, so one bowl is a full meal. Like the other dishes, it looks intense but tastes clean right to the end. The garlic scapes keep their aroma and a nice crunch, and the minced pork is moist rather than dry, which makes it go perfectly with rice.

    Pork and garlic scape rice bowl served on a tray at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon
    The pork and garlic scape rice bowl.
    Minced pork with garlic scapes and red chili next to white rice
    Minced pork, garlic scapes and red chili next to plain rice.

    Mix the topping into the rice and take a big spoonful: the garlic scape fragrance and the savory pork come up together. It is a good pick if you do not feel like noodles or want something filling.

    A spoonful of rice mixed with pork and garlic scapes
    Mixed and ready to eat.

    Menu and prices

    DishPrice
    Chashu dan dan noodles
    차슈탄탄면
    ₩10,500
    ~$7.50
    Chashu dry dan dan noodles
    차슈비빔면
    ₩9,500
    ~$6.80
    Honey sauce chashu lo mein
    허니소스 차슈 로미엔
    ₩13,000
    ~$9.30
    Honey sauce chashu rice bowl
    허니소스 차슈 덮밥
    ₩13,000
    ~$9.30
    Pork and garlic scape rice bowl
    돼지고기 마늘쫑 덮밥
    ₩9,800
    ~$7
    Seafood chow mein
    해물차우면
    ₩11,800
    ~$8.40
    Shumai / Xiaolongbao (dim sum)
    쇼마이 / 소롱포
    ₩9,500
    ~$6.80
    Mapo tofu
    마라두부
    ₩10,900
    ~$7.80
    Youlinji (fried chicken, lemon soy sauce)
    유린기
    ₩15,000
    ~$10.70
    Steamed garlic shrimp with glass noodles
    마늘새우찜
    ₩23,800
    ~$17

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. Prices are from Naver Place (menu last updated by the shop in March 2026). Prices can change.

    Tips for visitors

    • Pick your spice level by dish. The dan dan noodles are hot; the lo mein and the garlic scape rice bowl are much easier on sensitive palates.
    • Share. Ordering a spicy bowl and a mild bowl and swapping back and forth gives a nice balance.
    • Give the kitchen a little time. The shop says dishes are cooked to order and noodles are pulled fresh, so food can take a bit longer at busy times.
    • Take the subway. There is no parking; Sinchon Station Exit 3 is a few minutes away.
    • Late lunch or dinner is fine. There is no break time listed, and last order is 22:00.
    • Ordering phrase: “Igeo juseyo” (이거 주세요) means “This one, please.” Pointing at the menu works perfectly.

    Is it kid-friendly?

    For us, yes. The room is spacious, so we found seats easily even at weekend lunchtime, and the honey sauce chashu lo mein went down very well with the kids. Skip the dan dan noodles for little ones, since they are clearly spicy.

    My verdict

    All three dishes had one thing in common: they look intense, but they taste clean. Get the chashu dan dan noodles if you want heat, the honey sauce chashu lo mein if you are with kids, and the pork and garlic scape rice bowl if you want a hearty meal. Add the big, comfortable room with its Taiwan-like feel, and Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon made for a very satisfying weekend lunch. It is an easy recommendation for a family meal or lunch with friends, and we plan to go back to try more of the menu.

    Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon FAQ

    Where is Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon?

    It is at 16 Myeongmul-gil, Seodaemun-gu, on the ground floor, about 270 m from Exit 3 of Sinchon Station (Line 2). Walk toward the Hyundai U-Plex building and look to the right for ABC-Mart; the restaurant is right next to it.

    What are Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon’s opening hours?

    Naver lists it as open every day from 11:00 to 22:20, with last order at 22:00. No break time is listed.

    How spicy are the dan dan noodles at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon?

    The chashu dan dan noodles are properly spicy, built on chili oil and a peanut sauce. If you do not handle heat well, the honey sauce chashu lo mein or the pork and garlic scape rice bowl are much gentler choices.

    What should I order at Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon?

    For a first visit I would share the chashu dan dan noodles (₩10,500), the honey sauce chashu lo mein (₩13,000) and the pork and garlic scape rice bowl (₩9,800). Together they cover spicy, sweet-savory and filling.

    Is Sammi Tantanmyeon Sinchon good for kids?

    It worked well for us. The dining room is roomy, so we sat comfortably with the kids on a weekend lunch, and the honey sauce chashu lo mein is mild and sweet enough that they finished their bowls.

    Exploring nearby? Try Seogwan Myeonok in Hongdae for Pyongyang cold noodles, or Hyunsuni in Yongsan for tteokbokki with kids. See all kid-friendly restaurant guides and Seoul restaurant guides.

    Visited: September 2026. Prices and hours last checked: October 19, 2026, on Naver. Please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.

  • Hyunsuni Yongsan: Tteokbokki Combo Near Sinyongsan Station (Kid-Friendly)

    Hyunsuni Yongsan: Tteokbokki Combo Near Sinyongsan Station (Kid-Friendly)

    In short

    Hyunsuni (현선이네) Yongsan is a popular tteokbokki and bunsik (Korean snack food) shop about 180 m from Sinyongsan Station, close to Yongsan I’Park Mall. Single tteokbokki costs ₩6,000 (about $4) with your choice of spice level, and combo sets bundle tteokbokki, sundae, mini gimbap and fritters. It is open 11:00–24:00 daily and has high chairs for kids.

    Tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes in a red, spicy-sweet sauce, is the most Korean snack you can eat, and Hyunsuni Yongsan is one of my regular places for it. This visit was special, though: it was my 7-year-old’s first time at a tteokbokki shop. When kids are small, spicy food keeps you away from places like this, so sitting across the table from my child here felt surprisingly new.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name현선이네 용산본점 (Hyunsuni, Yongsan main branch)
    • Address2-13 Hangang-daero 39-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
      서울 용산구 한강대로39길 2-13
    • SubwaySinyongsan Station (Line 4), Exit 5 or 6, about 180 m (3-minute walk)
    • HoursDaily 11:00–24:00, last order 22:40. Monday break 14:30–16:00
    • PriceTteokbokki ₩6,000 (about $4), sets ₩13,000–26,000
    • Good forFamilies with kids, a cheap and filling lunch, first-time tteokbokki eaters
    • ExtrasHigh chairs, group seating, takeout. No parking (use paid lots nearby)
    • Phone+82 507-1361-8901
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    Take Exit 5 of Sinyongsan Station (Line 4), walk a few steps to the crossroads, then head into the side street between a pub and a real estate office. The shop has a red roof and a yellow chimney, so it is hard to miss. Yongsan I’Park Mall and Yongsan Station are also within walking distance.

    📍 Hyunsuni Yongsan (현선이네 용산본점), 2-13 Hangang-daero 39-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Red-roofed storefront of Hyunsuni tteokbokki near Sinyongsan Station, Seoul

    We went at lunchtime on a weekend, and the room still felt relaxed, so my child had no trouble sitting comfortably through the meal.

    Order counter and menu screens inside Hyunsuni Yongsan

    What is tteokbokki?

    Tteokbokki (떡볶이) is cylinder-shaped rice cakes simmered in a gochujang-based sauce. It is usually served with other bunsik favorites: sundae (Korean sausage made with glass noodles), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) and twigim (fritters), which you dip into the tteokbokki sauce. Hyunsuni serves a broth-style tteokbokki, with more soupy sauce than the thick, sticky kind.

    What we ordered: the combo set

    We ordered the Hyunsuni combo set without thinking twice. It lets you try tteokbokki, sundae, mini gimbap and fritters in one go, and ours came with curly fish cake skewers in hot broth as well. It is a perfect order for a first visit or when you are eating with kids.

    Combo set at Hyunsuni Yongsan: mild broth tteokbokki, sundae, mini gimbap, fritters and curly fish cake skewers

    1. Mild broth tteokbokki (순한맛 국물떡볶이)

    Because of my child, I ordered the mild version. Mild still has a little kick, so I was a bit worried, but my 7-year-old kept drinking water and kept eating, a lot. Watching them reach for more of their very first tteokbokki made me oddly proud.

    The broth is savory enough to eat with a spoon, and the best part is dunking the fritters in it. Even for adults the mild level was not bland; I ended up finishing most of the bowl with my child. If you like heat, order the regular or a spicier level.

    Mild broth tteokbokki (rice cakes in a red, soupy sauce)

    2. Sundae (순대)

    We ordered the sundae without the offal that is often served on the side, just the sausage itself. It is great dipped in the tteokbokki broth, and my child ate it without any hesitation. If organ meat is not your thing, ask for “sundae only” too.

    Sliced sundae (Korean blood sausage) served without offal

    3. Mini gimbap (꼬마김밥)

    The little gimbap rolls are seasoned on the salty side, which makes them a good match for tteokbokki. Dip one lightly in the broth and the salty and spicy flavors come together. Having tteokbokki, sundae and gimbap on one table also made it fun for my child to pick and choose.

    Mini gimbap rolls with pickled radish and ham

    4. Fritters (튀김)

    The fritters were crisp and not greasy, so we could keep eating to the end. My pick of the day was the vegetable fritter: crunchy on its own and even better soaked in the broth. It was the first thing to disappear. The seaweed rolls and sweet potato fritters were good too. My child quickly learned to dip the fritters in the broth just like me.

    Crispy Korean fritters (twigim) from the combo set
    Vegetable fritter dipped in tteokbokki broth
    The vegetable fritter dipped in tteokbokki broth was my favorite bite.
    Curly fish cake skewers in hot fish cake broth
    The set we had also came with curly fish cakes in broth.

    One combo set was plenty for my child and me, so it also felt like good value. Next time I plan to add extra vegetable fritters.

    Menu and prices

    Prices from the shop’s current Naver menu:

    DishPrice
    Tteokbokki (mild, medium or very spicy)
    떡볶이 (순한맛/중간맛/매운맛)
    ₩6,000
    ~$4
    Hyunsuni set (tteokbokki, fritters, mini gimbap, sundae)
    현선이세트
    ₩23,000
    ~$16
    Hyunsuni combo set for 3 (adds 3 curly fish cakes)
    현선이콤보세트
    ₩26,000
    ~$19
    Baby set (half tteokbokki, 4 fritters, half sundae, 2 gimbap)
    베이비세트
    ₩13,000
    ~$9
    DIY tteokbokki hot pot for 2
    즉석떡볶이
    ₩22,000
    ~$16
    Homemade sundae
    수제순대
    ₩6,500
    ~$5
    Assorted fritters (5 pieces)
    모듬튀김
    ₩6,000
    ~$4
    Vegetable fritter (1 piece)
    야채튀김
    ₩1,200
    ~$1

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. Prices can change.

    Is it kid-friendly?

    Yes, and it is one of the easiest ways to introduce kids to Korean street food. There are high chairs, the mild tteokbokki is manageable for older kids (keep water nearby), and sundae, gimbap and fritters are not spicy at all. The baby set on the menu is a smaller portion designed for exactly this.

    We made it part of a Yongsan day out: my child played at a slime café in Yongsan I’Park Mall first, and then we walked over for lunch. Afterwards we promised each other to come back for another parent-and-kid date.

    Tips for visitors

    • Choose your spice level. “Sunhanmat” means mild; the shop says its very spicy level is four times hotter than Buldak noodles.
    • Dip everything. Fritters, sundae and gimbap all taste better soaked in the tteokbokki broth.
    • Take the subway. There is no parking; Sinyongsan Station is a 3-minute walk.
    • Monday break. The kitchen closes 14:30–16:00 on Mondays only.
    • Ordering phrase: “Sunhanmat-euro juseyo” means “Mild, please.”

    My verdict

    Hyunsuni Yongsan is a cheerful, affordable place to try tteokbokki the way Koreans actually eat it, with sundae, gimbap and crispy fritters to dip in the broth. It has long been a favorite of mine, and now it is also the place where my child ate tteokbokki for the first time. If you are exploring Yongsan, especially with kids, it is an easy and tasty stop.

    Hyunsuni Yongsan FAQ

    Where is Hyunsuni Yongsan?

    In an alley about 180 m from Sinyongsan Station (Line 4). From Exit 5, walk a few meters to the crossroads and take the side street; look for the yellow chimney and red roof.

    What are Hyunsuni Yongsan’s opening hours?

    11:00 to 24:00 every day, with last order at 22:40. On Mondays there is a break from 14:30 to 16:00.

    Is the tteokbokki at Hyunsuni Yongsan very spicy?

    You can choose the spice level. The mild version still has a little kick but my 7-year-old managed it with water. The “very spicy” option is described by the shop as four times hotter than Buldak.

    What should I order at Hyunsuni Yongsan?

    The combo set is the easiest choice: tteokbokki, sundae, mini gimbap, assorted fritters and curly fish cakes. Single-serving tteokbokki is ₩6,000.

    Is Hyunsuni Yongsan good for kids?

    Yes. It has high chairs, the mild tteokbokki is manageable for older children, and Yongsan I’Park Mall is a short walk away. There is no parking, so take the subway.

    More family-friendly meals: see all kid-friendly restaurant guides, or try Baekri Gomtang in Hongdae for a non-spicy beef soup.

    Hours and menu last checked: October 16, 2026, on Naver. Please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.

  • Nani Yeouido: Izakaya with Private Booths at Yeouido Station Exit 3

    Nani Yeouido: Izakaya with Private Booths at Yeouido Station Exit 3

    In short

    Nani is a Japanese-style izakaya on the 3rd floor of the S-Trenue building, about 80 m from Yeouido Station Exit 3 in Seoul’s business district. It is known for partitioned booth seating and drinking snacks such as beef tataki and yakisoba with Asahi draft beer. It opens Monday to Saturday from 17:00 to 02:00 and is closed on Sundays.

    Yeouido is Seoul’s finance district, packed with office towers, so after-work drinking spots fill up fast. I was meeting a friend I had not seen in a while and wanted somewhere close to the station where we could actually hear each other. Nani (나니) Yeouido turned out to be exactly that: an izakaya with partitioned seats, a view of the city at night, and snacks made for beer.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name나니 여의도점 (Nani Yeouido)
    • Address3F, S-Trenue Building, 37 Gukjegeumyung-ro 2-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
      서울 영등포구 국제금융로2길 37 에스트레뉴빌딩 3층
    • SubwayYeouido Station (Lines 5 and 9), Exit 3, about 80 m (1-minute walk)
    • HoursMon–Sat 17:00–02:00 (last order 01:00). Closed Sundays
    • PriceMost dishes ₩29,000–35,000 (about $21–25), meant for sharing
    • Good forAfter-work drinks, catching up with friends, small groups
    • ExtrasReservations on Naver (2–10 people), group seating, parking on B2–B3
    • Phone+82 507-1374-6007
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    Come out of Exit 3 of Yeouido Station and the S-Trenue building is right in front of you. Take the elevator to the 3rd floor. Because it is so close to the station, it is an easy meeting point after work, which matters in Yeouido, where it can be hard to find a table in the evening.

    📍 Nani Yeouido (나니 여의도점), 3F S-Trenue Building, 37 Gukjegeumyung-ro 2-gil, Seoul · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Japanese-style entrance of Nani izakaya on the 3rd floor of S-Trenue building, Yeouido
    The entrance already feels like a Japanese pub.

    The entrance is full of Japanese pub-style signs and decorations. Inside, the seats are separated by partitions, so you are not sitting on top of the next table. With warm lighting and a view over Yeouido at night from the window side, it felt relaxed rather than noisy.

    Partitioned private booth seating at Nani Yeouido
    Window seats with a night view of Yeouido at Nani izakaya
    Window seats look out over Yeouido after dark.

    What I liked most was how easy it was to talk. When you have a lot to catch up on, not having to shout over other tables makes a big difference.

    What we ordered

    1. Beef tataki (소고기 다다끼, so-gogi da-da-kki)

    Our first plate was beef tataki: thin slices of beef seared on the outside and left red in the middle. It had a good, beefy flavor and came with a dipping sauce. Each slice is topped with wasabi, and there are sliced onions and crispy garlic chips to eat with it.

    Overall it is on the salty side, which is exactly why it works with beer. Dip it in the sauce for more savoriness, or wrap a slice around some onion for a cleaner bite. If you are not sure what to start with, this is the plate I would order first.

    Beef tataki with wasabi, sliced onion and garlic chips at Nani izakaya near Yeouido Station, Seoul
    A slice of seared beef tataki topped with wasabi
    Dipping beef tataki into its sauce
    Dip the tataki in the sauce that comes on the side.

    2. Asahi draft beer (아사히 생맥주)

    Not much to say here except that it was very smooth and went down easily with the salty snacks. Even on a night when you are not drinking much, a draft beer and one or two plates make for a satisfying evening.

    Two glasses of Asahi draft beer

    3. Yakisoba (야끼소바)

    The yakisoba portion was huge. It was packed with cabbage, bean sprouts and carrot, topped with bonito flakes, and had a nice smoky, wok-fried flavor. The noodles were bouncy and well seasoned, salty enough to call for another sip of beer.

    It is easily enough for two to share, so it works as a meal as well as a drinking snack. With so many vegetables it never felt greasy, and going back and forth between the yakisoba and the tataki kept things balanced.

    Yakisoba topped with bonito flakes, cabbage and bean sprouts
    Chewy yakisoba noodles with vegetables
    Yakisoba and beef tataki on the table at Nani Yeouido
    Beef tataki and yakisoba: an easy order for two.

    Menu and prices

    Prices below come from the restaurant’s Naver menu (updated August 2026). Beef tataki and yakisoba were not on the online list when I checked, so check the menu board for their current prices.

    DishPrice
    Assorted sashimi
    모듬사시미
    ₩55,000
    ~$39
    Lamb shoulder rack (Australian, chilled)
    고급양갈비숄더랙
    ₩43,000
    ~$31
    Nagasaki seafood hot pot (spicy or mild)
    나가사키해물나베
    ₩35,000
    ~$25
    Brisket tantan hot pot
    차돌 탄탄나베
    ₩35,000
    ~$25
    Grilled scallops with butter and cheese
    관자버터치즈구이
    ₩31,000
    ~$22
    Tempura
    덴뿌라
    ₩30,000
    ~$21
    Tuna tataki
    마구로다다끼
    ₩29,000
    ~$21
    Pork belly yaki udon
    삼겹볶음우동
    ₩29,000
    ~$21
    Seafood okonomiyaki
    해물오꼬노미야끼
    ₩29,000
    ~$21
    Mochi tofu
    모찌리도후
    ₩15,000
    ~$11

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. Prices can change.

    Tips for visitors

    • Book ahead on weekdays. Yeouido is busy right after office hours; Naver reservations are open for 2–10 people.
    • Closed on Sundays. It opens at 17:00 Monday to Saturday and stays open until 2 a.m.
    • Order to share. Plates are large and priced for sharing, so two dishes plus drinks is plenty for two people.
    • Ask for a window seat if you want the night view; most other seats are in partitioned booths.
    • Ordering phrase: “Saengmaekju du jan juseyo” means “Two draft beers, please.”

    My verdict

    Nani Yeouido is an easy pick when you want a drink near Yeouido Station without a loud, crowded room. The beef tataki, the generous yakisoba and a cold Asahi made a simple but very satisfying combination, and the partitioned seats let us talk all evening. I would recommend it for office workers, friends catching up, or anyone staying around Yeouido who wants a relaxed Japanese-style pub.

    Nani Yeouido FAQ

    Where is Nani Yeouido?

    On the 3rd floor of the S-Trenue building at 37 Gukjegeumyung-ro 2-gil, about 80 m from Exit 3 of Yeouido Station (Lines 5 and 9).

    What are Nani Yeouido’s opening hours?

    Monday to Saturday 17:00 to 02:00 the next day, last order at 01:00. Closed on Sundays.

    What should I order at Nani Yeouido?

    Beef tataki and a big plate of yakisoba with Asahi draft beer was a great combination for two. The menu also has sashimi, nabe hot pots, tempura and lamb shoulder rack.

    Does Nani Yeouido have private seating?

    Yes. Most tables are separated by partitions, which makes it easy to talk without raising your voice. Some window seats look out over Yeouido at night.

    Can I book a table or park at Nani Yeouido?

    Reservations for 2 to 10 people are available on Naver, group seating is available, and the building has underground parking on B2 and B3.

    More places around Seoul: browse all Seoul restaurant guides, or try Decalcomanie in Haebangchon for another relaxed dinner spot.

    Visited: October 2026. Hours and menu last checked: October 16, 2026, on Naver. Please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.

  • Decalcomanie Haebangchon: Famous Honey Cod & Pasta Near Itaewon

    Decalcomanie Haebangchon: Famous Honey Cod & Pasta Near Itaewon

    In short

    Decalcomanie is a small Western-style bistro inside Sinheung Market in Haebangchon, uphill from Itaewon in Seoul, best known for its ₩9,900 honey cod with Uiseong garlic aioli. A set for two (steak, basil pasta, honey cod and two ades) costs ₩59,800 (about $43). It is open 11:00–21:00, often has a wait, and is a no-kids zone.

    Haebangchon is the hillside neighborhood above Itaewon, full of small bars and cafés with views toward Namsan. Tucked inside its old Sinheung Market is Decalcomanie (데칼코마니), a small Western-style bistro known for one surprising dish: honey cod. I went for our wedding anniversary dinner, and it turned out to be exactly the kind of cozy, unfussy place I hoped for.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name데칼코마니 (Decalcomanie)
    • Address97-4 Sinheung-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, ground floor inside Sinheung Market
      서울 용산구 신흥로 97-4 신흥시장 1층
    • Getting thereUp the hill in Haebangchon, above Itaewon. From Noksapyeong Station (Line 6) it is roughly 1.2 km, mostly uphill, so many people take a short taxi ride.
    • HoursDaily 11:00–21:00. Break 14:30–17:00 Mon–Thu, 15:00–17:00 Fri, no break on weekends
    • PricePasta ₩17,900–18,900, set for two ₩59,800 (about $43)
    • Good forDate night, anniversaries, a relaxed dinner for two to four
    • NoteNo-kids zone. No on-site parking (public lots nearby).
    • Phone+82 507-1436-0815
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    Decalcomanie is not on the main road. Look for Sinheung Market and walk inside; the restaurant faces the market lane, with a few green outdoor tables in front. Haebangchon sits on a steep hill, so if you are coming from Noksapyeong or Itaewon, a taxi saves your legs, especially in the evening.

    📍 Decalcomanie (데칼코마니), Sinheung Market, 97-4 Sinheung-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Decalcomanie storefront with outdoor tables inside Sinheung Market, Haebangchon

    Inside, the room is small and bright, with white walls, wooden tables and big glass doors onto the market. It feels calm rather than trendy, which is why it works well for a date. The restaurant has also appeared on the Korean TV show Handsome Guys (2025), so expect it to be busy.

    Cozy white dining room with large windows at Decalcomanie, Haebangchon

    What we ordered

    We ordered the set for two (₩59,800), which includes the three signature dishes: honey cod, spinach basil pesto pasta and the pork neck sous-vide steak. The set normally comes with two ades; we paid a little extra to swap them for sangria.

    Red and white sangria

    The red sangria is fruity, a little bittersweet and easy to drink. The white is lighter and more citrusy, with a fresh, slightly sharp finish. If you are celebrating something, start with one of each and share.

    Red sangria and white sangria at Decalcomanie

    1. Uiseong garlic honey cod (의성마늘 꿀대구)

    This is the reason most people come. A piece of cod is topped with aioli made from Uiseong garlic (a well-known Korean garlic region) and honey, then served on a bright tomato sauce. The fish was so soft it fell apart as soon as my fork touched it. The garlic is mellow, the honey adds gentle sweetness, and the tomato keeps it from feeling heavy.

    It is simple enough that you think you could make it at home, but the balance is what makes it special. At ₩9,900 it is also the cheapest thing on the menu, so order it even if you are not getting the set.

    Honey cod with Uiseong garlic aioli and tomato sauce, the signature dish at Decalcomanie in Haebangchon, Seoul
    Soft flakes of cod with honey garlic aioli and tomato sauce
    The cod flakes apart at the first touch of a fork.

    2. Spinach basil pesto pasta (시금치 바질페스토 파스타)

    A thick, creamy green sauce coats every strand of pasta. The basil gives it a fresh aroma, and the spinach keeps the cream from tasting too rich, so it never got boring. Plump shrimp and arugula on top add bite and a peppery edge. I really enjoyed this one.

    Spinach basil pesto cream pasta with shrimp and arugula

    3. Pork neck sous-vide steak (팜스플랜 목살 수비드 스테이크)

    Moksal is pork neck, a cut Koreans love for its mix of lean meat and fat. Cooked sous-vide, it was tender with a pleasant chew, and it sits on a smooth, nutty potato sauce. Eating the pork with the potato and the pickled greens together was my favorite bite.

    Sous-vide pork neck steak with potato puree and myeongi greens
    Pouring sauce over the sous-vide pork neck steak
    The steak comes with an extra sauce on the side.

    Menu and prices

    Prices below are from the restaurant’s current Naver menu (updated May 2026).

    DishPrice
    Uiseong garlic honey cod
    의성마늘 꿀대구
    ₩9,900
    ~$7
    Spinach basil pesto pasta
    시금치 바질페스토 파스타
    ₩17,900
    ~$13
    Hanwoo white ragù pasta
    한우 화이트 라구 파스타
    ₩18,900
    ~$14
    Pork neck sous-vide steak
    팜스플랜 목살 수비드 스테이크
    ₩26,900
    ~$19
    Pork jowl sous-vide steak (limited daily)
    항정살 수비드 스테이크
    ₩31,900
    ~$23
    Set for 2 (steak + basil pasta + cod + 2 ades)
    2인 세트
    ₩59,800
    ~$43
    Set for 3
    3인 세트
    ₩89,800
    ~$64
    Red or white sangria
    샹그리아
    ₩7,900
    ~$6
    Fruit ade
    에이드
    ₩4,900
    ~$3.50

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. The menu also lists Spanish beers (₩9,500–13,500) and corkage at ₩30,000. Prices can change.

    Tips for visitors

    • Expect a wait. We waited about 30 minutes. Arrive early or come on a weekday.
    • Order the set. The set for two covers all three signature dishes and is the easiest way to order.
    • Watch the break time. On weekdays the kitchen closes in the afternoon (14:30 or 15:00 until 17:00). Weekends have no break.
    • No kids. It is a no-kids zone, so plan a different place if you travel with children.
    • Parking. There is no on-site parking; use the public lots at the Yongsan 2-ga community center or Haebangchon.

    A nice touch: when we paid on our way out on a cold night, staff handed us hand warmers and mouthwash. Small, but we still remember it.

    Hand warmer and mouthwash given to guests at checkout

    My verdict

    Decalcomanie does a few dishes and does them well. The honey cod lives up to the hype, the basil pasta is comforting, and the sous-vide pork neck is a nice introduction to a very Korean cut in a Western dish. With sangria and friendly, thoughtful service, it is one of the easiest anniversary or date-night picks I know in the Itaewon area. Just be ready to wait.

    Decalcomanie FAQ

    What is Decalcomanie famous for?

    Its honey cod: cod topped with Uiseong garlic aioli and honey on tomato sauce. It costs ₩9,900.

    How do I get to Decalcomanie?

    It is inside Sinheung Market in Haebangchon, uphill from Itaewon and Noksapyeong Station (Line 6). The walk is steep, so a short taxi ride is easiest.

    What are Decalcomanie’s opening hours?

    11:00–21:00 every day. On weekdays there is an afternoon break (14:30–17:00 Monday to Thursday, 15:00–17:00 on Friday). No break on weekends.

    Can I bring children to Decalcomanie?

    No. Decalcomanie is a no-kids zone.

    How much does dinner at Decalcomanie cost?

    The set for two is ₩59,800, about ₩30,000 per person. Add drinks if you want sangria or beer.

    Planning more meals in Seoul? Browse all Seoul restaurant guides, or try Pyongyang cold noodles in Hongdae for a completely different Korean experience.

    Visited: December 2024. Menu and hours last checked: October 15, 2026, on Naver. Please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.

  • Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae: Pyongyang Naengmyeon Guide

    Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae: Pyongyang Naengmyeon Guide

    In short

    Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae serves Pyongyang-style naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles in a clear beef broth) made with 100% Jeju buckwheat, about a 10-minute walk from Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1. Cold noodle dishes cost ₩17,000–19,000 (about $12–14). It is open daily 11:00–21:00 with a 15:00–17:00 break, has 1 hour of free parking, and the classic dishes are not spicy.

    If you have only had the sweet, tangy cold noodles sold at Korean BBQ restaurants abroad, Pyongyang naengmyeon will surprise you. It is quiet, clean and subtle, and Seoul has a devoted fan club for it. Seogwan Myeonok (서관면옥) in Hongdae is a comfortable place to try it for the first time: a big, bright dining room, buckwheat noodles made from Jeju buckwheat, and a menu that also has easier options if the classic bowl is too plain for you.

    I came here on a weekend with my parents and my child, so this review is also about how it works for a three-generation family meal.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name서관면옥 홍대점 (Seogwan Myeonok, Hongdae branch)
    • Address41 World Cup-buk-ro 5-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Units 106–107 (ground floor of the NUDEET Hongdae building)
      서울 마포구 월드컵북로5길 41 106호~107호
    • SubwayHongik Univ. Station Exit 1, about a 10-minute walk. Hapjeong Station Exit 2 also works.
    • HoursDaily 11:00–21:00, break 15:00–17:00. Last order 14:40 (lunch) and 20:30 (dinner)
    • PriceCold noodles ₩17,000–19,000 (about $12–14)
    • Good forFamilies with grandparents and kids, a light summer lunch, first-time naengmyeon eaters
    • Phone+82 507-1379-5735
    • ExtrasBuilding parking with 1 hour free, wheelchair access, reservations on Naver
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    The restaurant is on the ground floor of the NUDEET Hongdae building (누디트 홍대), behind the Terarosa coffee shop. From Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1, walk toward Line Friends, turn right, and keep going straight past the Megacoffee and Paris Baguette crossings toward the Amanti Hotel. It is roughly a 10-minute walk.

    If you come by car, the building has a large underground car park with 1 hour free, and an elevator goes straight up. With a young child and grandparents in the group, this made the day much easier.

    📍 Seogwan Myeonok (서관면옥 홍대점), 41 World Cup-buk-ro 5-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Seogwan Myeonok signboard at the entrance of the Hongdae branch

    Inside it is much bigger than I expected: high ceilings, wide windows and long wooden tables, so groups do not feel squeezed. We arrived around 2 p.m. on a weekend and it was still busy. A board on the wall says the beef is Korean hanwoo and the other ingredients are domestic, and the noodles are made with 100% Jeju buckwheat.

    Spacious, bright dining room with wooden tables at Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae

    Two small details I liked: each table has both cold and warm water, and staff handed out hair ties when we sat down. Anyone with long hair who has ever slurped noodles will understand why.

    What is Pyongyang naengmyeon?

    Naengmyeon (냉면) means “cold noodles”. The Pyongyang style comes from North Korea and is made with buckwheat noodles in a chilled, clear broth, usually beef-based. It is not spicy and only lightly seasoned. The noodles are softer and break more easily than the chewy, starchy kind you may know.

    Many first-timers describe the broth as “bland”. That is normal. Take a few sips before adding anything; the beefy, nutty flavor of the buckwheat comes through slowly. Locals argue a lot about whether to add vinegar or mustard. My advice: try it plain first, then add a little.

    What we ordered

    1. Matbaki Naengmyeon (맛박이냉면, mat-bak-i naengmyeon)

    This is the classic Pyongyang naengmyeon with much more beef on top, served in a large brass bowl. The portion was big. The beef broth tasted deep and savory without being salty, and the sliced beef made it filling enough for a proper meal. If you are only ordering one bowl and want to taste the “real” style, this is the one I would pick.

    Matbaki naengmyeon: Pyongyang-style cold buckwheat noodles piled with sliced beef in a brass bowl at Seogwan Myeonok, Hongdae
    Matbaki naengmyeon topped with beef, egg yolk garnish and pickled radish

    2. Goldong Naengmyeon (골동냉면, gol-dong naengmyeon)

    This was my own order and my favorite. It is a dry, mixed noodle dish: buckwheat noodles with mushrooms, sesame powder, whole perilla seeds, seaweed and seasoned radish, which you mix with perilla oil and soy sauce. The perilla oil smells wonderful, nutty and toasty, and I liked it so much I asked for a bit more oil halfway through.

    If you find the cold broth too subtle, goldong naengmyeon is the easiest way into buckwheat noodles. It is not spicy either.

    Goldong naengmyeon: buckwheat noodles with mushrooms, seaweed and sesame, mixed with perilla oil and soy sauce
    Mixing goldong naengmyeon noodles with perilla oil
    Mix everything well so the perilla oil coats every strand.

    3. Laengban (랭반, laeng-ban)

    Laengban is Pyongyang naengmyeon served with a small bowl of rice. When you finish the noodles, you put the rice into the remaining cold broth and eat it with a spoon. It sounds odd, but it turns the last of the broth into a mild, refreshing rice soup. My child said this was the best dish on the table.

    Laengban: Pyongyang naengmyeon served with a side of rice to add to the broth
    A spoonful of rice soaked in cold beef broth after finishing the noodles
    Finish the broth with rice: the way my kid liked it best.

    4. Dotjeyuk (돝제육, dot-je-yuk)

    Dotjeyuk is boiled pork served cold. Because it is chilled, the meat is firm and pleasantly chewy rather than soft. It goes well with the kimchi on the side, and we also wrapped noodles around slices of pork, which worked surprisingly well. It is a good side to share between three or four people.

    Dotjeyuk: chilled sliced boiled pork served with kimchi

    We finished with a glass of makgeolli (Korean rice wine) because a slow family lunch deserves one.

    Menu and prices (October 2026)

    Prices have gone up since my visit, so the table below uses the current menu on the restaurant’s Naver listing.

    DishPrice
    Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold broth)
    평양냉면
    ₩17,000
    ~$12
    Seonbi naengmyeon (spicy-sweet, no broth)
    선비냉면
    ₩17,000
    ~$12
    Goldong naengmyeon (perilla oil & soy)
    골동냉면
    ₩19,000
    ~$14
    Matbaki naengmyeon (extra beef)
    맛박이냉면
    ₩19,000
    ~$14
    Laengban (naengmyeon + rice)
    랭반
    ₩18,000
    ~$13
    Dotjeyuk (chilled boiled pork)
    돝제육
    ₩28,000
    ~$20
    Seogwan mandu (steamed dumplings)
    서관만두
    ₩15,000
    ~$11
    Mung bean pancake
    녹두빈대떡
    ₩15,000
    ~$11
    Lunch set: naengmyeon + tteokgalbi + 2 dumplings
    떡갈비냉면세트
    ₩25,000
    ~$18

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. The menu also includes set meals for one, eobok-jaengban (a beef hot pot for 2–4 people) and tteokgalbi (grilled beef or pork patties). Prices can change.

    Tips for visitors

    • Try the broth first. Sip it before adding vinegar or mustard, then adjust.
    • Not a fan of plain flavors? Order goldong naengmyeon (nutty, savory) or seonbi naengmyeon (spicy-sweet sauce).
    • Check the lunch specials. The tteokgalbi + naengmyeon set (₩25,000) and the limited Seogwan myeonsang (₩19,000) are lunch-only.
    • Mind the break time. The kitchen is closed 15:00–17:00, and lunch last order is 14:40.
    • Reserve for groups. Naver reservations are available for 2–4 people and for groups of 5 or more.
    • Ordering phrase: “Pyeongyang naengmyeon hana juseyo” means “One Pyongyang naengmyeon, please.”

    Is it kid-friendly?

    Yes. The room is spacious, there is an elevator from the car park, and nothing we ordered was spicy. Buckwheat noodles are soft and easy for children to eat, and laengban (noodles plus rice in broth) was a hit with my child.

    My verdict

    Seogwan Myeonok is a friendly introduction to Pyongyang naengmyeon. The broth is clean and beefy, the buckwheat noodles are fragrant, and the perilla-oil goldong naengmyeon is worth ordering even if you think cold noodles are not for you. With easy parking, lots of space and nothing spicy on our table, it is one of the more comfortable family meals I have had near Hongdae.

    Seogwan Myeonok FAQ

    Is the Pyongyang naengmyeon at Seogwan Myeonok spicy?

    No. The classic version is a mild, cold beef broth with buckwheat noodles. Only the seonbi naengmyeon uses a spicy-sweet sauce.

    How do I get to Seogwan Myeonok from Hongik Univ. Station?

    Take Exit 1 and walk about 10 minutes toward the Amanti Hotel. The restaurant is on the ground floor of the NUDEET Hongdae building, behind Terarosa.

    What are Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae’s opening hours?

    Every day from 11:00 to 21:00, with a break from 15:00 to 17:00. Last orders are 14:40 for lunch and 20:30 for dinner.

    How much does a meal at Seogwan Myeonok cost?

    Cold noodle dishes cost ₩17,000–19,000 (about $12–14). With a shared side, expect around ₩25,000–30,000 per person.

    Is there parking at Seogwan Myeonok Hongdae?

    Yes, in the building’s underground car park, with the first hour free.

    Hungry for more in the area? See my Baekri Gomtang guide for hot beef soup near Hongik Univ. Station, or browse all Seoul restaurant guides.

    Visited: early 2024. Prices and hours last checked: October 15, 2026, on Naver. Please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.

  • Baekri Gomtang Hongdae: Hanwoo Beef Soup Near Hongik Univ. Station

    Baekri Gomtang Hongdae: Hanwoo Beef Soup Near Hongik Univ. Station

    In short

    Baekri Gomtang is a small hanwoo beef soup (gomtang) restaurant about 220 m from Hongik Univ. Station Exit 7 in Hongdae, Seoul. A bowl of clear, non-spicy hanwoo gomtang costs ₩12,000 (about $9) and the beef tartare bibimbap is ₩13,000. It is open 11:00–22:00 with a 15:00–17:00 break, and it works well for solo diners and families with kids.

    If you have had enough of spicy rice cakes and late-night fried chicken in Hongdae, this is the place I would send you for a calm, comforting Korean meal. Baekri Gomtang (백리곰탕) is a small, newly opened restaurant a few minutes from Hongik University Station that does one thing very seriously: gomtang, a clear Korean beef soup, made here with Korean hanwoo beef.

    Quick facts

    • Korean name백리곰탕 (Baekri Gomtang)
    • Address40-18 Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 1F
      서울 마포구 와우산로29길 40-18 1층 1호
    • SubwayHongik Univ. Station, Exit 7, about 220 m (3–5 min walk)
    • Hours11:00–22:00, break 15:00–17:00
    • Price₩12,000–13,000 per main (about $9)
    • Good forSolo diners, light lunch, non-spicy eaters, families
    • Phone+82 2-6489-3383
    • ServicesTakeout, reservations, Wi-Fi, group seating (per Naver listing)
    • MapOpen in Naver Map

    Finding it

    Come out of Exit 7 of Hongik Univ. Station and head into the side streets. The restaurant sits on a quiet alley rather than the main road, so I recommend following a map app instead of trying to spot a sign.

    Google Maps is fine for the walk, but Naver Map is far more accurate for small Korean restaurants and also shows current opening hours.

    📍 Baekri Gomtang (백리곰탕), 40-18 Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul · Naver Map · Google Maps

    Front counter and logo of Baekri Gomtang in Hongdae, Seoul
    The counter with the Baekri Gomtang logo.

    Inside it is bright and tidy, with light wood tables and enough space between them that you are not elbow to elbow with strangers. There are smaller tables that work well if you are eating alone, which is very normal in this student neighborhood.

    One small detail I loved: every table had its own little fan. Eating a bowl of hot soup can make you sweat, and someone clearly thought about that.

    Bright wood-tone dining room with small tables at Baekri Gomtang near Hongik Univ. Station

    What is gomtang?

    Gomtang (곰탕) is a soup made by simmering beef bones and meat for many hours until the broth is rich but still clear. It is not spicy at all. It is usually served with rice already in the bowl, plus thin slices of beef and chopped green onion.

    Koreans eat it when they want something warm and easy on the stomach, after a long night out, or simply as a filling lunch.

    An important tip for first-timers: gomtang is served lightly seasoned on purpose. You are expected to add salt (and pepper if you like) at the table to suit your own taste. If your first spoonful tastes a bit plain, that is normal, not a mistake.

    What we ordered

    1. Hanwoo Gomtang (한우곰탕, hanu gomtang) – ₩12,000

    The thing that impressed me most was a small board inside showing the saltiness level of the day’s broth. Long-simmered soup can slowly change in taste, so it seems they measure and manage it daily. Publishing that number to customers says a lot about how confident they are in the broth.

    The soup arrived in a traditional brass bowl with a whole ginseng sprout on top, which gives it a gentle, earthy aroma. The broth is on the mild side. I added just a little salt and kept it light, and it tasted deeper with every spoonful.

    What really set it apart was the amount of beef: there was so much tender, clean-tasting meat that it never felt like I was just drinking broth.

    Adding salt to taste to the mild gomtang broth
    Season it yourself: the broth is mild, so add salt to taste.

    The side dishes (free and refillable)

    Three side dishes come with your meal:

    • Kkakdugi (깍두기): cubed radish kimchi, crunchy and refreshing, the classic partner for gomtang. Here it is cut small, so it is easy to eat in one bite.
    • Ojingeo-jeotgal (오징어젓갈): salty, savory seasoned squid. Put a little on a spoonful of rice and broth. This was my favorite combination of the whole meal.
    • Potato salad: soft and creamy, served in a neat scoop. Unusual for a gomtang restaurant and a nice break between salty bites.
    Three side dishes: cubed radish kimchi (kkakdugi), potato salad and seasoned squid (ojingeo-jeotgal)

    2. Mini Suyuk (미니수육, mini suyuk) – ₩9,000

    Suyuk is sliced boiled beef. The “mini” size is small, but as a side to share with soup it was just right. The meat was soft rather than dry.

    The best way to eat it: wrap a slice around a few stems of garlic chives, then dip it in the tangy sauce. The sharp chives and sour sauce balance the mild beef really well. If there are two or more of you, I would definitely add this.

    Mini suyuk: sliced boiled beef with garlic chives, ginseng sprout and dipping sauce
    Wrapping a slice of boiled beef with garlic chives before dipping
    Roll a slice of beef with garlic chives, then dip.

    3. Hanwoo Yukhoe Bibimbap (한우육회비빔밥, yukhoe bibimbap) – ₩13,000

    Yukhoe is Korean-style beef tartare, served raw. This bibimbap comes with a generous mound of fresh hanwoo tartare over rice, greens and sprouts. You can choose between a soy sauce or a gochujang (sweet and spicy red pepper paste) dressing.

    I went with gochujang and was surprised by how good it was. Mix everything together well, take a big spoonful, then follow it with a sip of the gomtang broth.

    If you can’t handle spice, ask for the soy sauce version. And if raw beef is not for you, the gomtang alone makes a complete meal.

    Hanwoo yukhoe bibimbap with raw beef tartare, greens, sprouts and gochujang
    A spoonful of mixed beef tartare bibimbap topped with a slice of beef from the gomtang

    How to order (tips for visitors)

    • Pick a main per person. Most people order one gomtang or one bibimbap each, then share a side like mini suyuk.
    • Point and say the Korean name. “Hanu gomtang hana juseyo” means “One hanwoo gomtang, please.” Replace hana (one) with dul (two) if needed.
    • Side dishes are free. You can ask for more kkakdugi or potato salad by pointing at the dish and saying “Deo juseyo” (more, please).
    • Season at the table. Salt and pepper are there for a reason.
    • Mind the break time. The kitchen closes between 15:00 and 17:00, a common pattern for small restaurants in Hongdae.
    • Rice is already in the soup. Gomtang here comes with the rice in the bowl, so you don’t need to order rice separately.

    Menu and prices

    DishPrice
    Hanwoo gomtang
    한우곰탕
    ₩12,000
    ~$9
    Hanwoo gomtang, large
    한우곰탕 특
    ₩15,000
    ~$11
    Yukhoe bibimbap (beef tartare)
    한우육회비빔밥
    ₩13,000
    ~$9
    Mini suyuk (boiled beef)
    미니수육
    ₩9,000
    ~$6
    Hanwoo hot pot, large
    한우전골(대)
    ₩49,000
    ~$35
    Makgeolli, 1 glass
    막걸리 한잔
    ₩2,000
    ~$1.50

    *USD figures are rough estimates at about ₩1,400 to $1. Prices are from the restaurant’s Naver listing and recent visitor reviews and can change.

    Is it kid-friendly?

    Yes, as long as your kids are fine with soup. Gomtang is one of the safest Korean dishes for children because it has no spice at all, and the beef is soft.

    Several Korean reviewers mention coming with their kids for exactly this reason. Tables are well spaced, and the bright, clean room feels relaxed rather than rowdy. The only menu item I would skip for young children is the raw beef bibimbap.

    My verdict

    Baekri Gomtang is a great pick when you want something warm, filling and gentle after a few days of heavy or spicy food.

    The daily-managed broth, the generous amount of beef, the chive-wrapped suyuk and the surprisingly good tartare bibimbap all made it a meal I would happily repeat. Next time I want to try the bibimbap with the soy sauce dressing.

    If you are near Hongdae and want an honest bowl of Korean beef soup without the tourist-street noise, this is a good place to go.

    Baekri Gomtang FAQ

    Is Baekri Gomtang spicy?

    No. The gomtang is a clear, mild beef broth with no chili at all. Only the yukhoe bibimbap with gochujang dressing is spicy, and you can choose soy sauce instead.

    What is the nearest subway station to Baekri Gomtang?

    Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2, AREX airport railroad and Gyeongui-Jungang Line). Use Exit 7; the restaurant is about 220 m away, a 3–5 minute walk.

    What are Baekri Gomtang’s opening hours?

    Recent visitors list 11:00–22:00 with a break from 15:00 to 17:00. Hours can change, so check Naver Map on the day you go.

    How much does a meal at Baekri Gomtang cost?

    A bowl of hanwoo gomtang is ₩12,000 (about $9) and the yukhoe bibimbap is ₩13,000. Expect to spend around ₩12,000–20,000 per person with a shared side.

    Can I eat at Baekri Gomtang alone or with kids?

    Yes to both. There are small tables for solo diners, and the non-spicy soup and soft beef make it an easy choice for children.

    Looking for more places nearby? Browse all Seoul restaurant guides or our kid-friendly picks.

    Visited: September 2026. Information last checked: October 14, 2026. Opening hours and prices can change, so please check Naver Map before you go.

    This post is based on my own visit and photos. I used AI tools to help with the English wording.