I think one of the most common types of restaurants in Seoul is the gukbap (rice soup) shop. That’s how much best gukbap in seoul has become a true soul food for the city’s residents. Back when I was in graduate school, there was a time when I stayed up all night every night working on my research. My only comfort during that time was the sundae guk (blood sausage soup) shop right in front of my school. Whether it was early morning or late at night, that restaurant was open 24 hours a day, so I would go there whenever I was hungry to eat sundae-guk. When I mixed rice into the rich broth and ate it with well-fermented kkakdugi, I felt completely rejuvenated.
You might be wondering why I’m introducing a franchise. Seoul has many famous markets, and within those markets, there are always famous soup restaurants. However, I think the sundae soup sold in traditional markets might feel a bit intimidating for travelers. So I’d like to write about a modern, clean soup restaurant where foreigners can go comfortably without any hesitation.
1. Soondae Sillok (순대실록) – Best Gukbap in Seoul: Sundaeguk
I imagine many travelers might feel intimidated by sundae. But don’t worry! Unlike the local sundaeguk sold in traditional markets, Sundae Silrok, which I am introducing, is a place with no gamey smell and boasts an excellent, clean taste.
The signature dish here is, of course, sundaeguk. Based on a deep, flavorful broth, it is generously filled with sundae and simmered thoroughly. You can experience a deep flavor that looks light but is anything but.
I also recommend the restaurant’s signature dish, the sundae steak. It is a dish that lowers the barrier to entry for foreigners trying sundaeguk for the first time. Long pieces of sundae are rolled up and grilled on a hot plate like a steak; the outside is crispy and the inside is moist, making it the perfect dish for those trying sundae for the first time. If you happen to find sundae difficult to eat, try the grilled fish instead. You can refer to my post, “Chungmuro grilled fish near Myeongdong Station – Paid for myself“
I frequently visit Sundae Silrok in Daehak-ro (Hyehwa Station). This is the main branch, and since the store is spacious and clean, you can enjoy Sundaeguk comfortably. Don’t worry if you are staying near Myeongdong, Gwanghwamun, or Jongno. Sundae Silrok has many branches throughout Seoul. There are branches in Gwanghwamun and Jonggak as well. If you happen to be planning a visit, you can just head to a nearby branch!
Here is my personal tip 1
When I go to Sundae Silrok, I order the Sundaeguk with the option labeled “Sundae Only.” If you order the regular Sundaeguk, various cuts of pork come with it, but I prefer having only sundae, so I order the Sundae Only Sundaeguk. If you want to eat Sundaeguk with only sundae and no other cuts of meat, you can select “Sundae Only” from the options just like I do!
Even if you are traveling alone, you can go there to enjoy gukbap without worry. This is because there are many solo diners here, so there are plenty of bar-style tables available. If you feel awkward eating alone, visiting this place allows you to enjoy a meal comfortably without feeling self-conscious.
Find a nearby branch on [Google Maps: Soondae Sillok] and visit without hesitation!
2. Yukjeon Gukbap (육전국밥) – The Fantastic Combination of Yukjeon and Gukbap
The gukbap restaurant I am introducing this time is Yukjeon Gukbap. The reason this place is famous is that Yukjeon is served alongside the gukbap. The gukbap here is beef gukbap. While Sundaeguk has a milky white broth base, the beef gukbap features a slightly spicy and hot broth base packed with meat. Yukjeon refers to thinly sliced beef that has been pan-fried. If you order the Yukjeon Beef Gukbap, the Yukjeon is placed on top of the beef gukbap and served together.
Here is my tip 1
I don't like the Yukjeon getting soggy from soaking in the broth, so I prefer to eat it separately. If you order the Beef Gukbap Set, the beef gukbap and Yukjeon are served separately. It is truly delicious to take a bite of the crispy Yukjeon after taking a spoonful of the beef gukbap. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water.
In addition to Gukbap, there are other menu items such as Perilla Oil Makguksu, Seafood Pajeon, Makguksu, and Assorted Jeon. When I visited Yukjeon Gukbap with my mother, I ordered the Beef Gukbap Set, while she ordered the Perilla Oil Makguksu Set. If you visit with a group, rather than ordering the same menu item, ordering a variety of dishes to share allows you to enjoy a wider range of flavors. If you are craving a delicious dessert after eating gukbap, please check out my review: Reasons to recommend Ikseon-dong hanok cafes (Seoul Coffee & Silladang).
Here is my tip 2
Although I don't particularly like alcohol, Makgeolli is a must-have beverage to pair with Assorted Jeon or Seafood Pajeon. Yukjeon Gukbap sells Makgeolli by the bottle and by the glass. For those who find ordering a whole bottle too much of a burden, they sell a set of three glasses, which I think is a great option for those looking to enjoy a light meal and Makgeolli.
If it is dinner time, please refer to [Google Maps: Yukjeon Gukbap] when visiting!
Today, I introduced two of the most famous Gukbap franchises in Seoul. I believe Gukbap is one of the foods you absolutely must try if you visit Seoul. As it is a representative Korean soup dish, I hope you give it a try. The two places I recommended are really clean, and the kiosk systems are well-organized so ordering is hassle-free. Both the owners and staff are friendly. I clearly saw with my own eyes that many foreigners visit as well. Don’t worry, and have a delicious dinner in Seoul!
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