If you’re going to have seolleongtang (Korean beef bone soup) in Myeongdong, this is the place to visit. Seolleongtang is quite renowned abroad as ‘Korean beef stew.’ While there are many seolleongtang restaurants in Korea, most use broth made in factories. However, Inamjang Myeongdong Branch uses broth boiled directly in the store from beef bones for 48 hours, resulting in a richer soup. Moreover, they’re generous with their portions, often serving plenty of meat even after finishing the rice. It’s become popular among nearby office workers, so if you plan to visit, I’d recommend going after the lunch rush when the place isn’t as crowded. Also, it has been featured as a recommended eatery on Korean broadcasts, so you can trust and enjoy the food there.
Hadongkwan is one of the most famous establishments specializing in gomtang (beef bone soup) in Korea. Opened in 1939, it boasts a long history. While its main branch is in Myeongdong, there are now a total of four branches. What sets Hadongkwan’s gomtang apart from others is its clear broth. Typically, gomtang has a milky white broth, but Hadongkwan uses a clear broth made from boiling meat for its soup. They claim to have a unique secret recipe that sets their gomtang apart from others. Moreover, they close when the ingredients prepared for the day run out, so it’s recommended to go early, as they often sell out by 3 PM. This establishment is frequently mentioned in the Michelin Guide as a consistent quality eatery. If you’re in Seoul, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Gwanghwamun Gukbap is also among the consistently featured eateries in the Michelin Guide. Operated by a renowned chef in Korea, its flagship dish is pork gukbap (rice soup). What distinguishes it from other gukbap places is the use of black pork. By using only black pork hip and shoulder cuts, they create a clean and clear taste in their soup. Additionally, they serve the soup and rice separately to preserve the freshly cooked rice flavor. When topped with fresh chives, it adds an aromatic touch to the piping hot pork gukbap, making it reminiscent of drinking alcohol. Despite being run by a famous chef, the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal. It’s a perfect place to visit after touring Gyeongbokgung Palace, and I highly recommend it.
