Located in Eonyang, Ulsan, ‘Giwa House’ stands out not only for its feature in the Netflix documentary ‘Hanwoo Rhapsody’ but also for its authentic Korean architectural design. The restaurant's traditional hanok-style building with tiled roofs (called "giwa") welcomes guests, reflecting its 100-year heritage of serving some of Korea’s finest beef dishes.
Bulgogi, in its most widely known form, is a marinated beef dish that’s thinly sliced and flavored with a mix of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings. This combination of sweet, salty, and savory creates a rich, flavorful meat that’s often grilled or pan-fried. The marinade helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with deep flavors. Bulgogi is usually served with lettuce or perilla leaves for wrapping, alongside various side dishes and dipping sauces, and is enjoyed in many Korean BBQ restaurants globally.
On the other hand, ‘Eonyang bulgogi’ stands out as a simpler, more minimalist version.
The name "언양불고기" (Eonyang Bulgogi) comes from the region of ‘Eonyang’ in Ulsan, South Korea, where this unique style of bulgogi originated. This dish is a local specialty that dates back over a hundred years, making use of the region’s high-quality beef and traditional charcoal grilling methods. Unlike the sweet and savory marinated bulgogi that most people are familiar with, ‘Eonyang bulgogi’ focuses on letting the natural flavor of the beef shine through, using only salt for seasoning and grilling over charcoal for a distinct smoky taste.
The simplicity of the preparation and the rich, meaty flavor are key characteristics of this style. The naming of the dish after its place of origin highlights its strong regional identity and historical significance, as it has been enjoyed by locals and travelers alike for generations.
The main difference between these two styles is in the preparation and taste profile :
- Regular Bulgogi : Marinated in a mix of sweet and savory ingredients, with a soft, juicy texture.
- Eonyang Bulgogi : Unmarinated, seasoned with salt, and grilled over charcoal, resulting in a chewier, smokier, and more intense flavor.
At Giwa House, the banchan (side dishes) are a delightful addition. The staff is known for their hospitality, and they ensure the meal is served with care.
One of the most unique and surprising elements of ‘Eonyang bulgogi’ is the way it’s eaten with sesame oil as a dipping sauce, a practice that even many Koreans find unusual. In most bulgogi dishes, the emphasis is on the sweet, savory marinade, but in this case, the natural flavor of the grilled beef takes center stage, and the sesame oil adds a layer of richness that elevates the dish to another level.
What makes it truly remarkable is how the smoky, charcoal-grilled flavor of the beef harmonizes with the nutty and slightly earthy taste of sesame oil. The oil doesn’t overpower the meat but instead enhances its flavors, creating an addictive balance. The contrast between the bold, smokiness of the beef and the smooth, subtle richness of the oil is a combination that you wouldn’t expect, but it’s one that works perfectly. It’s no wonder that this method, though unusual, is such a hit—it creates a harmony that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.
After your main course, you're treated to a traditional Korean dessert: ‘Sikhye’, a slightly sweet, homemade rice punch that refreshes your palate after the savory meal.
Keep in mind, this restaurant is quite popular, and the waiting time can be long, so it's recommended to use an app like "Tableling" to register for a table in advance to avoid long waits.
Whether you’re drawn to Giwa House because of its Netflix fame or you’re eager to try a distinct version of Korea’s beloved bulgogi, this is a destination that blends history, culture, and unforgettable flavors.
Address :
Giwa House
86 Heonyang-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan, South Korea
For directions from Ulsan Station to Giwa House :
1. By Taxi : The quickest way is by taxi, and it will take around 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Simply give the driver the address "울산 울주군 언양읍 헌양길 86" (Ulsan, Ulju-gun, Eonyang-eup, Heonyang-gil 86).
2. By Bus : If you prefer public transportation:
- From Ulsan Station, take bus 327 towards Eonyang.
- Get off at the Eonyang Market stop.
- From there, it's about a 5-minute walk to Giwa House. Just head towards Heonyang-gil and follow the street until you reach number 86.
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