The restaurant ‘경상도집’ in Jongno is well-known for its classic Korean barbecue, specifically charcoal-grilled pork ribs (돼지갈비). If you'd like to learn more about Korean barbecue, click here.
It's a no-frills spot, often described as lively and casual, making it great for a casual dinner or drinks. It's also popular for its outdoor seating (야장) and offers a very traditional Korean dining atmosphere, which adds to its charm.
Yajang (야장) refers to the outdoor seating at Korean restaurants, offering a unique dining experience that’s both relaxed and lively. Typically enjoyed in warm weather, it’s a chance to savor delicious Korean food while enjoying the open air. Whether it’s Korean barbecue, seafood, or street food, yajang dining creates an informal, social atmosphere.
You’ll often see groups grilling meat at tables set up outside restaurants, particularly in bustling neighborhoods or near traditional markets. The smell of grilled pork belly or short ribs fills the air, and people enjoy their food while sharing drinks like soju and beer.
Popular spots for yajang include areas like Jongno and Itaewon in Seoul. Dining at a yajang spot is not just about the food; it’s about embracing the culture and atmosphere of Korean street dining. Whether you're enjoying a sizzling barbecue under the stars or chatting with friends over drinks, yajang culture is a great way to experience Korea's vibrant dining scene.
The flavor of their 돼지갈비 is distinct due to its classic marinade, a balanced mix of sweet and savory, often featuring soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. When grilled, the marinade caramelizes beautifully, giving the ribs a slight char and a deeply flavorful taste with a hint of sweetness.
The tenderness of the pork ribs stands out as well, thanks to the marinade that not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The result is juicy, flavorful ribs that are rich in taste and texture, perfect for wrapping in ssam (lettuce wraps) with garlic, green chilies, and dipping sauces like ssamjang.
The atmosphere of 경상도집, combined with the deliciousness of the 돼지갈비, makes for an authentic Korean dining experience that appeals to locals and tourists alike.
At '경상도집', one of the standout side dishes is their '파김치' (green onion kimchi). It has a bold, sharp flavor, with a delightful mix of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. The green onions, which are longer and thinner than typical onions, are fermented in a blend of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), garlic, and fish sauce, giving it a strong umami kick.
The texture of the green onions adds a pleasant contrast to the meat, providing a crunchy, fresh bite that complements the rich flavors of the pork ribs. It's the perfect balance to the sweetness of the 돼지갈비, and many diners find themselves reaching for more of this refreshing, spicy banchan throughout their meal.
The other notable side dishes is sliced cabbage with cho-gochujang (a sweet and spicy red pepper paste). This simple dish consists of crisp, fresh cabbage paired with a tangy cho-gochujang sauce, and it's a common Korean banchan that adds a refreshing balance to heavier dishes like grilled meat.
To enjoy it, you can dip the cabbage into the cho-gochujang, which enhances the fresh crunch with a kick of spiciness and sweetness. It’s often served as a palate cleanser between bites of rich, savory dishes.
In Korea, this combination of cabbage and cho-gochujang is not only a popular side dish but also a common anju (food served with alcohol). Its light, fresh taste pairs well with drinks like soju or beer, making it a frequent choice in casual dining and drinking settings.
If you're looking to visit, it's located near Jongno, a central area in Seoul, and it’s a favorite for those looking for a nostalgic, authentic dining experience.
Address : 경상도집, 29 Euljiro 39-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Directions from Subway Stations:
From Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1 & Line 3):
1. Use Exit 6.
2. Walk straight for about 300 meters until you reach the intersection.
3.Turn left onto Euljiro 39-gil and continue walking for about 100 meters. 경상도집 will be on your right.
From Dongdaemun Station (Line 4):
1. Use Exit 8.
2. Walk straight for about 600 meters until you reach Euljiro 39-gil.
3. Turn right onto Euljiro 39-gil, and you’ll find 경상도집 after a short walk on your right side.
From Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Line 2 & Line 4):
1. Use Exit 13.
2. Walk straight and cross over to Euljiro.
3. Continue straight for about 500 meters until you reach Euljiro 39-gil.
4. Turn left onto Euljiro 39-gil, and you will find 경상도집 on your right.
This location is centrally situated and easily accessible from multiple subway stations, making it convenient for both locals and visitors.
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