I had originally been considering a new clam bulgogi restaurant in Amsa-dong, but it was closed that day. This pocha, which offered seafood side dishes, came to mind, so I headed to Cheonho-dong.
They opened at 4 p.m., a perfect time for a quick drink after renting a room. Another table quickly filled in, indicating that this pocha has established itself in the neighborhood. The atmosphere felt like a mountain cabin pension.
Since I stopped by for a quick drink, I ordered a small portion of monkfish boiled pork. With soju and beer costing 4,000 won, the total bill was under 30,000 won. The side dishes weren't extensive and the presentation wasn't particularly impressive, but overall, the flavor was solid.
Although the monkfish boiled pork was small, it was a good choice, with a balanced mix of cheek meat, skin, rice bowl, large intestine, and ankimo (snake intestine). Considering it was the cheapest monkfish boiled pork in Seoul, it was simply excellent.
The sesame oil and sesame seeds were generously sprinkled on, giving it a somewhat overpowering aroma, but when I bit into the ankimo, I could guess why. It seemed to be intended to make the flavors more distinct, without overpowering the greenness and nuttiness.
Thankfully, it didn't seem like an attempt to obscure the freshness, and the other cuts, with their texture being the primary focus, were clean and free of any distractions. The cheek meat was impressive, with its gelatinous elasticity and subtle sweetness.
Still, the daechang was the best drinker, its unique, chewy texture, straddling the line between soft and chewy, drawing me in. In any case, I had a satisfying drink for almost the same price as a meal, and left.
This is a famous indoor pocha (traditional Korean bar) in Cheonho. While it's called a restaurant, it boasts a wide selection of snacks that complement drinks perfectly. It's popular with people of all ages and genders, ensuring a constant flow of customers. The food is truly exceptional, and the prices are reasonable for the quality and taste. The owner may not be attentive when he's busy, so it's best to bring your own drinks. Parking is available in the nearby public parking lot, and the restrooms are located indoors.
I visited again on September 28, 2024.
I visited around 7 PM on a Sunday evening, and there was one table left, so we were seated without a wait.
We ordered monkfish boiled pork and braised flatfish.
The monkfish boiled pork came out first, and it had a chewy texture without any fishy smell. I ordered the braised flatfish for two, but it came with four fish. They were meaty and incredibly tender. Both the monkfish boiled pork and the braised flatfish were delicious.
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This seasonal restaurant is famous for its monkfish boiled pork.
We ordered the small size monkfish boiled pork for two, and it was generous and delicious. There was no fishy smell at all, and the meat was chewy. We enjoyed it.
