半熟黒豆中国城

A Chinese restaurant I used to visit almost every day when I was in college 10 years ago. The fried jjambbong (jjambbong with sweet and sour pork) was truly delicious and unique. The noodles were firm and the broth was rich. I came back to Seoul once a year just to eat this. I hope the owner stays healthy and keeps the place going for a long time.

This spot is known more for its jjamppong than its jjajangmyeon. The broth, made with a doenjang (fermented soybean paste) base, is rich and full of flavor. If you order the octopus jjamppong, it comes with a whole octopus, perfectly cooked and tender. The dish is packed with seafood, making it incredibly satisfying. The noodles are hand-pulled, so they vary in thickness, but this adds to the enjoyable texture and taste. One unique aspect of this restaurant is that if you pay in cash, you receive a coupon for your next visit, which is a nice touch. The food does take a bit longer to arrive, likely because the noodles are freshly made, but the wait is worth it. During peak meal times, it can be hard to find a seat, but the turnover is quick, so it's worth waiting for a table. It’s not a fancy place, but it’s a comfortable, convenient spot for a good meal, and I plan to visit again.