Years of survival : 9+
9 years or more. This place has stood the test of time in the competitive Jamsil area.
Authentic K-level : 5/5
This is a flavor you can only experience in Korea. Be aware that the entry barrier is high because you must use chopsticks to pick the meat off the bones.
Ordering Difficulty : High
The menu is written only in Korean, and you generally need to speak to the staff to order.
Ordering Tips
If you don’t know Korean but want to enjoy this meal, follow this guide based on your group size. You can speak these phrases or simply show this text to the staff:
- 1 person: “뼈해장국 하나 주세요” (Ppyeo-haejang-guk, please)
- 2 people: “청년감자탕 소 하나 주세요” (Small Gamjatang, please)
- 3-4 people: “청년감자탕 중 하나 주세요” (Medium Gamjatang, please)
- 4 people: “청년감자탕 대 하나 주세요” (Large Gamjatang, please)
- 5-6 people: “청년감자탕 특대 하나 주세요” (Extra-large Gamjatang, please)
Note: Since the soup is rich and salty, it is standard to eat it with white rice. Say or show this: “공기밥 하나씩 주세요”(One bowl of rice for each of us).
Getting There : subway
I highly recommend taking the subway. The restaurant is located very close to Jamsillaru Station.
Features
They stack the “Gamja” (bones) like a tower. I’ve lived in Korea my whole life and eaten countless bowls of Gamjatang, but this is the first time I’ve seen them piled up like this.
Caution
When eating red-colored Korean soups, be careful not to splash them on your clothes. Most places serving this dish provide aprons. If you’re worried about your outfit, say or show this: “앞치마 하나씩 주세요” (One apron for each of us).
My Experience
While living in Jamsil, I visited this place at least once or twice a year. It’s one of the most reliable options when meeting friends; in fact, it’s hard to find a Korean man who dislikes Gamjatang. While picking the meat off the bones can be a bit tedious, the taste makes it all worth it. The meat is incredibly soft yet chewy. The ‘Siraegi’ (dried radish greens) soaked in the broth is slightly crunchy and salty. When you take a bite with a spoonful of white rice, the subtle sweetness of the rice completes the perfect balance.
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