Years of Survival: 13 Years
Gangnam is a high-traffic area with extremely expensive real estate, making the competition among restaurants incredibly fierce. Surviving in this “battleground” for 13 years speaks for itself. No further explanation is needed.
Authentic K-Level: 5/5
Makgeolli is a traditional Korean fermented rice wine. Personally, I find it much more delicious than Soju. While Soju often just tastes like harsh alcohol, Makgeolli has a thick, creamy texture with the natural sweetness of grains. In fact, it’s so good that I used to drink too much and end up with a splitting headache the next day. Beyond the drinks, all the appetizers served here are traditional Korean dishes that offer a truly authentic culinary experience.
Price Range: Approx. $10 per person
When three people order one main dish and one bottle of Makgeolli (1L), it costs about $10 per person.
Ordering Difficulty: Medium
The menu includes pictures, and there are no complicated options, so you can easily order just by pointing with your finger.
Ordering Tip (The Must-Tries): Neurin Maeul Makgeolli (Summer) + Assorted Pancakes (Modeum-buchimgae)
This combination is perfect for a group of four.
If you’re craving something warm on a cold winter day, try ordering the Clam Soup (Jogaetang) instead of the pancakes.
Getting There: Subway
It’s just a 186m walk from Gangnam Station (Exit 9).
Address: 서울 서초구 서초대로73길 7 우송빌딩 (B1)
The Rainy Day Ritual: Why Pajeon Pairs Perfectly with Makgeolli
In Korea, there is a famous saying: ‘Pajeon and Makgeolli on a rainy day.’ This tradition exists because the sizzling sound of a pancake frying in oil vividly mimics the sound of falling rain. Beyond the atmosphere, they are a culinary match made in heaven. The crisp carbonation of Makgeolli perfectly cuts through the richness of the oil, refreshing your palate with every sip. This is why not just Pajeon, but any savory Korean pancake (Jeon), serves as the ultimate partner for a cold bowl of Makgeolli.
Personal Experience:
I first discovered Neurin Maeul Makgeolli when I heard it won first place in the E-mart blind test. Curious about the taste, I bought some at the supermarket and enjoyed it at home with assorted pancakes and my family. Since then, I haven’t been able to drink any other brand. A few days later, I tried a different brand, but the taste of artificial sweeteners was overwhelmingly strong. It had that same lingering, dull aftertaste you get from a Zero Coke.
Leave a Reply