A Hidden Gem in Seoul: Traditional Korean Ox Head Soup & Boiled Meat
If you're a food lover looking for an authentic, old-school Korean dining experience, let me introduce you to one of my favorite traditional restaurants in Seoul. Nestled in the heart of Sindorim, Naegohyang SoMeoriGukbap (translated as "My Hometown Ox Head Soup") has been serving locals for years with its rich, comforting flavors. This is not just a meal—it's a true taste of Korea’s culinary heritage!
📍 Restaurant Name: Naegohyang SoMeoriGukbap
📍 Address: 43-15, Gongwon-ro 6na-gil, Guro-gu, Seoul (Guro-dong 29-3)
📍 Phone: +82-2-852-8465
⏰ Opening Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM
- Sat: 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Closed on Sundays
Getting There
The restaurant is just a 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Sindorim Station, tucked away in a bustling food alley behind the Posville building. As you walk towards the restaurant, you’ll feel the shift from modern Seoul to an old-school, local neighborhood eatery. The exterior shows signs of age, a hallmark of a true Korean "nopo" (노포), or long-standing, beloved eatery. Step inside, and you’re immediately greeted with the nostalgic aroma of simmering broth and slow-cooked meat—a scent that signals something delicious is about to happen.
What We Ordered: The Must-Try "Meorigogi" (Boiled Ox Head Meat)
Korean cuisine has some truly special dishes, and one of the lesser-known but incredibly flavorful ones is Meorigogi (머릿고기)—tender, slow-boiled slices of ox head meat. I opted for this dish over the more common "Suyuk" (수육, boiled beef slices) because Meorigogi has a more delicate texture and retains moisture better over time. Plus, it comes with a side of Soondae (순대, Korean blood sausage), making it an absolute feast.
💰 Price: 30,000 KRW (cheaper than Suyuk, which costs 40,000 KRW)
Side Dishes: The Perfect Pairings
Before the main dish arrived, the table was set with an array of classic Korean side dishes (banchan), each enhancing the flavors of the meal:
🟢 Kimchi & Kkakdugi – The restaurant’s homemade, fermented cabbage (Kimchi) and radish (Kkakdugi) were packed with deep umami flavors. The longer fermentation gives it a slight tanginess, perfectly balancing the richness of the meat.
🟡 Yangpa & Gochu (Onion & Chili Peppers) with Ssamjang – A classic Korean pairing! Dip raw onions and green chili peppers into ssamjang (a thick, savory soybean paste with a hint of spice) for an extra punch of flavor.
🟢 Buchu (Steamed Chives) – A must-have with meat dishes! The lightly steamed chives add a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
The Main Event: Meorigogi w/ Soondea
When the platter arrived, it was a beautifully arranged feast of glistening, tender meat and steaming hot Soondae. The first thing I noticed was the mix of textures—some pieces were delightfully chewy with a gelatinous bite, while others were melt-in-your-mouth soft. The balance of fat and lean meat made each bite incredibly satisfying.
How to Eat It Like a Local:
✅ Try it with Saeujeot (새우젓, Fermented Shrimp Sauce) – A little dip in this salty, umami-packed sauce elevates the flavor beautifully. ✅ Wrap it up! – Pair a piece of meat with a bite of kimchi, chives, and ssamjang-dipped onion for the ultimate flavor bomb. ✅ Don’t forget the broth! – To complement the dish, the restaurant generously offers a free serving of SoMeoriGukbap broth—a rich, clear soup made from slow-simmered ox bones. Dunk your leftover meat into the hot broth for an extra depth of flavor!
Final Thoughts: A True Hidden Gem
Naegohyang SoMeoriGukbap is a must-visit if you’re looking to experience the soul of Korean comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned Korean food lover or a first-timer looking for an off-the-beaten-path culinary adventure, this place will not disappoint!
✨ Why You Should Visit: ✔️ Incredibly tender, flavorful Meorigogi without any gamy aftertaste
✔️ Homemade side dishes (especially the kimchi!) that elevate the entire meal
✔️ A complimentary bowl of rich ox bone broth that ties everything together
✔️ Huge portions—perfect for sharing!
Next time, I’m definitely coming back with friends to try their Sundae Jeongol (순대전골, Korean Blood Sausage Hot Pot) and enjoy an even bigger feast! If you’re in Seoul and want to experience authentic Korean flavors loved by locals, add this to your must-visit list. 🍜🥢
Plz LET me know if you are so interested in any go-to places in Korea or want to deep into Korean food, I will get you there! :)
'For Foreigners (Korea travel tips)🌍' 카테고리의 다른 글
| [Apgujeong Pop-Up Store Review] A Serene Little Escape in the Heart of Seoul (1) | 2025.04.07 |
|---|---|
| Coldplay World Tour 2025 – Live in Seoul! 🎶🇰🇷 (0) | 2025.04.03 |