Bonjeom Choidaepo (Mapo, Seoul) located near Gongdeok Station, is a legendary spot for Korean BBQ and drinks with friends.

With over 70 years of history (established in 1952), this restaurant embodies the charm and tradition of a classic Nopo (long-established eatery).

I’ve been coming here for nearly 30 years, starting as a child when my dad would bring me along. Over time, it’s become a significant part of my life, and many of my favorite memories with my wife involve this place.

The moment you enter, the meat preparation area on the left sets the tone for what’s to come. Inside, the smoky atmosphere captures the nostalgic essence of an old-school Korean barbecue joint. It’s warm, inviting, and brimming with history.

Menu

The restaurant’s specialty is Sogeumgui (salt-grilled pork). Prices have risen in recent years, but at 8,000 won per 100g, it remains a fair deal for the quality.

Side dish

One of the most remarkable aspects of this place is its consistency. Even after 30 years, the side dishes, like the cabbage, green onion salad, radish salad, and gochujang (red pepper paste) remain the same. It feels like stepping back in time.

Sogeumgui  16,000 won (200g) x 3

When you order Sogeumgui, the servers start grilling the pork at your table. Once it’s cooked to perfection, they take it back to the kitchen to cut it, returning it ready to eat.

The cut is Moksal (pork neck), and despite not being Samgyeopsal (pork belly), it’s incredibly juicy and flavorful. While I typically prefer dipping my meat in salt, this is the one place where I’ll happily switch to Gochujang. The combination of their pork and red pepper paste is unparalleled.

Complimentary cabbage soup

Dwaeji kkeopdegi (pork rinds)  9,000 won (200g)

Their Dwaeji Kkeopdegi (pork rinds) is another standout dish. The grilling process starts by searing the inside of the pork rinds, then cooking until the outside becomes golden and crispy. When dipped in soybean powder or salt, it delivers a delightful, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

Bonjeom Choidaepo is more than just a restaurant—it’s a piece of history in the Gongdeok district. While I’ve explored many other Sogeumgui barbecue spots in the area, none compare to the flavor, atmosphere, and legacy of this place.

Address : 25-8 Dohwa-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Phone : +82-2-712-9242

Operation Hours : Mon-Sat : 12:00 - 23:00 (Sunday closed)

Instagram : Check out more photos

Source : https://blog.naver.com/yw0128/223281701052

Writer : yw0128

Special thanks to yw0128

Bonjeom Choidaepo seoul gongdeok