Huirak Galchi (Namdaemun)

Huirak Galchi (Namdaemun)

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

Namdaemun Market's Galchi Alley wasn’t always known for Galchi Jorim (braised cutlassfish). Originally, it was just a small area with a few restaurants. The shift happened when two eateries began serving Galchi Jorim made with affordable cutlassfish.

Their success led others in the area to adopt the same menu, eventually earning the area its nickname. Among these establishments is one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants: Huirak Galchi (Namdaemun, Seoul).

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

At Huirak Galchi, the signature Galchi Jorim is always simmering in a pot outside, filling the air with a tempting aroma. This restaurant has been serving vendors and visitors of Namdaemun Market for over 50 years. Its long history and loyal following speak volumes about its reputation.

The restaurant exudes a vintage charm and boasts plenty of seating spread across two floors. Despite arriving at 2:30 pm on a weekday, well after the lunch rush the place was still buzzing with activity.

 

Menu

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

The main attraction is, of course, Galchi Jorim, but the menu also features Grilled fish, seasoned Kodari (half-dried pollack), and Cheonggukjang (extra-strong fermented soybean stew). If you're visiting with a group, consider sharing a few dishes to experience a wider variety.

The walls are decorated with posters from numerous TV shows that have featured the restaurant, highlighting its popularity among locals and tourists alike.

 

Galchi Jorim   12,000 won

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

The Galchi Jorim arrived accompanied by an impressive array of side dishes. Interestingly, in the early days of Galchi Alley, restaurants didn’t serve extras like steamed eggs. But as competition grew, some began offering them, making the dining experience even more satisfying.

The cutlassfish, marinated in a perfectly balanced spicy-sweet sauce, pairs beautifully with rice and seaweed. While the fish wasn’t as fresh as what I’ve had in Jeju Island, it was still of higher quality than I expected for the price. The marinade and broth more than made up for any shortcomings, creating a dish that was both comforting and flavorful.

Pouring the rich broth over rice and topping it with a piece of tender fish is an unbeatable combination. For just 12,000 won, the quality and quantity left me completely satisfied. I even found myself asking for an extra bowl of rice to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

huirak galchi jorim sikdang seoul namdaemun

Huirak Galchi's Galchi Jorim delivered on its promise of bold, satisfying flavors. While the cutlassfish might not match the pristine freshness of Jeju's offerings, it’s hard to argue with the value and taste at this price point.

If you’ve heard of Namdaemun Market’s Galchi Jorim, it might not warrant a special trip from far away just for this dish. However, if you’re already in Seoul, visiting Namdaemun Market and trying Huirak Galchi’s Galchi Jorim should absolutely be part of your experience.

 

Address : 22-6 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Phone : +82-507-1394-5538

Operation Hours : Monday-Saturday : 07:00 - 21:00 (Sunday closed)

Instagram : Check out more photos

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/osb524/223136150421

Writer : OH SEBON (osb524)

Special thanks to OH SEBON (osb524)

 

huirak galchi sikdang namdaemun

 

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