Woo Lae Oak (Euljiro, Seoul) is famously known for its long wait times, especially in the summer. If you’re planning a visit, here are some tips and my experience to help you enjoy your time at this iconic spot.

The best way to avoid long waits is to arrive 30 to 60 minutes before the restaurant opens.

While remote queueing was available in the past, it is now limited to on-site waiting only. If you plan to visit, register early and explore the nearby area while you wait.

If you’re visiting with elderly family members, there’s an indoor waiting area where they can comfortably sit while you wait for your turn.

There is a large parking lot across from the restaurant, but the area can get congested with cars trying to enter. Valet parking is available, but spots are limited, so it’s best to arrive before peak hours.

​On Saturdays, the area can be particularly busy with motorcycles, making it a bit chaotic and potentially dangerous. If you’re driving, try to visit early to secure a spot and avoid the hustle.

On our visit, we were seated on the second floor, which has a similar vibe to the first floor, cozy and simple, with a traditional atmosphere.

The stairs leading to the second floor have an old-school charm that matches the restaurant's historic feel.

 

Menu

​Woo Rae Oak offers a variety of dishes, including meat, noodles, and soups. They even serve wine alongside traditional Korean liquors.

While we usually stick to the signature Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold noodles), this time, we decided to try the bulgogi as well.

Ordering bulgogi comes with a delightful spread of side dishes.

Bulgogi 37,000 won (150g)

Bulgogi for two is about 300g, so the portion size isn’t particularly large.

The staff grills the meat for you at the table, making it easy and enjoyable to savor.

​The bulgogi was tender and flavorful, and wrapping it in lettuce made it even better. It’s a nice option for a special occasion at Woo Lae Oak.

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Pyongyang naengmyeon  16,000 won

​Once we finished the bulgogi, the staff kindly let us know when it was the perfect time to order the naengmyeon.

​​Woo Lae Oak’s naengmyeon features a rich, flavorful broth with pear slices and beautifully arranged toppings.

The combination of the pear and the icy broth enhances the refreshing sensation, especially during summer.

If you order meat, fruit is included after your meal. Unlike when ordering just naengmyeon, where you pay immediately, a bill is provided for table orders with meat. You can settle your bill at the second-floor counter on your way out.

I first visited Woo Lae Oak as a college student, and back then, I didn’t fully appreciate the subtle flavors of Pyongyang naengmyeon. However, over the years, I’ve grown to love it.

Although it’s on the pricier side and the wait can be long, Woo Lae Oak is one of those places I find myself returning to every summer. If you’re a fan of Pyongyang naengmyeon, it’s a must-visit!

 

Address : 62-29 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul  OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Phone : +8202-2265-0151-2-2265-015102-2265-0151

Operation Hours : Tuesday-Sunday : 11:20 - 21:00 (Last order : 20:30), Monday Closed

Menu : Bulgogi 37,000 / Naengmyeon 16,000

Instagram : Check out more photos

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/ahg0717/223522431730

Writer : ahg0717

Special thanks to ahg0717

 

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