[Seoul] Have you watched the Netflix series ‘Culinary Class Wars’ 흑백요리사 (also known as ‘Black and White Chef’)?”
Auntie Omakase (Lee Mi-ryeong) otherwise known as 이모카세 1호 (Imokase No.1), has charmed the judges and viewers for her offerings of traditional, homely Korean flavours.
Therefore, I made it a point to visit her eatery Andongjip Son Kalguksi 안동집 손칼국시 located at the basement level of Gyeongdong Market 경동시장.
To get to the market by subway, take Line 1 or Gyeongui-Jungang Line to Jegi-dong Station 제기동역. The market is a short 5 minutes’ walk or so from the Exit 2.
Be mentally and physically prepared for the long queue.
I waited for about 90 minutes, though I have heard customers wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Also, Auntie Omakase is mostly available during the earlier shift, as she has to head to another restaurant after the break.
The seating arrangement includes a bar-style counter encircling the cooking area, allowing diners to observe the preparation process.
There are also additional tables in an adjacent space.
The menu is straightforward, featuring signature dishes of 손국시 (Son Guksi), 비빔밥 (Bibimbap), 수육 (Suyuk), 배추전 (Baechujeon), and 부추전 (Buchujeon) which is Chives Pancake.
The Son Guksi 손국시 (8,000 Won) is the recommended dish comprising hand-cut noodles made from a blend of wheat and soybean flour.
I found the noodles soft with a slightly chewy texture, which may differ from the typical firmness some might expect. They are served with a mild and comforting flavour.
Some diners may find the broth on the blander side, as it is served with minimal garnishes, reflecting Andong region’s culinary emphasis on simplicity and natural flavours.
Do add some of the accompanying condiments, which include minced garlic, soy-based sauce, and fresh chillies.
I liked it enough, but perhaps there will be people who find it does not warrant the wait.
My No.1 favourite item of the meal is the Cabbage Pancake배추전 (8,000 Won).
Lightly battered and pan-fried, you get to taste the freshness and subtle sweetness from the cabbage and a satisfying crisp. I never had Korean pancakes quite like this.
The Suyuk수육 (12,000 Won), presents tender slices of boiled pork.
You can either eat it on its own, or wrapped with fresh cabbage leaves, kimchi, millet rice, and a selection of dipping sauces.
The meat’s succulence and natural flavours pair so well with the crispness of the cabbage.
Despite the super long queue, service is efficient, with staff maintaining a brisk yet attentive approach.
Auntie Omakase is known for her no-nonsense approach, effortlessly cooking up bowls of noodles at rapid speed.
During short breaks, she warmly entertains photo requests from fans, her genuine smile and cheerful attitude leaving a lasting impression.
Andongjip Son Kalguksi 안동집 손칼국시
Gyeongdong Market, 1022 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun District, Seoul
서울 동대문구 고산자로36길 3 신관 지하1층
Opening Hours: 10am – 3:30pm, 4:30pm – 6pm (Mon – Fri), 10am – 5pm (Sat – Sun)
Naver Maps – Andongjip Son Kalguksi 안동집 손칼국시
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