If you’re looking for a Haengdang Market restaurant that serves delicious oysters, look no further than Giboonjoheun Hanjan (기분좋은 한 잔) — a hidden gem that was even featured on Heo Young-man’s Baekban Journey. Tucked away near Haengdang Market, this spot offers fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day. With a reputation for its plump oysters and a variety of seafood dishes, Giboonjoheun Hanjan is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Korean flavors. Whether you’re looking to indulge in oysters or enjoy a fresh seafood feast, this restaurant delivers on both quality and flavor.
I’m not the type to chase after every trending restaurant, but I can’t stand the idea of eating something tasteless and gaining weight for no reason. So, I always end up finding the best places to eat.
Since I live near Haengdang Market, I’ve tried most of the restaurants in the area (it’s always crowded with people, making the streets quite lively). But one day, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—a place I had been eyeing for a while and decided to finally visit with my boyfriend.
Overview, Haengdang Market Restaurant, Giboonjoheun Hanjan
With the weather turning crisp, I was craving oysters, and what better way to enjoy a Friday night than to indulge in some fresh seafood at a local hidden spot. That’s how we ended up at Giboonjoheun Hanjan, a true neighborhood gem near Haengdang Market.
Hours of Operation:
- Closed on Sundays
- Monday to Saturday: 4 PM to 11:50 PM
At first glance, I thought it was just another small, no-frills local joint—perfect for a casual night out in slippers. But much to my surprise, I found out that this place had been featured on Heo Young-man’s Baekban Journey (허영만의 백반기행), a popular Korean TV show. I couldn’t believe it! I had walked past this unassuming spot so many times, only to discover it was a hidden gem the whole time. Feeling like I had uncovered a treasure, I stepped inside.
Interior of Haengdang Market Restaurant, Giboonjoheun Hanjan: Small but Cozy
As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by tanks filled with fresh oysters and fish on one side, and other seafood on the opposite side.
The space isn’t large, with a tent-covered middle area housing about three tables. In the summer, it looks like they set up more tables outside, though I can’t recall exactly. In total, there are around 10 tables, so unless you visit early, you might have to wait for a seat. However, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy seafood and drinks with friends.
Menu: Fresh Seafood and a Variety of Dishes
The owner himself seems to run the place, handling the seafood and preparing the dishes. The menu offers a wide range of seafood, sashimi, and other fresh shellfish dishes. And surprisingly, they even serve Grilled Pork Belly with Oysters—the only meat dish on the menu, marked with a market price.
What We Ordered: Oysters and Cuttlefish Salad
For starters, the side dishes arrived, and they were plentiful and delicious. We came specifically for the oysters, so we ordered a plate of fresh oysters, as well as the cuttlefish salad—highly recommended by the owner instead of sashimi.
The oysters were priced at 20,000 KRW for the smaller portion and 30,000 KRW for the larger. We opted for the smaller one, not quite sure what to expect. I’ve only ever had oysters when someone else was paying, so it was a treat to indulge in them this time!
When the oysters arrived, they looked as fresh as they could be. Although I’m not usually a fan of Korean oysters due to their slightly fishy taste, these oysters were plump and delicious. The vibrant red sauce sprinkled on top even made them look like Christmas decorations.
While the portion wasn’t huge, the oysters were incredibly fresh, making them worth savoring. After enjoying the oysters, the cuttlefish salad arrived, and it was just as satisfying. The salad had a generous amount of cheongyang peppers (spicy Korean chili peppers) mixed in with onions, creating a spicy yet refreshing flavor. Even though it was quite spicy, the balance with the fresh cuttlefish made it incredibly tasty.
The portion was huge, and even though we ate a lot, we still had leftovers to take home. The cuttlefish salad was 30,000 KRW, and it was more than enough for two people.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem in Haengdang Market
Overall, we left Giboonjoheun Hanjan feeling full and satisfied. We even planned to come back soon to try their steamed blue crabs, which we had already asked about. With fresh seafood, friendly service, and generous portions, this place left a great impression.
Pros:
- The location is convenient (especially for locals like us).
- The seafood is fresh, and the dishes are well-prepared (which is rare these days).
- The owner is friendly, and the portions are generous.
Cons:
- The space is quite small, so it can get crowded and noisy.
- The restroom is located in the next building and is shared between genders, though it’s kept clean.
If you ever find yourself in Haengdang Market, I highly recommend stopping by Giboonjoheun Hanjan. It’s one of those places that you won’t regret visiting!
related post you might enjoy: [Seoul / Haengdang Market Restaurant] Authentic Chuncheon-style Dakgalbi at NaraGuhanDak in Wangsimni