Located on the first floor at 312-1 Dokseodang-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Geumho-dong Restaurant Galbitang Danhana is a must-visit for anyone seeking a hearty meal in Geumho-dong.
Overview about Geumho-dong Restaurant Galbitang Danhana
Situated approximately 686 meters from Exit 2 of Geumho Station and a short walk past Geumnam Market, this restaurant offers a convenient dining spot near the bustling marketplace. You can also reach it from Exit 1, walking between Paris Baguette and Baskin-Robbins.
Operating hours are from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with a break between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. If you visit during peak lunch hours, be prepared for a crowd. However, the limited menu focused on their specialty, galbitang (beef short rib soup), ensures a quick turnover, making the wait worthwhile.
With around six tables, the dining area isn’t large, but it feels well-equipped. The fridge is stocked with pre-set containers for takeout, and a sign mentions that takeout orders come with double the broth. This makes it a perfect option for:
- Convenient meals with kids,
- Bringing dinner to your parents,
- Grabbing a hearty meal on your way home if you’re not in the mood to cook.
Their flagship dish, the beef short rib soup, is offered in two variations:
- Aroongsatae Galbitang – 15,000 KRW
- Special Galbitang – 16,000 KRW
Visit Review at Geumho-dong Restaurant Galbitang Danhana
The dedication of the owner to perfecting galbitang is evident. With an open kitchen, you can see the passion and care that goes into every bowl. The sight of the owner meticulously preparing the soup speaks volumes about the quality and authenticity of the food.
One of the highlights is the homemade radish kimchi, or “seokbakji,” which is served generously. Personally, I find it so delicious that I often ask for three extra servings. Of course it is absoulyely FREE.
While the initial serving size for rice and side dishes might seem small, there’s a self-service corner with rice, broth, side dishes, and barley snacks for refills.
The beef short rib soup, especially the special version, is lavishly garnished with tender beef shank pieces. The meat is so tender that it effortlessly falls apart with a slight nudge from chopsticks. This tenderness is a result of a meticulous process where 120 kg of beef ribs are soaked to remove blood for 12 hours, thoroughly cleaned, and then boiled with various ingredients for an hour. To ensure the best quality, the fat is removed, and the meat is further simmered with healthful ingredients for another 90 minutes.
The laborious preparation process, which involves boiling the ribs to the perfect point and removing any excess fat, reflects the owner’s commitment to maintaining high quality. The dedication is palpable from the first bite. Enjoying galbitang with rice is an essential part of the experience, as each spoonful of the broth-soaked rice paired with the tender beef creates a fulfilling and nourishing meal.
To end your meal on a sweet note, Galbitang Danhana offers barley snacks, providing a pleasant contrast to the savory soup. This small touch adds to the overall satisfaction of the dining experience.
Geumho-dong Restaurant Galbitang Danhana’s Reputation
A noteworthy aspect of Galbitang Danhana’s reputation is that it has even caught the attention of culinary experts from around the world. In fact, a former White House chef found the flavors so compelling that they made a point to revisit this humble yet exceptional restaurant. This endorsement speaks volumes about the quality and authenticity of the food served here.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for a comfortable spot for a family meal, a nourishing dinner after a busy day, or simply a place to enjoy traditional Korean cuisine, Galbitang Danhana in Geumho-dong’s Geumnam Market is a fantastic choice. The rich, flavorful beef short rib soup, the welcoming atmosphere, and the attentive service make it a standout among Seoul’s dining options.
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