Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Mung Bean Pancakes, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok is a must-visit spot in Seoul for anyone looking to experience authentic Korean flavors. Known for its crispy yet tender bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), yukhoe (Korean beef tartare), and mayak gimbap, Sunhee’s also offers a standout dish, nakji tangtangi (live octopus mixed with yukhoe). The chewy, fresh octopus paired with the rich, savory yukhoe creates a unique and flavorful combination that is both satisfying and exciting to try. Whether you’re here for a quick snack or a full meal, Sunhee’s offers a delicious taste of Korean street food culture.
Overview, Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok
Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes), is one of the best places in Seoul to try traditional Korean pancakes, particularly bindaetteok.
Alongside the pancakes, other iconic dishes from Gwangjang Market include yukhoe (Korean beef tartare) and mayak gimbap (addictive mini rice rolls). Sunhee’s also offers a standout dish, nakji tangtangi (live octopus mixed with yukhoe). This restaurant is a must-visit for both foreign tourists and locals.
Location: Sunhee’s Bindaetteok is conveniently located near Jongno 5-ga Station, Exit 8, only a 2-minute walk from the station. The shop is located near the east gate of Gwangjang Market, making it easily accessible even for first-time visitors.
Business Hours: The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last order at 8:30 PM). It’s closed on Tuesdays for a regular break.
more info: Official Website
Menu and Taste of Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok
On the day I visited, I ordered 2 servings of mung bean pancakes, yukhoe tangtangi (Korean beef tartare with raw octopus), and mayak gimbap. Of course, I paired them with soju and beer to make so-mak (a beer and soju cocktail), which always hits the spot with these dishes.
Mung Bean Pancakes (Bindaetteok):
Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok is their signature dish. The pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft inside, filled with ground mung beans and pork, giving them a rich, nutty flavor. They’re served with a side of onion dipping sauce, which is sweet, tangy, and savory, balancing out the flavors beautifully. The taste is addictive, and I found myself refilling the sauce bowl three times!
Yukhoe Tangtangi:
This dish is a combination of fresh Korean beef tartare and chewy raw octopus. It’s seasoned with sesame oil, giving it a nutty taste. The beef is tender, while the raw octopus adds a chewy texture, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This dish is perfect for those looking for something fresh and rich.
Mayak Gimbap (Addictive Gimbap):
These are small, bite-sized rice rolls filled with simple ingredients like pickled radish and carrots, but they pack a punch. Gimbap at Gwangjang Market is famous, and though it’s simple, it’s great for snacking while drinking.
Additional Information of Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok
Sunhee’s Bindaetteok is one of the most well-established and popular mung bean pancake restaurants in Gwangjang Market, with multiple branches inside the market. Despite its popularity, the quality remains consistent, with delicious food and friendly service. The shop offers both seated and standing dining areas, and takeaway options are available if you want to enjoy the pancakes at home. When reheated the next day, the pancakes still retain their crispy texture and nutty flavor, which shows the care and effort put into their preparation.
This restaurant has been featured on many local TV programs, and its reputation remains unmatched, especially during Korean holidays when people line up to get a taste of their famous bindaetteok.
Pro Tip for Gwangjang Market Restaurant, Sunhee’s Original Bindaetteok
If you have foreign friends visiting, this is one of the best places to introduce them to traditional Korean market food. The vibrant atmosphere of Gwangjang Market combined with the authentic taste of Sunhee’s Bindaetteok makes it an essential stop on any food tour of Seoul.
With a full range of dishes, from savory pancakes to fresh yukhoe and hearty soups, Sunhee’s Bindaetteok is a place where you can enjoy a full Korean dining experience. It’s perfect for snacking, sharing, and experiencing Seoul’s traditional food scene.