Magoknaru Restaurant, Magokgwan is a trendy indoor pocha-style bar that serves amazing dishes, perfect for a night out in Seoul. This hidden gem offers a retro vibe and is popular for its delicious and authentic Korean pub food. Here’s a look at why Magokgwan should be on your list of must-visit spots in Magok:
Magokgwan is the place to go if you’re looking for an authentic pub-style dining experience. Located in Magok-dong, an area once known for cultivating “hemp” for clothing, Magok has transformed into a trendy, upscale neighborhood. And within this area, Magokgwan stands out as a great place for food and drinks.
Overview, Magoknaru Restaurant, Magokgwan
Magokgwan is just a 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Magoknaru Station, and if you walk a bit from Exit 1, you’ll easily spot the place behind a large, sky-blue sculpture.
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Closed on Sundays
We visited Magokgwan on a Friday night around 9:30 PM, and it was packed with 20s and early 30s, filling the place with a lively and hip vibe. The bar’s exterior gives off a Southeast Asian or Hong Kong-style vibe, and you can also dine outside if the weather’s nice.
more info: Official Instagram
Interior Atmosphere of Magoknaru Restaurant, Magokgwan
Stepping inside there, feels like being transported to an old-school Hong Kong retro-style pocha (Korean tented bar). The lighting, retro-inspired tile patterns on the floor, and quirky decor create a nostalgic yet modern ambiance. The bar’s aesthetic is perfectly Instagram-worthy, making it a great place to snap some pictures before the food arrives.
Menu:
Magokgwan’s menu is vast, with over 50 options, ranging from grilled dishes to fried snacks, dried fish, soups, and even dessert. It’s the perfect place to get lost in the choices if you’re a fan of pub food. Every dish we ordered was top-notch, and you can even customize the spice level for the spicier items, making it a versatile spot for different preferences.
The set menus are a great value for groups, offering a variety of dishes at an affordable price. Magokgwan also offers a good selection of drinks, including trendy traditional Korean liquors. Although we skipped the soju and traditional alcohol that night, I plan to try it on my next visit.
Here’s what we ordered:
- Hanwoo Daechang Nabe (Beef Intestine Hot Pot): 33,000 KRW
- Golbaengi Somen (Spicy Whelk with Noodles): 16,000 KRW
- Cass & Terra beer (5,500 KRW each)
Magoknaru Restaurant, Magokgwan, Food Review:
We kicked off the night by popping open beers with a Thor-themed bottle opener—just one of the many small, fun details that add to the experience at Magokgwan. The complimentary snack? A nostalgic childhood favorite, “Kkoedori,” a Korean puffed corn snack.
Since It has an open kitchen, we could sneak a peek at our dishes being prepared while occasionally watching the chef put on a fiery cooking show!
Hanwoo Daechang Nabe (Beef Intestine Hot Pot):
This dish had me excited from the moment I saw it on social media, and it definitely lived up to the hype. It’s even more impressive in person than in pictures. The beef intestines are pre-grilled to perfection, making the dish even more enjoyable for Korean tastes.
The broth, simmering over a low flame, had no strong odor—just the rich, savory flavor of beef intestines. Beneath the surface were heaps of crunchy bean sprouts and unexpected ingredients like mushrooms, which added a nice earthy flavor. Paired with a soy-based dipping sauce, it was a perfect balance of flavors.
Golbaengi Somen (Spicy Whelk with Noodles):
Golbaengi Somen is a familiar and beloved dish in Korea, and Magokgwan’s version hit all the right notes.
The combination of the sweet and tangy sauce with generous amounts of whelk and vegetables brought back memories of after-school hangouts at pubs with friends. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the dish had the ideal balance of sweetness and acidity, reminiscent of a home-cooked meal.
If you need any assistance in Korea, just visit my own Instagram, and send DM:)
Final Thoughts
In short, Magokgwan is a great spot for a casual night out with friends, especially if you enjoy good food and a nostalgic, laid-back vibe.
Highlights:
- Unique indoor pocha atmosphere with a retro Hong Kong-inspired design
- Fun elements like a bottle opener shaped like Thor’s hammer and light-up soju bottle displays
- Friendly service and thoughtful details, like cozy blankets for chilly evenings
- A wide variety of dishes, each packed with flavor
For anyone looking for a fun and tasty place to eat and drink in Magoknaru, Magokgwan is highly recommended! Whether you’re out for drinks or just looking for a spot to enjoy a meal with friends, Magokgwan will not disappoint.
related post you might enjoy: [Seoul / Magok Restaurant] Perfect Date Spot with Great Value – Delicious Pasta and Pizza at Pasta in Café near Magok Station