Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjang Drumtong is the perfect spot to enjoy the ultimate combination of charcoal-grilled Pork Belly (samgyeopsal) and Imshil cheese. Known for its premium pork and unique flavors, this Wangsimni BBQ restaurant offers a delightful dining experience that stands out in the bustling Wangsimni area. Conveniently located near Wangsimni Station, Ggamjang Drumtong is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor delicious Korean BBQ in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
If you’re a fan of authentic charcoal-grilled pork belly (samgyeopsal) and love the unique experience of grilling cheese, then Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjang Drumtong should be your next stop. Located conveniently near Wangsimni Station, this place is a hidden gem in the bustling Haengdang Market area, known for its high-quality meat and unbeatable prices.
Overview, Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjjang Drumtong
Getting There
Ggamjang Drumtong is strategically located between Sangwangsimni Station and Wangsimni Station, making it an accessible spot for those looking to enjoy a great meal in the area. Whether you exit from Wangsimni Station’s Exit 11 or Sangwangsimni Station’s Exit 4, you’re just a 7-minute walk away from this culinary delight. The restaurant’s vibrant pink sign is hard to miss, guiding you directly to a spacious venue that even includes parking space for about five cars, a rare convenience in Seoul.
Operating Hours
- Tuesday – Sunday: 15:00 – 23:00 (Last order at 22:30)
- Closed on Mondays
more info and make a reservation
The Ambiance of Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjjang Drumtong
Ggamjang Drumtong offers a throwback to the 90s with a quirky, nostalgic vibe, largely thanks to the owner’s sense of humor.
The restaurant is spacious, with over 20 tables, making it an ideal spot for everything from small gatherings to large groups of up to 80 people. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for after-work dinners, casual meetups, or even a night out with friends, especially for those who appreciate a bit of retro charm.
The Menu, Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjjang Drumtong
The menu at Ggamjang Drumtong is straightforward yet packed with flavor, featuring three main types of pork dishes:
- Ggamjanggogi: Thick slices of 1st-grade fresh pork neck marinated in a special soy-based sauce.
- Bbalgaegogi: Fresh samgyeopsal lightly frozen and marinated in a spicy gochujang (Korean red chili paste) sauce.
- Hayang-gogi: Premium fresh samgyeopsal, thickly cut and grilled over charcoal.
In addition to these, the restaurant also offers garlic-marinated pork shoulder, charcoal-grilled beef brisket (chadol), and Korean beef sirloin (hanwoo). There’s also a selection of side dishes, including the famous cheese from Imshil, which is a must-try when paired with the grilled pork.
Dining Experience at Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjjang Drumtong
Our Order
For this visit, we decided to go with:
- Hayang-gogi (White Meat) – 2 Servings (32,000 KRW)
- Garlic-Marinated Pork Shoulder – 1 Serving (17,000 KRW)
- Imshil Cheese – 1 Order (10,000 KRW)
- Chadol Doenjangbap (Soybean Paste Rice with Beef Brisket) – 1 Serving (8,000 KRW)
- Terra Beer – 1 Bottle (5,000 KRW)
The restaurant offers a self-service station where you can help yourself to a variety of side dishes, ensuring you can tailor your meal to your liking.
The pork is beautifully marbled, perfectly seasoned, and cut to an ideal thickness for grilling. The star of the show, though, is undoubtedly the Imshil cheese, which adds a rich, creamy layer to the already savory experience.
In the early hours, the restaurant is bustling with customers, making it quite busy. Despite the rush, the owner takes the time to carefully set the meat on the grill for each table. When it’s less busy, he even grills the meat for you, which is a rare service considering how popular Ggamjang Drumtong is among Wangsimni BBQ spots. The restaurant is renowned, so the extra attention is an added bonus.
The pork itself undergoes a 72-hour wet-aging process, ensuring it retains its rich juices and flavors. The thickness of the meat is just right for grilling, and the owner provides helpful tips, such as frequently turning the meat, to ensure it doesn’t burn. The staff also regularly checks on you, so you don’t have to worry about overcooking.
Once the samgyeopsal is perfectly grilled, cutting it into bite-sized pieces and pairing it with a slice of pineapple creates an unbeatable flavor combination.
Once the meat is grilled to perfection, the Imshil cheese is placed on the grill. It melts quickly, so be sure to only grill what you plan to eat immediately.
The combination of the grilled pork and the gooey, rich cheese is simply out of this world. For an extra burst of flavor, try wrapping the pork and cheese in a slice of pineapple – it’s a sweet and savory match made in heaven.
The Chadol Doenjangbap is served at just the right moment, offering a spicy kick that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the grilled meat. The subtle heat from the gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) in the rice dish provides a satisfying contrast, making it an ideal end to a hearty meal. Personally, the spicy kick makes it a perfect dish to enjoy after the rich BBQ, or as a hangover cure while drinking.
Final Thoughts
Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjang Drumtong is more than just a place to eat – it’s an experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a reliable spot to satisfy your Korean BBQ cravings or a visitor eager to explore authentic Korean cuisine, this restaurant delivers on all fronts. The combination of premium meats, the unique cheese grilling experience, and the warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in the Wangsimni area. Don’t miss out on this gem – your taste buds will thank you!
This detailed review highlights the key aspects of Wangsimni Restaurant, Ggamjang Drumtong, providing a comprehensive overview for any food enthusiast looking to explore authentic Korean BBQ with a twist.
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