Geumgang Rest Area on Gyeongbu Expressway: Silk Road Restaurant and Must-Try Doribaengbaeng

A Detailed Introduction to Geumgang Rest Area and Silk Road Restaurant’s Signature Dish: Doribaengbaeng

Located on the Gyeongbu Expressway, Geumgang Rest Area is a favorite stop for travelers, not only for its amenities but also for the unique culinary experience offered at the Silk Road Restaurant. This restaurant, situated on the second floor of the main building, is renowned for its regional specialty, Doribaengbaeng, a dish that brings the authentic flavors of the Geumgang and Okcheon regions to the table.

About Geumgang Rest Area

Geumgang Rest Area is a shared stop for both directions (upbound and downbound) on the Gyeongbu Expressway, making it convenient for all travelers. It features:

Scenic Views: Overlooking the Geumgang River, the rest area offers breathtaking views, particularly from the restroom windows and outdoor seating areas.
Comfortable Amenities: In addition to Silk Road Restaurant, the rest area houses a bakery, a food court, coffee shops, convenience stores, and numerous seating areas where you can relax while enjoying the river scenery.

Discovering Silk Road Restaurant

Silk Road is a must-visit restaurant located on the second floor of the main building. While it serves various Korean dishes, its star attraction is the Doribaengbaeng Set. This traditional dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region and is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

What is Doribaengbaeng?

Doribaengbaeng is a distinctive Korean dish made using small freshwater fish. The preparation involves:

Lightly frying the fish in oil until crispy.
Coating them in a sweet and spicy sauce made with chili paste and garlic.
Frying them again briefly, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and crispy texture.

The fish are beautifully arranged in a circular pattern, resembling a flower, and garnished with colorful vegetables such as carrots, onions, and chili peppers. This meticulous presentation enhances the dish’s visual and culinary appeal.

Menu Highlights at Silk Road

In addition to Doribaengbaeng, Silk Road offers an array of delicious options:

Periwinkle Soup (Olgaengi Gukbap): A warm and savory soup featuring freshwater snails, known locally as “olgaengi.”
Fish Soup Noodles: A hearty noodle soup with a robust fish broth.
Beef Bone Soup with Vegetables: Comfort food packed with flavor and nutrition.
Bulgogi Rice Bowl: A satisfying dish of marinated beef over rice.
Homemade Pork Cutlet: A crispy and tender breaded pork cutlet.
Hamburg Steak: Juicy ground beef steak served with gravy.

However, the Doribaengbaeng Set (15,000 KRW) remains the most sought-after item on the menu.

Dining Experience

Your Doribaengbaeng meal comes with a variety of side dishes, typically including:

Soybean sprout soup.
Seasonal banchan (side dishes), such as kimchi and pickled vegetables.

The combination of crispy fish, savory side dishes, and the stunning view of Geumgang River makes this a memorable dining experience.

Traveler Tips

Second-Floor Location: Silk Road is located on the second floor of the rest area building. If you can’t find it on the first floor, head upstairs!
Seasonal Variation: The size of the fish in Doribaengbaeng can vary depending on the season, as they are sourced fresh.
Shared Rest Area: Since Geumgang Rest Area serves both directions, be mindful of your route when exiting.

Why Visit?

Whether you’re passing by or planning a specific stop, Silk Road Restaurant at Geumgang Rest Area is an excellent place to experience a taste of regional Korean cuisine. The Doribaengbaeng is not just a dish; it’s a reflection of the region’s cultural and culinary heritage.