Hosoo Restaurant – A Legendary Budae Jjigae Spot in Dongducheon
When it comes to budae jjigae, few places hold as much history and reputation as Hosoo Restaurant in Dongducheon. This place isn’t just another local eatery—it was even featured on Baek Jong-won’s Top 3 Chef King, which only boosted its fame. But the truth is, locals and loyal customers knew about this gem long before it appeared on TV.
I personally visited Hosoo Restaurant years before it gained nationwide recognition, and the taste still lingers in my memory. Even though new budae jjigae restaurants have popped up around the area, none quite match the depth and authenticity that Hosoo has built over more than 40 years. No wonder it was selected as one of Gyeonggi-do’s long-established restaurants.
A Simple Menu, But Timeless Flavors
The menu here is refreshingly simple: budae jjigae (army stew) and budae bokkeum (stir-fried budae jjigae). Interestingly, the stir-fried version is priced a little higher, but my go-to recommendation remains the classic budae jjigae.
When your order arrives, the table quickly fills up with traditional side dishes: a bowl of rice, dongchimi broth, kimchi, and seasoned dried radish. Nothing fancy—just old-school Korean flavors that perfectly complement the hearty stew.
What Makes Hosoo’s Budae Jjigae Special?
Unlike some places that rely on artificial soup bases, Hosoo Restaurant keeps it natural. The broth is built from kimchi, ham, sausage, minced meat, and crown daisy (ssukgat)—all simmered together to create a rich, savory flavor. The quality of the ham and sausage here has always been a talking point, with many saying that’s what truly sets Hosoo apart from other budae jjigae spots.
Of course, you can’t forget the ramen noodles. Here, adding the noodles doesn’t dilute the broth; instead, it deepens the flavor, making the stew heartier and more comforting. And if you’re running low on soup, the staff happily refills the broth so you can keep enjoying every last bite.
Parking and Practical Tips
Finding parking in Dongducheon can be tricky, but Hosoo has it figured out. You can park along the main street during certain hours, and if that’s full, there’s a private parking lot behind the building. The restaurant opens from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, but keep in mind they’re closed on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month.
Why Hosoo Restaurant Stands Out
✅ Featured on Baek Jong-won’s Top 3 Chef King—a TV appearance that made it famous nationwide.
✅ Over 40 years of history, officially recognized as a Gyeonggi-do heritage restaurant.
✅ Authentic flavors without chemical shortcuts, relying on ham, sausage, minced meat, and kimchi for its unique broth.
✅ If it’s your first time visiting, definitely try the budae jjigae before the stir-fried version.
For anyone who wants to taste the essence of budae jjigae in its purest form, Hosoo Restaurant is well worth the short trip beyond Uijeongbu. This is not just food—it’s a piece of culinary history simmered in a single pot.
📍 Address: 312 Jungang-ro, Dongducheon, Gyeonggi-do
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Closed 2nd & 4th Sundays)
