🍲 A Local Favorite Turned Global Hot Spot: Seongsu Gamjatang in Seongsu-dong
Whenever I find myself in Seongsu-dong, I almost always end up at Seongsu Gamjatang for lunch—at least once every two visits. What used to be a well-kept local secret has now become a hot place (“hotple”) not just among Koreans, but especially among international visitors.
Once featured on Baek Jong-won’s “Top 3 Korean Restaurants” nearly a decade ago, Seongsu Gamjatang has stood the test of time. Today, it’s more popular than ever—especially among tourists. The signage outside now proudly displays the menu in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese—a clear sign of its international fame.
But the big question is: Is it really worth the hype?
In my honest opinion? Yes. It’s not the most mind-blowing meal you’ll ever have, but it consistently delivers a satisfying, above-average gamjatang experience that hits the spot—especially on a chilly day or when you’re craving something hearty.
🍖 What’s on the Menu?
At Seongsu Gamjatang, you have two main options:
- Gamjatang – A bubbling hot pot served in a shared pan, perfect for groups or if you plan to pair it with soju.
- Gamjaguk (감자국) – A single-serving pork bone soup served in a ttukbaegi (stone pot), more suited for solo or casual diners.
👉 Fun fact: Despite its name, “gamja” (감자) in gamjatang doesn’t refer to potatoes. It actually refers to pork spine bones. So don’t be surprised when your gamjaguk arrives without any potatoes!
You can choose between the basic version and the ugeoji (우거지) version, which comes with soft, simmered napa cabbage leaves. I personally recommend the ugeoji gamjaguk—the cabbage adds extra flavor and texture.
🥢 The Side Dishes & Dipping Sauce
As with any good Korean meal, the side dishes are simple but on point:
- Kimchi
- Crunchy cubed radish kimchi (kkakdugi)
- Fresh chili peppers and cucumbers
- A savory dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender pork meat once you peel it off the bone
This sauce is made just for that purpose—don’t skip it!
🍜 Overflowing Portions & Comforting Flavor
When my ugeoji gamjaguk arrived, it looked like the soup was about to overflow from the stone pot. Two hefty pork spine bones lay beneath a mountain of leafy cabbage, just waiting to be uncovered.
The broth? Deep, rich, and absolutely soul-soothing. I couldn’t quite tell what base they used, but it was so satisfying I found myself finishing every last drop.
💬 Pro Tips for Visiting
✅ How to Wait for a Table
Even though it gets crowded, there’s both a main hall and an annex, and no ticket machine is used. Just wait your turn at the entrance—seating moves fairly quickly.
✅ How to Choose
- If you’re dining solo or just need a hearty meal: Get the gamjaguk (stone pot version)
- If you’re with friends or planning to drink: Go for the gamjatang (hot pot style)
✅ Waiting Time
Even during peak hours, the restaurant has plenty of seats. You usually won’t wait more than 30 minutes before you’re seated.
📝 Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Seongsu Gamjatang has become a staple in this now-trendy neighborhood. The food is consistent, filling, and packed with local flavor, and the restaurant strikes a nice balance between old-school Korean dining and the tourist-friendly service that Seongsu-dong is now known for.
So whether you’re a local or a traveler looking to experience comfort food the Korean way, Seongsu Gamjatang deserves a spot on your Seongsu food map.
