A Slice of Thailand in Gimpo: Nong Seoul Mart
An authentic Thai dining experience hidden in Chowonji-ri(초원지리), Gimpo(김포). Located in the basement of Nong Seoul Mart(농서울마트), this restaurant offers a unique atmosphere that feels like a trip to Thailand, complete with traditional flavors and local vibes.
On May 23, 2023, I visited Nong Seoul Mart(농서울마트) located in Chowonji-ri(초원지리), Gimpo(김포). The first floor is a mart, and you must go down to the basement floor (B1) to find the restaurant. There is enough space for about two cars to park in front of the building.
The corridor leading down the stairs is filled with menus written in Thai, giving it a very local feel. I looked through the menu and ordered Tom Yum Goong(똠양꿍), Pad Thai Kung Sod(팟타이 꿍솟), and Pad Phak Boong(팟팍붕).
Inside the restaurant, the entire wall is painted with sea scenery, making me feel like I am on a vacation. Even the staff members are not Korean, so it felt like I had traveled to Thailand without leaving Korea.
The Tom Yum Goong(똠양꿍) was served first. The flavors were authentic and very satisfying.
Next came the Pad Thai Kung Sod(팟타이 꿍솟). It was delicious and prepared just right.
The Pad Phak Boong(팟팍붕) was also excellent. Every dish I ordered was tasty and felt very authentic.
[Glossary: Korean Terms in This Post]
- Gimpo(김포): A city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.
- Chowonji-ri(초원지리): A neighborhood in Gimpo.
- Nong Seoul Mart(농서울마트): The name of the restaurant and mart.
- Tom Yum Goong(똠양꿍): Thai spicy and sour shrimp soup.
- Pad Thai Kung Sod(팟타이 꿍솟): Thai stir-fried noodles with fresh shrimp.
- Pad Phak Boong(팟팍붕): Stir-fried morning glory (water spinach).