A Soul-Soothing Chicken Feast: Dak-jinmi Gangwon-jib in Namdaemun
Relive the nostalgic flavors of Dak-jinmi Gangwon-jib(닭진미강원집) in Namdaemun Market. From the famous Dak-baeksuk(닭백숙) to the comforting Dak-gomtang(닭곰탕), discover why this place is a favorite on "Choiza Road."
1. A Nostalgic Gem in Namdaemun Market
Dak-jinmi Gangwon-jib(닭진미강원집) is a long-standing restaurant located in the bustling Namdaemun Market near Seoul Station. While the market is famous for its hairtail fish alley, this place stands out as a "rebellion" of chicken flavors. It is also a hidden gem featured on "Choiza Road," where I even sat in the same spot as the famous rapper. The nostalgic atmosphere provides a small but certain happiness amidst a heavy daily routine.
2. A Diverse Menu for Every Appetite
The restaurant offers various chicken dishes to suit different needs. Gogi-baekban(고기백반) provides a portion of chicken meat with soup and rice, while Dak-gomtang(닭곰탕) features chicken pieces served directly in the soup. For a more substantial meal, Dak-baeksuk(닭백숙) is the perfect choice, offering about a whole chicken with a hearty broth. Each menu reflects the deep, traditional flavor that has been maintained for years.
3. The Ultimate Comfort: Dak-baeksuk
Dak-baeksuk(닭백숙) is the absolute best for both a dinner course and a side dish for drinks. I have visited this place multiple times, and the quality is always consistent. A great tip is that you can order it as Ppyeo-ppaegi(뼈빼기) to receive meat with the bones already removed. Furthermore, the savory broth is refillable, allowing you to fully enjoy the meal to the very last drop.
The signature Dak-baeksuk(닭백숙) captured over multiple satisfying visits.
4. Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
While the food is exceptional, one minor drawback is the bathroom facility inside the restaurant. Instead of the onsite toilet, I highly recommend using the public restrooms nearby or the open restroom at the Namdaemun Police Box for a cleaner experience. Located at 22-20 Namdaemun sijang-gil, it is open from 07:00 to 21:00 and closed every Sunday.
Glossary: Korean Terms in This Post
- Dak-jinmi Gangwon-jib(닭진미강원집): The name of this famous chicken restaurant.
- Dak-baeksuk(닭백숙): Korean boiled chicken with broth.
- Gogi-baekban(고기백반): A meal set with sliced meat, soup, and rice.
- Dak-gomtang(닭곰탕): A traditional chicken soup with rice.
- Ppyeo-ppaegi(뼈빼기): A term used for ordering meat with the bones removed.