Eats

Revitalizing Malbok Feast at Jang-eo-hannal

Celebrate Malbok(말복) 2025 with perfectly grilled eel and an impressive variety of side dishes at Jang-eo-hannal(장어한날) in Gimpo(김포). A detailed review of a satisfying energy-boosting meal.

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10 Aug 2025 • 3 min read

1. Choosing the Perfect Spot for Malbok

On August 9, 2025, I visited Jang-eo-hannal(장어한날) in Yangchon-eup(양촌읍), Gimpo(김포) for Malbok(말복). After comparing it with other candidates, I chose this place because its variety of side dishes was much more diverse. The restaurant also has a dedicated parking lot, making it very convenient to visit.

The exterior of **Jang-eo-hannal(장어한날)** with a dedicated parking lot.

2. Fun Interior and Outdoor Seating

The interior features witty neon signs like "Look forward to tonight!" and "You are prettiest when eating eel," adding a fun vibe to the meal. There are also outdoor tables available, which would be a great option for dining once the weather becomes cooler.

A witty neon sign adding a fun atmosphere to the restaurant.

Another charming wall decoration that brings a smile to guests.

Outdoor tables that would be perfect for cooler days.

3. An Impressive Variety of Side Dishes

The highlight of this restaurant is the abundance of side dishes. The table was filled with macaroni salad, Buchu-muchim(부추무침), white kimchi, and even green onion kimchi. It is rare to find such an extensive variety of Banchan(반찬) at an eel restaurant, making the meal even more enjoyable.

Basic side dishes including macaroni salad and **Buchu-muchim(부추무침)**.

A diverse range of side dishes that pair perfectly with the eel.

4. Savory and Chewy Grilled Eel

I ordered 1kg of eel and chose to have it grilled in the kitchen to avoid the summer heat. The eel arrived perfectly cooked over charcoal, offering a savory and chewy texture. Each bite was filled with a rich flavor that truly felt like a premium energy boost.

Perfectly charcoal-grilled eel cut into bite-sized pieces.

5. Completing the Meal with Eel Soup and Soju

The eel soup was a bit different from my expectation; it was a thin broth with greens, similar to a miso soup. While a bit disappointing, it still served as a clean finish. To complete the Malbok(말복) feast, I enjoyed three bottles of Soju(소주).

A warm bowl of eel soup served as a comforting side dish.

Three bottles of **Soju(소주)** consumed during the satisfying meal.

Glossary: Korean Terms in This Post

Gimpo(김포): A city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.
Yangchon-eup(양촌읍): The town where the restaurant is located.
Jang-eo-hannal(장어한날): The name of the eel restaurant.
Malbok(말복): The last of the three hottest days of summer in Korea.
Soju(소주): A popular Korean distilled alcoholic beverage.
Banchan(반찬): Small side dishes served with rice in Korean cuisine.
Buchu-muchim(부추무침): Seasoned chive salad.