Tasting History at Seong-ga-ok 1945 in Gimpo

Bukbyeon-dong(북변동) in Gimpo(김포) is home to a Naengmyeon(냉면) restaurant that has preserved its spot since 1945. The year 1945, clearly inscribed on the first floor of the building, silently speaks of the long history Seong-ga-ok(성가옥) has witnessed.

The menu is focused on traditional flavors, and the choice for today was one Bibim-naengmyeon(비빔냉면) and a set of Mul-naengmyeon(물냉면) with Handon-yukjeon(한돈육전).

A notice inside explains that the broth is extremely mild, much like Pyongyang-style Naengmyeon(냉면). It suggests Bibim-naengmyeon(비빔냉면) for those not used to such subtle flavors, alongside a brief overview of the restaurant's heritage.

The meal began with simple side dishes, specifically Mu-jeolim(무절임) and Kkakdugi(깍두기), which are standard accompaniments for Naengmyeon(냉면).

Then, the Handon-yukjeon(한돈육전) was served. While I had expected beef, it was actually made with Handon(한돈), or Korean pork, which was quite a surprising variation.

The Bibim-naengmyeon(비빔냉면) appeared with a vivid red sauce, looking very appetizing and full of flavor.

In the Mul-naengmyeon(물냉면), thinly sliced pieces of Handon-yukjeon(한돈육전) are used as a garnish, adding a distinct texture to the clear broth.

Overall, despite the high expectations built by its long heritage, the flavor did not quite meet the standard I had hoped for.

[Glossary: Korean Terms in This Post]

• Naengmyeon(냉면): Korean cold buckwheat noodles.
• Bukbyeon-dong(북변동): A historical neighborhood in Gimpo city.
• Seong-ga-ok(성가옥): The name of this Naengmyeon(냉면) restaurant.
• Bibim-naengmyeon(비빔냉면): Cold buckwheat noodles mixed with spicy sauce.
• Mul-naengmyeon(물냉면): Cold buckwheat noodles served in a chilled broth.
• Handon-yukjeon(한돈육전): Korean pork meat pancake.
• Mu-jeolim(무절임): Sliced pickled radish.
• Kkakdugi(깍두기): Diced radish kimchi.