Tomaru Haemul Kalguksu
๐6, Baekjegobun-ro 15-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
๐Seafood Kalguksu (Handmade Noodle Soup) – 9,000 won
๐Large Meat Dumplings – 9,000 won
๐Dumpling Hot Pot (Small) – 27,000 won
โป Menu/prices are subject to change.
โฐMon-Sun 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Break Time 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
The portions here are no joke; you’ll stay full for a solid six hours post-meal.
Step into this noodle joint, and you’ll immediately feel the comforting embrace of grandma’s kitchen. Everything here, from the noodles to the dumplings, is crafted from scratch with love. These handmade noodles boast a satisfyingly bumpy, thick texture that’s a hallmark of authenticity. Now, let’s talk broth โ it’s a symphony of flavors, thanks to ingredients like dried shrimp, clams, yellowtail, and veggies. The seafood broth brings a refreshing zing that keeps you coming back for more. Don’t even get me started on the dumplings, also lovingly handcrafted by the owner. They’re generously stuffed, and honestly, just two of these can put you in ‘food coma’ territory. You’ve got the choice of half kimchi and half meat dumplings โ pick your poison. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, throw those dumplings right into the Kalguksu (Noodle Soup). Personally, I believe the kimchi at any noodle spot should be top-notch. It’s that secret ingredient, the perfectly aged kimchi, that keeps you slurping up those noodles like there’s no tomorrow.
What’s great here is the focus. It’s all about the food, no distractions. The owner’s warmth is the cherry on top. The guy greets you with a warm smile, and it instantly feels like you’re stepping into your grandmother’s house. As I stroll in as the reigning champ, the neighbors trickle in, one by one. There’s a sense of community here as the owner and customers exchange friendly greetings, kicking off their day. Kalguksu and dumplings are staples on every table. The restaurant itself is spacious and spick-and-span. Come lunchtime, it’s buzzing with hungry customers. You could say it’s a local favorite in Songpa-gu, well-known and cherished. And here’s the best part โ it’s just a brisk three-minute walk from Exit 1 of Samjeon Station.
