A Small Yet More Charming Curry Restaurant That Makes You Want to Visit

Seoul Jjikko♬ Busan Jjikko♪

“Shanti Shanti Curry Curry, I totally love it, oh really love it~♬” (From the lyrics of ‘Curry’) Sorry if the younger generation doesn’t know this. When I think of ‘curry,’ this song by Norazo naturally comes to mind. Next up is Ottogi’s 3-minute curry. It’s a favorite not only among people living alone but also when you’re too lazy to cook, as it whets the appetite. However, lately, I’ve started to avoid 3-minute curry. The reason was tasting curry at specialty curry restaurants. I have selected three places I recently visited as today’s recommended eateries. From whole pork belly to pork cutlet and shrimp, there’s a variety prepared, so get your appetite ready and scroll down with me.

Menya Konoha Curry

‘Menya Konoha’ is a familiar ramen shop in Seongsu-dong. Originally selling ramen, they started selling curry after relocating to Seongsu-dong. Located in Dobong-gu, Seoul, accessibility is a bit challenging, but it’s worth the trip even from afar. They sell only 50 bowls per day, so if you don’t hurry, you might end up making a wasted trip. It’s also unique that they serve half a steamed potato with butter as an appetizer. As a specialty shop for yaki curry topped with three kinds of cheese, I recommend the Yaki Ebi Curry. Plump shrimp are marinated in a special seasoning and placed on top, giving a salty yet umami flavor. Curry and rice are unlimited refills!

Address: 1st Floor Commercial Building, 103-dong, 7 Uicheon-ro 20-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul

Domo Curry

Domo Curry carries a double meaning: ‘to plan work,’ ‘to promote friendship,’ and ‘domo’ meaning ‘friend’ in Japanese. It was created thinking of the delicious and warm curry a friend’s family would make when visiting their home. Located in Gangdong-gu, Seoul, it’s a true hidden gem known only to locals. Among chicken, beef, katsu, and cheese options, I recommend the Katsu Curry (pork cutlet). The outside is crispy and the inside moist, and dipping it deeply into the curry enhances the flavor. The curry is characterized by its smoothness, as if cheese or milk was added. It’s a curry suitable even for young children. If you feel the lack of vegetables, which are basic to curry, be sure to add some vegetables.

Address: 977 Cheonho-daero, Gangdong-gu, Seoul

Kagawa Shikijang

Kagawa Shikijang offers curry at three locations: Haeridan-gil, Busan Gijang Lotte World, and Gwang-an. Their signature menu is curry topped with whole pork belly. The tender whole pork belly on top makes your mouth water just by looking at it. Not only the whole pork belly but also minced meat is placed on the rice, bringing a smile to your face. The feeling of fullness is a bonus! One advantage is that you can choose the spice level of the curry. As a side dish, tomatoes pickled in bokbunja (Korean black raspberry) sauce are refreshing to cleanse the palate.

Address: 201-8 Gwang-an-dong, Suyeong-gu, Busan

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Photo by Yoon Eun-ae