Not Exactly Going to Eat Gogi Guksu...

Jeju Island Meat Noodle Soup... A Comparison of 4 Places by Chance

What is the most famous food in Jeju Island? There are options like mackerel sashimi, momguk, sundae soup, and hangover soup, but it has to be Gogi Guksu. A hearty meal that fills the stomachs of common people with generous portions, Gogi Guksu. An editor visiting Jeju tried Gogi Guksu at four different places. Although all are called ‘Gogi Guksu,’ it is noteworthy that each has a different style.

1. Jangsumul Sikdang

It took quite a long time to prepare after ordering. So, I wondered, “Did my order not go through?” just before it arrived. It seems they boiled the meat fresh. Also, they served a few extra pieces of meat on a small plate as a service. The meat had a reddish tint, as if it still had some blood, which was a distinctive point. Overall, among the four places, this one felt the most like ‘noodles.’ The lukewarm broth and noodles harmonized well, and the taste of the meat dipped in seasoning was quite good.

*Gogi Guksu 9,000 KRW (extra large portion 1,000 KRW additional), Dombe Meat 30,000 KRW.

2. Ollae Guksu

Ollae Guksu offers only a single menu priced at 9,000 KRW, so there is no worry about choosing from a menu. The meat broth was a bit richer and clearer, resembling gomtang (beef bone soup). The meat seemed more cooked compared to Jangsumul Sikdang. Overall, among the four places introduced today, it felt the most balanced and moderate. However, if you have been to famous restaurants, you might notice the familiar unfriendly and stiff atmosphere, and there was pressure to vacate the seat quickly due to many customers. Still, it might be the best choice for breakfast on a travel day when your stomach is sensitive. The editor was also able to finish the meal completely and leave.

*Gogi Guksu 9,000 KRW

3. Jeju Midam

Jeju Midam is located on a somewhat quiet street and also serves momguk and abalone dishes, making it a great place for friends or family travelers. Unlike the two places introduced earlier, it uses corn noodles, which was a bit off from personal taste. However, the assorted sundae (Korean blood sausage) ordered together was really delicious! If you want to drink alcohol without anything else, this place is perfect to enjoy sundae with the broth. Since the Gogi Guksu portions are very large, it’s not easy to order more, but I highly recommend trying it.

*Gogi Guksu 8,000 KRW, Assorted Sundae 18,000 KRW

4. Guksu Manchan

According to the food-loving editor, this is the best among the four Gogi Guksu places. As you can see in the photos, it has the strongest seasoning, which might suit those who prefer a more intense flavor. Also, the kimchi and kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi) served alongside were the most delicious. While the side dishes at other places were almost negligible, here the kimchi and kkakdugi were so tasty that no matter what menu you order, it would be satisfying. This was the last restaurant visited based on a local’s recommendation, and it reaffirmed the truth that local recommendations never fail.

*Gogi Guksu 8,500 KRW.

A Brief Review

To briefly summarize the impressions after visiting these four noodle shops, although they are all called Gogi Guksu, each store has a very different style. Thanks to this, I thought I should explore more places next time to find the Gogi Guksu that suits my taste and preference. It’s not a dish you must go to Jeju Island to eat, but if you’re unsure what to eat while in Jeju, Gogi Guksu is a safe and satisfying meal choice.

Photo by Seo Jeongjun