[Alley Restaurant]④ Seoul's Hidden Cherry Blossom Spot, Ssangmundong

Cooking and Stirring, Dooly~ Dooly~♪

The power of alleys is truly remarkable. For some, they become places to reminisce about memories, while for others, they offer something new. Especially when entering unfamiliar alleys, the restaurants you encounter evoke both warmth and curiosity. There are many eateries that stimulate the senses, such as hidden gems known only to locals. We have selected four places with great taste and value under the ‘Alley Restaurant’ project. Now, shall we enjoy a unique course that can be experienced in the ‘alley’?

The last alley restaurant to visit is Ssangmun-dong in Dobong-gu, Seoul. This place is familiar to many, even those who are not local residents or do not live in Seoul. One reason is its frequent exposure in the media. Representative works include the tvN drama and the Netflix original . Additionally, adults may recognize it as the setting of the cartoon . Let’s embark on an alley restaurant tour in Ssangmun-dong, where childhood memories naturally come to mind and a warm affection is felt. Since it is currently full of spring vibes, there is also a course where you can take a walk with cherry blossoms as the backdrop, so be sure to save it on your map in advance.

① Munseong Seafood Jjamppong Ssangmun Main Branch

The first destination today is a Chinese restaurant located about 700 meters from Exit 3 of Ssangmun Station on Subway Line 4. If you walked a long way and felt disappointed because you chose jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup), you can set that feeling aside for a moment. Even those who usually prefer jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) are strongly encouraged to order jjamppong here and taste it. The reason lies in the broth and the ability to enjoy it according to your preference. Usually, seafood and mushrooms are the main toppings of jjamppong, but here you can choose the type of toppings according to your taste. The range of flavors you can enjoy expands depending on the toppings you select. Also, the broth at Munseong Seafood Jjamppong is made entirely from Korean beef broth, boasting a clean yet deep flavor. Overall, the spiciness is not intense, so even those sensitive to spicy food can enjoy it deliciously. The noodles absorb the broth well and are chewy and springy, so before you know it, the bottom of the bowl is visible after slurping it up.

Be sure to order the tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork). Made with glutinous rice, the tangsuyuk is chewy, and the thick texture of the meat adds extra enjoyment to each bite. The tangsuyuk sauce is tangy yet sweet, with sweetness making up about 70%, so the sourness is mild. This makes it an excellent pairing with the jjamppong. Even if you think it’s a bit far to visit, this is a hidden gem beloved by Ssangmun-dong residents, so be sure to give it a try.

Address: 294-1 Uicheon-ro, Dobong-gu, Seoul

② Uicheon Stream

After a hearty meal, Uicheon Stream unfolds right before your eyes. Uicheon is a local stream that flows from the Mangyeongdae V Valley of Bukhansan in Ui-dong, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, and joins Jungnangcheon in Seokgwan-dong, Seongbuk-gu. There is a sculpture from the cartoon here, making it a great spot for taking commemorative photos. Dooly was trapped in a glacier and drifted down from the Han River to Ssangmun-dong. In the evening, a musical fountain starts, so it’s worth watching. Also, Uicheon is famous as a hidden cherry blossom spot in Seoul. Every April, Dobong-gu holds a local cherry blossom festival, so enjoy a walk along the long stream while soaking in the spring atmosphere.

③ Cafe Jak-yak

Once you’ve digested a bit, head to Ssangri-dangil. Ssangri-dangil is a place where you can enjoy the fun of discovering hidden cafes, similar to Euljiro. These are places that don’t have eye-catching buildings or signs, making you wonder, ‘Is this the right place?’ Jak-yak, located on the second floor of a back alley near Ssangmun Station, is a cafe converted from a house. Although there are many cafes in Ssangri-dangil, this one is recommended because it offers good toast that fills your stomach after a walk. They sell meal substitutes like bacon basil toast and deep cheese potato toast, as well as sweet desserts like egg tarts and Lotus honey bread.

The bacon basil toast is a taste worth trying even for those who don’t prefer basil. Mixed with whole grain mustard that tingles the nose, the basil scent is not strong. Those who want to enjoy the fragrant taste of basil are recommended to boldly choose another menu. Between the crispy toasted bread are basil sauce, whole grain mustard sauce, fried egg, and thick bacon generously included, making it a great snack. The Earl Grey milk tea ordered together has a commonly found taste. If you’re okay with caffeine in the afternoon, enjoy it with coffee. Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Colombia beans are available, so you can enjoy coffee in your preferred style.

Address: 2nd Floor, 10 Dobong-ro 118-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul

④ Makba

If you feel reluctant to leave Ssangmun-dong after a delicious lunch and a leisurely time at the cafe, soothe your regret at Makba, a hot place in Ssangmun-dong. Makba is a makgeolli bar where you can taste various traditional liquors including makgeolli, yakju (refined rice wine), distilled spirits, and fruit wines. It goes without saying for those who love alcohol, and for those who are weak drinkers, low-alcohol beverages are also prepared, so there’s no need to worry.

The signature menu is Bao Bao, boasting a fantastic combination of basil, whole squid, baguette, and oil. The squid is not tough but chewy and soft, making it easy to eat without any burden. Just when you might think, ‘What if the oil is a bit greasy?’ the fragrant basil and salty olive solve it. Enjoy a night in Ssangmun-dong with a glass of alcohol and Bao Bao, which pairs well with any drink. Note that basic soju and beer are not sold here!

Address: 18 Dobong-ro 110ba-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul

Curious about Ssangmun Station restaurants? Then check them out here!

Photo by Yoon Eun-ae