🇰🇷Discovering Hwangsaengga Kalguksu (황생가칼국수): Remarkable 20-year tradition handmade knife-cut noodles

 

Nestled in the heart of Samcheongdong, Hwangsaengga Kalguksu has established itself as a must-visit destination for noodle soup enthusiasts over its remarkable 20-year tradition. This beloved eatery specializes in Kalguksu (handmade knife-cut noodles) and mandu (Korean dumplings), drawing locals and tourists alike with its comforting flavors. Since 2017, Hwangsaengga Kalguksu has proudly held the title of "Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand," a testament to its dedication to quality and taste.

A Serendipitous Discovery

Our journey to Hwangsaengga Kalguksu was a delightful accident. After exploring the beautiful grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, our stomachs began to rumble, and we found ourselves searching for a satisfying meal. Little did we know, our wanderings led us right to this culinary gem in Samcheongdong.

Long Queues, Delicious Rewards

 

A visit to Hwangsaengga Kalguksu is an experience in itself, with long queues forming outside even at 3 PM. However, the wait moves quickly thanks to the restaurant's two floors, which help accommodate the steady stream of hungry diners. Seating often feels like a game of musical chairs, as patrons must keep moving to accommodate new guests. Despite the wait, the promise of a hearty meal makes it worthwhile.

During our time in line, we had a delightful encounter with a local woman who, needing to relieve herself, asked us to hold her spot. As we chatted, she shared that Hwangsaengga Kalguksu has been one of her favorite restaurants since childhood, evoking memories of her grandmother’s cooking. Coincidentally, she was in town for an exhibition and couldn’t resist revisiting a place that held such nostalgic significance for her.

Heaping Portions of Comfort

Once we finally settled at our table, we were treated to generous portions that truly reflect the restaurant's commitment to satisfying its customers. We ordered two bowls of the famous Kalguksu, one plate of mandu, and a pancake—a feast for four that turned out to be more than we could handle. The dumplings were enormous, and the pancake arrived alongside a medley of fried vegetables, enhancing the dish’s appeal.

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu also offers a tatami room with limited seating, providing a unique dining experience for those who prefer a more traditional atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for families or groups looking to enjoy their meal in a cozy, intimate setting.

What Makes Mandu Unique?

Korean dumplings, known as mandu (만두), are distinct in their ingredients and preparation. While other countries have their own variations of dumplings, such as Chinese jiaozi or Italian ravioli, mandu typically feature a filling made from a mixture of finely minced meat (often pork or beef), vegetables like napa cabbage, scallions, and mushrooms, and tofu. A unique aspect of mandu is the addition of sweet potato starch noodles (also known as dangmyeon), which adds a delightful chewy texture to the filling. The dough is usually made from wheat flour and can be thicker than some other types of dumpling wrappers, giving it a unique texture.

A Flavorful Journey

The star of the meal was undoubtedly the Kalguksu soup, bursting with flavors that left us craving more. Each slurp of the rich broth paired perfectly with the hand-cut noodles, creating a comforting harmony that made it easy to see why this place has garnered such acclaim. Despite our best efforts, we couldn’t finish the generous spread laid before us, which is a testament to both the portion sizes and the deliciousness of the food.

Menu

Conclusion

If you're in Seoul, a visit to Hwangsaengga Kalguksu is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s an experience that connects you with the rich culinary tradition of Korea. From the bustling queues to the heartwarming stories of locals, this restaurant captures the essence of comfort food. Whether you're reminiscing about family recipes or simply enjoying a delicious bowl of noodle soup, Hwangsaengga Kalguksu is a place where food and memories intertwine beautifully.

Make sure to plan your visit early, as this culinary gem continues to draw in crowds eager to taste the warmth and nostalgia in every bowl.

Review Details

RATING | PERNILAIAN | 评分	CUISINES | MAKANAN | 餐
🧡 5/5	Korean
Price | Harga | 价格范围	MEALS | MAKAN PADA | 進餐
SGD15-20	Lunch, Dinner

When and Where

Address | Alamat | 地址 📍 78 Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea Opening Time | Waktu Buka | 营业时间 ⏱︎ 11am-9pm

The reviews of Hwangsaengga Kalguksu reflect my personal experience and observations during my visit. I genuinely hope that sharing these reviews can be of help to you. 

Ulasan tentang Hwangsaengga Kalguksu mencerminkan pengalaman dan pemerhatian peribadi saya semasa lawatan saya. Saya ikhlas berharap dengan perkongsian ulasan ini dapat membantu anda.

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu 的评论是基于我个人在访问当天的感受和情景。我真心希望这些评论能对您有所帮助。