Samcheongdong Sujebi: A Timeless Neighborhood Classic 🍲✨

Samcheongdong Sujebi
101-1 Samcheong-ro, Jongno District, Seoul

After three years, with the newly elected Korean President back in the Blue House (finally where the President should be, not to get too political), Samcheongdong feels noticeably calmer, and tourist numbers have returned to a comfortable level. I had been avoiding the area because of the heavy crowds and traffic, but I finally returned — and for me, this spot is all about one thing: sujebi.

I don’t eat sujebi anywhere else. This restaurant has been my go-to for decades, and despite the years, it continues to attract loyal customers — a testament to its consistency and charm. My must-order combination is always the same: the signature sujebi, spicy jjukkumi (baby octopus), and a crispy gamja-jeon (potato pancake). Their kimchi and house-made dadegi sauce perfectly complement the meal, balancing spice and flavor in every bite.

A tip for first-timers: although the posted opening time is 11 a.m., they actually start seating around 10:40 a.m.. I arrived right at 10:40, and by 11, the restaurant was already completely full.

It’s a true neighborhood classic — comfort food done right, with flavors that keep you coming back no matter how much time has passed.