Arguably the most famous and popular gogi jip (bbq restaurant) in all of Korea: Daedo Sikdang. Serving only one cut of meat (sirloin) from an open window butchery, you’ll see exactly where and how they prepare these beautifully marbled hanwoo beef. Grilled table side with, I think is rendered beef fat (tallow?), the meat is everything you expect and more: tender, juicy, high-quality beef that melts in your mouth. Priced at 42,000 won (200 grams) plus a post-meal dessert in the form of kkakdugi bokkeumbab (kimchi radish fried rice), which is just as delicious as the meat, you’ll understand why this place is regarded as the best in the business.

What’s interesting about this place to me, as a photographer, is my lack of focus (no pun intended) while eating here. The food is so delicious and the atmosphere so energetic that photography takes a backseat to fully enjoy the dining experience. I could make an excuse that the lighting was bad (which it was) but that would only give me another reason to visit this classic restaurant with over 50 years of history.

Food: ★★★★★ out of 5 stars

Service: ★★★★ out of 5 stars

Ambiance: ★★★★ ½ out of 5 stars

Value: ★★★★½ out of 5 stars

Daedo Sikdang 대도식당 (flagship location)

Hongik-dong 431, Sungdong-gu (서울 성동구홍익동 431 )

Phone: 02-2292-9772

Hours: Open every day 11:00 am ~ 10:00 pm except major holidays

Click here for an interactive map: http://naver.me/G4zuc6Z9