Introducing the best doenjang jjigae ever near City Hall. It’s an absolute beast compared to your normal, bland varieties because the genius owner goes against convention by adding high-quality beef and sigol doenjang (“countryside” fermented soybean paste), giving the soup unbelievable depth and heft. The broth is so condensed that a mountainous bowl of rice (which is REFILLABLE!) and meticulously prepared banchan are served to create a quasi DIY doenjang bibimbap of sorts. Chunky, slightly funky, and umami-packed, it’s well worth the 10,000 won price tag.

The place is a true hole-in-the-wall restaurant that’s small (more like cramped) with suspect service (more like curt) and only serves two menu items (a very solid sign). I’ve always been a big fan of specialized restaurants, but to devote your entire business livelihood on a few dishes is pretty crazy – which shows you just how good this ubiquitous soup can be when done right. The only caveat: The restaurant is always packed during peak hours, so you may want to avoid unless you’re comfortable sitting with complete strangers (which I was fine with). For claustrophobes, probably best to visit during off-hours.

Food: ★★★★ ½ out of 5 stars

Service: ★★★★ out of 5 stars

Ambiance: ★★★ out of 5 stars

Value: ★★★★ out of 5 stars

Sanbool Deungshim 산불등심

Address: Da-dong 127 Jung-gu (중구 다동 127)

Phone: 02-754-7584

Hours: Open every day 11:00 am – 10:00 pm except Sundays

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