Top 2 Michelin-Selected Samgyeopsal Restaurants in Seoul (feat. Michelin Bib Gourmand) 🥓✨

Introduction:
Samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly, is more than just a dish—it’s a cultural icon and a soul food for Koreans. Did you know Korea consumes a quarter of the world’s pork production? 🐷 With countless samgyeopsal restaurants scattered across the country, it’s no surprise that the Michelin Guide has recognized two exceptional spots in Seoul under its Bib Gourmand category. This list highlights restaurants offering high-quality meals at reasonable prices (under 45,000 KRW). Let’s dive into these must-visit samgyeopsal destinations! 🍴

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1. Geumdwaeji Sikdang (금돼지 식당) in Jung-gu

📍 Location: 149 Dasan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (near Yaksu Station)
⏰ Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
📞 Phone: 0507-1307-8750

Why It’s Special:

• Low-temperature aged samgyeopsal: The pork belly is aged for over two weeks, enhancing its flavor and tenderness.
• Bone-in samgyeopsal: The bones add depth to the taste by releasing amino acids during the aging process.
• Unique sides: Instead of the usual scallion salad, they serve pickled green onions that perfectly complement the rich pork.
• Signature dish: Don’t miss their Tongdwaeji Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew), a flavorful addition to your meal.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for long waits—this place is a local favorite! ⏳

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2. Kkupdang (꿉당) in Seocho-gu

📍 Location: 12-21 Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul (near Sinsa Station)
⏰ Hours: Mon-Fri, 3:00 PM - 10:50 PM; Sat-Sun, 2:00 PM - 10:50 PM
📞 Phone: 0507-1489-9600

Why It’s Special:

• Aged pork neck meat: The star of the show is pork neck aged for about 15 days, resulting in a juicy and flavorful experience.
• Expert grilling: Staff grill the meat over binchotan charcoal on a custom grill, ensuring perfection every time.
• Diverse cuts: Besides pork neck, they also serve pork belly and skirt meat.
• Unique accompaniments: Their special rice and wasabi sauce add a delightful twist to the meal.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds—this spot is worth the wait! 🕒

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Why These Restaurants Stand Out 🌟

Both Geumdwaeji Sikdang and Kkupdang have earned their Bib Gourmand status by offering exceptional quality at affordable prices. Their focus on aged meat and unique side dishes sets them apart from typical samgyeopsal spots. While the wait times can be long, the unforgettable flavors make it all worthwhile. 🥢

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Tips for Visiting

• Plan ahead: Both restaurants are incredibly popular, so expect long lines. Arrive with plenty of time to spare.
• Taste is guaranteed: The Michelin seal of approval ensures a memorable dining experience.
• Explore more: If you’re a foodie, check out other Michelin-selected restaurants in Seoul, such as those specializing in 냉면 (cold noodles), 국밥 (soup with rice), or 칼국수 (noodle soup).

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Final Thoughts

Samgyeopsal is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Korean culture and culinary artistry. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these Michelin-selected restaurants offer a chance to experience samgyeopsal at its finest. So, grab your chopsticks and get ready for a feast! 🥓🔥

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Note: This blog post was originally published on December 30, 2023. For more food adventures and travel tips, stay tuned to our blog! 🌏✨