Songhwa Yangkkochi

This restaurant, located near Konkuk University in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, is famous for its lamb skewers. Orders can be placed easily using the tablet provided at each table, making it very convenient.Side dishes include cold bean curd salad, pickled mustard stems (Zha Cai), radish kimchi, stir-fried peanuts, and a fragrant cumin spice powder for dipping the skewers.Lamb skewers are made by grilling lamb meat on skewers, often seasoned with spices to mask the gamey flavor. But here, there’s no odor at all, thanks to their special aging process, which brings out an even richer taste.

Once served, simply place the skewers into the automatic rotating grill slot on your table, and they’ll cook themselves. When they’re golden brown, remove the meat, dip it generously in cumin, and enjoy! The aged lamb is tender yet pleasantly chewy.Though cilantro is a divisive ingredient in Korea, if you like it, the cilantro salad here is a must-try. The slightly spicy seasoning and refreshing aroma of cilantro create a fantastic harmony with the lamb skewers.

Another popular side dish is Guobaorou, a dish originating from northeastern China. Often compared to Korean tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork), it’s made by coating thinly sliced pork in starch, frying it until crispy, and topping it with a tangy, sweet sauce made from vinegar. The contrast of the crispy exterior, chewy interior, and zesty sauce makes it a perfect appetizer or pairing with drinks.