I was craving Korean beef (hanwoo) for the first time in a while, so I started searching and decided to try Kkokdaegi Hanwoo, a place I pass on my way to work. I chose it because I wanted to avoid the loud, rowdy atmosphere of a typical BBQ joint. I'd been meaning to check it out for a while, thanks to its clean, understated exterior.
Before you order any meat, the table is set with a basic spread that includes a green salad and a salmon salad. We nibbled on those and chatted while we waited, and then the striploin and the assorted specialty cuts I'd ordered arrived at the table.
The specialty cuts are on the left, and the striploin is the piece on the far right. The owner kindly explained each cut, but I can't remember a word of it. I really need to get into the habit of taking notes. Either way, the beef had a beautiful color and looked wonderfully fresh.
Now for the fun part: grilling. The owner will grill the meat for you, but only when he isn't busy. At most Korean BBQ places, having the staff grill beef for you is practically a given, so that was a small letdown. Dipping the meat in salt works well, but it's even better wrapped in a perilla leaf. The leaf's sharp, slightly peppery bite cleans up the aftertaste, and the little bits inside pop as you chew, adding a fun texture.
The owner cut the striploin into bite-sized pieces before grilling it. He also brought out a seasoned side dish that was high in dietary fiber, with a fun, crunchy texture similar to aged cucumber (nogak). It paired really well with the beef. It was complimentary, and the owner's friendly service left a good impression.
After the beef, I finished with hanwoo ramyeon to cut through the richness. The ramyeon is based on Ansung Tangmyun, but personally I think a slightly spicier ramyeon like Shin Ramyun would work even better. There's parking for about two cars in front of the restaurant.
Tags: Korean BBQ, Hanwoo, Gangseo-gu, Deungchon-dong, Kkokdaegi Hanwoo
