A Rare Second Visit: Breaking My Own Rules
I’m someone who rarely visits the same place twice—there are just too many exciting spots to explore! But Hojokban Cheongdam was an exception that shattered my “no repeat visits” rule.
It’s also one of the few restaurants I confidently recommend to friends visiting Seoul, which says a lot. So, this time, I went back with a foodie buddy to share the experience!
About Hojokban(호족반) Cheongdam
📍 Address: 39, Eonju-ro 164-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
📞 Phone: 0507-1399-3353
🕒 Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Last Order at 9:00 PM)
Timing It Right to Skip the Wait
Despite the odd hour, the place was still buzzing, with only two tables left unoccupied. The intimate space with its modern yet subtly Asian design feels well thought out, even down to the tiniest details.
Drinks: “Tiger Belly” Makgeolli
While I’m no expert on alcohol (and rarely drink), I could tell this was smooth and easygoing, pairing perfectly with the dishes. My friend, who’s a total lightweight, tapped out after one sip, leaving the rest to me. Cheers to that!
Dish 1: Garlic Pork Jowl Bossam (₩21,300)
This was the highlight of my first visit, and the main reason I came back. The tender, juicy pork jowl topped with garlic sauce, paired with chive ssamjang, herring roe, and radish slaw, is nothing short of divine.
Take one bite with everything layered together, and you’ll understand why this dish alone can turn anyone into a Hojokban fan. Absolute perfection!
Dish 2: LA Garlic Galbi (₩48,800)
With a stunning presentation and popularity among surrounding tables, the LA Garlic Galbi was an obvious choice. While it was delicious, it didn’t quite go beyond the familiar flavors of classic LA galbi.
The addition of grilled rice cakes and garlic was nice, but the rice cakes could’ve been crispier on the outside for that extra oomph. A solid dish, but not the standout we were hoping for.
Dish 3: Perilla Oil Buckwheat Noodles (₩8,800)
This was a surprise hit from my first visit, so we had to order it again. Despite its simplicity, the Perilla Oil Buckwheat Noodles have an addictive flavor that keeps your chopsticks moving.
The subtle flavors balance perfectly with the bold, rich meat dishes, making this a must-order for anyone visiting.
Dish 4: Mushroom Perilla Seed Kalguksu Soup (₩11,800)
This was a new addition to the menu, and it ended up stealing the show. The hearty perilla seed broth was packed with umami and paired with chewy noodles and a medley of mushrooms.
On a cold day, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. Bonus: their sautéed kimchi adds a spicy, tangy punch when mixed into the soup. Don’t skip it!
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Foodie Spot
Hojokban lives up to its hype as one of Cheongdam’s hottest restaurants. While the wait can be intense, strategic timing lets you avoid the crowds and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
From the melt-in-your-mouth Garlic Pork Jowl to the soul-warming Mushroom Perilla Soup, this place deserves all the buzz. I’m already looking forward to my next visit—and that says it all!