Gawon Bapsang – The Must-Try Agu Su-yuk Spot in Busan! 🐟🔥
Recently, historic, old-school Korean eateries (nopo; 노포) have become incredibly popular, transforming once-local spots into must-visit foodie destinations for younger crowds.
One of the most viral restaurants in Busan? Gawon Bapsang in Munhyeon-dong.
Since it was close to where I used to live as a kid, I was both nostalgic and curious—was this place really worth the hype? I had to find out!
Getting There & First Impressions 🏠
📍 Gawon Bapsang (가원밥상)
📍 29 Suyeong-ro 39beon-gil, Nam-gu, Busan
⏰ 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Break time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
Even before break time ended, there was already a waiting list.
Considering it’s tucked away in a residential alley, I was amazed at how many people were lining up before opening hours. This place was clearly a big deal.
Luckily, since I arrived early and wrote my name down, I was able to get in as soon as they opened.
A Cozy & Nostalgic Atmosphere 🍽️
✔️ Traditional yet clean & well-organized
✔️ Casual & welcoming
✔️ A mix of young foodies & longtime regulars
It felt like a place where everyone—young and old—came together to enjoy good food and good company.
The Meal Begins – Banchan & Surprise Service!
🔥 A complimentary bowl of Agu-tang (spicy monkfish soup).
One sip, and I was blown away.
✔️ Spicy, clear, and full of deep seafood flavor
✔️ A perfect balance of heat and richness
It was so good that I immediately ordered a beer to go with it. 🍺
If I lived in this neighborhood, I would come back just for the Agu-tang alone.
The Main Event – Agu Su-yuk (Steamed Monkfish) 🐟✨
✔️ Tender, chewy, and packed with umami
✔️ Perfectly paired with fresh bean sprouts & spicy chojang (vinegar red pepper sauce)
✔️ A match made in heaven with Agu-tang and beer 🍺
At that moment, I understood why this place was so popular.
Looking around, I saw two distinct groups of customers:
1️⃣ Younger foodies taking photos & documenting their experience 📸
2️⃣ Older regulars drinking soju with multiple plates of Agu Su-yuk 🍶
A place that pleases all generations? That’s when you know it’s a true foodie destination.
Agu-jjim Upgrade – Double the Flavor! 🔥
They took our remaining monkfish, brought it back, and returned with a completely transformed dish—now a rich, spicy braised Agu-jjim!
It felt like we had ordered two different dishes in one meal.
Pro tip: Add rice or noodles at this stage for an even better experience!
Final Step – The Ultimate Finishing Touch 🍜
The noodles absorbed all the spicy, savory monkfish sauce, making each bite irresistible.
Despite being stuffed, we couldn’t stop eating. That’s when you know a dish is truly special.
Final Thoughts – Was It Worth the Hype? ✅
✔️ Rich, flavorful seafood dishes 🐟🔥
✔️ Generous portions – even the smallest size was enough for two people
✔️ Agu Su-yuk + Agu-jjim combo = the best of both worlds
✔️ The bonus monkfish soup alone is worth visiting for
With its growing popularity, the wait times have increased, but if you love authentic Korean seafood, Gawon Bapsang is 100% worth it.
Next time I’m in Busan, I’m definitely coming back.
Best All Inclusive Resort in Cancun: Atelier Playa Mujeres Review
