[City Hall / Bukchang] Dotteodae, a black pork restaurant! Jirisan black pork was also in Seoul HONGDAE, Korea

[City Hall / Bukchang] Dotteodae, a black pork restaurant! Jirisan black pork was also in Seoul HONGDAE, Korea

Discover Dotteodae, a hidden gem in Seoul's City Hall area, specializing in premium Jirisan black pork. Experience authentic Korean BBQ with perfectly grilled meat and a vibrant atmosphere.

There's nothing quite like the sizzle of pork belly on a grill, especially on a Friday night. It's a universal truth that pork belly tastes best when grilled to perfection. So, when everyone else is heading home from work, I find myself making my way to City Hall, not for the usual office crowd, but for a delicious dinner at Dotteodae (돗대).

The Vibe: Bustling and Authentic

Dotteodae is a popular spot, especially on a Friday night. The place is often packed with people, including many foreigners, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. It's a testament to its popularity and the quality of its food. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, offering a comfortable dining experience.

The Menu: Jirisan Black Pork and More

The star of the show at Dotteodae is their Jirisan black pork. We ordered the sliced raw pork belly, eager to compare it to the black pork we'd tasted near Jirisan Mountain itself. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, with a delightful chewiness.

One of the highlights is that they grill the meat for you, saving you the trouble and ensuring perfect results every time. The pain of having to grill someone else's meat is more painful than you might think!

The Sides: A Personalized Experience

As soon as you sit down, a bite-sized steamed egg is served, a perfect way to start your meal. What's unique is the personalized array of spices and condiments on your plate, allowing you to customize each bite to your liking. It's a fun and engaging way to enjoy your meal.

The side dishes are clean, organized, and include a unique root plant that resembles a silkworm, offering a delightful crunch. There's also a self-bar where you can get more of your favorite condiments.

Don't forget to try the light and flavorful miso stew, a perfect accompaniment to the rich pork belly. And of course, a cold beer is a must when enjoying Korean BBQ on a Friday evening!

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Your Quick Guide to Dotteodae

• Name: Dotteodae (돗대)
• Address: 서울 중구 세종대로 72-1 (태평로2가 69-6)
• How to Get There: Located near City Hall Station. Use Google Maps for precise directions.
• Hours: Daily 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Last order 9:30 PM)
• Contact: 02-6952-8450

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A Local's Guide: 3 Ways to Explore City Hall & Bukchang Area

After enjoying your delicious black pork, explore the historic and vibrant City Hall and Bukchang area with these curated courses.

Course 1: A Quiet Historic Walk in the City Center

• Deoksugung Palace Stone Wall Trail (덕수궁 돌담길): A 5-minute walk from Taepyeong-ro 2-ga. Enjoy a peaceful stroll combining ancient palaces and Western-style architecture.
• Jeongdong Church (정동교회): A 10-minute walk from the stone wall path. Korea's first modern Protestant church, steeped in history.
• Coffee, Terra Rossa Seoul (테라로사 서울): A great place to stop after a walk along Jeongdong-gil. Enjoy owner-made drip coffee with a view of Jeongdong-gil.

Course 2: Taste and Relaxation in Jung-gu, Seoul

• Dotteodae: Start with a hearty Korean meal in a neat atmosphere.
• Bukgeoguk Alley in Mugyo-dong (무교동 북엇국 골목): A 7-minute walk from Dotteodae. Home to local favorite restaurants, perfect for a comforting bowl of drumstick soup.
• Thyme Cafe (타임 카페): A small teahouse in an alleyway, ideal for a quiet break filled with the scent of tea.

Course 3: Nature and Art in the City Center

• Seoul Plaza & Seoul City Hall Park (서울광장 & 서울시청 공원): 3 minutes from Dotteodae. Enjoy a peaceful time on a large lawn and sheltered area.
• Jungdong Theater (정동극장): A 10-minute walk from the park. Often hosts small performances and exhibitions, showcasing the area's artistic culture.
• Cafe Mamas (카페 마마스): Near Euljiro Entrance. Famous for fresh salads, homemade juices, and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for ending your day.

These courses are all within a 10-minute walk from Dotteodae, offering a natural route to experience the diverse charms of the neighborhood. Come and experience our neighborhood!