[Mapo / Daeheung] Now Sikdang, Go Away! Real Ssambap Restaurant in Mapo-gu HONGDAE, Seoul KOREA

[Mapo / Daeheung] Now Sikdang, Go Away! Real Ssambap Restaurant in Mapo-gu HONGDAE, Seoul KOREA

Discover Now Sikdang, a hidden gem in Mapo-gu's Daeheung-dong, specializing in authentic Korean Ssambap. Experience a hearty meal with fresh ingredients and a surprisingly clean atmosphere.

For many Koreans, especially men, the ultimate comfort food is a hearty stir-fry. It's the kind of food that reminds you of home, often involving fire-grilled chili paste and a sizzling grill. When that craving hits, I head straight to Now Sikdang (지금식당) in Daeheung-dong.

The Vibe: Surprisingly Clean and Bustling

Despite its name, which translates to "Countryside Diner," Now Sikdang is surprisingly sparkling clean, both inside and out. This was a pleasant surprise. Even close to 2 PM, people kept pouring in for lunch, a clear sign of its popularity. It's a place where everyone seems to order the same thing – a testament to its signature dish.

The Menu: Authentic Ssambap with a Twist

Now Sikdang specializes in Ssambap (쌈밥), a Korean dish where you wrap rice and meat in fresh leafy vegetables. For your ssambap, you can choose from soy sauce crab, marbled pork, or gochujang-marinated pork. We opted for the gochujang-marinated pork and the charcoal grill, because, well, we needed meat!

The meat is incredibly flavorful, living up to its "direct fire" name. The ssam vegetables are generously prepared and incredibly fresh. What's even better is that you can get unlimited refills of side dishes and pickled vegetables – just ask the staff! This makes the meal even more satisfying.

The Sides: A Feast for the Eyes and Palate

One of the most impressive aspects of Now Sikdang is the sheer number of basic side dishes – a whopping nine! It's truly crazy how much they provide. Each side dish is clean and organized, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience.

Don't miss the miso stew, which is light and flavorful, a perfect accompaniment to the rich meat. It's so good, you could eat a whole meal with just this stew. The myriad of side dishes and the neatly arranged meat plates truly bring joy to your meal.

It felt like visiting a traditional Korean house in Jeolla-do, known for its generous hospitality. If you love meat, you'll love this place. Good meat is love, and Ssambap is truly the best.

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Your Quick Guide to Now Sikdang

• Name: Now Sikdang (지금식당)
• Address: 서울 마포구 백범로 112-1 1F (대흥동)
• How to Get There: A 2-minute walk from Exit 3 of Daeheung Station. Use Google Maps for precise directions.
• Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Break time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM); Sat-Sun 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (No breaks, last order 8:10 PM)
• Contact: 0507-1495-1234

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A Local's Guide: 3 Ways to Explore Daeheung & Mapo Area

After enjoying your hearty meal at Now Sikdang, explore the charming Daeheung and Mapo area with these curated courses.

Course 1: Daeheung Station's Restaurants and Emotional Cafes

• Now Sikdang: Start your day with a hearty Korean meal that locals love.
• Louvre Baguette (루브르 바게트): A 3-minute walk from the station, this European-inspired bakery cafe is perfect for fresh bread and coffee.
• Gyeongui Line Forest Path Park (경의선 숲길 공원): A quiet walk near Daeheung Station, ideal for a post-meal digestive break and enjoying nature.

Course 2: Lamb and the Joys of Exploring Alleyways

• Lamland (램랜드): A lamb restaurant on Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, offering a unique experience of lamb ribs and hotpot wrapped in tortillas.
• Mapori 1987 (마포리 1987): A hidden gem near Dokmak-ro, with a cozy interior and authentic local flavors.
• Sinsudong Alleyway (신수동 골목): After your meal, stroll through this nearby alleyway to explore small shops and murals.

Course 3: A Leisurely Afternoon by the Han River and Parks

• Now Sikdang: Begin with a satisfying lunch.
• Mangwon Hangang Park (망원 한강공원): About a 10-minute walk or bus ride away, offering panoramic views of the Han River and a grassy lawn perfect for a picnic.
• Mangwon Market Cafe Street (망원시장 카페거리): Many cute cafes close to the park, perfect for dessert and coffee.

These routes are designed to help you discover hidden gourmet spots and relaxing spaces that only the locals know about. Come and experience the real charm of Mapo!