[Mapo / Mangwon] Oshi Mangwon, Okonomiyaki better than Hiroshima! Mangwon-dong Date Course KOREA HONGDAE

Oshi Mangwon Honten: An Authentic Okonomiyaki Experience in the Heart of Seoul

A friend who recently returned from Japan often says, "Korea, especially Mapo-gu, does Japanese cuisine incredibly well." It's not just about replicating the flavors; it's about adapting them with a unique Korean touch that creates something truly special. At the forefront of this culinary evolution is Oshi Mangwon Honten, a place that has redefined okonomiyaki for us.

The sign reads "Oshi! My favorite!" and after one visit, it will undoubtedly become your favorite too. Even for those who have tasted authentic okonomiyaki in its homeland of Osaka and Hiroshima, Oshi Mangwon Honten offers a revelation.

The Vibe: A Slice of Japan in Mangwon-dong

The popularity of this place is no secret. Arriving at 6:20 PM on a Monday, we were met with a waiting list of nine teams. The hour-long wait on a hot day was daunting, but the promise of what lay inside kept us going. The restaurant's atmosphere, flavor, and authentic Japanese vibe make it a standout destination in Mangwon.

A quick stroll through the adjacent Mangwon Market helps pass the time. Once inside, the cozy space, complete with dodge tables and intimate seating, welcomes you. The open teppanyaki grill is a paradise, offering a captivating view of the chefs at work.

The Main Event: A Culinary Masterpiece

Finally, after the long wait, we were seated. The neatly set plates and the promise of a cold beer set the stage for an unforgettable meal.

Navigating the Menu

The menu at Oshi is extensive, offering far more than just a few options. You could easily have a full meal, explore Mangwon Market, and return for a second round.

We opted for the classics:

• Teppan Omelet Yakisoba: Yakisoba noodles enveloped in a soft, moist omelet, fresh from the griddle.
• Classic Oshinomiyaki: Their signature okonomiyaki with scallions, katsuobushi, and an extra four shrimp.
• Two Kirin Draft Beers: An absolute necessity.

The Teppan Omelet Yakisoba

The yakisoba arrived first, a visual masterpiece. The fluffy omelet encased a generous portion of savory noodles and seafood. Each bite was a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, far from the one-note saltiness some might expect from Japanese food.

And the Kirin Draft Beer? It was served so perfectly chilled it felt like a reward for our patience. It's a blessing to enjoy a draft beer in Korea that tastes just as good as it does in Japan.

The Classic Oshinomiyaki

Just as we were savoring the last of the yakisoba, the main event arrived. If you think okonomiyaki is just a simple cabbage pancake, Oshi will prove you wrong. This is a true culinary creation.

Buried under a mountain of fresh scallions and dancing katsuobushi flakes, the okonomiyaki was a revelation. The four plump shrimp we added were perfectly cooked, and the batter itself was light and flavorful, nothing like the bland versions I've had before. The combination of green onions, shrimp, and savory pancake created a symphony of flavors that had us exclaiming "delicious!" with every bite.

The Verdict

We are so thankful this restaurant is in Mangwon-dong, right here in Korea. Oshi Mangwon Honten is more than just a restaurant; it's a destination for special people and even more special food. It has earned a permanent spot on our must-visit list.

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A Curated Seoul Travel Guide by a Local

After your incredible meal at Oshi, explore the charming neighborhood of Mangwon-dong with these curated courses, all within a short walk.

Course 1: The Quintessential Mangwon Experience

• Start: Begin your journey at Oshi Mangwon Honten.
• Explore: Walk to the nearby Mangwon Market. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, discover fresh local produce, and experience the friendly spirit of a traditional Korean market.
• Relax: Conclude your tour at Dalgona Mangwon-dong, a cozy café. Grab a seat by the window, enjoy a sweet treat and coffee, and watch the world go by in the charming alleyways. (This entire course is a 10-15 minute walk and can be enjoyed over 2-3 hours.)

Course 2: Nature and Noms

• Start: After your meal at Oshi, take a 15-minute walk to the expansive World Cup Park.
• Heal: Take a leisurely stroll through Haneul Park (Sky Park) and enjoy a pocket of serene nature right in the city. The scenery is beautiful year-round.
• Dine Again: After your walk, discover one of the hidden gem restaurants near the park for a simple yet satisfying meal. (A perfect 2-3 hour itinerary that combines a great meal with a refreshing nature walk.)

Course 3: Hipster Hangouts and Hidden Shops

• Start: Begin with a slice of delicious pizza at Mangwon-dong Pizza Bill's, just a short walk from Oshi.
• Refresh: Cleanse your palate with a fresh, healthy bowl at On Salad, only 5 minutes away.
• Discover: Spend the rest of your time exploring Mangwon-dong's unique independent bookstores and vintage prop shops, soaking in the neighborhood's trendy, artistic vibe. (A leisurely 2-3 hour tour covering about 10 minutes of walking.)

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Essential Information

• Address: 48, World Cup-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 1F (서울특별시 마포구 월드컵로 17길 48 1층)
• Hours: Monday - Sunday, 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
• Contact: 050-71430-3379
• Google Rating: 4.9