Go Mi-Jung, Korean food restaurant! Sorry mom, the side dishes here were better [Yeonhee / Hongdae] HONGDAE, KOREA

A Taste of Home That Surpasses Mom’s Cooking: Go Mi-jeong in Yeonhui-dong

There are certain flavors that instantly transport you back to your childhood, to the comforting warmth of your mother’s kitchen. But what happens when you discover a place that elevates those familiar tastes to a whole new level? That’s the delightful dilemma I faced at Go Mi-jeong (고미정), a traditional Korean restaurant nestled in the charming neighborhood of Yeonhui-dong, Seoul. It was a meal so impressive, I had to jokingly apologize to my own mother—her cooking had finally met its match.

My journey to Go Mi-jeong began with a visit to Gitteot, a popular pork belly restaurant in Hongdae. I was struck by the exceptional quality of their rice and side dishes (banchan). Curious, I learned that they sourced these delectable accompaniments from Go Mi-jeong. The seed was planted, and I knew I had to experience the source of this culinary magic firsthand.

The Unforgettable Combination: Soy-Marinated Crab and Stir-fried Pork

Go Mi-jeong’s reputation is built on a simple, yet unbeatable formula: perfectly marinated raw crab (ganjang gejang), savory stir-fried pork (jeyuk bokkeum), and the star of the show, glossy Icheon rice. This trio creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Located near Ansan Mountain, the restaurant was bustling even on a Wednesday, a testament to its popularity among locals. The moment I stepped inside, I understood why. The cozy, multi-level building exudes a welcoming, home-like atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease.

The Secret to Perfection: 25 Years of Icheon Rice

At the entrance, a sign proudly proclaims "25 years of Icheon rice." This isn't just any rice; it's a grain with a royal pedigree, once served to the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Icheon’s unique geography—a natural basin with fertile soil, ample sunshine, and clean water from the Namhan River—creates the perfect conditions for growing this exceptional rice. Its slightly sticky texture and sweet, nutty flavor provide the perfect canvas for the restaurant's flavorful dishes.

Plan Your Visit to Go Mi-jeong

• Google Rating: 4.2
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 11:30 - 21:00 (Break Time: 15:30 - 17:20). Closed on Mondays.
• Location: 28, Yeonhee-ro 26-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
• Contact: 02-324-0016

The restaurant's interior is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a family gathering, a special date, or a meal with parents. The friendly service and availability of valet parking add to the seamless dining experience.

A Menu of Focused Excellence

True to the philosophy of many great Korean restaurants, Go Mi-jeong features a concise menu. This focus allows them to perfect each dish. We opted for the Icheon Rice Set and the Soy-Marinated Crab Set, accompanied by a refreshing glass of makgeolli (Korean rice wine), which was the perfect complement to our meal.

The True Stars: A Symphony of Side Dishes

The moment the table was set, I was astounded by the sheer variety and quality of the banchan. Each side dish felt like a standalone masterpiece, crafted with care and precision.

Unlike many restaurants where side dishes share a similar flavor profile, here, each one celebrated the natural taste of its ingredients. From seasoned eggplant and old squash to bellflower root and lotus root, every bite was a delightful surprise. The flavors were distinct, clean, and utterly delicious, making me appreciate vegetables I would normally overlook.

The main dishes were equally impressive. The fragrant Icheon rice, served in a hot stone pot, and the savory seaweed soup perfectly complemented the entire meal.

My dining companion, a true crab aficionado, devoured the soy-marinated crab with gusto, while the spicy-sweet stir-fried pork was a perfect match for the fluffy rice and other side dishes.

A Perfect Ending: Nurungji and Sungnyung

No traditional Korean meal is complete without nurungji (scorched rice) and sungnyung (scorched rice water). After we finished the rice, hot water was poured into the stone pot, creating a nutty, comforting porridge that served as the perfect end to our feast.

Go Mi-jeong is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. It’s a place that honors the traditions of Korean cuisine while delivering flavors that are both refined and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to bring your parents, to share a meal that feels both special and wonderfully familiar.

Explore Yeonhui-dong: A Local's Guide to the Neighborhood

After your incredible meal at Go Mi-jeong, take some time to explore the charming streets of Yeonhui-dong. Here are a few curated courses to help you discover the area's hidden gems:

Course 1: A Feast of Flavors and Tranquil Ambiance

• Go Mi-jeong: Start with a hearty, traditional Korean meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Yeonhee Yanggwajang: A 5-minute walk away, this old-fashioned bakery is perfect for a post-meal coffee and pastry. Grab a seat by the window and watch the world go by.
• Ansanjarak Park: Just a 10-minute stroll from the bakery, this park offers peaceful forest trails, allowing you to soak in the quiet, natural beauty of the neighborhood.

Course 2: A Culinary Tour of Yeonhui-dong's Alleys

• Nokwon Ssambap: Famous for its fresh vegetable wraps (ssam) and spicy stir-fried squid, this local favorite is always bustling.
• Udon Kaden: A short walk from Nokwon, this spot serves up delicious udon with a rich broth and perfectly chewy noodles.
• Sway Coffee: Tucked away in a quiet alley, this cafe is known for its strong, clean, house-roasted coffee—an ideal place to relax with a book.

Course 3: Casual Bites and Emotional Cafes

• Yeonhee Gimbap: For a simple yet satisfying meal, try the gimbap at this beloved local spot.
• Konha's: With comfortable seating and delicious desserts, this two-story cafe is a great place to unwind on a sunny afternoon.
• Yeonhee Park: End your day with a relaxing stroll through this neighborhood park, complete with calm walking paths and plenty of benches to rest and reflect.