[Review] Myeongdong Kyoja(명동교자) Main Store: A Culinary Hotspot Worthy of Its Michelin Star

Welcome to the vibrant world of Korean cuisine! Today, we’re exploring the renowned Myeongdong Kyoja Main Store, a must-visit hotspot for food lovers. This bustling eatery, nestled in the heart of Myeongdong, isn’t just another dining destination; it’s an experience that embodies the essence of Korean culinary excellence.

A Testament to Popularity and Efficiency

During a weekday lunchtime, one might expect a long wait given the popularity of Myeongdong Kyoja. Surprisingly, despite the crowd, we were seated within a mere 15 minutes. The efficiency and speed of service here are remarkable. The spacious setting and quick handling of orders ensure that long waits are a thing of the past.

The Michelin Star Experience

As you step in, the Michelin mark by the entrance catches your eye, a symbol of the consistent quality Myeongdong Kyoja has maintained over the years. This accolade is a testament to their commitment to culinary excellence, an achievement they’ve seemingly earned year after year.

A Unique Seating Arrangement

Our dining experience was made even more interesting by sharing a table with another pair of diners. However, thanks to the clever arrangement of condiment containers and utensil holders in the middle, the shared seating didn’t feel intrusive at all.

The Menu: A Delightful Surprise

For our meal, we chose two servings of Kalguksu (noodle soup) at 10,000 KRW each and a set of Mandu (dumplings) for 12,000 KRW, totaling 32,000 KRW. The ordering and payment process was smoothly handled upon entry.

The menu arrived almost instantly. The Kalguksu was a delightful surprise, veering away from the usual seafood base to a rich meat and vegetable broth, emitting a subtle smoky aroma. The noodles were exceptionally soft, and the topping of meat and four dumplings added a satisfying heartiness to the dish. Unlike the typical Mandu, these were distinctly Korean in style – warm, tender, and meat-filled.

A Flavorful Discovery

The homemade kimchi, reminiscent of traditional household kimchi rather than factory-produced, was a standout. Its high quality likely appeals significantly to foreigners. It’s a known fact in Korea that the quality of kimchi can make or break a Kalguksu meal, and Myeongdong Kyoja certainly didn’t disappoint in this aspect.

The broth was the star of the meal for me. Its depth and flavor were memorable, leaving a lasting impression.

Final Recommendations

For those who enjoyed the Kalguksu, I recommend trying other restaurants that specialize in clam-based noodle soups(Bajirak Kalguksu) for a different twist on this classic dish.

Myeongdong Kyoja Reviews, Menu, and Michelin Star

In conclusion, Myeongdong Kyoja stands as a shining example of Korean culinary expertise. Its efficient service, Michelin-starred quality, and delightful menu make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Myeongdong’s food scene. The photos attached here only begin to tell the story of this remarkable dining experience.

Myeongdong Kyoja Main Store

Address: 29, Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: Daily 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM)
Contact Number: 0507-1366-5348
Menu:
Kalguksu (Noodle Soup): 10,000 KRW
Mandu (Dumplings): 12,000 KRW
Bibimguksu (Spicy Mixed Noodles): 10,000 KRW
Kongguksu (Soy Milk Noodle Soup) [Available from April 15 to October 15, 2023]: 12,000 KRW

**Menu items and prices may vary depending on the restaurant’s circumstances.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *