Exploring Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk in Gongju
▲ Entrance of Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk
Upon arriving at Gongju Bus Terminal, I walked down the alley right in front of me and was immediately drawn to the sign for 'Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk'. The first thing that greeted me at the entrance was a sign indicating it as a 'Good Price Restaurant'. In this era of high prices, a restaurant that considers the traveler's wallet is a welcome sight.
▲ Good Price Sign
Designated as a Good Price Restaurant by Chungcheongnam-do and Gongju City, I found this establishment to be a reliable refuge during my travels. No matter where I go, I can always find delicious meals by looking for Good Price Restaurants first.
▲ Closed on Mondays, open from 7 AM to 9 PM
Before entering, I carefully read the notice posted at the entrance. It mentioned that the restaurant is closed on Mondays and is open from 7 AM to 9 PM, ready to serve customers. For early arrivals in Gongju or travelers enjoying late evenings, this place is a must-visit.
Especially, there aren't many places to have breakfast early in the morning, so I appreciated the fact that I could enjoy a hearty bowl of soup anytime, as long as I avoided the break time.
▲ Comfortable seating for solo travelers
As soon as I entered Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk, I noticed the thoughtful arrangement of space that allows solo travelers to enjoy their meals comfortably. While it’s suitable for large families, there were also window seats that felt entirely unburdened for someone like me traveling alone.
▲ Menu board inside offers spicy and mild options
Looking at the menu, I was pleased to find options for 'spicy' and 'mild' flavors according to personal preference. This attention to detail caters to those who can't handle spicy food and families with children.
In addition to Yangpyeong Haejangguk, there were various options like beef, dried pollack with bean sprouts, and blood sausage soup. I noticed students and locals ordering takeout while I enjoyed my meal. It was a restaurant that offered great value for money and delicious flavors.
▲ Menu board and traces of past visitors
The walls were adorned with the Good Price menu board, along with doodles and notes left by numerous past visitors, providing a fun reading experience following in the footsteps of travelers.
▲ Tablets for ordering at each table
As soon as I sat down, I was able to leisurely browse the menu on the tablet installed at my table and place my order conveniently.
Each menu item came with pictures, making it easier to decide what to order.
▲ Condiments available at each table
Pepper, salt, and perilla powder were provided at each table, allowing diners to adjust the seasoning of their soup to their liking.
It’s not common to see perilla powder offered at other soup restaurants, so I appreciated this thoughtful touch.
▲ Kimchi and radish cubes in jars
True to its historical roots, the side dishes were presented differently than in other regions, with kimchi and radish cubes stored in jars to maintain their cool temperature.
It was convenient to take as much as I wanted, reducing food waste while keeping the flavors fresh.
The radish cubes had a light seasoning, enhancing their refreshing taste.
▲ The mild Yangpyeong Haejangguk was red
When my soup arrived, I had chosen the mild version, which was served with a red broth. The spicy yet savory aroma was enticing.
With a bowl of rice provided, I was looking forward to a hearty meal. The bubbling bowl of Yangpyeong Haejangguk felt refreshing even before I took a bite.
▲ Surprisingly refreshing broth
The red color resembled a well-cooked yukgaejang, which made me wonder if it would be too spicy, but taking a spoonful dispelled that concern pleasantly.
Unlike its rich appearance, the broth was surprisingly cool and clean. The refreshing taste that glided down my throat was likely due to the fresh ingredients, especially the bean sprouts, which added to its crispness.
▲ Generous portion inside
When I dug deeper with my spoon, I was amazed at the generous portion inside. It explained why this restaurant is so popular among customers. For this price, the amount was incredibly satisfying.
▲ Enjoying the lamb with soy sauce
I first took some lamb from the pot and dipped it in the accompanying soy sauce. The chewy texture of the lamb combined with the savory sauce made it feel like I was enjoying a different dish even while eating the soup.
▲ Fresh blood sausage
The fresh blood sausage was cut generously, allowing me to mix it with rice. It had a clean taste, and unlike some places where it might have an off-putting odor, this one was fresh and smooth.
▲ Enjoying with radish cubes
Kimchi and radish cubes are essential elements that enhance the flavor of the soup. The radish cubes paired perfectly with the soup.
Taking a spoonful of well-cooked lamb, soft blood sausage, and rice soaked in broth, topped with crunchy radish cubes, created a perfect harmony of flavors in my mouth.
▲ A satisfying meal
I couldn't put down my spoon until I saw the bottom of the bowl. The earthenware pot kept the warmth until the last spoonful, and the clean broth left a pleasant aftertaste.
I was able to start my journey powerfully with this hearty soup. Finishing the warm soup made me feel rejuvenated.
▲ Complimentary hazelnut coffee
As I stood up, satisfied, the owner presented me with a parting gift that captured the traveler's heart: a fragrant hazelnut coffee.
This thoughtful gesture made me feel fond of Gongju even before my journey began.
Sipping the warm hazelnut coffee as I left the restaurant blended perfectly with Gongju's fresh air, enhancing the aftertaste of my journey.
The leisurely moment of enjoying a cup of coffee at the entrance of Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk seemed to introduce Gongju as a place for travelers.
▲ Images related to Yangpyeong Halmae Haejangguk
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224302950193
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