A Taste of Tradition: Abai Wangsundaetang, a Namdaemun Market Gem
Namdaemun Market is always bustling with crowds and filled with the enticing aromas of street food.
Even within that vibrant chaos, there's an alleyway where the rich, savory scent of meat is particularly strong.
This is where you'll find Abai Wangsundaetang, a renowned spot for sundae soup (sundaegukbap) in Namdaemun Market.
During lunchtime, a long line of people forms, and the restaurant consistently sells an average of 300 bowls a day, proving its enduring popularity.
It's also a great place for dining solo.
Located deeper within the market, the exterior sign suggests a time-worn soup house. However, stepping inside reveals a completely different impression.
The interior is clean, brightly lit, and features bar-style seating alongside spacious tables.
The clean interior doesn't feel like a typical market restaurant.
It's a far cry from the cramped and chaotic atmosphere often associated with market eateries.
Solo diners can comfortably find a spot, and there's ample space for larger groups.
The reason why they sell 300 bowls a day?
It's all about the dedication to the fundamentals of flavor.
Here's a quick overview:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Daily Sales | Approx. 300 bowls or more |
| Signature Dishes | Abai Sundaegukbap, Sundae Soup, Minari Pancake (Water Dropwort Pancake) |
| Hygiene | Thorough disinfection before opening and after closing daily |
| Interior | Bar seating + tables for 4, pleasant interior |
| Location | 2nd and 3rd floor, Namdaemun Market |
The greatest strength of this place lies in its 'basics'.
Rather than flashy visuals or overly stimulating seasonings, they focus on local Abai-style sundae and rich broth.
This restaurant competes with the deep, original flavor of the soup.
The broth is clear and rich from start to finish, and the savory aroma of meat fills your mouth with the very first sip.
It's not oily, making it refreshing to drink, and each spoonful warms you from the inside out.
Ordered: Abai Sundae Soup + Minari Pancake
On this day, I ordered the Abai Sundae Soup and the Minari Pancake.
The sundae soup arrives in a large earthenware pot, steaming hot.
I ordered it with only sundae, and the portion was generous.
The broth is savory yet clean in the aftertaste, and there's absolutely no gamey smell.
Even those trying it for the first time can enjoy it without any reservations, as there's no distinct pork odor.
The sundae has a soft yet dense texture that's delightful, and eating it with the meat doubles the enjoyment of chewing.
Adding a pinch of perilla powder enhances the savory flavor of the broth, and a handful of chives and a spoonful of salted shrimp add an explosion of umami.
I highly recommend trying the minari pancake that comes with it.
The thick and crispy pancake is packed with squid and shrimp, giving it a bouncy texture.
The fragrant aroma of the well-cooked minari (water dropwort) neutralizes the oily smell, making it enjoyable and savory until the very end.
A light dip in soy sauce doubles the savory taste.
Ambiance & Seating
Upon visiting, I was most impressed with the clean interior.
The bar seating by the window is perfect for solo visitors, while the tables inside are ideal for families or office workers having lunch together.
The walls are neatly adorned with photos of the signature dishes, making it easy for first-timers to choose their meals.
Through the window, you can see the lights and signs of Namdaemun Market, allowing you to feel the market's lively atmosphere even late in the evening.
It's a space where cleanliness and market charm coexist.
Information & Tips
Location: 2nd floor near Gate 5 of Namdaemun Market
Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM
Takeout: Available (both sundaegukbap and pancakes)
Parking: Use Namdaemun Market Public Parking
Waiting: Waiting is essential during peak lunch hours.
Due to the high foot traffic in the market,
Lunchtime (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) is always busy.
If you visit a little earlier, you can be seated right away, and takeout orders are prepared quickly, making it popular among busy office workers.
Visiting Tips
1️⃣ The broth is lightly seasoned, so taste it first.
2️⃣ Add a spoonful of perilla powder for double the savoriness!
3️⃣ The minari pancake is made to order, so there may be a slight wait.
4️⃣ For takeout, the broth and ingredients are packaged separately, so you can enjoy it at home just as it is.
I didn't expect to find such a clean space and a hearty meal in the middle of the market.
Namdaemun Market sundaegukbap at its finest – that's the perfect way to describe this place.
From the rich broth and generous amount of meat to the fragrant minari pancake,
It's clear 'why they sell 300 bowls a day.'
More than just a bowl of soup to fill your stomach,
It's a warm bowl that soothes your soul at the end of a tiring day.
That's the charm of Abai Sundaegukbap in Namdaemun Market.
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