Haemok Haeundae: Michelin-Recognized Nagoya-Style Eel Rice in Busan (Takeout Review)
Haemok Haeundae
Address: 8, Gunam-ro 24beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM ~ 10:00 PM
If you visit Haeundae, there's one place you absolutely have to check out: Haemok Haeundae, a restaurant specializing in Nagoya-style eel rice (hitsumabushi).
Already legendary among eel lovers, Haemok Haeundae has become even more famous after being selected for the Michelin Guide in 2025. Now, it's much more than just a place where you stand in line to eat.
During a 1-night, 2-day trip to Haeundae with my mom, I planned to visit. However, after a 2-hour drive, I was too tired, and the thought of waiting in line was daunting. So, I decided to try takeout. Here's my review of Haemok Haeundae takeout!
Honestly, you can't talk about Haemok without mentioning the wait times. I read reviews saying that even on weekdays at lunchtime, you can expect to wait at least an hour, and on weekends, you should be prepared for a minimum of two hours.
That's why I switched to takeout. I was planning to eat it at a nearby hotel, and it turned out to be a brilliant decision.
The takeout process is very simple.
To order takeout from Haemok Haeundae, you need to call them directly. Tell them you want to place a takeout order, place your order, and then they will tell you what time your order will be ready, then you go pay and pick it up!
Even during their busy hours, they calmly explained everything and packed the takeout perfectly.
The eel rice, sauce, soup, and side dishes were all neatly packaged separately, so the texture wasn't compromised even when I ate it later at the hotel.
There's a lot of plastic packaging, but it helps to keep everything in place and preserves the taste as close as possible to eating in the restaurant.
Review the proper method to enjoy the dish!
???? The eel rice had a wonderful smoky flavor and was absolutely amazing!
Honestly, I thought all eel rice was pretty much the same, but this was completely different.
First of all, the eel was thick and tender, melting in my mouth.
The outside was infused with a smoky aroma and had a slightly caramelized, nutty flavor, while the inside was juicy and moist.
The soy-based sauce wasn't too salty and was perfectly balanced. The combination of salty and sweet was perfect, and I couldn't stop eating it with rice.
The funny thing is, even my incredibly picky mom said, "This is really good!" and ate almost all of it. lol.
It was the first time I'd seen my mom so satisfied with a meal out. The portion of eel was generous enough that I thought, 'It's expensive, but the taste justifies it'.
Honestly, I was amazed that a bowl of eel rice could evoke such an emotional experience.
???? I also ordered the kaisendon, but... it was overshadowed by the eel.
The kaisendon I ordered was also really good.
The sashimi was fresh, and the rice was perfectly seasoned, so the quality was definitely Michelin-level.
But the problem was that the eel rice was too intense. When you eat them together, you naturally reach for the eel.
It was clear that "this restaurant is all about the eel."
???? Takeout is the best option if you're staying at a nearby hotel.
If you're staying at a hotel near Haeundae, I highly recommend getting takeout and eating in your room. You don't have to wait in line, and the eel stays delicious even when it's cold, so you'll be very satisfied.
I actually found it more relaxing to eat the smoky eel rice in the quiet of my hotel room than in the restaurant atmosphere.
Eating while looking out the window at night gave me a real Japanese vibe.
???? Overall
✅ Taste – The smoky flavor of the eel, the balance of the sauce, and the texture of the rice are all perfect.
✅ Service – The takeout packaging is careful, and the staff is friendly.
✅ Waiting – Always expect a wait (be prepared).
✅ Price – Expensive, but justifiable.
✅ Revisit intention – Absolutely!
This is more than just a delicious restaurant; it's an 'experience'.
If you like eel rice, you definitely have to visit Haemok Haeundae when you come to Busan.
Since the wait times at Haemok Haeundae are insane, enjoying it as a takeout like I did is a great option!
Next time, I'm definitely going to dine in. I 100% understand why they were selected for the Michelin Guide.
Want to reserve this place?
Use WassupKorea’s reservation service
to book your preferred time easily.
Ask the AI below. 👇
No comments yet.
