Jin Abalone Samgyetang Sinsa Branch: A Taste of Authentic Korean Comfort Food
Jin Abalone Samgyetang Sinsa Branch
When the dog days of summer approach, one dish naturally comes to mind: Samgyetang.
If you want to replenish your energy during the hot summer months, nothing beats a bowl of hot soup with the subtle aroma of ginseng.
Even though the dog days have long passed and autumn is in the air, I'm already planning my return to Jin Abalone Samgyetang for some fall comfort.
The branch is called Sinsa, but it's not exactly near Sinsa Station. It's about a 10-minute walk from the Gangnam Eulji Hospital intersection, making it easy to find.
Nestled between Sinsa-dong and Nonhyeon-dong, it's a welcome escape from the busy main road.
The first thing that caught my eye upon arrival was a box of drinks placed in front of the restaurant, thoughtfully provided for sanitation workers and delivery drivers. This kind of detail shows the class of a place that's built to last.
Stepping inside, I was immediately impressed by how spacious and clean it was. The floors and tables were sparkling, making for a great first impression.
The interior is stylish yet classic, with mother-of-pearl inlaid decorations on the walls adding a touch of luxury.
I visited a bit late after work, but people kept coming in even after I arrived.
Jin Abalone Samgyetang Sinsa Branch is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with last orders at 9:00 PM. Keep that in mind when planning your visit.
As soon as I sat down, my eyes were drawn to the wall filled with celebrity autographs. The fact that so many famous people have visited is proof that this place is a real gem.
Next to the autographs were rows of gleaming ginseng liquors, lined up in neat order.
After ordering, the staff offered me a complimentary shot of ginseng liquor, but as someone who can't handle alcohol, I politely declined. For those who enjoy a drink, it would be a great way to start your healthy meal.
I heard someone at another table exclaim with delight after taking a sip of the ginseng liquor!
Next came the three side dishes, along with ssamjang (soybean paste) and salt for dipping the chicken.
The side dishes were a perfect match for the samgyetang:
Green peppers and onions,
Crisp, crunchy kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi),
And delicious kimchi.
The refreshingly tangy and savory seasoned chives were a nice touch.
They also thoughtfully provide disposable aprons.
While there were a few samgyetang options on the menu, only five were available during the early summer season. I ordered the abalone samgyetang!
Here it is, the star of the show: Abalone Samgyetang.
The flag that was planted on the abalone that was brought from the Wando Sea was so cute and witty.
The abalone samgyetang was absolutely the right choice.
The chicken and large abalone were served in a earthenware pot, along with the rich, milky broth.
Just the sight of it was enough to make me feel energized.
The chicken was tender and milky white.
The chicken was cooked to perfection, with no gamey smell.
It was so tender and moist that the meat easily fell apart along the grain with a gentle touch of the chopsticks.
Inside, there was sticky rice that was chewy. It blended perfectly with the broth and tender chicken – a true work of art.
I took a bite of the tender chicken leg and was amazed.
I was even more impressed by the savory and rich broth.
The moment I took a spoonful, sweat started to bead on my forehead, and I felt my body filling with energy!
A bite with the seasoned chives...delicious!
There's no better dish for replenishing your energy in the summer.
Finally, the chewy abalone had a subtle aroma that harmonized beautifully with the samgyetang broth, creating a perfect combination.
Be sure to try the abalone samgyetang.
Jin Abalone Samgyetang, a great samgyetang restaurant in Nonhyeon-dong. I'm planning to revisit for another bowl as the weather gets colder this fall.
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