Sanullim 1992: A Blend of Tradition and Trend in Seoul's Dining Scene
From the moment you see the sign of [Sanullim 1992], it catches your eye. Maybe it's the weighty feeling that the year 1992 gives off, but from the start, you get the sense that 'this place has something special.' The aura of tradition emanating from the old sign gives you confidence.
You've come to the right place.
This restaurant has appeared on well-known TV shows like [I Live Alone], [Welcome, First Time in Korea?], and [Ttoganjib]. The programs suit the traditional yet modern atmosphere of this place perfectly! As you enter, you feel like you're keeping up with the trends... Especially, you get a strong impression that this is a place with a deep affection for Korean alcohol.
The Blue Ribbon awards prove it. Blue Ribbons accumulated with history.
The ambiance is somewhere between a bar and a Korean pub (Jumak).
The atmosphere I felt as soon as I entered was quite special, and I wasn't the only one who felt that way. My companions, who arrived earlier, said they felt similarly about the atmosphere! It evokes the nostalgia of the old college pubs that were common in front of universities a decade ago, but with a sophisticated and modern interior. It brings back memories of the past while adding a contemporary touch. It's a comfortable and familiar space where you'll find yourself humming along to the moderately loud music.
The high ceiling makes the second floor cozy without feeling stuffy.
The graffiti on the walls showcases years of memories. I should contact those graffiti buddies from back then.
Remember...? LOL
Ultimately, you quickly realize that the reason so many people visit isn't just because of its fame. It's the warm feeling of the space and the atmosphere that allows for sincere drinking. These two elements blend well, naturally making you want to 'come back' even before the food arrives.
But we must order something.
Our order (Anju/side dishes): Yukjeon & Mujeon (with mustard leaf kimchi)/Spicy Stir-fried Baby Octopus/Handmade Tofu Kimchi
One of the strengths of this place is the variety of the menu. You can taste a little of everything with a ban-sang set or a couple's set, or you can focus on a single dish. On this day, we decided on what we wanted to eat and ordered a la carte with an extra side.
First order requirements:
One or more a la carte (ban-sang) menu items
OR
A la carte (ban-sang) menu + Side menu
OR
Three or more Side menus
A La Carte – Spicy Stir-fried Baby Octopus
I exclaimed with delight as soon as I took a bite. I couldn't help but think, 'How can the sauce be so delicious?' It wasn't just spicy; the smoky flavor added depth. It wasn't too sweet, nor was it painfully spicy. The expression 'deliciously spicy' is accurate. I didn't want to waste the sauce. At first, I mixed it with the noodles that came with it, but eventually, I added more noodles and scraped it clean. From the moment I saw the sesame leaves served with it, I thought, 'Ah, this place is serious about food to pair with alcohol.' I never thought I'd consider ordering a bowl of rice at a bar.
A La Carte – Yukjeon & Mujeon (with mustard leaf kimchi)
The Yukjeon has a satisfyingly thick texture from the first bite. Unlike places that only make it thinly, this one has a decent thickness, making it chewy and substantial. I was also pleased with the generous portion, which was more than I expected given today's prices.
I had never had Mujeon before, but I was amazed as soon as I tasted it. The moistness and subtle sweetness made me think, 'Radish can be this delicious?' It wasn't just a side dish; it could be a main course.
The mustard leaf kimchi that came with it was so good that they sold it as an additional menu item. The cool and refreshing flavor went well with the Yukjeon and Mujeon, and it was also perfect as a side dish on its own.
Side dish – Handmade Tofu Kimchi
The kimchi tastes like it was stir-fried in meat oil with a bit of pork belly. This place... their stir-fried pork belly must be delicious too. I should try the stir-fried pork belly next time.
An impressive selection of alcohol
They have a monthly discount event on different types of traditional Korean alcohol. Makgeolli, Cheongju, and distilled Soju are all included, so checking out the event of the month will help you decide.
I ordered a flight of three tasting liquors and the Moonlight Yuja, which I was curious about.
The three tasting liquors change every time, and on this day, I was able to try Tiger's Navel, Ulleungdo Raw Makgeolli, and Onjion.
Tiger's Navel
The first thing you notice is its 'cleanness.' People often describe light alcohol as 'clean,' but this isn't just simple lightness. It's said to be very popular these days, and after trying it myself, I understood why. As I drank, I couldn't help but think, 'I should order a whole bottle of this next time I come.' It's rare to drink alcohol and immediately start planning for the next time. I was curious about why it was called Tiger's Navel, and I learned that the geographical location of Pyeongtaek is said to be the tiger's navel. It's nice to hear the owner's explanation.
Ulleungdo Raw Makgeolli
This is a premium makgeolli that is characterized by its fresh taste because it doesn't contain preservatives. The pumpkin aroma that spreads in your mouth is subtle, not overpowering. The sweetness is restrained, leaving a clean aftertaste instead of the heavy,텁텁한 (hard to translate - thick, slightly chalky) taste commonly found in regular makgeolli. It has a traditional depth yet a sophisticated taste, so it pairs well with food without being overwhelming. Don't expect the sweetness of butternut squash.
Onjion
Surprisingly, it has an alcohol content of 10%, but it doesn't feel too strong. A strong citrus scent spreads, making it refreshing. It was perfect for someone who claims to dislike alcohol. The lemon flavor is especially emphasized, reminding me of a Radler, but cleaner.
Moonlight Yuja
Finally, I chose Moonlight Yuja. Yuja alcohol is always a safe bet. The sweetness and subtle acidity make the drinking experience refreshing. The fragrant Yuja flavor cleanses the palate after greasy food, and the subtle sweetness makes it easy for even those who don't usually enjoy alcohol. It was perfect from pre-dinner drinks to the end.
Location & Tips
[Sanullim 1992] is located near the Gyeongui Line Forest Park, making it ideal to finish your meal or drinks with a walk. On days when you don't want to go home right after drinking, a light walk will naturally clear your head.
Keep in mind that if there's a wait, there's a 2 hour and 30 minute time limit because it's a popular place. However, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is right there, so you can continue the atmosphere with a walk, and 2 hours and 30 minutes is enough time anyway. Oh, and you can buy Korean alcohol at a discounted takeout price, so it would be nice to find a bar with corkage nearby the Gyeongui Line Forest Park.
Thanks to the good food, good alcohol, and good company, I had a relaxing and enjoyable time for the first time in a while.
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