Dr. Yoo’s noodles just what the doctor ordered!

For many Koreans, kalguksu is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the winter. Though many restaurants around the peninsula serve this noodle soup, take it from a kalguksu expert – they’re not all winners!

Lucky for you, I found just the place to indulge in this heart-and-soul-warming dish near Camp Humphreys. Dr. Yoo’s in Anejeongri specializes not in medicine but in kalguksu. This place is always busy and, on most days, stays packed into the late-night hours, so plan ahead.

The restaurant has plenty of seating and an open dining area, which is large enough to space out. My coworkers and I managed to grab a table on a weekday evening though it was still pretty busy.

We ordered kalguksu for 8,000 won (about $7.19) per person and an order of four bossam (Napa cabbage leaves and pork) for 3,700 won. We had barley rice and veggies from the buffet bar and made our own bibimbap at the table. The bibimbap comes free with your order, so take advantage of this delicious perk. And, when you give it a try, don’t forget to add the gochujang and sesame oil that will surely make your bibimbap more delightful.

When we were half done with the rice, the beautifully displayed bossam arrived on our table. The steamed pork was placed around a pile of mumallaengi muchim seasoned dried radish, which pairs well with the juicy, flavorful meat. At Dr. Yoo’s, you construct your own bossam, so I picked up a piece of cabbage and spooned in sliced garlic, cut pepper, seasoned dried radish and ssamjang, which is a mix of doenjang and gochujang. Get creative and try different toppings! (Pro tip: Have the bossam in one bite like the locals do!)

And, if you think these are the only good things Dr. Yoo has to offer, you’re wrong! They also serve up free makgeolli rice wine to go along with your meal.

When our kalguksu arrived, it came in a huge bowl enough for everyone in our party. According to owner Yoo Seong-Yong, the handmade noodles made of glutinous rice and chives help with digestion. I ladled the steaming noodles with a bit of broth into my own bowl and added some kimchi. The stock, which is simmered with bean sprouts and secret ingredients, was flavorful and delicious.

We stayed and enjoyed our food and all of Dr. Yoo’s extras until closing time. I am so happy that it’s so close to the base because it means I can visit Dr. Yoo regularly.

ADDRESS: [Restaurant name: 유박사 칼국수]
(KOR) 경기 평택시 팽성읍 팽성대교길 98-1
(ENG) 98-2, Paengseongdaegyo-gil,Paengseong-eup, Pyeongtaek-si,
NAVER MAP: http://naver.me/FRdy8J5K
HOURS: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Break time 3:30 – 4:40 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
PHONE: 031-653-2062