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People say if you are a Busanite, you’ve got to love Dwaeji-Gukbap (Korean pork soup with rice) or have at least tried it.
Although Dwaeji-Gukbap is much loved in Busan all year round, it seems we need it more in the winter; it will fill your hunger for food and warmth, as well as even cure your loneliness.
There’s also a saying that if you are not sure where to eat, go to the restaurant where many people, especially many taxi drivers, go. Yup, taxi drivers love it here.
There are broadly two kinds of Dwaeji-Gukbap; one that has a thick soup with a bit of a meat smell in it and the other that has a mild and clean — not the color — soup. If you prefer the latter, this place is a must.
Yeongjin Dwaeji-Gukbap is conveniently located on the way to/from Costco in Busan, which, according to the owner, has 25 franchisees. It has also been featured on many food-related TV programs for its exceptional taste.
The owner is almost always in the open kitchen and takes care of all the food. The interior is bright and comfortable with a little bit of a rustic feel to it.
When you have Dwaeji-Gukbap, put Saeu-jeot (pickled tiny shrimps) and chopped leek in the soup. Saeu-jeot and pork are a good combination for digestion and nutrition-wise but put just a little in as it is very salty.
Ttaro-Gukbap (따로국밥) is the standard Dwaeji-Gukbap here. Naejang (내장) means guts and Seokkeo (섞어) means mixed with pork meat and pork guts. Many people recommend Suyuk-Baekban (수육백반), which is boiled pork slices served with rice and pork soup.
Restaurant Information: Yeongjin Daeji-Gukbap (영진돼지국밥 코스트코 센텀) Open: 9 am – 10 pm Daily (except Choseok and Lunar New Year holidays) Address: Gurak-ro 86, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea Phone: 051-759-8649
