Aloha from Korea: Foodie's Guide

 Aloha! 🌺 It’s Jihye in Seoul. What is Garak Market? Before we dive into the food, let me introduce you to Garak Market . It is the largest wholesale market for agricultural and marine products in South Korea. Think of it as a massive food hub where the freshest ingredients from across the country gather every single day. For travelers, it’s a must-visit spot to experience a vibrant, authentic Korean market atmosphere and enjoy premium seafood at much more affordable prices than in tourist-heavy areas. After catching a movie in Songpa, I headed to Garak Market to pick up some fresh sashimi for my family. My go-to spot is always Yeongjae Susan . Since they are a verified partner of the famous seafood price app 'In-eo-gyo-ju-hae-jeok-dan,' the prices are transparent and very reliable! A "Tasty Aquarium" for the Whole Family Garak Market is a great place to visit with kids. My child called it a "Tasty Aquarium" because of all the fresh sea creatures! From prem...

Aloha! 🌺 It’s Jihye in Seoul. Today, I visited a place I’ve been wanting to try for a long time— Jang Jinyoung Ganjang Gejang (Hannam Branch) . Run by a certified Korean Cuisine Master, this spot is famous among celebrities and has been featured on many TV shows! Located right near Soonchunhyang University Hospital, it’s the perfect place for a hearty meal before shopping around Hannam-dong or Hangangjin. Just head down one flight of stairs to the basement level! The Vibe & Mastery Inside, the atmosphere is spacious and clean. You’ll be greeted by an incredible wall filled with awards and certificates—proof of the owner's status as a Korean Food Master. Affordable Luxury: The Menu The signature Soy Marinated Crab (Ganjang Gejang) is surprisingly affordable: Standard Ganjang Gejang: 22,000 KRW per person Premium Roe-filled (Al-baegi): 37,000 KRW per person We ordered two servings of the standard version, and the table was overflowing with side dishes! It came with spicy marin...

Aloha! 🌺 It’s Jihye. If you are looking for a place to enjoy high-quality Korean beef (Hanwoo) and whiskey in a fantastic atmosphere, I have the perfect spot for you.  What Makes Hanwoo So Special? Before we talk about Roseuok, let’s talk about the star of the show: Hanwoo . Hanwoo is a breed of small cattle native to Korea. It’s not just any beef; it’s a premium delicacy that holds a very special place in Korean food culture. Having lived abroad for many years and tasted some of the highest-grade steaks from all over the world, I can confidently say that nothing beats the flavor of Hanwoo. While Wagyu is known for its intense, buttery marbling and USDA Prime for its meaty chew, Hanwoo sits perfectly in the middle. It offers an incredible balance of rich marbling and deep, beefy flavor. It’s tender, juicy, and has a unique "nutty" sweetness that you won't find anywhere else. If you are in Seoul, experiencing an authentic Hanwoo BBQ is a mandatory part of your culinary jo...