Andong Shinsegye Jjimdak
Leaving Seoul behind, we made our way towards Gyeongju. About halfway through the journey, our driver suggested stopping at Andong Jjimdak Street for lunch. Unlike the bustling tourist hotspots in Seoul, Andong felt wonderfully local. The covered street is lined with restaurants dedicated almost entirely to one dish, Andong Jjimdak.
We picked Andong Shinsegye Jjimdak at random, drawn by its distinctive brick exterior. Stepping inside, the cosy dining room was buzzing with locals. The walls were filled with photos and TV programme features, a quiet reminder that this restaurant has earned its reputation over the years.
For those unfamiliar with Jjimdak, it is a hearty braised chicken dish cooked with glass noodles, potatoes, vegetables and a rich soy based sauce. The flavours reminded me a little of Kung Pao Chicken, but without the peanuts and with much more savoury gravy. The silky glass noodles soak up every drop of the sauce, making them just as addictive as the tender chicken. It is the sort of comforting dish that goes perfectly with bowls of steamed rice, especially on a long road trip.
As if one chicken dish wasn't enough, we also ordered Korean fried chicken. Crispy, juicy and wonderfully addictive, it came in both original and sweet spicy versions. The contrast between the crunchy fried chicken and the comforting braised Jjimdak made for a fantastic combination. Just be warned, the portions are huge. Bring family or friends because these dishes are definitely made for sharing.
