Bobo Sikdang Apgujeong: The 80-Year Legacy of ‘Culinary Class Wars’ Star Chef Jang Bo-won

Stepping into a restaurant owned by a master who carries the weight of three generations isn’t just a meal—it’s an audience with history. If you’ve been following the global phenomenon “Culinary Class Wars 2,” you’ve likely seen the quiet but fierce expertise of Chef Jang Bo-won. Known as the “Third-Generation Chinese Cuisine” specialist, his newest venture, Bobo Sikdang Apgujeong, is currently the most talked-about destination for foodies in Seoul.

The prestigious ‘Culinary Class Wars 2’ seal of approval at Bobo Sikdang’s entrance.

This isn’t your typical neighborhood noodle shop. It’s a space where century-old heritage meets the electric, high-end pulse of Apgujeong-rodeo, offering a redefined perspective on authentic Chinese-Korean fusion.

Location

• –Address: Unit 103, 1F Robin Myungpum-gwan, 30 Unju-ro 174-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
• –Access: Bobo Restaurant, a Chinese restaurant in Apgujeong, is located 400 meters from Apgujeong Rodeo Station Exit 6.
• –Parking: Valet Parking Available directly in front of the building (Paid).

Hours

The Ambience: Shanghai Noir Meets Modern Elegance

The interior immediately transports you to a high-end Shanghai lounge. With its sleek, dark tones and sophisticated lighting, the atmosphere is perfectly suited for business meetings, intimate family reunions, or a stylish date night.

A sophisticated space designed for both visual and culinary immersion.

The open kitchen is the heart of the restaurant, where you can witness the synchronized heat and speed of the chefs at work. Upon being seated, you are greeted with warm Jasmine tea and a side of Gungchae (stem lettuce). The crunch of the Gungchae provides a refreshing textural contrast that prepares your palate for the bold flavors to come.

Taste Notes: A Masterclass in Texture and Aroma

Pork Butter Tonkatsu

This is the dish that redefined my expectations of a classic. Imagine a pork cutlet enrobed in a batter so light it shatters like glass, then draped in a silky, sweet-and-sour sauce. The final touch? A pat of rich butter that melts into the hot coating. As you stir it in, the butter creates a velvety layer of fat that rounds out the acidity of the sauce, resulting in a flavor profile that is both decadent and familiar. It is, without question, a mandatory order.

Salchisal Steak & Chili Peppers

The Salchisal (Chuck Flap Tail) Steak is grilled to a perfect medium-rare, melting away the moment it touches your tongue. It’s served alongside a vibrant stir-fry of chili peppers, offering a savory kick that balances the richness of the beef.

Pro Tip: Stuff the tender steak and peppers into the fluffy steamed buns (Buns) provided. The soft bread absorbing the meat juices creates a harmony of textures that is simply masterful.

Bobo-style Jakjangmyeon

Forget the overly sweet, black-bean-heavy noodles you find in typical delivery spots. Bobo’s Jakjangmyeon is the authentic Chinese version, made without Chunjang. It focuses on the deep, roasted aroma of the minced meat and a complex, savory sauce that clings to the springy noodles. It’s a clean yet intense finish to a multi-layered meal.

Price Range

• –Range: Splurge / Premium (Approx. 50,000 ~ 80,000 KRW per person, depending on drinks and dish selection)
• –You are paying for a masterclass in culinary history. Given the exquisite quality of ingredients, the Apgujeong location, and Chef Jang’s celebrity status, the pricing reflects the high-end dining tier.

Ordering & Tips

• –The Signature: The Butter Tonkatsu (버터 탕수육) is non-negotiable. Make sure to mix the butter into the hot sauce immediately as it is served at the table!
• –The “Bao” Hack: When ordering the Salchisal Steak, stuff the meat and chili peppers inside the fluffy steamed buns for the ultimate DIY bite.
• –Reservations: Thanks to the Culinary Class Wars fame, walk-ins are nearly impossible. Book exactly on the day reservations open via CatchTable.
• –Private Rooms: Highly recommended for business dinners or celebrations, but they carry a minimum spend requirement.

Who I Recommend It For

• –Foodies & Fans: Anyone who watched Culinary Class Wars and wants to taste the genius of Chef Jang Bo-won firsthand.
• –Date Night Seekers: The Shanghai Noir aesthetic, low lighting, and sophisticated plating make it incredibly romantic.
• –Business VIPs: The private dining rooms and high-end service offer the perfect environment for impressing important guests.