Seolmajung: Premium Charcoal-Grilled Galbi Course & Private Dining in Yangjae

Looking for a place that combines traditional Korean elegance with top-tier culinary skill? Today, I’m taking you to Seolmajung(설마중), a landmark in Yangjae-dong. Whether it’s a family gathering, a business meeting, or a formal “Sang-gyeon-rye,” this premium charcoal-grilled galbi specialist offers an experience that defines “hospitality.”

Location

• –Address: 2648 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul
• –Access: About 500 meters from Yangjae Station.
• –Parking: Spacious parking lot with convenient valet service.

Hours

The Ambience: Privacy & Sophistication

Seolmajung is a favorite among celebrities, known for its extensive array of private dining rooms. The interior is a perfect blend of modern minimalism and warm wood tones. The soft lighting and comfortable seating create a focused atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy your meal and conversation without any outside distractions. It truly feels like a high-end sanctuary in the middle of the city.

The Feast: The ‘Ilsim-dongche’ Course

We opted for the ‘Ilsim-dongche’ Course, which centers around 250g of seasoned galbi and a parade of exquisite side dishes.

Appetizer: Black Sesame Porridge

The meal begins with a warm, nutty black sesame porridge—a healthy and soothing start to a grand feast.

The First Course: Freshness and Color

The table is soon filled with a vibrant spread of Flatfish, Salmon, and Octopus sashimi served on bamboo mats. The chewiness of the octopus and the freshness of the fish were impeccable. Alongside, the Royal Japchae (glass noodles) and a crisp seasonal salad awakened the palate, while the chilled water kimchi provided a sharp, refreshing contrast.

The Second Course: Umami Explosion

Next came the Beef Tartare (Yukhoe) served on crunchy cucumber slices—a brilliant pairing of textures. The Spicy Marinated Crab (Yangnyeom Gejang) was a highlight, with its addictive sweet-heat seeping into the tender crab meat. The seafood cold plate with cuttlefish was the perfect palate cleanser before the main event.

https://res.cloudinary.com/dbvmmpvh0/image/upload/v1770452247/014_menu_09_heghm6.webp

The beauty of Seolmajung lies in the service. Experienced staff grill the meat to perfection at your table. The sizzle on the charcoal and the sweet aroma of the marinade were intoxicating. The meat was incredibly tender, with deep, non-intrusive seasoning that enhanced the natural richness of the beef. Every bite was a burst of savory juice.

The Surprises: Skate and Sea Eel

After the grill was removed, we were served Steamed Skate and Sea Eel Gangjeong (crispy glazed eel). The eel was perfectly “crunchy on the outside and moist on the inside”—a personal favorite!

The Grand Finale: Octopus and Soybean Stew

To finish, a traditional meal set was served. The Spicy Stir-fried Octopus was a total “rice thief,” and the Clam Soup (Baekhap-tang) cleared any lingering oiliness with its deep, clean broth. A rich, hearty soybean stew completed this magnificent journey.

The Dessert: A Refreshing Omija Tea

To conclude this magnificent journey, a chilled glass of Omija tea(Five-flavor berry tea) was served. Its signature blend of sweet, sour, and bitter notes provided a perfectly refreshing and sophisticated finish, leaving the palate feeling clean and revitalized.

Price Range

• –Ilsim-dongche Course: 69,000 KRW (per person)
• –Status: Premium pricing that is fully justified by the service, privacy, and volume of food.

Ordering & Tips

• –Reservations: Essential for private rooms, especially on weekends.
• –Celebrations: This is a top-tier choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or treating someone you truly respect.
• –Valet Service: Don’t worry about parking; the valet staff are professional and quick.

Who I Recommend It For

• –Families looking for a quiet, high-quality weekend meal.
• –Professionals hosting important business guests.
• –Anyone looking for a flawless “Sang-gyeon-rye” or celebration venue.