“The Hannamdong Relaxing Afternoon”: A Gourmet Experience

Reviewed by Melline Galani.

Having a meal at the “Hannamdong Relaxing Afternoon” (한남동나른한오후) is more than just an experience to satisfy one’s appetite. It is an entire experience covering the taste, the flavors, and the ambience, all serving as factors leading to a memorable adventure.

“Hannamdong,” for short, is a Korean restaurant specializing in Iberico Bellota pork located in Dongmyeong-dong in a traditional hanok house with a beautiful garden outside.

Iberico meat is distinctly different from regular pork, almost looking like beef due to its bright, red color. The to-be slaughtered pigs are pastured and fed a combination of acorns and grains. Their ham must be cured for 17 months. A large amount of the meat fat is unsaturated, oleic fat, the same fat found in olive oil, which is said to reduce cholesterol and make the meat super tasty. They say the meat is more flavorful, juicier, and very distinctive as a result.

I arrived at the restaurant for lunch on a recent sunny spring day. As you might imagine, this place is quite popular and well known among Koreans, being considered by them as a hot place to visit. Because of COVID-19, the place was not packed, so I was lucky to find a table. Still, it is better to make a reservation in advance to make sure you have a place to eat, unless you want to wait.

Another good aspect related to this establishment’s architecture is the division. There are practically separate rooms for each table, so you will not sit in the same space with other people. All rooms are decorated in a traditional Korean style, making the ambience even more pleasant, especially facing the yard situated in the center. The doors of the rooms are wide open, so you can enjoy the tranquil views while savoring the delicious steak. I can only assume that the night view would be a terrific experience, with dinner under the lights in the garden.

I opted for the Iberico Bellota steak meal. The price was 24,000 won for one person, but there are plenty of side dishes, a seaweed soup, and rice, filling the table with vibrant, gourmet-looking colors. The steak came with a vegetable side that was soft and juicy, just as perfect as the steak was.

There are three steak options with prices in the 24,000 to 30,000-won range per person, but the restaurant also serves pork cutlets (돈까스, 15,000–17,000 won), Iberico bulgogi bibimbap (이베리코불고기비빔밥, 15,000 won), cold noodles (냉면, 13,000 won), and sides such as salad (13,000 won) and french fries (8,000 won). For beverages, they have coffee, juice, and alcohol. If the weather is fine, having a cup of coffee outside after a generous meal is more than refreshing.

As a Korean restaurant, I think their food offers quite diverse tastes. Even for those not accustomed to Korean cuisine, this restaurant would be a good choice. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, give this restaurant a chance. I am sure you will be pleased, not to mention that you get to take great pictures in the garden that are perfect for Instagram.

Photographs by Melline Galani.

The Reviewer
Melline Galani is a Romanian enthusiast, born and raised in the capital city of Bucharest, who is currently living in Gwangju. She likes new challenges and learning interesting things, and she is incurably optimistic. Instagram: @melligalanis