Hidden Treasures - Bong's Food 봉스 떡볶이

Bong’s food 봉스 떡볶이 is a small chain in Korea with the original is located in Sookdae, serving up a less spicy version of the Korean traditional eat of rice cakes and probably the only place that I recommend for EVERYONE who lives and will visit Korea. Ddukbokki is the number one Korean staple food, along with blood sausages 순대, fish cakes 오뎅, and a variety of battered fried goodies 튀김 (which ranges from vegetables to dumplings to fish cakes even).

For starters, Bong’s Food serves up very soft and a less spicy version of ddukbokki that is recommended for anyone who is trying out this Korean traditional eat for the first time. Because it is less spicy, it is tolerable and actually enjoyable for anyone who cannot take spice. It does have a tint of sweet compared to other ddukbokki stands and locations which means it’s a great dipping sauce to be used with other items on the menu.

The blood sausage they have uses the top of the ladder meat of A+ which means a high level and tastier version. Compared to those served in the streets, there is definitely a big difference. Personally, I’m not a fan of blood sausage, but I was persuaded to give this a try and it is amazing. It’s the only place that I will eat blood sausage ever, beats all of the average C rating meat that the rest of Korea uses.

In addition to the amazing blood sausage, they are the only spot that offers fried fish cake which is amazing when eaten fresh. Coming from Busan, it is the one place in Seoul that offers the famous Busan fish cake. Anyone who lives in Korea knows that Busan carries the best of the best.

On another note, 납작만두 comes from Daegu, a new style of dumplings that no one offers in Seoul. Being that is a flat pancake like dish, it is known for many to dip it in the amazing soy sauce that the store whips up daily. For those who come from Daegu, they are known to wrap the Namjak with practically everything on the menu and use it as a bread.

The best part about Bong’s food, in addition to the menu of course, is the price. Most dishes are priced at an average of $2.50, some for just two bucks and set menus start at $4. Depending on how hungry you are and the variety you want, a meal at Bong’s Food won’t set your wallet back too far. It’s also a great place to pick up a quick eat and sample all of the Korean traditional eats in one spot because they have set menus.

The company orders fresh ingredients daily, from all over Korea of Busan, Daegu and their secret locations which is different from all other places. Opened from 11-11 daily, it is the place to go to. Be sure to go during the less busy hours so you don't feel so rushed to get out which is usually from 2-7PM. The owner is so chill, he'll definitely take the time to talk and explain to you why you should eat everything on the menu and I would take his advice, seriously. They speak English so it makes ordering easy for all.

Address: Yongsan-gu, Chungap-dong 2-Ga 67-5

용산구 청파동 2가 67-5

Directions: Take exit 8 or 10 from the Sookmyung university exit and make a u-turn. Take the first right and go straight (follow the tunnel under and keep walking) up towards the school. After approximately 5 minutes, you will see a Starbucks on your left and a Skin Food on your right. Bong's Food is located behind the Skin Food so follow the block around.

Phone: 02-312-3500