Geuttaegeujip

About

Operating since 1975 near Gangnam-gu Office, this two-story hanok-style spot serves traditional, non-sugary cold jokbal paired with seafood pajeon and dongdongju.

Tucked near Gangnam-gu Office Station, 1975 Geuttae Geujip has anchored the neighborhood for nearly five decades across three generations. Set in a multi-story space featuring traditional hanok-style woodwork and generous table spacing, the restaurant offers an unhurried contrast to the frenetic energy of Gangnam. It functions seamlessly as a venue for bustling team dinners, lively gatherings, and multi-generational family meals, supported by convenient valet parking. The cornerstone here is domestic *jokbal* (braised pig’s trotters), executed with a restrained, old-school technique that deliberately shuns the aggressive, syrupy-sweet glazes dominating modern chains. Instead, the kitchen presents thick cuts defined by bouncy skin, tender meat, and a clean, understated seasoning that lets the pork’s natural savor take center stage. Notably, the trotters retain their firm texture and lack any off-putting gaminess even when cooled, recalling classic *naeng-jokbal* (chilled trotters). Each spread is framed by an ensemble of crisp whole cucumbers, fresh lettuce, raw garlic, pungent *saeujeot* (salted shrimp), and a tart, refreshing *buchu-muchim* (seasoned garlic chives) that cuts neatly through the rich collagen. To build the quintessential table arrangement, diners invariably pair the pork with the seafood *pajeon*. Arriving as an expansive, pan-fried platter packed with tender leeks, squid, and shrimp, it provides a crisp-edged, savory foil to the meat. Rounding out the order is a clay pot of house *dongdongju*, a gently sweet, traditional rice wine that softens the salinity of the condiments and completes the convivial atmosphere. With portions designed for generous sharing, Geuttae Geujip endures by sticking strictly to the basics—delivering unpretentious, balanced flavors that keep the room full decade after decade.