I first heard about Yeongdong Gyojip Cheongdam because it’s where BTS’s Jungkook, Seventeen’s Mingyu, and actor Cha Eunwoo dined together. The three of them are part of the well-known 97liners group, a close-knit circle of idols and actors born in 1997. It’s also a popular spot among other celebrities like EXO’s Baekhyun and Kai. Of course, I had to check it out for myself.
Walking in, the first thing I noticed was the walls lined with celebrity autographs. This restaurant is quite popular and can get really crowded in the evenings, but we went on a Monday during lunchtime, and there was no queue at all. Only a few tables were occupied, which made for a more relaxed dining experience.
My friend and I decided to order exactly what Jungkook and his friends had—black pork BBQ, tofu stew, and fried rice. The restaurant even turned it into a special set, which also came with a variety of side dishes.
One thing that stood out right away was the service. Unlike other Korean BBQ places where you have to grill the meat yourself, the staff here does it for you. This meant the black pork was cooked perfectly—tender, juicy, and full of rich flavor. Black pork from Jeju is known for its superior quality and distinct taste, making it a sought-after ingredient in Korea.
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| thinly sliced black pork belly on the grill |
The tofu stew was a great complement to the meal, warm and flavorful with just the right amount of spice. The fried rice at the end was a good way to wrap up the meal. In Korean BBQ restaurants, it’s common practice to take the leftover bits of meat and side dishes, mix them with rice, and cook everything on the grill. The result is a smoky, crispy, and deeply flavorful fried rice that ties the whole meal together.
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| fried rice |
For such a well-known restaurant, the price was quite reasonable. We spent about 29,000 KRW per person, or around 1,100 PHP, which felt like a great deal for the quality of food and service.
If you're a BTS fan or just someone who enjoys good Korean BBQ, Yeongdong Gyojip Cheongdam is definitely worth a visit. The food lives up to the hype, and getting a taste of what your favorite idols have eaten makes the experience even more fun.
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