Kalguksu is one of my favorite Korean dishes because of how simple and satisfying it is. It's a traditional noodle soup made with handmade, knife-cut wheat noodles served in a light but flavorful broth. II found a spot in Busan that has been serving it since 1969 - 1969 Buwon-dong Kalguksu (1969부원동칼국수 부산본점 on Google Maps). Conveniently, it was located right beside where I was staying, which made it too tempting not to try.
Getting a seat here wasn't easy. I tried to eat at this place a couple of times, but the lines were either incredibly long or they had already closed early because they sold out. I finally managed to get in on a Sunday for a late lunch around 2pm, and to my relief, the restaurant wasn’t packed like usual.
The menu here is refreshingly simple, with only five items. That gave me confidence that whatever I ordered would be good, and of course, I went with their specialty, which is seafood kalguksu. Busan is well known for its seafood thanks to its coastal location and busy fishing ports, so it makes sense that this restaurant focuses on it.
The dish came in a big, steaming bowl filled with fresh seafood, noodles, seaweed, spring onions and a comforting broth that instantly hit the spot. A couple of Korean side dishes were also available for free, self-serve style. I tried the radish kimchi, which added a tangy crunch that contrasted nicely with the saltiness of the soup.
The portion was generous. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the broth had a depth of flavor that balanced well with the seafood. For only KRW9,000 or around PHP370, it was a satisfying and affordable meal that felt like a taste of Busan’s food culture.
I’d say this restaurant is worth a visit if you’re in Busan and want to try a local favorite that has stood the test of time. Just be prepared for the lines during peak hours, or plan for an off-hour visit like I did. It’s the kind of place where you can really appreciate both the tradition and the flavors that make Busan special.
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