OWL Magazine Korea

Seoul Gwanghwamun Pyongyang Cuisine: ‘Pyongyang Ok’

“Pyongyang Ok” is a restaurant that serves traditional dishes from the former Pyeongan Province. It is a restaurant that has been preserving the taste of Pyongyang cuisine for three generations, continuing the legacy of the first-generation restaurant, Jeil Myeonok, which was located in downtown Pyongyang before the liberation.

Now operating as a franchise, you can find it in various locations throughout Seoul. Representative dishes include Pyongyang cold noodles and fish cake mixed rice.

“Seoul Gwanghwamun Royal Building: Pyongyang Ok Gwanghwamun Branch”

You can also find Pyongyang Ok in the Gwanghwamun area. It is located directly across from the Gwanghwamun 1st Exit, in the building known as the “Royal Building.” It’s easy to find as it’s the building visible as you descend the stairs to the Royal Building’s underground shopping mall.

The Gwanghwamun branch of Pyongyang Ok is quite spacious. There are seats available by the window, and small private rooms are also available, making it suitable for important meetings.

“The Menu at Pyongyang Ok”

The menu at Pyongyang Ok features North Korean cuisine, specifically Pyongyang cuisine. You can enjoy dishes such as Pyongyang cold noodles and fish cake mixed rice.

Here are some representative menu items:

  • Fish Cake Mixed Rice (Small): 74,000 KRW
  • Fish Cake Mixed Rice (Medium): 86,000 KRW
  • Fish Cake Mixed Rice (Large): 98,000 KRW
  • Premium Dumpling Hot Pot: 27,000 KRW
  • Onban (Beef): 14,000 KRW
  • Onban (Native Chicken): 15,000 KRW
  • Cold Noodles: 15,000 KRW
  • Bulgogi (Single Serving): 35,000 KRW
  • Mung Bean Pancake: 16,000 KRW

Since the focus is on Pyongyang cuisine, prices are on the higher side. It starts from 15,000 KRW and goes up.

“Pyongyang Cold Noodles: 15,000 KRW, Native Dumpling Soup: 15,000 KRW”

During this visit, I ordered Pyongyang cold noodles and native dumpling soup. Each dish is priced at 15,000 KRW, which is not cheap, but the quality matches the price.

The Pyongyang cold noodles aren’t overly chilled, allowing you to enjoy them comfortably without an overpowering chilliness. The native dumpling soup is hearty with plenty of dumplings, making it a warm and satisfying meal.

Overall, while the prices may be a bit steep, it’s a restaurant with good quality food and a decent atmosphere. It’s a great place to consider for situations where a certain level of formality is required.

“Seoul Gwanghwamun Restaurant: Pyongyang Ok Gwanghwamun Branch”

  • Address: B1F, Royal Building, Saemunan-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Operating Hours: (Every Day) 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Phone Number: 02-732-1566