Yangjae Station eel restaurant: 1kg for two at ₩59,000, Jangsuchon

Today I'm writing up a visit to Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel (장수촌풍천장어), a proper eel restaurant near Yangjae Station. I went to get some energy back and treat myself to a hearty, body-boosting meal. I usually only eat eel on special occasions or now and then, but this meal was so satisfying that I really wanted to introduce it to you all!

Where is Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel, and what are its hours?

Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel is at 6 Dogok-ro 4-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, about 617m from Exit 3 of Yangjae Station, which is roughly a 10-minute walk. It is open Monday to Saturday 11:00–22:00, with a break from 14:30 to 16:30, and closed every Sunday.

• Location: 6 Dogok-ro 4-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (about 617m on foot from Yangjae Station Exit 3)
• Hours: Mon–Sat 11:00–22:00 (break time 14:30–16:30)
• Regular closing day: every Sunday

It's about a 10-minute walk from Exit 3 of Yangjae Station, so it was very convenient by public transport. It sits close to the station, yet once you step inside you're greeted by a clean, comfortable atmosphere. First impression: a pass.

What's the atmosphere like, and is it good for a group dinner?

The inside of Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel was very clean and spacious, and looked more than fine for gatherings or company dinners. The tables are nicely spaced and comfortable, a great setting for chatting while you eat.

How much is the 1kg salt-grilled eel, and how much do you actually get?

The signature salt-grilled eel (소금구이) at Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel is 1kg for ₩59,000. That's the weight before trimming; after the bones and innards are removed, you get 550–600g. The price felt very reasonable. There's also a range of other dishes, including beef short rib meat, a seasoned eel set meal and grilled premium abalone, so you can pick what suits you.

Side dishes to go with the eel

Once we ordered, neat side dishes that go well with eel were set out quickly: pickled perilla leaves, a fresh vegetable salad, shredded ginger and a special sauce. Every side was clean and fresh, and I had a feeling they would bring out the flavor of the eel even more.

How does the staff-grilled charcoal salt eel taste?

At Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel, the staff put thick pieces of salt-grilled eel on the charcoal grill and cook them for you from start to finish. This is one of the biggest pluses here! Eel is a hassle, since it burns easily or is tricky to cook through, but with an expert's hands grilling it golden and delicious, we could relax, watch it cook and chat.

I dipped a piece of well-grilled eel in the sauce, topped it with shredded ginger and popped it in my mouth: crisp outside, moist inside, the textbook example of what Koreans call 'geotbasokchok' (겉바속촉). There was no off-smell or fishiness at all, and the mild, nutty flavor filled my mouth. I couldn't help exclaiming.

Is 1kg of salt-grilled eel enough for two people?

The 1kg salt-grilled eel at Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel was just the right amount for two. Not too much, not too little: you finish full and satisfied. I strongly recommend ordering the 1kg for a couple's date or any visit for two.

What really appealed to me is that you can enjoy such good-quality charcoal-grilled eel right in the city, without heading out to the suburbs.

Overall verdict and whether I'd return

Right up to the moment we left, the friendly service from the staff at Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel gave us a pleasant ending. Clean facilities, the convenience of professional grilling, and fresh, tasty eel: all three came together in a great place.

If you're looking near Gangnam or Yangjae Station for a restaurant to take your parents, or a spot for a date or a company dinner, do give Jangsuchon Pungcheon Eel a visit. It was so satisfying that I'd love to come back next time with my parents!