Open-kitchen bar seats in Gwangjin: shoyu ramen with chashu, Mentsuru

When the weather starts turning cool like this, doesn't a hot, rich bowl of ramen just come to mind out of nowhere?

Today I'm bringing you a review of Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch, a place near Konkuk University and Children's Grand Park that's built up a real reputation for rich, authentically Japanese-style ramen! I'd strongly recommend it as a Konkuk date lunch spot too. Let's get right into it!

Where is Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch and how do you get there?

Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch is at 161 Neungdong-ro, 1F, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, right near Exit 4 of Children's Grand Park Station, and it's also walkable from Konkuk University Station. True to the name, it's very close to the station, so it was easy to find.

Given how easy it is to reach from the station, this is a great route either before or after a stroll around Children's Grand Park, or for a date lunch near Konkuk.

Bar tables (dachi) and the open kitchen at Mentsuru

The inside of Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch is arranged mostly around dachi, or bar-table, seating. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a clean, cozy Japanese-style atmosphere.

Since it's mostly bar seating, it's really comfortable for eating alone, and it also sets a great mood for a couple sitting side by side. Being able to watch the staff carefully prepare the ramen through the open kitchen added even more trust in the food.

Ordering is simple and convenient — just use the kiosk at the store entrance!

Mentsuru menu and prices

Ramen and main dishes at Mentsuru

• Shoyu ramen: ₩13,000 — the signature ramen with a deep, clean soy sauce base bursting with umami!
• Shio ramen / tori paitan / spicy ramen / mazesoba, and more

Toppings and sides

• Pork belly chashu topping add-on: ₩2,500 — a must-add if you want plenty of tender, smoky pork belly chashu!
• Egg (ajitama) add-on / extra noodles / side gyoza, etc.: ₩1,000–₩4,500

How did the shoyu ramen broth and pork belly chashu taste?

With high hopes, I ordered Mentsuru's signature dishes that day!

Mentsuru's signature ramen: deep, rich flavour

Broth & noodles: the moment I took my first spoonful of broth, I let out an involuntary "wow!" — it was that deep and rich in umami. The broth held its weight without any greasiness, giving it the feel of ramen made by a true craftsman.

Chashu & toppings: tender chashu with a smoky char, paired with a soft-boiled ajitama (egg) seasoned just right and bursting with flavor — the harmony with the broth was truly perfect. The noodles kept their chewiness all the way to the last bite, which made for a really satisfying meal!

Sides and drinks to pair with the ramen

Ramen alone felt like it wasn't quite enough, so adding a side dish and a cold soda on top made for a genuinely perfect lunch 👍

What the meal cost and was it worth it?

What I spent at Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch that day came to about ₩13,500. Given today's dining prices, that's a really reasonable and great-value meal considering the care and quality of a handmade bowl of ramen!

Final verdict: a date lunch near Konkuk University

If you're near Children's Grand Park craving ramen with amazing broth, or looking for a date lunch spot around Konkuk University, Mentsuru Children's Grand Park Branch is a choice that won't let you down!

It's a place where you can enjoy a genuinely delicious meal in a neat, pleasant atmosphere, so I think I'll be back the next time I'm craving ramen. You should definitely give it a visit too 🍜✨