Millak-dong sashimi lunch special for 4, steamed red shrimp: Geumrang

Why we chose Geumrang Hoetjip at the Millak-dong raw fish center

Geumrang Hoetjip (금랑횟집) is a sashimi course specialist on the Millak-dong sashimi center street in Gwangalli. This time I was looking for a place that works for hosting guests, so I went with my family. When you think of Busan, fresh sashimi is probably the first food that comes to mind, and Millak-dong in Gwangalli is where the sashimi centers cluster, so it draws tourists as well as locals.

Besides the great view of Gwangan Bridge and the sea, it has private rooms too, so it was a place I'd happily recommend for gatherings, a meal with parents, or an important guest.

Where to park for Geumrang Hoetjip

For parking, you use the Millak Waterfront Public Parking Lot (민락 수변공영주차장) right in front of the restaurant.

We went at weekend lunchtime, and as expected it's a popular spot, so we waited about 20 minutes at the parking lot entrance before getting in. After parking, take the elevator up to the 6th floor and Geumrang is right there.

Geumrang Hoetjip's private rooms and Gwangan Bridge view

The moment we walked in, the spacious, clean atmosphere stood out. Above all, the private rooms meant we could eat quietly, and the view through the big windows of Gwangan Bridge and the blue sea was really beautiful.

Eating while looking out at the wide-open sea and sky almost felt like being on a trip.

True to a sashimi course specialist that older folks love, Geumrang's table setting was neat and the service attentive.

In what order does the Geumrang Hoetjip sashimi course come out?

Starting with boiled sea cucumber, sea squirt and clams

The course opens with sea cucumber, sea squirt and big boiled clams. The ocean scent of fresh seafood comes through fully and really gets your appetite going.

Steamed red shrimp, nakji tangtangi and boiled octopus

Next came the steamed red shrimp, and everyone gasped at how tempting it looked. With nakji tangtangi (chopped raw octopus) and boiled octopus added, the table quickly filled up.

Every dish was plated in a luxurious, showy way, a course you enjoy with your eyes first and then again with your mouth. I could see why Geumrang suits hosting guests and family gatherings.

Refreshing cold mulhoe (raw fish soup)

The mulhoe (cold raw fish soup) served in a full bowl in the Geumrang course was really satisfying too. It comes with plenty of fresh vegetables, seafood and thin wheat noodles so you can mix it up however you like.

The chewy raw fish went wonderfully with the buckwheat noodles, and the cold broth left my mouth feeling refreshed.

Is there anything for kids to eat at Geumrang Hoetjip?

The Geumrang course isn't only raw fish; it includes plenty of dishes kids like. With corn fritters, steamed egg and corn cheese on the table, the children enjoyed their meal too.

That's another reason it works so well for a family meal out.

The sashimi platter in the Geumrang lunch special for 4

We ordered the Geumrang lunch special for 4. After a little while a huge platter of sashimi arrived, and the sight alone was overwhelming.

Seasonal fish were arranged by type, so picking through them was fun, and above all the freshness was outstanding.

The gorgeous plating, like dining in a dragon king's palace, meant I couldn't help taking photos.

It was sashimi that made you marvel with your eyes once and with your mouth once more.

Finishing with maeuntang, rockfish tangsuyuk and stone-pot roe rice

The finish at Geumrang is of course the maeuntang (spicy fish stew). Simmered piping hot, it had a spicy yet deep broth that was superb, and it was just right for wrapping up after the raw fish.

The rockfish tangsuyuk (sweet-and-sour fried fish) came along too, crispy outside and soft inside, and the kids ate it really well. Finishing with the stone-pot roe rice (dolsot albap) made it a hearty end to the meal.

Verdict: Geumrang Hoetjip in Millak-dong, Busan

If you want to enjoy good sashimi in Millak-dong, Gwangalli, Geumrang was a thoroughly satisfying choice.

• A great view of Gwangan Bridge and the sea
• Private rooms throughout
• An atmosphere that suits hosting guests and family gatherings
• A generous sashimi course with a variety of seafood
• Dishes kids can enjoy too
• A hearty meal with a tidy finish

The atmosphere, food and service were all satisfying, so Geumrang is a Millak-dong sashimi center spot I'd like to come back to for a special day.