Suyeong, Busan octopus bar for daytime drinks: Dari Yeodeolgae

Can you have boiled octopus near Suyeong Station in the afternoon?

While looking for a place near Suyeong Station to have a casual daytime drink, I visited Dari Yeodeolgae (다리여덟개), a restaurant specializing in boiled octopus. I was told it had operated near Jangsan Station for 20 years before moving to its current location.

The restaurant is on the second floor at 85 Muhak-ro 21beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan. The hours listed in the original post are 3:30 PM–11 PM from Sunday through Thursday and 3:30 PM–midnight on Friday and Saturday. I was unable to confirm a separate parking lot.

When I visited in the afternoon, the restaurant was quiet. It did not feel intimidating or formal, so it was easy to sit down and have boiled octopus with a drink.

How was the texture and flavor of the boiled octopus?

The boiled octopus was the main reason for my visit. I was told that they make it a rule to catch and prepare the octopus after taking the order, so I expected it to be fresh.

The octopus had its characteristic chewy, springy texture. I enjoyed its flavor on its own, then had it with chojang (sweet-and-tangy red chili dipping sauce) and the accompaniments, which also made it a good dish with drinks. I liked that the octopus’s flavor and texture took center stage rather than strong seasoning.

How was the complimentary clam soup?

The complimentary side dish was as memorable as the boiled octopus. I had expected to snack on it lightly while waiting for the main dish, but it was good from the start.

The clam soup in particular had a refreshing, clean broth. It was nice to have a spoonful of broth with a drink before the boiled octopus arrived.

Was it comfortable for a drink on a first visit?

The owner was kind, so I was comfortable dining there even on my first visit. The atmosphere was quiet that afternoon, and I could take my time over the boiled octopus and a drink.

What did I have alongside the boiled octopus?

Adding gyeran-mari (Korean rolled omelet) alongside the boiled octopus made for a satisfying spread with drinks.

I did not get to try them this time, but next time I would like to order octopus gambas and ddaengcho octopus jangyuk. What stayed with me from this visit was the texture of the boiled octopus, the complimentary clam soup, and the relaxed service.