Gimbap with Side Dishes: Myeongdong Chungmu Gimbap 🍙
When it comes to Korean food, gimbap is already world-famous. Most people picture it as rice rolled with vegetables, egg, and ham — like a Korean-style roll. But among Koreans, there’s another well-known version called Chungmu Gimbap.
I’ve introduced different types of gimbap before, but this time, let me show you a restaurant in Seoul where you can try this unique style — Chungmu Gimbap in Myeongdong.
🌊 The Origin of Chungmu Gimbap
Chungmu Gimbap originated from Chungmu City, the old name of Tongyeong in South Gyeongsang Province. Since the area is close to the sea, many fishermen used to eat this simple, portable meal while out on their boats.
Unlike regular gimbap, which contains many ingredients that spoil easily, this version is just plain rice wrapped in seaweed. It’s eaten with side dishes like cubed radish kimchi (seokbakji) and seasoned squid. These side dishes don’t spoil quickly, making them perfect for fishermen at sea.
Later, this humble dish made its way to Seoul — and soon became a beloved snack across the country.
🦑 Evolving to Fit Seoul’s Taste
The original Chungmu Gimbap used various seafoods such as baby squid or whelk, and it was known to be quite spicy and salty.
But as it reached Seoul, the recipe evolved — now the side dishes are usually made with squid and fish cake, the flavors are milder, slightly sweeter, and more balanced. This adaptation made it easier for everyone to enjoy.🍴 Why Chungmu Gimbap Is So Addictive
It’s a very simple dish, but surprisingly satisfying. The small, plain gimbap pieces paired with the sweet, spicy, and tangy side dishes create a perfectly balanced flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
When I tried it again recently, I found the combination refreshing and appetizing — spicy enough to make my nose tingle a bit! A sip of warm broth in between bites makes it even better.
📍 Chungmu Gimbap in Myeongdong
There aren’t many Chungmu Gimbap restaurants in Seoul, but you can find a famous one in Myeongdong. It’s one of the oldest places serving Chungmu Gimbap. Located right in the heart of Myeongdong, it has played a big role in popularizing this traditional dish.
It’s a casual and cozy spot, with plenty of single seats — perfect if you’re dining alone.
💡 Visitor Info
- Price: ₩11,000 per serving
- Payment: Pay first when you sit down; the gimbap is served immediately (there’s only one menu item).
- Free refill: The spicy squid side dish can be refilled once for free; after that, refills cost ₩2,000.
- Soup: You can refill your warm soup yourself from the kettle at your table.
- Spice level: The radish kimchi and squid are quite spicy! Recommended for those who enjoy a kick — but not for those sensitive to spice.
- Address: 16 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM
🥢 A Unique Taste of Korean Gimbap
If you’re curious to try something a little different from regular gimbap, give Chungmu Gimbap a try! It’s simple, flavorful, and surprisingly addictive.
At first, you might wonder, “What’s so special about this?” — but after a few bites, you’ll understand why people crave it.
One day, when you suddenly crave something spicy and satisfying, this dish might just pop into your mind!
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