One Korean dish that’s skyrocketing in popularity is ganjang gejang (간장게장) – or raw soy-marinated crab – for its alluring visuals and flavour. We finally got to try the dish in Korea at Hwa Hae Dang, a restaurant that’s been on the Michelin Guide for a few years!
Hwa Hae Dang Menu
The restaurant is unassuming and tucked away in the Yongdeung-po area near the Han River. They are usually packed with patrons so it’s best to make a reservation, but we got lucky and managed to snag a table via walk-in.
The menu only has 2 main items: Ganjang Gejang with Sotbab Set (간장게장과솥밥, 49,000won per set) and Steamed Rock Fish (우포찜,70,000 won). You can add on a single serving of crab at 39,000 won.
Ganjang Gejang
The Ganjang Gejang with Sotbab Set came with a variety of dishes, including pot rice, steamed egg and banchan. We were immediately impressed by the golden orange colour of the roe!
Each person gets 1 crab conveniently cut into quarters. The crab had minimal fishiness with a good balance of sweet and umami, plus a richness from the soy sauce. It has a clean and simple flavour profile that makes it palatable for all!
We would prefer a stronger and deeper flavour, but memorable enough to understand why they got their spot on the guide. If this is your first time trying ganjang gejang in Korea, this would be a good introduction.
The classic way to enjoy this is to mix the crab meat with rice and top with seaweed. The combination of the creamy roe, salty marinade and warm rice is super satisfying. You can also jazz it up with their selection of banchan or mix it in the crab shell to finish!
Ganjang Gejang In Seoul
Hwa Hae Dang is one of many restaurants in Seoul to offer this delicacy and we would recommend you put it on your list of must-try foods if you like seafood!
For more eats in Korea, check out our list of restaurants in Korea to visit.
Hwa Hae Dang (화해당) Yeouido Outlet
15 Gukhoe-daero 62-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
서울 영등포구 국회대로62길 15 광복회관 1층 3호
Nearest train station: National Assembly (국회의사당), Line 9
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*This was an independent review by MiddleClass
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