Restaurant Review : Bada Sikdang, Seoul

When you visit Korea, one of the foods you don’t want to miss is “Budae-Jjigae.” Some places call it “Johnson Stew.” We made little explanations below to show what kind of food it is.

So, basically, it’s a stew loaded with sausage, spam, instant noodles, rice cakes, green onions, and much more.

There are many “Budae-Jjigae” restaurants in Seoul, but today, we will review one of the most popular ones called ‘Bada-Sikdang’ located in Itaewon area, Seoul – perhaps you already heard this?

[Korean Dictionary]
Bada : Ocean
Sikdang : Restaurant

Since opening in 1976, this spot in Itaewon has captured the hearts of Koreans and foreign tourists who visit Seoul. Bada-Sikdang’s menus are simple yet provide a quality “Budae-Jjigae” experience.

Take a look at its menus. Bada-Sikdang has menus : “Johnson Stew”, “Pork Barbecue”, “Beef Barbecue”, “Beef Sausage”, “Turkey Sasuage”, “T-Bone Steak” and “Barbecue Pork Chop.”

We’ve ordered simple “Johnson Stew” serving size 2, and since the rice was not included, we’ve added rices too. It comes out with all cooked version of the stew without the stove. Not all places add cheese in the stew, but this place does.

Due to cheese, the texture of the stew is very soft, smooth, and pretty thick. This is why people revisit this place – a unique, savory flavour that only Bada Sikdang has.

“Johnson Stew” served with these various side dishes. When you feel little greasy about this soup – don’t worry about it. There are plenty of spicy side dishes waiting for you. Loved the fresh kimchi (above) and fermented original kimchi (bottom).

Some of Korean restaurants have this “Self-Corner,” where you can feel free to help yourself with more side dishes. This place is unique, that it allows you to cook fried egg for yourself.

[Bada Sikdang — Hours]
– Location : 2nd Floor, 245, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea
– Day-Off :
Every 1st & 3rd Monday / Mon ~ Sun : 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

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