1. Tongue & Groove Joint (텅앤그루브조인트) — Itaewon
Aged beef, pork, and lamb with that satisfying crust-to-rosy-center ratio—this Itaewon mainstay is a favorite for both locals and visiting diners. Cuts rest properly, salt is confident, and the house ssamjang lifts the umami like a well-timed cymbal. The room feels like a modern pub, so it’s easy for dates, gatherings, or even a solo steak-and-wine moment.
- Order this: Tenderloin or sirloin with the signature shrimp, then finish with the waterless steamed egg.