Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Where Sung Si-kyung, Yutaka Matsushige ate in ‘K-Foodie Meets J-Foodie’
Brothless dandan noodles at Chinese restaurant Yang / Captured from Netflix
By Park Jin-hai
Hidden gems, longtime staples featured on Netflix series
Netflix reality show "K-Foodie Meets J-Foodie" brings together two celebrated food personalities from Korea and Japan: Korean balladeer and food YouTuber Sung Si-kyung and Japanese actor Yutaka Matsushige, best known for his role in the "Solitary Gourmet" series.
The show aims to be a cross-cultural "taste exchange project," where the duo explores culinary gems across both countries, sharing not only food but also stories, traditions and the nuances of their respective food cultures.
Here are some of those restaurants Sung and Matsushige visited on the show.
Chinese restaurant Yang in Tokyo
This beloved Chinese restaurant in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, known for its rich flavors and authentic atmosphere, is Matsushige's first pick on the show. Featured in the "Solitary Gourmet" drama series, this spot has been a favorite of the Japanese foodie for over 13 years, introduced as one of his personal go-to places.
Run by an owner from Sichuan, China, the restaurant is famous for its spicy, brothless dandan noodles, pan-fried dumplings and hearty side dishes.
For more information, visit its @yang.ikebukuro on Instagram.
Yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) at Toritaka / Captured from Netflix
Toritaka in Tokyo
This secret omakase yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) restaurant in a quiet residential neighborhood of Tokyo is a place Matsushige had never revealed before the show.
It serves a range of rare chicken cuts presented omakase style, where the chef curates the menu at reasonable prices. The yakitori here is grilled with unpasteurized soy sauce for a rich flavor. The intimate setting and unique menu make it a special destination for food enthusiasts.
For more information, visit its @toritaka_futakotamagawa on Instagram.
Classic Tokyo-style ramen at Mintei / Captured from Netflix
Ramen restaurant Mintei in Tokyo
This Chinese-style ramen restaurant in Tokyo is a nostalgic spot where Matsushige worked part-time 40 years ago, when he was pursuing his dream of acting in theater. It is particularly famous for its affordable and nostalgic menu, especially the "ra-chan" set, which consists of a half-portion of ramen and a half-portion of pink-colored fried rice. The place is cherished by locals and has a deep history, making it a must-visit for those seeking classic Tokyo ramen.
For more information, visit Facebook.
Charcoal-grilled pork rib / Bu-il Charcoal Grilled Ribs
Bu-il Sutbul Galbi in Seoul
Bu-il Sutbul Galbi, a 30-year-old barbecue restaurant in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, that specializes in charcoal grilled ribs, is Sung's first pick in the show.
Its charcoal-grilled pork ribs are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and cooked over real charcoal for a deep, smoky flavor. The restaurant is known for its generous free side dishes, including marinated crab, pork skin and a soybean paste stew with beef brisket. With its nostalgic atmosphere, friendly staff who grill the meat for you and outstanding value, this place is a must for anyone seeking an authentic Korean barbecue experience.
Bu-il Sutbul Galbi is located at 6-23 Yeongjung-ro 8-gil, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul.
Pyeongyang naengmyeon (cold noodle) at Pildong Meonok / Captured from Netflix
Pildong Myeonok in Seoul
Nestled in central Seoul with a scenic view of N Seoul Tower, Pildong Myeonok is a renowned Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold noodle) restaurant and Sung's long-time favorite.
Considered one of Seoul's top three Pyongyang naengmyeon establishments, this spot is celebrated for its clean, delicate beef broth. It offers a subtle yet rich flavor that appeals to both purists and those new to North Korean-style Pyongyang naengmyeon. Beyond its famous noodles, this restaurant also draws crowds for its tender suyuk (sliced boiled pork) and homemade dumplings.
For more information, visit Instagram geotag of Pildong Myeonok.
Grilled duck at Jinmi Grilled Duck in Namyangju / Captured from Netflix
Jinmi Grilled Duck in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province
Jinmi Grilled Duck is a popular barbecue restaurant praised by Sung as a hidden gem with flavorful side dishes and a unique rustic atmosphere that gives off an old-school camping vibe.
He highlights the chewy meat and crispy skin of the charcoal-grilled duck, paired masterfully with chive salad drizzled with mustard sauce. It goes perfectly with rice, soybean paste stew and bibimguksu (spicy mixed noodles).
For more information, visit @khk5292 on Instagram.