Shinbang Tongtong Nakji – A Spicy Chukumi Heaven Near My Korean Home

One of my non-negotiable reasons to revisit Korea is chukumi—that unforgettable spicy baby octopus dish. As a loyal customer of Chukumi Cebu (before it sadly closed during the pandemic), I’ve been craving that kick of spice and flavor that only authentic chukumi can deliver.

Little did I know that just behind my Korean home was a gem—[신방통통낙지 (Shinbang Tongtong Nakji)], a restaurant specializing in octopus dishes. I discovered it on a rainy, cold night with my fellow foodie Korean friend. Despite the weather, the restaurant was packed, a good sign that it’s well-loved by locals.

We ordered the spiciest level of chukumi (of course), and it was exactly what my taste buds had been missing. The star of the meal was served with a special rice dish—you scoop the top portion to eat, then pour hot water into the remaining rice at the bottom of the pot to make a kind of nurungji (눌은지), a traditional scorched rice soup that soothes the palate after the spice.

As with any great Korean dining experience, the banchan (side dishes) were overflowing. My favorite? The tofu. Soft, flavorful, and a perfect contrast to the heat of the octopus.

My verdict? A solid 5 out of 5 stars. The food, ambiance, price, service, and taste were flawless. Shinbang Tongtong Nakji is not only a must-visit, it’s a place I’d go back to again and again.

Restaurant Details:

Name: 신방통통낙지 (Shinbang Tongtong Nakji) Address: 1st Floor, 1663 Nambusunhwan-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Phone Number: +82-2-821-6550 Operating Hours: Daily from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM (Last order at 9:00 PM)

Nearest Subway Stations: Approximately a 7-minute walk from Exit 8 of Sinlim Station (Line 2) Approximately an 8-minute walk from Exit 4 of Bongcheon Station (Line 2)

Parking: Available behind the building  

Menu Highlights

신방낙지볶음 (Shinbang Nakji Bokkeum): Spicy stir-fried octopus served with stone pot rice. 오리산낙지주물럭 (Ori San Nakji Jumulleok): A signature dish combining duck and octopus in a spicy stir-fry. 산낙지 연포탕 (San Nakji Yeonpotang): Live octopus soup. 고등어구이 정식 (Grilled Mackerel Set): Grilled mackerel served with side dishes.

The restaurant is known for its generous portions of banchan (side dishes), including tofu and seaweed soup. The stone pot rice is served with hot water to create nurungji (scorched rice soup), a traditional Korean delicacy.

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