아와비
An abalone restaurant at the far tip of Dolsan-eup in Yeosu, run by a former haenyeo (female diver) who personally harvests the wild seafood served here. The menu is a single item: abalone porridge. Before the porridge arrives, a generous spread of raw wild seafood is served as a starter, including sashimi, horn shells, sea pineapple, sea cucumber, and scallops. This appetizer alone is remarkable in its freshness, entirely free of any fishy odor, and substantial enough to overshadow the main dish for some diners. The abalone porridge is cooked with the innards, producing a buttery richness reminiscent of pine nut porridge. It is subtler than commercial versions, but develops a deeply satisfying creaminess with each spoonful. Pairing with the house-made kimchi helps finish the bowl effortlessly. While a single bowl of abalone porridge in Seoul costs around 25,000 won, this restaurant includes the seafood starter at comparable pricing, delivering exceptional value for the quality offered. The drive to the restaurant doubles as a scenic route through mountains and coastline, effectively becoming an appetizer for the meal itself. A spacious yard with wandering stray cats adds rustic charm, and the ocean view from the grounds is an additional draw. The remote location at the far end of Dolsan makes access challenging, yet the number of repeat visitors willing to make the trip speaks to the restaurant's genuine appeal.