Cuisine

Seafood (생선 레스토랑)

District

Jeju City (제주시) , Jeju

Address

Jeju Jeju-si Yongdam1-dong 2818-2

Quick read

Why go

Chungminjeong is a hairtail (galchi) restaurant in Yongdam 1-dong, Jeju-si, positioned near Jeju International Airport and specializing in whole grilled galchi.

Best for

Seafood-focused dining

Visit tip

Expect possible waits during weekends or peak meal times.

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Chungminjeong is a hairtail (galchi) restaurant in Yongdam 1-dong, Jeju-si, positioned near Jeju International Airport and specializing in whole grilled galchi. Its proximity to the airport has made it a consistent destination for travelers seeking either their first meal upon landing or their final meal before departure, and many visitors return trip after trip. The signature whole grilled galchi set features an entire fish grilled to order, and the owner comes to the table personally to debone it with practiced precision. A thoughtful pause for photos is built into the process, the owner waits for diners to signal they have finished photographing before the deboning begins. The roe section is removed and taken back to the kitchen for additional cooking before being returned, a detail that reflects genuine care in the preparation process. Placing a piece of the deboned, flaky galchi over a spoonful of plain steamed rice creates a moment that is simultaneously humble and satisfying, the thickness and mildness of the fish make the grilled preparation deeply rewarding on its own. The bomal (sea snail) soup is gently seasoned and light-bodied, easy enough to drink straight from the bowl, and the banchan spread is clean and well proportioned. Braised galchi-jorim is also available but carries a noticeably sweet sauce that divides opinion, making the grilled version the more universally appealing choice. Calling approximately 20 minutes ahead allows the kitchen to begin grilling in advance, effectively eliminating wait time. Pricing sits around 70,000 won for two, which is above average, but the size and quality of the whole Jeju-sourced galchi provide clear justification. Parking is limited to curbside spaces in front of the restaurant, so planning accordingly is advisable.