Gook 고옥

A hitsumabushi-style eel rice bowl specialist near Gwangalli in Suyeong-gu, Busan, widely considered the top eel restaurant in the city. The owner personally catches the eels and prepares them fresh every morning, which eliminates any trace of fishiness - the restaurant's most praised quality. Both freshwater and saltwater eel are available. The sauce is deeply infused into the grilled eel, creating exceptional umami when eaten with rice. Following the traditional hitsumabushi method, diners are provided with instructions to divide the bowl into four portions and enjoy each differently - the third method, pouring warm dashi broth over the eel and rice to create a chazuke-like dish, is the most popular among visitors. The accompanying egg custard stands out for its distinctive seasoning that sets it apart from typical Korean gyeranjjim. A complimentary plum tea cleanses the palate as a finishing touch, and hojicha (roasted green tea) ice cream is available as an additional dessert. The restaurant spans two floors, offering considerable seating capacity, yet waits of around one hour are common, making CatchTable reservations highly recommended. A QR-based ordering system adds convenience, and the staff are consistently noted for their warmth and attentiveness. It is frequently recommended as an ideal restaurant for dining out with parents or family.