Korea Eats

Jin Mandu (진만두)

진만두

8.4
★★★★★ 4.6 (238 reviews)
진만두 1
Cuisine
Chinese (중국 음식점)
District
Mapo (마포구) , Seoul
Address
Seoul Mapo-gu Wausanro29-gil 4-42

A small dumpling shop on a quiet alley off Wausanro in Mapo, where every component from the wrapper to the filling is handcrafted in-house. The signature laozi zhengzhao and xiaolongbao release a clean, savory pork broth upon the first bite, delivering an intensity of flavor that sets this spot apart from typical dumpling houses. The wrappers appear thick but possess a distinctly chewy, springy texture unlike ordinary dumpling skins, and the guotie achieves an impressive balance between crispy and moist sections. Before the meal, the kitchen brews jasmine tea tableside using whole leaves, producing a fragrant cup with no bitterness that pairs naturally with the rich dumplings. Dipping in vinegar rather than soy sauce is the house tradition, adding a bright acidity that cuts through the richness. Beyond dumplings, dishes like dongpo rice demonstrate the kitchen's broader capabilities. Often compared favorably to Din Tai Fung and Tim Ho Wan, this unassuming Hongdae-area establishment has earned a devoted following among serious dumpling enthusiasts.

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