Myeonghwadang Myeongdong 1st 명화당 명동1호점

200m from Myeong-dong Station. Myeonghwadang Myeongdong 1st Branch is a bunsik restaurant that has operated in Myeongdong since the 1980s, enduring multiple crises including the pandemic to remain a fixture of the neighborhood. Traces of decades past are visible throughout the interior, lending the space a nostalgic atmosphere. The signature Myeonghwadang gimbap uses rice seasoned with soy sauce and vinegar, producing a distinctly sweet-and-sour flavor profile that sets it apart from standard gimbap. The preparation has earned recognition as one of 136 notable gimbap destinations nationwide. The seasoned rice evokes something reminiscent of yakbap, and while the first bite may recall inari sushi, the flavor becomes increasingly addictive, especially when dipped into tteokbokki sauce. The jjolmyeon arrives fragrant with sesame oil and topped with a generous mound of seasoned vegetables, providing textural variety in every bite. The naembi-guksu features a clear anchovy broth holding dumplings, egg, and fried tofu, delivering a depth that surpasses typical janchi-guksu. The tteokbokki follows a traditional bunsik approach with sticky-sweet sauce coating chewy rice cakes; the sweetness runs pronounced and may divide opinions, though the accompanying radish kimchi effectively cuts through any heaviness. The overall flavor profile across the menu leans toward the sweet side, characteristic of old-school Korean snack bars. Prices are moderate by Myeongdong standards, representing solid value. Food arrives quickly, staff are accommodating, and takeout gimbap comes wrapped in a charmingly compact package. The restaurant occupies a second-floor space with ample room, making it comfortable for solo visitors or small groups.