Sangol Chueotang 산골추어탕

A celebrated chueo-tang (loach soup) restaurant in Bongdam-eup, Hwaseong-si, featured on television as a top-ranked destination in the capital region. Unlike the typical thick, puréed loach soup, this establishment serves a gochujang-based style closer to spicy fish stew, with a broth that is peppery and clean rather than heavy. The flavor intensifies as it simmers on the tabletop burner, and adding rice toward the end transforms it into something resembling eojuk - a rich, comforting fish porridge. Each order comes in a shared pot with sujebi dumplings and noodles already included, making the portions generous. The crispy, well-seasoned gamja-jeon (potato pancake) is a popular side, and the self-serve nurungji (scorched rice) station draws enthusiastic repeat visits from diners. A pond with koi and lotus flowers sits in front of the restaurant, offering a pleasant view during waits. Weekend lunch crowds can exceed 30 groups, but remote booking via Catch Table is available. Spice levels can be adjusted upon request, making it accessible for those sensitive to heat.