Sinpo Dakgangjeong Bonjeom 신포닭강정 본점

Operating in Incheon's Sinpo International Market since 1985, this is the original dakgangjeong (sweet-spicy chicken) shop, and the technique behind its enduring popularity is immediately apparent. The batter is fried to such a firm crunch that it maintains its texture even while submerged in sauce, which is a sweet glaze with a slow-building chili oil heat and crushed peanuts that add nuttiness without any heaviness. Only bone-in chicken is served, so keep that in mind. Eating in gets you a side of cabbage salad with mayonnaise and pickled radish, both of which complement the sticky-sweet chicken well. Ordering half-and-half with fried chicken gives you a salty, crispy contrast that pairs brilliantly with beer. The takeout line stretches long on any day, but the dining area is relatively calm by comparison, so eating inside is the smarter move. The chicken holds up surprisingly well even after cooling, making takeout viable too.