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Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Busan Raw Fish Restaurant 부산횟집

As the sky gradually darkened and the air grew heavy, it was clear that rain was on its way. Having just finished our walk around the Haeundae Beach area, we quickly picked a spot for dinner, thinking it would be the perfect way to wait out the rain since we didn’t have any umbrellas with us.

We settled down and quickly placed our order, opting for a hotpot for two and a fish dish. Soon, a variety of banchan (Korean side dishes) arrived at our table, many of which we hadn’t encountered elsewhere during our trip. 

Banchan

There was seaweed, octopus, edamame, assorted vegetables, tempura prawn, and a surprisingly tasty cheese corn kernel dish. Too bad I forgot to snap a photo of the cheesy kernels!

Tempura Prawn

Fish is what I had been craving during the trip. It was beautifully deep-fried without being overly browned, slit in half, and topped with pickles.

Fried Fish

The seafood hotpot was stunning. It was filled with scallops, large mussel shells, abalone, crab, bean sprouts, potatoes, spring onions, and more, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth.

Seafood Hotpot

The staff came to the table and assisted in removing the shells from the seafood, thoughtfully cutting them into smaller pieces for easier enjoyment.

Big Shells Removed

It felt good to be served this way, a thoughtful gesture that kicked off the meal on a warm note. We had a feast, deeply satisfying and comforting. The hearty spread left us with warm, full stomachs, just what we needed for the cold, rainy weather outside.

Abalone

Busan Raw Fish Restaurant 부산횟집 
Location: 28 Dalmaji-gil 62beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Gamcheon Sagol Somyeon Gomtang 감천사골소머리곰탕

Another spot I marked on my Gamcheon Culture Village map was this eatery, I was drawn in by the grilled beef patties I had seen featured in Google reviews. Plus, their high rating made it even more tempting.

Gamcheon Sagol Somyeon Gomtang

The interior was simply furnished, but the walls were interestingly adorned with plenty of positive feedback left by customers from all over the world.

Interior



The place felt welcoming, with friendly staff and a menu that was easy for foreigners like us to navigate. The ordering chit made it even simpler, as it was in English.

Order

Their menu was also well illustrated with tempting food photos alongside the dishes.

Menu

There was also an introduction page in the menu with a short write-up about the place, explaining that they serve traditional Korean food, not low-quality instant meals. They even had a section highlighting a few dishes based on foreigners’ favourites.

Introduction Page on the Menu

The banchan served included three types: fermented vegetables, green chilli, and cuttlefish.

Banchan

We had dumpling beef soup with rice. The soup was milky and comforting, filled with ingredients like sliced rice cakes and fish cakes. It paired perfectly with the bowl of white rice.

Dumpling Beef Soup - 9,000

Soup

Though simple, the dumplings, a staple in Korean cuisine, were also part of the beef soup we ordered.

Dumpling

The dumplings had a sweet flavour and were filled with noodles inside. Take a look at the fillings!

Dumpling Fillings

Besides the dumplings, I also liked the fish cake that added more depth to the soup.

Fish Cake

Here’s the grilled short beef patties served with rice and a side of mayonnaise. The meal came with five small patties.

Grilled Short Beef Patties - 9,000

The beef patties were evenly grilled, with a glossy, juicy appearance that made them very appetizing.

Look so yummy!

Dipping the grilled short beef patties into the mayonnaise made them even better they really looked and tasted great.”

With Mayonnaise

After the meal, we were served the traditional Korean drink, Sikhye. It was cooling and refreshing, to be honest, I really love this drink in Korean cuisine.

Free Sikhye

I’m really happy to have enjoyed such a satisfying meal before leaving my footprints in Gamcheon Culture Village.

감천사골소머리곰탕
Location: 
173 Gamnae 1-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea

Saturday, August 2, 2025

Duf Coffee

I was just reading articles about Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan when I came across a recommended café that’s sparked quite a bit of buzz online for its wild and quirky decor. As I was walking through the village, I hadn’t realised I’d passed it until I noticed the signs leading to Duf Coffee. That’s when it clicked: the unique decorations in front of me were exactly what I’d read about.

DUF Coffee

I was hesitant to visit this so-called popular spot at first, but entry required a drink, so we ended up getting a strawberry milkshake and a cup of coffee.

Our drinks came served in double cups, with the outer cup decorated with their homemade sticker. If you like the stickers, you can even buy them over the counter.

Strawberry Milk Shake & Coffee

At the counter, they also provide little packets of food like anchovies and corn but don’t mistake these for snacks to enjoy with your drink! They’re actually duck feed.

Garden

The entire place was filled with crazy decorations and phrases, to the point where I felt like I was in a second-hand goods market or maybe what some would describe as a fantasy world.

Duck Feeding in the Garden

A little bit insane, with all kinds of rooms you can wander through. You can tell the owner put a lot of effort into piecing everything together. In some corners, you even need to climb or duck down as you explore.

Decorations 

verall, the whole experience was truly unique and left me with one of the most distinctive café memories I’ve ever had.

Children's Area

DUF Coffee
Location:
 Gamcheon Culture Village, 195 Gamnae 1-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea

Friday, August 1, 2025

Four Heavenly Kings 烧腊

 Visiting Four Heavenly Kings for their signature roast meats was a treat. Conveniently located along Syed Alwi Road, it’s just a stone’s throw from Besar Hawker Centre.

Four Heavenly Kings 烧腊

What makes up the Four Heavenly Kings Meat Platter? If you’re dining with at least two people, this sharing platter is a must. It brings together the best of all worlds: Char Siew, Roast Chicken, Roast Duck, and Roast Pork. A satisfying medley of textures and flavors, perfect for meat lovers looking to enjoy a hearty and well-balanced roast meat feast.

Best Duck in the World

We were first served a braised egg, neatly sliced into 8 even portions, perfect to pair with our fragrant rice and roast meats.

Braised Egg 卤蛋- $1

One of the highlights from our Four Heavenly Kings roast meat platter was undoubtedly the Crispy Pork Belly. Served in thick, even slices, each piece boasted a beautifully golden crackling that shattered with every bite, revealing juicy, tender layers of meat and fat beneath. The skin was perfectly rendered crunchy and aromatic while the seasoning on the meat was just right, allowing the natural pork flavors to shine through. It was evident that this dish was executed with care and precision, as the pork belly not only looked impressive but also delivered on taste and texture. 

Crispy Pork Belly (Siew Bak) 港式脆皮烧肉 - $16 / $22 / $34 / $62

At Four Heavenly Kings, diners have the option of choosing between two types of roast duck, Cantonese or Irish. The Cantonese Roast Duck, a popular style commonly sourced from Malaysia and beloved for its traditional flavours. The duck arrived with beautifully glistening skin, showcasing a deep, roasted hue that hinted at its flavorful marinade. Each slice revealed juicy, tender meat beneath a layer of slightly crisp skin, with a familiar aroma that reminded us of classic roast duck stalls around the region. The seasoning was well-balanced, allowing the natural richness of the duck to come through without being overpowering. 

Cantonese Roast Duck 港式烧鸭 - $20 / $32 / $60

The Signature Irish Roast Duck is undoubtedly the showstopper at Four Heavenly Kings and for good reason. Unlike the more commonly found Cantonese-style roast ducks, this premium offering stands out for both its quality and rarity, as few eateries in Singapore serve Irish duck. From the first bite, the difference was clear. The meat was noticeably more tender, juicier, and richer in flavour, yet completely free from the gamey notes often associated with duck. It carried a refined fragrance and luscious texture that left a lasting impression. 

Signature Irish Roast Duck 招牌爱尔兰鸭 - $25 / $44 / $82

What truly elevated the dish was the aromatic herb sauce generously drizzled over the duck, enhancing its depth and making each slice all the more irresistible. For those seeking a more indulgent and memorable roast duck experience, the Irish Roast Duck is a must-try centerpiece.

The Best Duck in The World

The Roasted Chicken was a crowd-pleaser with its beautifully bronzed skin and juicy meat. Glazed to a glossy perfection, the skin was delightfully crisp, giving way to tender, succulent flesh beneath. Each cut was juicy and evenly roasted, locking in the natural flavors without being overly oily. It had that familiar comforting taste of traditional Cantonese roast, done right, well-marinated and expertly executed. A dish that may seem humble, yet leaves a lasting impression at the dining table.

Roasted Chicken 美味烧鸡 - $15 / $20 / $38

No plate of chicken rice feels complete without a side of freshly grated ginger. At Four Heavenly Kings, their housemade ginger dip truly elevated the experience. Light, fragrant, and finely grated, it offered just the right amount of warmth to cut through the richness of the roasted meats. Paired with the tender roasted chicken, each bite was enhanced with a comforting zing that only fresh ginger can provide. It’s a simple yet essential touch that reflects the care put into the meal.

Ginger

Looking to elevate your roast delights? Don’t skip the chili! Their signature chili sauce packed a punch with a bright, tangy heat that complemented the savoury richness of the roasted meats perfectly. A small dip goes a long way — just enough to awaken the palate without overpowering the natural flavors. It’s the kind of chili that makes each bite more addictive than the last. If you’re one for bold flavours, this is a must-try!

Chili

Another highlight will be their caramelised Char Siew. Beautifully caramelised on the outside, each slice revealed a good ratio of fats to meat, just the way it should be. The slightly charred edges added a smoky depth, while the glaze was sweet and sticky, clinging to the tender pork and creating that perfect melt-in-the-mouth texture. It was indulgent without being overly greasy, and every bite was packed with flavour. A must-order for fans of traditional Cantonese-style roast meats.

Caramelised Char Siew 复古味叉烧 - $16 / $22 / $34 / $62

The plump, filled dumplings were undoubtedly satisfying. Served in a bowl of five, each dumpling was generously packed and beautifully encased in a delicate yet firm skin. 

Dumpling Soup (5pcs)水饺汤 (5粒) - $8

The bite revealed springy prawns, complemented by the crunch of black fungus, adding a pleasant textural contrast. It was a simple dish, yet done right, juicy, flavourful, and comforting.

Fillings of Dumpling Soup

The wantons, on the other hand, carried a nostalgic charm, the kind that instantly brought back memories of comforting bowls of wanton mee from childhood. Light, savoury, and tender, each piece was a familiar reminder of simple joys and flavours that have stood the test of time.

Wanton Soup (7pcs) 云吞汤 (7粒)- $7

From 3.30am to 6:30am, enjoy all single-plated Duck, Char Siew, and Pork Belly with Noodles, Hor Fun, and rice at just $5 (U.P $7-$10)! * Prices are exclusive of GST and available for dine-in and takeaway.

Menu

Menu

Dining at Four Heavenly Kings was a fulfilling experience that brought together nostalgic flavors and refined roast delights. From the crisp crackle of the pork belly to the standout Irish roast duck and comforting wantons, every dish was crafted with care. It’s a spot where tradition meets indulgence,  perfect for sharing hearty platters and making new food memories.

Our Orders

Four Heavenly Kings 烧腊
Location:
 216 Syed Alwi Rd, Singapore 207749

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Gamcheon Culture Village Asteroid B612 Cafe 감천문화마을 소행성B612카페

While exploring Gamcheon Culture Village, beyond its fascinating history and the unique way the housing was planned, one can’t help but notice the iconic Little Prince and the Fox statue that everyone stops by.

Wall Paint

The café has a few sections for customers to roam around and enjoy the views from different angles. We chose to sit indoors to shelter ourselves from the sun.

Outdoor Seats

There’s also a small merchandise corner in the café where you can pick up Little Prince souvenirs.

Outdoor

After placing our order, we were given an electronic buzzer. We had a sea salt chocolate bun, a café mocha, and a chestnut latte.

B612 Buzzer

It was a good tea break and a much-needed rest from all the hilly walks and climbs. Nonetheless, the view was truly spectacular.

Our Order

Gamcheon Culture Village Asteroid B612 Cafe 감천문화마을 소행성B612카페
Location:
133 Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Hwanggong Eomuk (Fish cake) 환공어묵 부산역점

While at Busan Train Station, we came across another traditional fish cake brand that has been around since 1940. With such a high turnover, we quickly grabbed a few freshly fried fish cakes and found a spot near the station for a quick bite. Yes, this was our breakfast!

Hwanggong Eomuk (Fish Cake) in Busan Train Station

We made a quick selection, so we didn’t really remember exactly what we picked. 

Fish Cake

These fish cakes, as usual, came in all kinds, from cheese-filled to vegetable-mixed, all with that springy texture we love. 

Fish Cake

Some had a rough, crispy coating while others had the usual smooth bite.

Fish Cake

If you ask whether they were good or if I ever get bored of them, honestly, I find them interesting every time. And to think that in my entire life, I’ve never spent more than $10 on fish cakes for breakfast like this!

Fish Cake

When I compare these to the Samjin Amook Eomuk we had earlier from the Busan Train Station branch, honestly, I can’t really tell much difference, even though this brand is supposed to be more senior in the industry than Samjin Amook Eomuk, which was established in 1953.


Hwanggong Eomuk (Fish cake) 환공어묵 부산역점
Location:
Jungang-daero, 초량제3동 Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Nearest Station: Busan