Jinmi Sikdang

I found this restaurant for my Japanese friend who loves marinated soy sauce crab (ganjang gejang). I thought we would have to wait in line, but luckily, we were able to go in right away. The ganjang gejang came out just like it looked in the photos—very fresh and delicious. I quickly finished a bowl of rice. All the side dishes that came with it were also tasty. Although the price was a bit on the expensive side, it's definitely worth trying at least once. If I go to Korea again, I think I’ll have it again.

A Hidden Gem That Lives Up to the Hype — Jinmi Sikdang Jinmi is one of those rare places where the moment you take your first bite, you know you’ve discovered something special. The flavors here are deep, honest, and unapologetically Korean. I came for the famous ganjang gejang — and wow. The raw soy-marinated crab was unbelievably fresh, sweet, and packed with umami. It was like ocean butter melting in your mouth. Paired with a bowl of warm rice, it’s the kind of dish that humbles you into silence. No frills, no gimmicks — just pure, traditional flavor done right. Service is straightforward, the ambiance is old-school and unpretentious, but that’s part of the charm. Jinmi isn’t here to impress with trends — they’re here to serve soul food that stays with you long after the meal ends. A must-try for serious foodies looking for an authentic experience in Seoul.

Crab was so so fresh and side dishes were very plentiful. 1 crab is pretty filling for a single person.

It’s expensive but very good if you like raw marinated crab. They also serve good side dishes, a nice egg dish, soup and rice soup. There’s no menu and reservations are recommended. We were able to walk in and get a spot because we came at 5pm for dinner after their break.

One famous Korean dish - the marinated soy crab, it’s the main dish served in here, comes with various different small side dishes goes well with rice and seaweed. Reservation recommend, so you are not going to waste time on waiting the queue. Friendly staffs they are happy to feed you, don’t be shy to asking the side dishes refill. 10/10 great experience.

Very authentic preparation methods crab dish. The freshness and sauce complements well. Love the steam Egg too! Try to make appt , place is packed.

If only reservation would be easier to make... not foreigner friendly at all, reservation only by phone, and hard to communicate if you don't speak Korean! Need to book 1 month in advance for weekends and dinner, weekday lunchtime you can try your luck! I've tried many Marinated Crab restaurants in Seoul, and I couldn't say this one amazed me much... it's a bit on the saltier side, and the crab size is just normal... not worth the hype at all! It's not located in any tourist area, and you would have to make an effort to get here... service was also not very warm and welcoming. They do their job... but don't expect much!

If there’s one dish I make sure to eat every time I visit Korea, it’s the soy-marinated crab (ganjang gejang) here. This place is truly exceptional—offering the freshest, most flavorful crab I’ve ever had, and at a surprisingly reasonable price of ₩45,000 per person. Freshness & Quality: The crab meat is plump, sweet, and incredibly fresh, with a rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The generous amount of roe (蟹膏) is a highlight—its vibrant orange color and creamy taste make every bite luxurious. Perfectly Balanced Marinade: The soy-based sauce is savory with a hint of sweetness, enhancing the crab’s natural umami without overpowering it. Great Value for Money: Michelin-recommended but without the premium price tag. Dining Experience Due to its popularity, reservations are a must. Authentic Atmosphere: The restaurant has a cozy, traditional vibe, making the meal feel even more special.