Woo Lae Oak
Cold noodle restaurant · Jongno-dong ·
Historic Korean BBQ spot renowned for flavorful Pyongyang naengmyeon
Historic Korean BBQ spot renowned for flavorful Pyongyang naengmyeon
"Woo Lae Oak is one of Seoul’s most storied restaurants, a landmark of North Korean cuisine that has been serving Pyongyang-style dishes since 1946. Families come here for its famously understated buckwheat naengmyeon, a far milder and earthier dish than what you’ll find elsewhere in South Korea. If you’re new to Pyongyang naengmyeon, sip the broth first without seasoning, then add a little vinegar and Korean mustard to sharpen it the traditional way. Woo Lae Oak also serves salty-sweet bulgogi grilled tableside over charcoal, and it goes wonderfully with the icy broth, which cuts the fat between bites." - Eileen Cho
"For a lesser-known side of Korean cuisine, I recommend trying Pyongyang naengmyeon—North Korean buckwheat noodles in an icy beef broth—at Wooraeok, which is cited as a classic purveyor of the dish." - Katie Chang
"Wooraeok has been serving delicious Korean barbecue in Seoul since 1946, but the restaurant is also well known for its Pyongyang naengmyeon (Pyongyang-style cold buckwheat noodles). While most versions of this dish feature a subtle broth — often derided as bland — Wooraeok’s version is meatier and more flavorful, making it suitable for first-timers. Must-try dish: Don’t miss the bulgogi either." - Matty Kim
"Woo Lae Oak is one of the best Pyongyang naengmyeon restaurants in Seoul, and its reputation and traditions have been upheld since opening in 1946. The broth is what sets this place apart from the competition. It is made by boiling hanwoo foreshank for hours and seasoned with nothing more than salt and soy sauce to create the clean savory flavor that can only be tasted here. The bulgogi, which is another popular dish, pairs well with the cold noodles. It has been maintaining consistent flavors through its many years of service, and exclusively using local ingredients. This historical establishment is packed with diners around the clock." - Michelin Inspector
"Although the naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) in extra meaty broth might steal the spotlight at historic Woo Lae Oak, the restaurant has also been one of Seoul’s classic spots for barbecue since 1946. The bulgogi has been a popular choice for generations, but the pro move is to order the off-menu special: the famed naengmyeon noodles added to bulgogi broth. Although the restaurant is spacious, there’s a long line out the door all day." - Matty Kim