Eongteori Tongdak

Tucked away in the bustling Itaewon neighborhood, Eongteori Tongdak represents Korean fried chicken in its purest form—before the global chains added their heavy batters and sweet glazes. This is the kind of neighborhood spot that fills up quickly after work, where locals still arrive in their office clothes ready to unwind with cold drinks and hot chicken.

The star here is undeniably the fried chicken itself. Unlike the thick, crunchy coating you’ll find at newer spots, this bird sports a delicate skin that shatters with each bite while keeping the meat inside remarkably juicy. It’s the kind of chicken that demands to be paired with an ice-cold beer or a bottle of soju, and the restaurant leans into this tradition by requiring a minimum drink order.

This is a spot for those who appreciate authenticity over flash. The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, filled with the sounds of clinking glasses and laughter. Whether you’re a tourist looking for the real deal or a local seeking comfort food after a long day, Eongteori Tongdak delivers a taste of Seoul’s soul.

Come hungry and ready to stay awhile. The chicken is meant to be savored slowly alongside good company and plenty of drinks—exactly as it’s been done in Korea for generations.