On the final day of a 2026 trip to Sancheong, South Korea, we explored hidden culinary gems like Ukkuya and Janggeumi Suragan, experiencing authentic Korean cuisine and a special homemade cheonggukjang. This guide covers our final meal discoveries and the journey back home, highlighting the joys of finding new flavors and places.
Discovering Ukkuya: A Japanese Gem in Sancheong
During a morning stroll on our last full day in Sancheong, we stumbled upon 'Ukkuya Gyeongnam Sancheong Branch,' a Japanese restaurant that had been buzzing with delivery orders overnight. Located in Sancheong-eup, it operates from 10 AM to 8 PM, with a break time from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. The menu features a variety of Japanese dishes like tonkatsu, udon, and soba. Their unique Carbon Katsu and Cheese Katsu have garnered attention from visitors. The restaurant boasts ample parking, a clean interior, and family-friendly amenities like high chairs and a microwave for baby food, making it a great option for families. Ordering is conveniently done via a kiosk, and basic side dishes are self-serve.
Exploring New Flavors: Janggeumi Suragan and Ssalgoe Rest Stop
Continuing our walk, we noticed 'Ssalgoe Rest Stop' and the Korean restaurant 'Janggeumi Suragan' across the street. Janggeumi Suragan is also located in Sancheong-eup and is open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, closing only on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month. The owner, recognized as a master Korean chef, utilizes fresh Jirisan mountain ingredients to prepare refined dishes such as Eungi (Acanthopanax) Duck and Chicken Baeksuk (whole boiled chicken) and Kodari Jjim (braised pollack). Reservations are recommended for their Baeksuk dishes, which are generously filled with Eungi mushrooms and served with sticky rice and broth. Complimentary coffee and unique side dishes like mulberry leaf namul and chili paste add to the restaurant's charm. The nearby mural village also offers a pleasant area for a post-meal stroll.
A Farewell Meal: The Special Cheonggukjang Experience
For our final meal in Sancheong, we visited a Korean-Chinese buffet. While there, we discovered fresh figs and were offered a taste of the owner's homemade cheonggukjang (fermented soybean paste stew). Although not served at the buffet due to its strong aroma, the owner generously shared a bowl, a testament to its deliciousness. The healthy, heartfelt stew, enjoyed with a view of the serene mountains, felt like a final, warm farewell from Sancheong.
Departing Sancheong: Journey Home and Reflections
We called for a taxi from the motel lobby to take us to the Sancheong Bus Terminal for our 11 AM express bus to Seoul. The bus was nearly full, with about 28 passengers, but we were fortunate to find two seats left in the very back. Our two-week stay in Sancheong was filled with the joy of discovering new places, enjoying delicious Korean food, and meeting warm, friendly people. The unexpected culinary finds and charming scenery created unforgettable memories. Though our time was short, Sancheong provided a much-needed recharge amidst its pristine natural beauty. We left with a promise to return, cherishing the experience.
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