This beef steak soup has controlled me for seven years
š„ Seoul Soulongtang: Bostonās Beloved Korean Soup SpotāA 7-Year Obsession, Justified I canāt pinpoint the first time I tried this place, but Iāve been hooked for 7 yearsāback when post-night-class cravings meant sprinting here with friends, bowls of steaming galbi tang in hand. Even after tasting similar soups in New York, none compare. This is Bostonās Korean food prideāconsistent, comforting, and worth every return trip. š The Soup That Started It All: Galbi Tang (E2) š Iāve memorized its menu number (E2)āno need to read the menu anymore. This is non-negotiable. A hearty bowl of short ribs (4-5 tender pieces, fall-off-the-bone), served with rice, egg strips, and glass noodles. The broth? Clear, rich, and unbelievably flavorfulāsimmered to perfection, with that deep, meaty sweetness that lingers. I always finish every drop. Pro tip: Skip the namesake "soulongtang" (snow soup)āitās too bland, requiring extra salt and pepper to save. Stick to the galbi tang for pure, unadulterated warmth. š Must-Order Side: Pig Trotter with Conch š· Korean-style pig trotter, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tendernessāno greasiness, just savory, collagen-rich goodness. Tossed with chunks of slightly spicy conch (sadly, too few pieces) and crisp cabbage salad, itās bright, refreshing, and the ideal contrast to the rich soup. Another permanent fixture on my order. š³ Beyond Soups: Grills & Small Plates Their (grilled meats) are solidāpork and galbi (short ribs) are my go-tos, marinated just enough to complement, not overpower, the meat. The banchan (side dishes) are stars in their own right: Chewy fish cakes, tangy pickled radish, and fermented tofu. Iāve polished off half a bowl of rice just snacking on them while waiting for the soup. š The Fine Print Skip: Their budae jjigae (army stew)ābetter at Myeong-dong spots. For japchae (stir-fried noodles), Korean Garden in Allston still does it best. Vibe: Casual, no-frills, and reliably busyāfeels like a neighborhood staple where regulars are greeted by name. Price: ~$40/person, which feels fair for the quality and portions. #BostonKorean #SoupLovers #BostonClassics #KoreanComfortFood