참새방앗간 — Restaurant in Busan

There are basically only two main dishes on the entire menu — “clams” and “more clams”. They were the best clams I have ever had in my life.

The smallest portion size is stated for two people, but they allowed me to eat there alone when I told them — with google translate because they speak no english (it’s not a big deal given the simplicity of the menu) — that I was hungry enough to eat a meal for two; they didn’t turn me away like many restaurants do in Korea when I tried to eat alone.

The clams themselves have a unique juiciness that isn’t trapped by a rubbery exterior, and the clam yields the perfect amount of resistance when biting it.

The view of the ocean from the second floor...

This is (perhaps) the locals hidden gem! 45,000 KRW for this flavourful and packed bowl of clams!! Everything was so sweet. Do note that there is minimal seasoning & the clams are basically just steamed. Worth a shot if you’re in the area!! The place brims with locals and the atmosphere feels pretty cosy. Not too pricey compared to the ones closer to the beach / city centre.

You can add Sujebi (hand-torn noodles), Mandu (dumplings) etc. after you finish your clams & they’ll cook it in a warm peppery broth after. Very soothing after all...

A very small restaurant, thus, rated the atmosphere as a 3. However, it is filled with locals and hence feels like a humble, authentic restaurant.

I LOVE THE CLAMS. The seafood was so fresh. Clams, abalone, scallop, mussel, the variety is huge. We ended it with udon, and the hot soup was perfect for the cold winter when we were there in December. We had to wait outside in the cold and it was freezing but WORTH THE WAIT.

The owner/chef also provided 3 side dishes that tasted clean, healthy and yet...