Hanami — Restaurant in Gyeongju-si

We almost walked past the place. It looked quiet, no guests at that moment, but something about it still pulled us in. We took seats right at the counter, though there were plenty of tables too.

My partner ordered the regular sushi menu with 10 pieces. I went for the cold soba noodles since I’m vegetarian. In hindsight, I wish I’d asked about a veggie sushi option, because what the chef prepared for my partner was pure art. He caught me watching and, without a word, made three beautiful vegetarian pieces just for me.

He’s been perfecting his craft for 25 years, and it shows. Every movement was precise, calm, deliberate. You could feel the focus and care in the air. The way he observed every reaction after each bite, adjusting the next piece like he was composing a symphony. Besides the fish being absolutely perfect, he served one sushi topped with two-year-aged Mungeunji kimchi.

The quality for the price was unreal (35k in total for both of us). Easily one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in Korea. Finding vegetarian and vegan options isn’t always easy, but this place made it feel effortless. Honestly, I’d come back to Gyeongju just for this...

With a hankering for sushi we decided to stop by this well rated, newer, sushiya on our way further into town. We all ordered the 12 sushi set and relaxed drinking tea and tucking into miso soup as the Itamae and his apprentice prepared the sushi. Everything came out quite well and they have a good selection of fresh fish. Nothing unbelievably exotic but its great for a restaurant literally smack dab in the middle of...

Every restaurant in the area either refused me or was close, because I was coming alone and I’m happy they did. Japanse cuisine is my favorite one and let me tell you this is one of the best salmon nigiri I’ve ever had. Freshly cut salmon and the chef prepared the nigiri on the spot. Not sure why it has less reviews because it’s so good and I can not wait to come back to Gyeonju and eat here again. Thank you! Isa from...