Eomyeon (어면): Korea's First Squid-Based Rice Noodle Soup in Gangnam

If you love pho and rice noodle soups, Eomyeon (어면) offers something you won't find anywhere else in Korea—a rice noodle soup made with squid-based broth instead of the traditional beef or chicken. Located near Samsung Jungang Station (삼성중앙역) on Subway Line 9 in Seoul's upscale Gangnam district, this innovative noodle shop is perfect for travelers looking for a unique Korean dining experience.

The restaurant's modern signage features an adorable squid illustration, making it easy to spot from the street. Inside, you'll be greeted by friendly staff and a clean, contemporary space that sets the stage for an excellent meal.

Location & How to Get There

Eomyeon is conveniently located near Samsung Jungang Station (Line 9) in Samseong-dong, Gangnam. This puts it within easy reach of major attractions like COEX Mall, Starfield Library, and Bongeunsa Temple—making it an ideal lunch or dinner stop while exploring the area.

📍 Search "Eomyeon 어면 삼성동" on Google Maps

Restaurant Atmosphere

The interior features a sophisticated white and wood-tone design with soft ambient lighting. Tables are well-spaced for comfortable dining, making it suitable for couples on a date, friends catching up over lunch, or solo travelers. The atmosphere feels cozy yet refined—a step up from typical noodle shops.

Ordering Tips for Foreigners

Each table is equipped with a smart ordering tablet, which makes ordering straightforward even if you don't speak Korean. The menu includes photos, so you can easily point and select. The restaurant also offers seasonal specials, including a cold mixed rice noodle option perfect for summer visits, plus evening bar-style dishes if you're looking for dinner with drinks.

Menu Highlights & What to Order

Hanchi Squid Rice Noodles (한치 오징어 쌀국수) — The Signature Dish

The star of the menu is the Hanchi Squid Rice Noodle Soup (한치 오징어 쌀국수). Unlike traditional pho made with beef or chicken broth, this dish uses a clear, light broth made from squid. The result is a clean, refreshing soup with deep umami flavor—without any fishy smell.

What makes it special:

• Crystal-clear broth with surprisingly rich depth
• Generous portions of tender hanchi (a type of small squid) and chewy squid pieces
• Fresh vegetable toppings throughout
• Light and healthy—not greasy or heavy, perfect if you're watching your diet

The texture contrast between the silky rice noodles and bouncy squid is delightful, and you'll find yourself sipping the broth until the bowl is empty.

Spicy Squid Rice Noodles (얼큰한 한치 오징어 쌀국수)

For those who enjoy heat, the Spicy Hanchi Squid Rice Noodles delivers a satisfying kick. The deep red broth is both fiery and refreshing—a combination Koreans call "시원하다" (siwonhada), meaning it has that invigorating, almost cooling quality despite the spice.

This version is particularly popular as a hangover cure (해장). If you've had a big night out in Gangnam, this bowl will set you right. The spiciness cuts through any heaviness while the clean squid broth keeps things refreshing.

Pro tip: Order both versions to share and compare—the mild and spicy broths complement each other perfectly.

Blue Crab Leg Side Dish (꽃게다리 사이드)

Don't skip the Blue Crab Leg Side (꽃게다리 사이드)—a unique appetizer featuring fish cake wrapped around sweet blue crab meat, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The exterior is crispy while the inside stays moist and flavorful. Each bite releases the natural sweetness of crab, pairing wonderfully with the noodle soup.

Complimentary banchan (side dishes) include kimchi and pickled ginger, which help cleanse your palate between bites.

Price Expectations

While exact prices weren't listed, expect typical Gangnam restaurant pricing—slightly higher than average but reasonable for the quality and generous portions. Budget approximately ₩12,000–18,000 per main dish (roughly $9–14 USD).

Who Should Visit Eomyeon?

Perfect For	Why
Pho lovers	Experience a creative Korean twist on rice noodle soup
Seafood fans	Fresh squid and crab-focused menu
Health-conscious diners	Light, non-greasy broth; no heavy meats
Hangover recovery	Spicy version is a proven Korean hangover cure
Foodies seeking unique experiences	Korea's first squid-based rice noodle restaurant

Nearby Attractions

Since you're already in Samseong-dong, combine your meal with visits to:

• COEX Mall & Starfield Library — Korea's famous photogenic library (5-10 min walk)
• Bongeunsa Temple — Historic Buddhist temple right behind COEX
• Gangnam shopping district — Short subway ride to Gangnam Station

Final Verdict

Eomyeon exceeded expectations with its innovative squid-based broth and generous seafood toppings. The clean, refreshing flavor profile offers a welcome departure from heavy meat-based soups, and the modern atmosphere makes it comfortable for international visitors.

Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch while exploring COEX, need a restorative bowl after a night out in Gangnam, or want to try something genuinely unique in Seoul's crowded restaurant scene, Eomyeon delivers an experience you won't find anywhere else in Korea.

Recommended for: Adventurous eaters, seafood lovers, and anyone looking for a lighter alternative to traditional Korean soups.

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This post was created with assistance from YURASIS LAB EDI. Learn more about EDI