Best Tuna in Garosu-gil, Seoul: A Tourist-Approved Restaurant Guide
Two American tourists recently visited Goldtuna Sinsa Branch in Garosu-gil, Sinsa-dong, to experience authentic tuna during their trip to Seoul.
We recorded their genuine reactions to the tuna omakase (chef's choice course) and the scenic window seating, which offered a different vibe from the sushi culture they were accustomed to in the US.
Why International Travelers Visit Garosu-gil, Sinsa-dong
The two guests visited Goldtuna Sinsa in Garosu-gil because they wanted to try high-quality tuna during their Seoul travels.
While there are many Japanese restaurants in the United States, they mentioned that in the specific region they live in, opportunities to enjoy fresh raw fish dishes are quite rare.
They explained that even when visiting Japanese restaurants back home, they mostly order individual sushi items, and the prices tend to be quite steep.
Of course, this doesn't represent the entire US dining scene, but it was a meaningful insight based on their local residence and personal dining experiences.
A Tuna Course Unlike Traditional US Sushi
The first thing that caught their attention was the cypress (Hinoki) tray. The various cuts of tuna were separated into compartments, each boasting different colors and textures. It wasn't just raw tuna being served, either; the meal unfolded as a course including sushi, warm grilled dishes, tempura, and a final meal.
This structure was quite different from the sushi-centric Japanese meals they were used to in America. They found it fascinating that a single meal could offer so many different parts of tuna alongside a variety of cooked dishes.
For international tourists unfamiliar with a tuna course, the order of service is just as important as the types of food. We start with the delicate flavors of raw tuna and progress toward dishes with varying temperatures and cooking techniques.
The Window Seat Overlooking Sinsa Garosu-gil
The guests were seated at one of the prime window spots at Goldtuna Sinsa.
From the window, you can see the buildings and street life of the Garosu-gil area. The interior is filled with natural light, and the tables are arranged so that two people can sit comfortably facing each other.
The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, rather than the dark and heavy mood often associated with traditional Japanese restaurants. In the photo, you can see both guests giving a "thumbs up" with the tuna tray in the center.
Their reaction that day was captured more clearly in a single photo than any long explanation could provide.
Genuine Reactions After the Meal
When the tuna tray arrived, they were surprised by the scale and variety, noting it was much more than they expected. As the meal progressed, they shared that this was one of the most satisfying dining experiences they’ve had in Korea.
A restaurant doesn’t need to call itself "the best" or "special." The fact that two American tourists visited, were amazed when the food arrived, and expressed their satisfaction throughout the process is enough.
We would like to thank the two guests for choosing Goldtuna in Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil during their Seoul trip. We hope the rest of your time in Korea is healthy and safe.
A Word from the Tuna Uncle (Master Chef)
The concept of a tuna course can be unfamiliar to foreign guests. We find that explaining the different parts of the tuna and how to best enjoy them as each dish comes out greatly enhances the dining experience.
Regardless of nationality, Goldtuna is committed to guiding all first-time visitors so they can enjoy their meal without any confusion.
※ Goldtuna has branches in Sinsa and Bangi
Goldtuna Sinsa (Bangi-dong branch) is located within Garosu-gil, Sinsa-dong. The window seats allow you to dine while overlooking the vibrant Garosu-gil area. It is ideal for intimate face-to-face dining, anniversaries, or business meetings where conversation is a priority. Sinsa branch also offers a lettering service for anniversaries via advance reservation.
The Bangi branch is located near Seokchon Lake and the Jamsil commercial district. It is suitable for larger gatherings such as family dinners, corporate outings, friend groups, or international tour groups. Since "Somaek Auntie's" alcohol-pairing omakase (Juma-kase) became famous, many overseas tourists have added this branch to their itineraries.
Both branches operate course menus where tuna, sushi, grilled dishes, tempura, and a final meal are served in sequence. If your Seoul itinerary includes Gangnam and Garosu-gil, the Sinsa branch is your best choice; if you are near Jamsil, Seokchon Lake, or Lotte World Tower, we recommend the Bangi branch.
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