hop korea

Looking for soft tofu and makgeolli like a true local?

What Makes Korean Handmade Tofu (손두부) So Unique?

Tofu is a soft, white food made by pressing soy milk into solid blocks. It’s a common plant-based protein around the world — but in Korea, tofu is more than just a health food.

Koreans enjoy a special version called 손두부 (son-dubu) — or handmade tofu. It’s served fresh, warm, and silky, often tasting naturally sweet even without seasoning.

One of the best places to try it in Seoul is a small, beloved restaurant called Wonjo Harabeoji Son Dubu (원조할아버지손두부). The name tells a story:

• 🥇 Wonjo (원조) = “The Original”
• 👴 Harabeoji (할아버지) = “Grandfather”
• 🧈 Son Dubu (손두부) = “Handmade Soft Tofu”

The full name means: The Original Grandfather’s Handmade Tofu

This Korean tofu restaurant is more than a place to eat — it’s a local food house where traditional flavors and Seoul weekend culture meet.

Where Is Wonjo Harabeoji Son Dubu Located? (+ Hours & Tips)

• 📌 Address: 324 Jayang-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
• ☎️ Phone: 02-447-6540
• 🕒 Hours: Tue–Sun, 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• ❌ Closed: Mondays
• 🗺️ View on Google Maps

💡 Tip: It’s a well-known local tradition — after a hike, nothing beats a warm bite of tofu and a cold glass of makgeolli to melt away the fatigue.

🍂 Especially on autumn weekends, the place gets packed with hikers. The calmest time is right after opening.

Best Time to Visit This Seoul Tofu Restaurant (Without the Line)

We arrived at 11:00 AM on a holiday, and only two groups were ahead. By 11:30 AM, the line stretched around the building.

✅ Tip: To avoid long waits, visit before 11:00 AM or early morning — especially on weekends.

What to Eat at Wonjo Harabeoji Son Dubu (Menu & Must-Try Dishes)

Menu	Price (KRW/USD)
Modubu (모두부)	₩7,000 / $4.90
Sundubu (순두부)	₩4,000 / $2.80
Gonggi Bap (공기밥)	₩1,000 / $0.70
Eumryosu (음료수)	₩1,000 / $0.70
Soju / Maekju (소주 / 맥주)	₩3,500 / $2.45
Jipyeong Makgeolli (지평막걸리)	₩3,000 / $2.10
Makgeolli (막걸리)	₩3,000 / $2.10
Kongguksu (콩국수, seasonal)	₩7,000 / $4.90
Seoritae Kongguksu (서리태콩국수, seasonal)	₩10,000 / $6.99
Kongmul (콩물)	₩5,500 / $3.85
Seoritae Kongmul (서리태콩물)	₩7,500 / $5.24

What to Try First

I recommend starting with:

• ✅ One Sundubu (soft tofu)
• ✅ One Modubu (firm tofu)

The soft tofu is almost pudding-like in texture, steaming hot and melting in your mouth. The firm tofu, on the other hand, holds its shape and has a subtly nutty flavor.

👉 Don’t miss their fermented shrimp (jeotgal) — a salty, umami-packed side dish that pairs perfectly with tofu.

🌟 We mixed a spoonful of fermented shrimp (jeotgal) into the soft tofu and scooped it over rice — warm, smooth, and comforting enough to reset your entire morning mood.

If you’re looking for Korean-style tofu dishes beyond BBQ, this is the perfect place to enjoy simple, traditional recipes.

What Is Makgeolli? How to Drink Korea’s Traditional Rice Wine

Makgeolli (막걸리) is Korea’s traditional rice wine:

• Milky and slightly fizzy
• Sweet and tangy
• Around 5–6% alcohol

Start with Jipyeong Makgeolli (지평막걸리) — it’s light, smooth, and beginner-friendly.

⚠️ Caution: Makgeolli can sneak up on you!

If you have low alcohol tolerance, share one bottle among 3–4 people and add more only if needed.

🇰🇷 Makgeolli is typically served in a metal bowl and paired with tofu — the signature “Harabeoji-style.” It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly what makes it feel warm, honest, and deeply Korean.

Why You Should Add This Handmade Tofu Spot to Your Seoul Itinerary

This isn’t a trendy cafe — it’s a fast-paced, casual tofu house loved by local seniors and hikers. Seating is basic, service is quick, and the food speaks for itself.

Although the restaurant is small and crowded, the vibe is laid-back and cheerful. Some are unwinding after a mountain trek, while others are chatting softly with friends over brunch makgeolli.

Wonjo Harabeoji Son Dubu offers more than just food — it delivers a genuine local experience.

• 🥣 Freshly made handmade tofu
• 🍶 Classic makgeolli pairing
• 🏡 A true neighborhood vibe in Seoul

📍 Add it to your Seoul itinerary.
Come early, bring friends, and don’t forget to raise a glass of makgeolli!

“Absolutely coming back. I’ve never had tofu that tasted this good.”

“One of the most memorable meals of my entire trip to Seoul. The local atmosphere is everything!”