Mimiok Yongsan: Warm Shabu Fish for Non-Raw Eaters
There are some restaurants you only need to try once to understand why people are willing to wait in line – Mimiok (미미옥) is one of them.
If you are curious about bang-eo (Pacific herring) but are not used to eating raw fish, the bang-eo shabu at Mimiok is a very gentle, approachable option, especially for Vietnamese visitors who are new to Korea.
Bang-eo Shabu: Comforting and Easy to Enjoy
- Bang-eo shabu – the fish is briefly dipped in hot broth, not eaten raw.
- The hot pot broth is light and naturally sweet, so it does not feel heavy or overwhelming.
- Besides fish, the restaurant is also known for beef shabu and various Korean beef dishes.
- The vibe is very much a family-style restaurant, suitable for older guests and for going out with parents.
Note: The bang-eo shabu menu is usually only available until the beginning of the month (for example, around the 4th). If you are visiting in the right season, it is a good idea to double-check in advance so you are not disappointed.
Popular Dishes at Mimiok
- Yukhoe – Korean-style beef tartare.
- Yukhoe bibimbap – mixed rice with Korean beef tartare.
- Jeon – Korean-style pancake with Mimiok's own recipe.
- Galbi-jjim – slow-braised, tender beef short ribs.
Recommended Drinks
- Honey makgeolli – lightly sweet Korean rice wine.
- Jin Korean liquor.
Pairing a warm shabu hot pot with a light drink like this matches Seoul's weather perfectly.
What Diners Usually Say
Some typical guest impressions:
- "After eating here, you instantly understand why there is always a line."
- "The place is crowded, but the quality is solid and the flavors are not overdone."
Location and Essential Info
Branch: Mimiok Sinyongsan
Address: 27 Hangang-daero 15-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Distance from station: About 400 m from Yongsan / Sinyongsan Station, an easy walk.
Opening Hours
- Hours: 11:00 – 22:00
- Last order: 21:30
- Break time: 15:00 – 17:30
- Open daily.
How to Get There
- Take the Seoul subway and get off at Yongsan or Sinyongsan Station.
- Walk on mostly flat streets; the restaurant is easy to find.
- If you are going in a group, taking a taxi can be more convenient.
Who Is Mimiok Perfect For?
- Those who want to try bang-eo fish but do not eat raw food.
- Anyone who prefers light, clean-tasting shabu that is not too strongly seasoned.
- Families and groups with older relatives.
- Travelers looking for a truly popular local spot in Yongsan.
If you are in Seoul and looking for a warm, comforting, easy-to-eat meal that will not shock your taste buds, Mimiok is worth saving to your list.
