Michelin-Listed, Coriander-Infused Gukbap? Why You Must Visit Anam in Seoul!

If you consider yourself a true gukbap (Korean rice soup) fanatic, you might, like me, often be left disappointed by the offerings in Seoul. But there is one highly unique and exceptionally well-executed gukbap spot in the charming Bukchon area that I have visited repeatedly: Anam (안암).

This is no ordinary rice soup joint. Anam is a unique dining destination that has earned a place on the 2025 Michelin Guide, challenging traditional expectations with its distinct, flavorful twist.

Location, Hours, & Michelin Status

Anam is perfectly situated for those exploring the Hanok villages and traditional streets of Bukchon.

• Location: 10 Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Just a 5-minute walk from Anguk Station, right behind the Constitutional Court).

• Recognition: Proudly listed in the 2025 Michelin Guide.

• Hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Order 8:10 PM).

• Note: They close when ingredients run out, which is common given their popularity.

The Waiting Game: Open Run is Mandatory

Let's address the elephant in the room: the wait. Anam is famously small and wildly popular, making the queue "extreme" on weekends.

• Seating Capacity: The interior is tiny, featuring only a U-shaped bar and two small tables, seating just 18 to 19 people total.

• The Golden Rule: You must do an Open Run. To secure a spot in the first seating, plan to arrive and line up at least 50 minutes to 1 hour before the 11:30 AM opening time.

• Remote Registration: For subsequent turns, the restaurant utilizes a waiting app system (like Tableing) for registration, but if you want to eat without a 2–3 hour wait, showing up early is non-negotiable.

• Party Rule: Your entire party must be present when your number is called to be seated.

The Menu: Not Your Grandma's Gukbap

Anam’s food is refined, unique, and shockingly delicious- a must-try experience even for those loyal to the rich, thick, traditional style.

The Signature: Gosu Gukbap (Coriander Rice Soup) - 12,000 KRW

The base soup is a clean, savory, and light style, served toryeomsik (rice is mixed into the broth beforehand). It is not the thick, gamy, or "funky" broth often associated with traditional pork gukbap - it is the complete opposite.

The flavor explosion comes from the addition of fresh coriander (Gosu), which makes the soup intensely aromatic and surprisingly exotic. (Coriander addition is an extra 1,000 KRW). While some traditionalists might balk, this highly original and polished taste has captivated local foodies.

• Pro Tip: Even if you are unsure about coriander, try it for the unique experience, though some reviewers preferred the soup without it.

Must-Order Sides: Jeyuk/Suyeok & Bawi Twigim

Don't just come for the soup; the sides are mandatory and equally unique.

Fresh Pork Side Dish (Suyeok/Jeyuk) - 11,000 KRW (Half Portion)

• Forget the spicy stir-fried pork (Jeyuk) you might expect. This side is a dish of tender, boiled pork slices served with a bright, refreshing salad base of coriander and onions, often with a hint of lime. The meat is so tender, and eating it wrapped with the crisp, zesty salad is an absolute requirement.

Bawi Twigim (Rock Fry) - 9,500 KRW

• These savory "rock fries" are made with tenderloin (pork tenderloin) and are served with a tangy, herbaceous green dipping sauce reminiscent of lime. It’s a perfect, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the pork.

Worth the Hype?

Yes. Absolutely yes.

Even as someone who typically prefers a thick, rich broth, I was stunned by how delicious Anam's clean, savory, and sophisticated soup was. The meat is soft, the sides are addictive, and the overall experience is truly unlike any other gukbap you will find in Seoul.

• Revisit Intention: 2000%
• Final Recommendation: Order the Gukbap, the side pork, and the Bawi Twigim. It’s a feast, but you won't want to skip any of it! For lovers of light, clear broths, Anam is an absolute must-visit.