[Culinary Class Wars 2] Chef Son Jong-won's New Korean Fine Dining Masterpiece, Eatanic Garden

If you are a fan of Culinary Class Wars or Chef & My Fridge, you are likely familiar with the charismatic and talented Chef Son Jong-won. Known for his innovative approach to cuisine, Chef Son currently leads the kitchen at Eatanic Garden, a Michelin 1-star restaurant located on the 36th floor of the luxurious Josun Palace Hotel in Gangnam.

As anticipation builds for his appearance in Culinary Class Wars Season 2, I wanted to share a detailed review of this "New Korean Fine Dining" destination that beautifully bridges Korean tradition and modern culinary art.

Location & Ambience: An Oasis in the Sky

Eatanic Garden is situated on the 36th floor of Josun Palace, sharing the floor with the renowned Chinese restaurant, The Great Hong Yuan.

• View: The restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city (and Namsan Tower if seated by the window), making it a top choice for anniversaries and special dates.

• Interior: The space is elegant with a signature jade-green (ok-saek) theme, featuring a stunning floral art piece by Daniel Arsham at the entrance. The seating options cater to different needs:

• • Window Sofa Seats: Perfect for romantic dates with a city view.
• • Counter (Bar) Seats: Ideal for foodies who want to watch the chefs in action.
• • Hall Tables: Spacious and luxurious for general dining.

The Culinary Journey: "New Korean"

Chef Son Jong-won’s philosophy shines through in every dish. He reinterprets Korean ingredients with modern techniques, creating a menu that is both familiar and pleasantly surprising. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh experiences upon revisit.

• Welcome Drink (Birch Sap): The meal often begins with a unique welcome drink, such as Birch Sap with Gujeolcho (Siberian chrysanthemum), setting a calming and distinctly Korean tone.

• Creative Appetizers: Dishes like the "Oriental Melon (Chamoe)", which looks like a poached egg but is actually made of melon tofu, showcase the chef's wit and creativity.

• Signature "Jujeonburi" (Snacks): A trio of bite-sized delights that often includes a Japchae Ball (glass noodles encased in a crispy shell), sophisticated Bugak (seaweed chips), and other seasonal treats presented like art.

• Seafood Masterpieces: Dishes featuring Hairtail Fish (Galchi) and Cuttlefish are standouts. The sauces, often made with fermented ingredients like red chili paste (gochujang) or soy sauce, are balanced to appeal to global palates while retaining Korean soul.

• The Main Event (Hanwoo Beef): The grilled Hanwoo beef course is exceptional, often served with unique sides like cucumber or deodeok root, highlighting the interplay of textures and flavors.

• Dessert & The "Jagaeham": The meal concludes with a stunning presentation of traditional Korean sweets served in a beautiful mother-of-pearl box (Jagaeham), accompanied by tea or coffee.

Why You Must Visit

• Chef Son Jong-won's Artistry: Experience the food of a Culinary Class Wars star firsthand. His ability to blend French techniques with Korean essence is unmatched.

• Impeccable Service: The staff provides detailed explanations for every course (often accompanied by illustrated cards), and Chef Son himself is known to greet guests, adding a personal touch.

• Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it's a 1st anniversary or a birthday, the combination of view, service, and exquisite food makes it unforgettable. (They even provide celebratory lettering on dessert plates!).

Visitor Information

• Location: 36F, Josun Palace, 231 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
• Hours: 12:00 – 22:00 (Break Time: 15:00 – 18:00). Closed Mondays.
• Price:

• Lunch Course (~ ₩190,000 - ₩250,000 )
  Dinner Course (~ ₩320,000 - ₩370,000 )
  Prices subject to change.

• Parking: 4 Hours Free Parking (Valet available for a fee).
• Reservations: Highly recommended via Website (link)

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