Meet the Legend: Dining at "Haobin" by Chef Hou Deok-juk

If you have been following the global Netflix phenomenon Culinary Class Wars 2, you might be looking for the ultimate fine dining experience in Seoul. Look no further than Haobin, located in the Ambassador Seoul Pullman Hotel.

This restaurant is led by Master Chef Hou Deok-juk, a living legend in Korean-Chinese cuisine. He is the man credited with elevating the Shilla Hotel's "Palsun" to world-class status and was the first chef in the Korean hospitality industry to become an executive. Recently, with the buzz surrounding Culinary Class Wars Season 2, securing a reservation here has become a "war" in itself.

Why Haobin is Special

Haobin, meaning "Guest of Honor," lives up to its name with impeccable service and a luxurious atmosphere. It has been awarded a Michelin Star for two consecutive years (2024, 2025).

The cuisine here is defined by Chef Hou's philosophy: using the finest restorative ingredients to create healthy, flavorful dishes. Unlike typical heavy Chinese food, the menu here focuses on natural flavors and high-quality seafood.

The Signature Menu: What to Order

While Haobin offers various lunch and dinner courses (such as the "Bin" lunch course or the "Gong Hee Bal Jae" dinner course), several standalone dishes have received rave reviews.

1. Monk Jumps Over the Wall (Buldojang)

This is the dish that defines Chef Hou. He is famous for introducing this Fujian delicacy to Korea.

• The Taste: It is a rich, restorative soup containing shark fin, abalone, sea cucumber, Ogolgye (black chicken), and rare mushrooms.
• The Verdict: The broth is incredibly deep and piping hot. The ingredients retain their unique textures perfectly.
• Note: Some diners find the broth quite salty and intense compared to milder soups. It is a "love it or hate it" dish, but undeniably high quality.

2. Braised Whole Abalone with Black Vinegar Sauce

This dish is frequently cited as the "Best of the Best" by visitors.

• The Taste: A massive, whole abalone is braised to perfection—tender yet retaining a pleasant bounce. The sauce utilizes black vinegar to add a sophisticated acidity that cuts through any heaviness.
• Why it works: Even people who usually dislike the texture of abalone often finish this dish in seconds.

3. Braised Sea Cucumber

If you order a course meal, look for one that includes the Braised Sea Cucumber.

• The Texture: Unlike the slippery texture of raw sea cucumber, the fried and braised version here is chewy and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside. It is often stuffed with shrimp, creating a delightful contrast.

4. Other Highlights

• Deep-fried Chicken in Soy Sauce (Yuringi): Features a mountain of crispy chicken with a subtle hint of cilantro. The sauce is elegant, though some prefer a juicier meat texture.
• Black Pork Tangsuyuk: A premium take on sweet and sour pork, praised for its complex sauce layers and high-quality meat.

Practical Information for Visitors

Reservations

Since the release of Culinary Class Wars, reservations have become extremely difficult.

• How to book: You must use the Catch Table mobile app.
• Strategy: Bookings open well in advance. Do not expect to walk in, especially on weekends.

Location and Parking

• Address: 2nd Floor, Ambassador Seoul Pullman Hotel, 287 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul.
• Subway: Line 3, Dongguk University Station, Exit 1 (approx. 6-minute walk).
• Parking Warning: This is critical. The hotel parking lot is notoriously narrow and crowded. On weekends, especially if there is a wedding in the hotel, you might wait 40 minutes just to enter the garage.
• Recommendation: Use public transportation (Subway Line 3) or take a taxi to avoid the parking nightmare.

Summary: Is it Worth it?

Pros:

• You are tasting history made by the "Godfather" of Korean-Chinese cuisine.
• The seafood quality (Abalone, Sea Cucumber) is unrivaled.
• Michelin-starred service and private room options are excellent for business or special occasions.

Cons:

• Pricing is high (Lunch courses start around 110,000 KRW; Dinner can reach 400,000 KRW).
• Some signature dishes (like Buldojang) may be salty for some palates.
• Parking is very difficult.

If you want to experience the "White Spoon" level of culinary mastery depicted on Netflix, Haobin is a destination you cannot miss. Just remember to book early and leave your car behind!

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