Yechon

Yechon is practically an institution in Annandale. Located at 4121 Hummer Rd, it’s been around for decades and is open 24 hours. They have the unusual distinction of having a traditional Korean menu, a Korean BBQ menu, a Japanese menu, and a full sushi menu! I have been there more than once at different times of day and it’s always packed!

Louis and I met for lunch on a Saturday and there was a line of people waiting for tables. We didn’t wait long and though busy, the servers were efficient and very friendly. 

There are a lot of reviews online for Yechon and many talk more about the experience than they do the food, so it was not easy to identify that one thing that that must be tried. It did, however, emerge. The Galbitang, or Short Rib Soup came up again and again. This is a rich savory beef broth with thinly sliced, tender short-ribs. It includes egg stirred in as it cooks, and clear noodles, almost invisible in the bowl. I decided that was what I was ordering. 

Louis took advantage of their great fresh seafood menu to try the Hoe Deopbap, or Korean Sashimi Salad. This was very close to a Chirashi Bowl.

But first we began with the Haemul Pajeon, the Seafood Pancake. This has become our litmus test, our survey on how they do the basics and we order it almost everywhere we go. it’s the one constant that enables us to compare one to another. Theirs was thick, heavy on the pancake part. The seafood filling was ample, but not over done. The flavor was crisp and fresh.

After taking our order, the banchans, showed up quickly. These small little side dishes go with every Korean meal. This always include kimchi, and that is another excellent comparison between restaurants. Yechon’s kimchi was delicious with a soft but interesting fermented flavor, a little bit of heat, and fresh flavor. The banchans also included a pickled radish, fishcakes, some hot peppers, bean sprouts, spinach, and cold, sweetened mashed potatoes. If you’re thinking that doesn’t sound very good, don’t compare it to a typical American “meat & potatoes” meal, this actually works well and is delicious!

I think Yechon would be an excellent place for someone who is new to Korean food and looking to venture in. You can “dip a toe” as they say and try some of the less exotic items, including Korean BBQ, and sushi.

For Louis and me, it was a good middle-of-the-road choice. We’ve eaten at more exotic places, and certainly more humble hole-in-the-wall type establishments, but the food, service, and atmosphere here are solid and enjoyable.

If you go, make sure to stop by Breeze Bakery next door. This is owned by the same people and has a fantastic selection of baked goods, cakes, coffees, and sandwiches, both American style and. Korean style.

TT