Jung Dam! That’s Authentic Korean Fried Chicken!
As a Korean, I love Korean-style fried chicken, and I’ve tried countless brands in Beijing, at the rate of two or three times a month. So when I tell you that the newly opened Jung Dam Chicken in Sanlitun Soho is as authentic as they come, you better believe it.
The best Korean chicken must have a crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Jung Dam – a Korean word meaning a friendly talk with friends – meets that standard: the tenderness of the meat, the crispiness of the coating … everything was hitting hard.
But what really makes Korean chicken unique is the seasonings, and Jung Dam is right on target there too, with loads of choices, such as Cheese Truffle, Thai Spice, Honey, Soy Sauce and Hot Chili.
I tried one of their recommended combinations: Hot Chili and Cheese Truffle (RMB 98). There are ten drumsticks and eight wings in the set, enough for one super hungry or two moderately hungry people. The combo comes the way it’s usually served in Korea: with pickled radish and a can of Coke. The rich flavor of cheese and the burning chili made my mouth water, and whenever the flavor came on too strong, I popped a couple of pickles in my mouth to rescue my taste buds from becoming overwhelmed.
I recommend you add some side dishes to round your meal off, such as Teokbboki (seasoned rice cakes), a classic Korean street food (RMB 20).
Jung Dam’s small interior is modern and clean. However, take your own wet wipes to clean your hands afterwards, because the restaurant does not contain a washroom.
Since it opened in the heart of Sanlitun just a month ago, this is a perfect spot for foodies to check out while it’s still the new kid on the block and hasn’t been discovered by the masses. You’ll lose your mind eating this delicious, authentic dish.
Jung Dam Fried Chicken 正谈炸鸡
B1-1330, Bldg 3 Sunken Plaza, Sanlitun SOHO, 8 Gongti Beilu
工人体育场北路8号三里屯 SOHO 3号楼下沉广场B1层1330室
Hours: Daily, 10am-8.30pm
About the Writer:
Hanyo Cho is a 10th grade student from the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) currently interning at True Run Media (the parent company of the Beijinger) through WAB's World of Work program.
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Images: Hanyo Cho
