Korean barbecue is a well-known cuisine that can be enjoyed in many different settings, from upscale restaurants to street vendors. But have you ever had Korean barbecue on a boat while enjoying a stunning view of the Han River? If you haven’t, then you need to visit Arisu Manchan (아리수만찬), a floating establishment located near Seonyudo island in the Han River. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Arisumanchan’s barbecue on board experience and what you need to know to enjoy it to the fullest.
What to Expect When Barbecuing at Arisu Manchan:
The floating structure is a big two-story restaurant. If you come for the barbecue, you have to go through the convenience store located on the first floor where you have to purchase the ingredients for your own meal. Unlike other traditional restaurants, at Arisu Manchan, they let you pick out your own food and cook them yourself, just like Koreans do when they go camping. It’s a fun and unique experience that adds to the overall vibe of the restaurant.
Waiting Time and Seats:
If you’re planning to visit Arisumanchan on the weekend, be prepared for long waiting times, especially during dinner hours. When you arrive, make sure to register with the tabling system (if you don’t have a Korean phone number, write down your name on the waiting list). You can also let the staff know which table you’d like to sit at, but keep in mind that the best seats with unobstructed views of the river may have longer waiting times.
Reserve Seats: Arisu Manchan Tabling
What to Buy for the Barbecue on Board:
The restaurant provides basic seasonings for your meal, including salt, ssamjang, and assorted kimchi. While the salt and ssamjang are refillable, the kimchi is not. You’ll need to purchase everything else from the convenience store, including the meat, vegetables, side dishes, snacks, and instant noodles. Keep in mind that the meat cannot be exchanged or refunded, so make sure to choose carefully.
How to Cook Ramyeon in a Korean Convenience Store:
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try cooking your own ramyeon (Korean instant noodles) with a ramyeon boiling machine, purchase a packet of ramyeon. At Arisumanchan, you’ll be given a paper bowl to use for cooking. Place the contents of the packet into the bowl, and then place the bowl on the platform of a cooking machine. Select the type of ramyeon you want: regular (일반 라면), Jjajang (짜장 라면), or Jjamppong (짬뽕 라면) on the machine’s functioning pad, and then press the Start/Stop (시작/정지) button to start cooking. If you want to add an egg, do so when there’s at least one minute left in the cooking time panel, and keep stirring your ramyeon with chopsticks until the beeping sound goes off.
The Food:
While the quality of the meat at Arisumanchan is standard for a Korean barbecue restaurant, the variety of meats, side dishes, snacks, and instant noodles is impressive. Make sure to try the different cuts of meat and side dishes for a complete experience.
Every Add-On Has a Cost:
Keep in mind that there is a fee for everything at Arisumanchan. Charcoal fire is 5,000 won per table, and there are no replacements due to the strict time limit. Outdoor seating is 1,000 won per person. Make sure to factor these costs into your budget when planning your visit.
It Is Time Limited:
Keep in mind that there is a strict time limit for your meal at Arisumanchan. The restaurant only allows a maximum of 90 minutes per table, so make sure to make the most of your time there and enjoy the view of the Han River while you eat.
Other things to keep in mind:
When you visit Arisumanchan, there are a few other things to keep in mind. First, they don’t allow outside food, so be sure to buy everything you need from their convenient store. Also, if you’re planning to bring your furry friend, you’re in luck because Arisumanchan is a pet-friendly restaurant. Just make sure your pet is well-behaved and on a leash. Another thing to remember is that you can’t cook kimchi directly on the fire plate. They provide a small bowl for the kimchi, which you can place on the plate. Finally, if you’re visiting during the warmer months, be aware of bugs and insects. It’s a good idea to pack some insect repellent just in case.
Things to do at/nearby Arisu Manchan:
If you’re looking for things to do before or after your meal at Arisu Manchan, there are plenty of options nearby.
Try the Chicken Noodle Soup on the Second Floor:
If you find yourself surrendering to the long waiting line at the barbecue on board, don’t fret! Instead, head up to the second floor and try the delicious chicken noodle soup while enjoying the stunning view of the Han River.
Visit Seonyudo Island:
Seonyudo Park is just a short walk away and offers a beautiful view of the Han River. What’s more is the park spans over 114,000 square meters and includes a Water Purifying Botanical Garden, Aquatic Botanical Garden, and an eco-friendly water playground. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the various aquatic plants and ecological forest. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the ecosystem and experience nature in a whole new way.
Enjoy Bike Rides Along the River:
If you’re feeling more active, you could rent a bike and take a ride along the Han River bike path, which stretches for miles. The closest bicycle rental shop to Arisumanchan is located near Seonyudo Station Exit No. 3, so it’s easy to get started on your biking adventure.
Fun Aquatic Adventures:
For those who are seeking some more excitement and adventure, there are plenty of watersports and fun activities available at Arisumanchan. You can try speed boat riding, banana boat, water ski, wakeboard, wakesurf, duck boat, kayaking, and canoe. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time adventurer, there is an activity that’s perfect for you.
Visit Yanghwa Hangang Park:
If you are in the mood for something more relaxing, swing by Yanghwa Hangang Park for a leisurely stroll. This park is a must-visit for flower lovers, as you can spot roses, daisies, and canolas in late spring (May-June) and cosmos during the summer months (August-November).
Enjoy Chicken & Beer by the Han River:
You can linger around until sunset and return to Arisumanchan for another round of feasting by the Han River. This time, try the chicken and beer at the pub next to the barbecue place. The Chi-Mak or chicken and makju (beer) culture is a fun experience you shouldn’t miss when in Korea, and where better to do it than by the Han River!
All in all, Arisumanchan is a fun and unique dining experience in Seoul that’s indubitably worth checking out. Keep these tips and recommendations in mind to make the most of your visit, and enjoy your meal with a view of the beautiful Han River~
Gallery: Arisu Manchan’s Barbecue on Board
Access Map:
Quick Info About Arisu Manchan’s Barbecue Restaurant:
Address: 서울 영등포구 노들로 111 양화선착장
Naver Map: Link
Nearest Subway: Seonyudo Station (Line 9) Exit 2
Hours: 11:00AM~12:00AM (Everyday)
Phone: +82 2-2632-2100
Other Barbeque Places in Seoul You Might Like:
- GEUMDWAEJI SIKDANG: A FEAST FOR THE SENSES IN SEOUL’S SINDANG-DONG
- GOGI-GUPNEUN-SARAMDEUL (고기굽는사람들)
- MAJANGDONG KIMSSI (마장동김씨)
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