Bukchon, the historic neighborhood between Gyeongbok-gung and Changdeok-gung Palaces in the heart of Seoul, is the home of "Buk-chon son mandu," which translates as 'hand-made dumplings.' Even though this is a Seoul chain restaurant, the namesake location is here, and it has the feel of a neighborhood hole-in-the-wall. All is fresh, made right in front of you.

For just a few bucks, steamed or fried, you can sample a delicious variety of 'mandu'--the Korean version of 'wontons,' or 'gyoza'...The restaurant also specializes in North-Korean-style buckwheat noodles served in a cold spicy broth.

From the An-guk subway station, go north on Bukchon-ro; you'll pass the Constitutional Court on the left...continue to the first major intersection after that and turn right. Just after you curve to the right, you'll find the restaurant on your right.

Chal-mo-go! ("Eat well!")