A Warm Home-cooked Meal in Donghae, A Travelogue of Clean Flavors at Sanya

A Time Filled with Simple yet Warm Comfort

When traveling, people often hunt for flashy, famous restaurants, but sometimes, I crave a warm 'home-cooked meal' that fills a corner of my heart. That was the case on the day I visited 'Sanya', nestled between apartment complexes in Bugok-dong, Imhang-ro, Donghae-si. As soon as I opened the door, the savory scent of soybean paste wafting in and the hostess’s welcoming smile made me feel as if I had returned to my old hometown house.

Their signature natural ssam-bap is truly a healthy feast that brings out the authentic flavors of the ingredients. A tray full of fresh vegetables is served, and the freshness is conveyed through their crisp texture. Every side dish and the accompanying fish looked like they had been prepared with careful attention. I can't think of a better choice to soothe a stomach tired of overly stimulating dining-out menus.

Diverse Menu, A Special Meal for Our Family

Sanya’s charm lies not only in its home-cooked comfort. For those who love meat, there is fresh duck (saeng-ori) barbecue, and for those tired of ordinary menus, a unique dish called 'pork rib hot pot' (dwaeji-galbi jeongol) awaits. In fact, pork rib hot pot is not a dish you find easily at other restaurants, which piqued my curiosity even more. The deep flavor of the ribs soaked in the savory broth was more than enough to finish off a whole bowl of rice in no time.

Whether visiting alone or with family, the atmosphere is comfortable. They offer a variety of stew sets (jjigae-baekban), making it like a communal hub for local residents looking for a hearty lunch. Each side dish felt like it was lovingly prepared by a mother, and I couldn't stop smiling until I put down my spoon. It was so heartwarming to see the neighborhood residents coming out in comfortable clothes and slippers to enjoy a cozy dinner with their families.

A Lingering Feeling with the Sound of Waves at Mukho Port

Now that I've filled my stomach, it's time to meet the sea of Donghae. Mukho Port (Mukhohang), which you can reach with a short drive after finishing your meal at Sanya, is an essential course for any Donghae trip. As the breeze carrying the salty scent of the sea brushed against my cheeks, the warmth of the meal I just had seemed to spread pleasantly through my body.

Walking slowly along the long path following the port, I felt as if my complex thoughts were being washed away by the sound of the waves. The quiet yet vibrant atmosphere of Mukho Port during the day makes it the perfect post-meal walking course. Even without grand plans, I think a delicious meal and an expansive sea are all you need for a perfect trip. I will surely knock on Sanya’s door again without hesitation on my next trip to Donghae.