Gangnam Nonhyeon-dong Sushi Ooki - A Perfect Guide to the Hard-to-Reserve Premium Red Vinegar Shari Omakase

Basic Store Information

Located in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Ooki is a premium sushi omakase specialty restaurant run by Chef Oh Yong-tak. It is situated at 27 Nonhyeon-ro 124-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 101, boasting a convenient location just a 4-minute walk from Hakdong Station. Without a sign, it is located on the first floor of a building, adding to its charm as a hidden gem.

The name 'Ooki' means 'big' and is derived from Chef Oh Yong-tak's nickname, aptly reflecting the identity of the establishment.

Operating Hours and Reservation Information

Business Hours

• Weekdays & Weekends: 12:00 - 22:00
• Lunch Time: 12:00 - 15:00
• Dinner Time: 17:30 - 22:00
• Regular Holiday: Every Wednesday

Reservation Method

Reservations can only be made through CatchTable, and it operates with a small 7-seat counter table. The competition for reservations is fierce, earning the reputation of being 'as difficult as picking stars from the sky.' It is considered one of the top three hard-to-reserve mid-range sushi restaurants in Seoul, along with Hashira and Shiryuu.

Reservation Tip: It is important to make reservations promptly when CatchTable opens, and actively utilizing the cancellation waitlist is recommended.

Menu Composition and Prices

Omakase Prices

• Lunch Omakase: 80,000 KRW
• Dinner Omakase: 160,000 KRW
• Corkage: 30,000 KRW (per bottle)

Lunch vs Dinner Composition

Both lunch and dinner are composed of courses filled with Chef Oh Yong-tak's dedication. Starting with chawanmushi, it boasts a rich composition of various tsumami, 15-20 types of sushi, and dessert. Dinner is composed of more diverse and luxurious ingredients than lunch and is optimized for enjoyment with alcohol.

Ooki is particularly famous for using red vinegar shari, which has a stronger sour taste and a deep flavor compared to regular shari. It is praised for its clean taste without any musty smell.

Signature Menu and Features

Signature Dishes

• Chawanmushi: An opening dish characterized by a sauce made with prawn heads and butter
• Stonefish (Ishidai): Known for its chewy texture and sweetness from Chuja Island
• Abalone with Geu Sauce: A combination of large, chewy abalone and savory geu sauce
• Grilled Hairtail: Served with a special uni cheese sauce
• Prawn: A trio of rich head sauce, sweet flesh, and savory roe

Special Features

Ooki is praised for having many bite-sized dishes that pair well with alcohol. The broth made by boiling hairtail bones with clams, and the various homemade sauces highlight the chef's creativity.

Store Environment and Atmosphere

The space is cozy, consisting of a counter table with 7-8 seats. It is operated by Chef Oh Yong-tak and two assistant chefs, emphasizing an atmosphere that values communication with guests. The pin lighting over the seats is well-positioned, providing a good environment for photography.

Riedel glasses are provided, making it ideal for wine or champagne corkage, and the overall interior is luxurious and sophisticated. The signless exterior adds to the special feel of a hidden gem.

Accessibility and Parking Information

Public Transportation

• Subway Line 7 Hakdong Station: 4-minute walk from Exit 1 (approximately 300m)
• Bus: Accessible via bus routes around Nonhyeon-dong

Parking Information

There is no dedicated parking lot for the store, and valet parking service is not provided. There is space for about one car in front of the store, but the success rate is very low.

Parking Alternatives:

• Nonhyeon Table Tennis Public Parking Lot: Free parking available (3-5 minute walk)
• 19 Nonhyeon-ro 126-gil, Gangnam-gu: Parking ticket support (information provided at the store)

Corkage and Alcohol Information

The corkage fee is 30,000 KRW per bottle, maintaining a reasonable price range. Riedel glasses are provided to maximize the taste of wine or champagne.

Advantages of Corkage Service

• High-quality Riedel glass provided
• Proper temperature management
• Service of pouring in appropriate amounts

Sake prices are also reasonable compared to other sushi restaurants, making it enjoyable to pair the chef-recommended sake with sushi.

Visit Tips and Precautions

Reservation and Visit Tips

• Reservation Required: Only available through CatchTable
• Red Vinegar Shari Feature: The sour taste is strong, so personal preference should be considered
• Cancellation Policy: There may be penalties for same-day cancellations, so check in advance
• Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable, but neat attire is recommended

Dining Etiquette

The chef seasons the sushi directly, so there is no need to dip it in soy sauce. You can request adjustments to the amount of wasabi or shari according to your preference.

Restroom Use

The restroom is located separately next to the store building.

Special Services and Events

Ooki also offers rental services, allowing it to be used as a private space for special gatherings or anniversaries. With a total of 7 seats, it is suitable for small gatherings.

After gaining more fame through YouTuber Dudley's introduction video, reservations have become even more difficult, but it boasts proven taste and quality.

Latest Update Information

As of 2024, it is currently in operation and has been maintaining stable business after COVID-19. It is receiving top evaluations among mid-range sushi restaurants and continues to be popular among omakase enthusiasts.

Recent visitors most frequently mention the value for money in the composition, the chef's friendliness, and the uniqueness of the red vinegar shari.