Shorne’s Place – aka “Gungon”

Neighborhood: GEC

I confess. I didn’t know the official Korean name of the restaurant until I started writing this piece. I had to look on Naver Map for pictures of some signage. Finally found the name through the Facebook group, Jeju Good Eats. But after the first time we ate there, I was already referring to it as “Shorne’s Place”.

As you step into the restaurant, you notice the focal point of the austere space are the tables in the center. They double as display shelves for ceramics and art as well as dining areas. The room has an open layout with a definite feel of intention. Everything seems to have its place.

The menu is spare and focused reflecting the feel of the room. Three main items are offered: the delectable peanut noodles, chicken with rice, and a rotating special. This week it was two generous slabs of chicken fried crispy perched aloft a soft bun with a swipe of chili mayo on the bottom and a pickled cucumber to cut the richness. I ate to my delight past the dull burn of the Szechuan peppers tingling my tongue numb.

The peanut noodles were always satisfying when I ordered it, the nutty sauce adding the body and richness without being gluey. For some, the noodles could have been bit more al dente but then again, I do like a nice chew on a noodle.

The chicken nuggets were dusted with the same spice as the fried chicken sando. What fun finger foods to go with the cheap beer! In fact, everything went down easily with the beer.

But the main star is the young chef/owner. Clocking in at 26, Shorne has the poise and ease of a person who is comfortable in his own skin. Everyone who comes in seems to be his friend. Shorne knows how to put you at ease. It’s like coming in to dine at your friend’s house, a friend who cooks really, really well and you’re honored to have been invited in to break bread. More than likely, once you dine at the restaurant, you’ll become a regular too and just refer to it as Shorne’s Place.