The Holy Grail of Solo Drinking with Daegu Makchang: A Visit to Daemakjeon
1 Hour and 30 Minutes Before the Train Back to Seoul, the Perfect Ending with Makchang and Soju
After attending a wedding in Daegu, I had 1 hour and 30 minutes left before my train back to Seoul. In this short time, I wanted to enjoy Daegu's representative food, makchang (grilled beef or pork intestines), with soju, by myself. After searching near Dongdaegu Station, I found a place with a remarkable name: 'Daemakjeon'. I couldn't pass up this place, which has the title of "Legend of Daegu Makchang".
The Perfect Combination of Makchang and Soju
The aroma of charcoal fire hit me as soon as I entered the restaurant. My mouth was already watering. Looking at the menu, I saw that makchang was the basic option, and there were various side dishes and soju to accompany it. Without hesitation, I ordered pork makchang with zero-sugar Jinro soju. It was the perfect choice for me, trying to take care of my health these days but still unable to give up alcohol.
The Magic of Pre-Cooking, Makchang Perfected on the Charcoal Grill
The makchang was pre-cooked and grilled once more over charcoal. Thanks to the pre-cooking, there was no unpleasant smell at all, and the texture was crispy on the outside while remaining chewy on the inside. As I listened to the sizzling sound of the makchang grilling on the charcoal, I thought, "This is the charm of Daegu makchang." The subtle smoky flavor of the charcoal added to the flavor of the makchang, making it even more delicious.
The Harmony of Side Dishes and Dwenjang-jjigae
I felt something was missing just with the makchang, but then they brought the side dishes. Dwenjang-jjigae (soybean paste stew), garlic, mushrooms, and dried radish kimchi were served. Especially the Dwenjang-jjigae had a moderately salty and deep taste, and a perfect match for the makchang. A bite of it, followed by a shot of soju, and then another bite of makchang. This combination was truly happiness that cannot be expressed in words.
The side dishes were not just an accompaniment, but an important element that enhanced the taste of the makchang. In particular, the dried radish kimchi neatly cleared the palate, making me look forward to the next bite, and the Dwenjang-jjigae warmed my insides.
The Romance of Solo Drinking: A Space Where You Can Enjoy Yourself Even Alone
If you're drinking alone, the atmosphere is also important. Daemakjeon boasted a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy yourself without any burden even if you're alone. The staff were also kind and considerate of solo diners, which was impressive. The tables were also spaced appropriately, so I could enjoy my meal comfortably by myself.
Especially while flipping the makchang over the charcoal fire and slowly spending time, I could forget about the busy daily life for a while and have time for myself. I highly recommend this place to solo drinkers because it's a space where you don't feel awkward at all, even if you're alone.
Overall Review: A Highlight of My Daegu Trip
Although it was a short time, Daegu makchang and soju gave me a perfect ending to my day. In particular, Daemakjeon's makchang lived up to its name of "legend." The crispy yet chewy texture created by pre-cooking and charcoal grilling, and the variety of side dishes, made for a truly exceptional dining experience.
One thought popped into my head on the train back to Seoul: "Daegu is really about makchang." This is a place I'll definitely want to visit again next time I'm in Daegu.
