I visited the famous ramen franchise Teumsae Ramen Magok this time!

I had always wondered if the Teumsae Ramen served at the restaurant and the Teumsae Ramen produced by Paldo were related. I found out that the retail Teumsae Ramen is a productized ramen made by Paldo based on the Teumsae Ramen brand that started at the Myeongdong Main Branch.

In other words, the Paldo Teumsae Ramen you commonly see at supermarkets is related to the original Teumsae Ramen!

Anyway, looking at the menu there are two types: Ppalgyetteok, a spicy ramen loaded with red chili powder, and Gyetdeok, a soybean-paste-based, mild, savory non-spicy ramen. I’m not usually a big fan of very spicy ramen, but since the place is famous for its heat I ordered Ppalgyetteok (Level 1). For reference, Level 1 is about the spiciness of Shin Ramyun, Level 2 is about 3 times Shin Ramyun, and Level 3 is about 5 times Shin Ramyun. I didn’t want to die, so I chose Level 1!

I finally ordered Ppalgyetteok (6,500 won) and Tuna gimbap (5,000 won)!

The taste was spicy and hearty — the kind of ramen that would be great as a hangover cure the day after drinking. Although they say Level 1 is about as spicy as Shin Ramyun, to me it felt much hotter than Shin Ramyun, so people who can’t handle spice should take note! Also, a companion ordered Level 2 and after trying it I’d advise anyone who isn’t truly good with spicy food not to attempt it — it’s really very spicy... How anyone eats Level 3 is beyond me... And surprisingly, the gimbap was very well made, so be sure to order gimbap with it.

At the Magok branch the interior was clean and the staff were reasonably friendly, but the space is very cramped so if it’s a busy lunchtime you’ll be waiting if you’re even a little late, and the tables are a bit small for a grown adult man so eating felt slightly uncomfortable... the posture was too awkward...

Overall, prices are a bit higher than ordinary snack-shop ramen, but it’s a place I might drop by once in a while. Apart from the cramped interior, I was fairly satisfied!