[Jeonju Hidden Spot] Nobel-banjeom(노벨반점): Must-Try Water Jjajang(물짜장) & Crispy Fried Dumplings!
① Restaurant Name
Nobel-banjeom (노벨반점)
② Address
99 Pungnammun 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do (전북 전주시 완산구 풍남문2길 99)
③ Why It’s Worth the Hype
Despite being slightly past lunchtime on a Sunday, the long queue outside Nobel-banjeom(노벨반점) speaks volumes about its popularity. Having personally experienced its deliciousness on a previous visit, I made a point of returning to Jeonju specifically to indulge in their famous Water Jjajangmyeon (물짜장). While opinions on this unique dish can vary, for me, it’s an absolute delight. Nobel-banjeom(노벨반점) has also garnered significant attention through numerous TV broadcasts, further solidifying its reputation as a must-visit culinary destination in Jeonju.
④ Ambience & Vibe
The bustling atmosphere of Nobel-banjeom(노벨반점) reflects its popularity. Be prepared for a potential wait, but the anticipation only adds to the excitement of trying their renowned dishes. The interior is likely casual and focused on efficient service to accommodate the steady stream of customers.
⑤ Beer & Food Highlights
The two undisputed stars of the menu at Nobel-banjeom(노벨반점) are the Water Jjajangmyeon (물짜장) and the Fried Dumplings (군만두).
The Water Jjajangmyeon is a unique take on the classic black bean noodles. Unlike the thick, dark sauce of traditional Jjajangmyeon, Water Jjajang features a lighter, more broth-like sauce that still carries a rich, savory flavor with a subtle hint of spice. It’s also packed with fresh clams, adding a delightful seafood element to the dish.
The Fried Dumplings are simply irresistible. Perfectly crispy on the outside with a flavorful filling, they are a must-order accompaniment to the noodles. There’s a certain magic to their preparation here that makes them exceptionally delicious.
For those who prefer a non-spicy option, the traditional Jajangmyeon (짜장면) is also available and was enjoyed by my child.
⑥ How to Get There
2-3 minutes on foot in front of Jeonju Public Health Center
⑦ Google Map
⑧ Naver Map
⑨ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful culinary experience in Jeonju, you shouldn’t miss the place to visit. Their water jjajang(물짜장) is universally loved, but it’s also a personal favorite and a signature dish that truly represents Jeonju’s various food scenes. How about crispy fried dumplings? They’re just addictive. Despite the slight discomfort of metal chopsticks (personal preference!), the food’s special flavor is more than that. It’s no wonder you’ll visit Jeonju again next time for Nobelbanjum(노벨반점)!