Handsome Guys Episode 36: A Culinary Adventure at Sinheung Market, Seoul
Aired on August 25, 2014, Handsome Guys Episode 36 takes viewers on a vibrant food journey through Sinheung Market in Haebangchon, Seoul, with guest comedian Lee Su Ji. Discover the pork neck vs. pork shoulder debate, noodles vs. rice dilemmas, and a mix of exultation, regret, anguish, and resolution.
Discovering Sinheung Market: A Hidden Gem in Seoul
Sinheung Market, located in the trendy Haebangchon district of Yongsan-gu, Seoul, is a renovated culinary hub with a European back-alley vibe. Known for its post-liberation history, it’s a hotspot for zoomers and international visitors. In this episode, the Handsome Guys crew—Cha Tae Hyun, Lee Yi Kyung, Kim Dong Hyun, Oh Sang Uk, and Shin Seung Ho—joined by Lee Su Ji, explores its diverse restaurants under sweltering 38°C heat and sudden rain.
- Cultural Significance: A historic market transformed into a modern food destination.
- Trendy Appeal: Popular for its Instagram-worthy aesthetic.
- Diverse Cuisine: Offers Spanish, American-Chinese, and Korean barbecue dishes.
Culinary Highlights: Pork Neck, Pork Shoulder, Noodles, and Rice
The episode centers on a "menu conflict," reflecting the modern diner’s struggle to choose between tempting dishes. The cast visits four restaurants, each sparking joy, regret, and excitement.
1. Spanish Honey Cod Restaurant
Menu: Spanish honey cod, sous vide pork shoulder steak, white ragu pasta, spinach basil pesto pasta.
Highlights: The honey cod, with its sweet-sour garlic-tomato sauce, melts in the mouth. The pork shoulder steak is tender and savory, complementing the seafood-rich pasta.
Menu Conflict: The cast splits between honey cod enthusiasts and those hesitant about its novelty, leading to regret for those missing out.
Exultation: Lee Su Ji’s celebrity impressions (Kim Hae Sook, PSY) in a laughter suppression game win her extra dishes, sparking joy.
2. American-Style Chinese Restaurant
Menu: Sichuan eggplant, Mongolian beef, stir-fried rice with chili crisp, lemon chicken, seafood chow fun, chili shrimp.
Highlights: The stir-fried rice shines with nutty, spicy flavors, while seafood chow fun (noodles) offers a light texture. The chili shrimp adds zest.
Noodles vs. Rice: Both are celebrated, with rice’s bold flavors and noodles’ delicacy equally loved.
Regret and Resolution: Dong Hyun regrets his initial team choice but is relieved when Seung Ho’s quiz win on the first POS system saves him. Dong Hyun pays $134 after a wrong quiz answer.
3. Dessert Cafe
Menu: Bonfire cake, Goheung citron, chocolate cake, blueberry basket, Earl Grey mousse.
Highlights: The visually stunning desserts, especially the Earl Grey mousse and chocolate cake, are refreshing. Su Ji’s “Sexy Food” dance adds fun.
Anguish: Tae Hyun’s zero-score in a magazine page-flipping game leads to him paying $90+, a moment softened by laughter.
Exultation: Dong Hyun’s win with 12 visible faces sparks celebration.
4. Barbecue Restaurant (DMR)
Menu: Pork shoulder, pork neck with skin, pork butt, pork belly, cold noodles, salted baby octopus.
Pork Neck vs. Pork Shoulder: The pork neck with skin is a standout for its chewy, rice cake-like texture, while the pork shoulder is tender and juicy. Both are loved, no choice needed.
Noodles vs. Rice: Cold noodles refresh the palate after rich meats, making them a perfect side.
Anguish and Resolution: Sang Uk’s repeat of “seagull” in an animal-naming game results in him paying, a moment of anguish resolved by group teasing.
Games and Outcomes: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
The games determine who pays, blending exultation, regret, and anguish:
- Spanish Restaurant: Su Ji wins extra dishes; Dong Hyun avoids payment, Sang Uk pays $166.82.
- Chinese Restaurant: Yi Kyung wins chili shrimp; Seung Ho’s quiz win spares him, Dong Hyun pays $134.
- Dessert Cafe: Dong Hyun wins, Tae Hyun pays $90+.
- Barbecue Restaurant: Sang Uk pays after a game loss.
Lee Su Ji’s Star Power
Lee Su Ji steals the show with characters like Jamie’s Mom and Lin Zhao Ming, plus her “Sexy Food” dance. Her nostalgic bond with Tae Hyun (My Sassy Girl) and game wins (paying nothing) embody exultation.
Why Watch Handsome Guys Episode 36?
- Foodie Inspiration: Discover Sinheung Market’s must-try dishes.
- Entertainment Value: Hilarious games and cast chemistry.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about Haebangchon’s history and modern appeal.
- Emotional Journey: Experience exultation, regret, anguish, and resolution.
Visit Sinheung Market
Located in Haebangchon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Sinheung Market offers diverse dining options. Visit the Spanish honey cod restaurant, American-style Chinese eateries, or Korean barbecue spots. Its trendy vibe and rich history make it a must-visit.
Conclusion
Handsome Guys Episode 36 is a feast of flavors and fun, showcasing Sinheung Market’s culinary treasures. Stream it on Viu or TVING to relive the adventure. For more updates, check MyDramaList or IMDb.