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In the world of digital marketing, we are constantly seeking “optimization.” How can we get the maximum return from limited resources? This mindset, for better or worse, heavily influences how I choose my private lunches as well.
For this article, I made my third visit to a place I trust implicitly for lunch in the Marunouchi area: Surakkan.
On my past two visits, I was moved by the simplicity of their standard Sundubu Jjigae and blown away by the complex flavors of their Special Jjigae. Those experiences were more than just meals; they were a glimpse into the refined depths of authentic Korean cuisine.
Read my previous articles here:
Marunouchi Lunch: Rediscovering the Power of Basics at Surakkan
The Return to Surakkan: Why Bacon in Jigae is a Game-Changer and the Art of the Jeonju Bibimbap
This time, I headed to the 5th floor of the Shin-Marunouchi Building with a clear goal: to finally conquer their famous “Seolleongtang” (ox bone soup). However, once there, I discovered a “menu hack” that dramatically improved the entire dining UX (User Experience).
The Quest for Seolleongtang
Walking through the office district of Marunouchi, my mind was filled with thoughts of that milky white soup. Seolleongtang, made by simmering ox bones for hours, offers a deep, savory richness that is gentle on the stomach—a perfect respite during a busy weekday.
“Today, I will not be swayed. I’m getting the Seolleongtang Set,” I told myself.
I was determined until I opened the menu. But human desire is a fickle thing. The moment I saw the words “Ishiyaki (Stone-Roasted) Bibimbap” and “Bulgogi,” the imaginary scent of sizzling meat and crispy rice wafted through my mind, and my resolve began to crumble.
The Plot Twist: Discovering the Menu Hack
“I crave the soup, but I also want a hearty main dish with meat…”
I was on the verge of what marketers call “decision paralysis.” That’s when my eyes were drawn to the bottom right corner of the menu.
There, in small print, was a revelation:
“*The soup in the Bibimbap, Cold Noodles, and Bulgogi sets can be changed to a Mini Seolleongtang or Mini Sundubu for an extra +400 yen.”
This was the solution I had been searching for. Why hadn’t I noticed this before? By exercising this option, I could have the satisfaction of a main meat dish AND the comforting healing of Seolleongtang. It was the ultimate customization that eliminated any trade-offs.
I didn’t hesitate to use this “soup upgrade” option.
The Tasting: Jeonju Stone Pot Bibimbap with Seolleongtang Upgrade
First, I ordered the classic “Jeonju Ishiyaki Bibimbap Set,” with the soup upgraded to Seolleongtang.
When the tray arrived, I knew I had made the right choice. The sizzling hot stone bowl of Bibimbap sat next to a bowl of milky white Seolleongtang that clearly asserted its presence. It was on a completely different level than the standard clear soups usually served with set meals.
Take a look at the Bibimbap close-up. The glossy egg yolk sits in the center, surrounded by sweet and spicy beef bulgogi, kimchi, seaweed, and namul (seasoned vegetables). The gradient of ingredients before mixing is beautiful. The process of mixing everything together until flavors merge is the true joy of Bibimbap.
A Study in Contrasts
And now, for the other star of the show: the Seolleongtang.
As you lift a spoonful, the scent of beef bones gently rises. It tastes creamy and rich, yet the aftertaste is surprisingly clean. Adjusting the flavor with the accompanying salt to your liking is part of the fun.
The spicy kick of the Bibimbap’s gochujang and the nutty aroma of the scorched rice create a “dynamic” sensation in your mouth. This is then soothed by the “static” gentleness of the Seolleongtang. This contrast is addictive.
Devouring the thoroughly mixed Bibimbap and then moisturizing your heated palate with Seolleongtang creates a loop you never want to end.
Another Winner: Kuroge Wagyu Bulgogi Set with Upgrade
For the benefit of Photomo readers, I also verified another attractive option: the “Kuroge Wagyu (Japanese Black Beef) Bulgogi Set” with the soup upgrade.
Visually, this is even more luxurious. In addition to the main Bulgogi, it comes with wrapping vegetables (lettuce, perilla leaves) and assorted namul. With the addition of the rich Seolleongtang, this feels less like a quick lunch and more like a proper dining feast.
The dishes are arranged beautifully: white rice, gochujang, kimchi, and the soup. This orderly presentation reflects the refined quality of Surakkan.
The main dish, Kuroge Wagyu Bulgogi, glistens with a sweet and savory sauce on the hot iron plate. Plenty of onions and crisp mizuna greens add great accents. You can taste the quality of the meat in the sweetness of the fat.
Bouncing this savory meat on white rice is heaven, but taking a sip of Seolleongtang in between resets the palate, making the next bite even more delicious. The compatibility between the meat dish and the ox bone soup is simply outstanding.
Conclusion: The Definitive Way to Order
After three visits, I have reached a conclusion.
The “best practice” for lunch at Surakkan is to upgrade your set meal soup to Seolleongtang (or Sundubu) for an extra 400 yen.
It gives you the hearty satisfaction of a main dish that a simple soup set might lack, while also providing the authentic soup experience that a standard set misses. Knowing this option significantly changes the quality of your lunch.
When you want a slightly luxurious, undeniably delicious Korean lunch in Marunouchi, remember this hack.
Tips for Lunch in Marunouchi
Finally, here is some organized information to help you navigate lunch options in the Marunouchi area.
Best Sunday lunch Tokyo / Marunouchi
Surakkan is located in the Shin-Marunouchi Building and is open on weekends. While many restaurants in this business district close on Sundays, Surakkan is a valuable spot that consistently provides high-quality lunch. It gets busy with families and couples, but the large number of seats ensures relatively smooth turnover.
Best lunch deals in Tokyo / Cost Performance
While the average lunch price in Marunouchi is often between 1,500 and 2,000 yen, you can enjoy Surakkan starting from the mid-1,000 yen range. Considering the quality of food, volume, and location, the cost performance is extremely high. Especially if you use the “soup upgrade” I introduced, you get satisfaction comparable to a dinner course for around 2,000 yen.
Dinner places in Tokyo / Atmosphere
The restaurant features subdued lighting and a sophisticated interior, with tables spaced comfortably apart. The atmosphere is distinct from loud, casual Korean eateries, making it suitable for business lunches or relaxed conversations with friends. Window seats offer a view of the Tokyo Station building.
Lunch Special Tokyo / Hidden Gems
Depending on your definition of “cheap,” this is a place where you can get full reasonably within the Marunouchi/Shin-Marunouchi Building restaurant zones. It’s relatively easy to get a seat right after opening at 11:00 AM or after 1:00 PM, making it a bit of a “hidden gem” if you avoid peak hours.
Official Website: Surakkan Marunouchi
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