The restaurant sat just off a main street near Jeju's harbor, its red lanterns glowing warmly against the midday sun. Even before they stepped inside, the aroma of sesame oil, fried garlic, and simmering broth drifted out to meet them. Dong-wook pushed open the glass door with the confidence of someone who had been here many times before.
"This branch is always packed," he said over his shoulder, leading the way toward a small corner table. "But Chef Lee knows how to take care of regulars. Trust me, hyung, it's worth the wait."
Joon-ho glanced around as they entered. The space hummed with life—families speaking over bowls of jjajangmyeon, a group of office workers sharing plates of tangsuyuk, tourists taking photos of their dishes before tasting them. The atmosphere was lively, but not chaotic; polished wood tables and neatly arranged bottles along the bar gave the place a refined edge.
