Jjimdak Alley is a short pedestrian lane near Andong's old market packed with restaurants serving the city's signature dish. Andong jjimdak is a whole chicken braised in a dark, subtly sweet soy-based sauce with glass noodles, potatoes, green onions, and dried chillies. The noodles absorb the braising liquid and become the best part of the dish. A portion is large enough for two people and arrives in a wide, steaming casserole.
The alley has been here for decades, and many of the restaurants have been in the same family for two or three generations. There are no bad options — the real choice is whether you want your jjimdak spicy or mild (spicy is better). Arrive early for dinner; the popular places fill quickly. The alley is in the old market district, a short walk from the central city bus terminal.