The food guide
At La Casa Kitchen, the eel risotto stands out, not just for its flavors but for its role in the drama "What is Love?" This dish appears in a scene that captures the tension between tradition and modernity, paralleling the lives of the characters. The creamy texture of the risotto, combined with the rich, smoky flavor of the eel, creates a meal that feels satisfying, much like the show itself as it navigates familial bonds.
The restaurant, located at Iljik-ro 12beon-gil 22 in Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do, exudes a casual yet inviting atmosphere. With rustic wooden tables and simple decor, it feels like a place where you can linger over a meal and share stories. You can almost envision characters from the drama seated at one of these tables, discussing the complexities of family life while enjoying a hearty portion of eel risotto. The dish itself is a wonderful mix of flavors, showcasing the kitchen's skill in balancing the richness of the eel with the creaminess of the risotto.
In "What is Love?", the eel risotto serves as a culinary metaphor for the blending of the two families' contrasting values. Ji Eun's efforts to adapt to her new life with Dae Bal's traditional family resonate throughout the series, and this dish embodies a small yet significant step toward bridging those differences. Sharing a meal at La Casa Kitchen feels like participating in that ongoing dialogue between the past and present, where flavors and traditions meet.
Visiting La Casa Kitchen is more than just grabbing a bite; it’s about immersing yourself in a piece of the narrative that the drama portrays. The neighborhood around the restaurant is quiet and unassuming, making it easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. Yet, once you step inside, the ambiance invites you to settle in, perhaps with a glass of wine to complement your meal.
If you find yourself in Gwangmyeong-si, do make the effort to visit La Casa Kitchen for a taste of the eel risotto. It’s the kind of dish that lingers on your palate and resonates in your mind, reminding you of the intricacies of family ties. You might even find yourself reflecting on your own family stories while enjoying each bite, a reminder of the power of food and narrative in connecting us all.
La Casa Kitchen, located in Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do, is a charming eatery that has gained recognition as a filming location for the popular K-drama "What is Love?" This cozy restaurant is not only known for its inviting atmosphere but also for its signature dish, eel risotto, which plays a significant role in the storyline. The dish serves as a culinary backdrop that enhances the emotional connections between the characters, making the kitchen a pivotal setting in the drama.
Visitors to La Casa Kitchen can immerse themselves in the ambiance that once hosted pivotal scenes from the show. The restaurant's modern decor and warm lighting create a welcoming environment, perfect for fans looking to relive their favorite moments from "What is Love?" While enjoying a meal, guests can savor the same eel risotto that captivated the characters on screen, adding a delicious layer to their experience. With a solid rating of 4 out of 5, La Casa Kitchen promises not only a taste of the drama but also a delightful dining experience that showcases the culinary artistry of Korean cuisine.
Show Stills & Tourist photos
Scene context
La Casa Kitchen serves eel risotto, a dish highlighted in the drama.