The weather forecast promised refreshing rain, but instead, a stifling heat and humidity enveloped the area. The oppressive heat made it difficult to even think about packing for a getaway, as the thought of spending time in traffic was daunting.
In search of an escape, Yeongjong-gu in Incheon came to mind. Incheon residents take pride in their city, often thinking, "Why book a flight when we have world-class attractions right here?" This confidence is a source of local pride.
Traveling from the old downtown to the Inspire Entertainment Resort across the Yeongjong Bridge takes about 50 minutes. While visitors from other regions may plan a long trip, Incheon residents can simply enjoy a leisurely weekend drive.
On July 1, the global landmark 'Yeongjong-gu' officially opened at Inspire Entertainment Resort. This privilege of easy access is a source of quiet pride for Incheon locals. With the intent to escape the sweltering heat and indulge in good food and relaxation, they embark on a culinary retreat, or 'shik-cangs,' enjoying healthful dishes from Korea, China, and Japan in a cool indoor setting.
On the day of the visit, the resort was bustling with fans attending a concert by the global idol group &TEAM at the Inspire Arena. The crowd resembled a lively market, but rather than annoyance, there was a festive atmosphere throughout the resort.
After settling into their rooms, guests quickly felt the pull of their appetites. The first stop on their culinary journey was the contemporary Japanese restaurant 'Minagi,' which offered a six-course health food promotion featuring seasonal fish and vegetables. The focus was on freshness and the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The meal began with 'Sweet Corn & Eggplant Shirataki' soup, followed by seasonal sashimi, grilled eel ('Unagi Kabayaki'), chicken hot pot ('Torinabe'), sushi, and melon. The sweetness of the corn soup soothed the palate, while the summer fish provided a rich flavor and firm texture.
The highlight of the course was undoubtedly the Unagi Kabayaki, grilled with a sweet and savory tare sauce that melted in the mouth, delivering deep flavors. The light and flavorful broth of the Torinabe was a perfect way to warm the stomach during the hot summer months, providing a gentle recharge without being overwhelming.
After a satisfying meal, guests were drawn outside by dazzling lights and lively music. The 'Aurora Night Market,' a digital entertainment street, was in full swing.
This indoor night market was a vibrant scene, featuring a stunning high-definition media art show overhead and a lively live stage. Visitors lined up for K-food delicacies from across the country, regardless of age.
Families enjoyed ice cream, crispy chicken, skewers, and drinks, relishing the experience of an analog night market without breaking a sweat. This unique experience could only be enjoyed at this time and place.
The final culinary highlight was a traditional Chinese meal at the restaurant 'Hongban.' Before checking out, guests indulged in a Peking duck set, considered the pinnacle of summer Chinese cuisine. The balance of flavors throughout the course was exquisite.
The meal began with a tangy 'Black Vinegar Mushroom Salad' that quickly captured the palate, followed by 'Cantonese Chicken and Jujube Soup,' which warmed the body with its rich broth.
The main dish, Peking duck, was prepared in the traditional style, maximizing its natural flavors. The crispy skin was enjoyed with a touch of sugar, while the moist meat was wrapped in thin pancakes with scallions, cucumbers, and special sauce. The combination of rich meat and crunchy vegetables was a perfect harmony.
Next, duck stir-fry was served wrapped in crisp lettuce, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. The 'Cantonese Beef and Radish Stew' evoked memories of Korea's clear radish soup, perfectly alleviating the previous night's indulgence.
If family members have different tastes, the buffet restaurant 'Chef's Kitchen' offers a great alternative. Guests can enjoy summer dishes from across the country, including 'Thai Tom Yum Noodle Soup' and 'Chinese Cold Noodles,' as well as 'Sweet Corn Noodles' and 'Jeolla-do Style Steamed Potatoes with Skate.' For a more familiar taste, the Korean restaurant 'Hi-Fi Korean Soul Food' offers a seafood bossam set and cold noodle soup with watermelon punch to finish the meal.
With the summer's hottest days still ahead, enjoying a proper 'Korean, Chinese, and Japanese health retreat' feels satisfying. As an Incheon resident, there is a renewed sense of quiet pride. Considering the time and effort others spend traveling to this destination, the 50-minute journey from downtown to Yeongjong Bridge is a privilege that only Incheon residents can enjoy.
As summer temperatures soar, the value of Inspire becomes even more apparent. Within this vast indoor space, shielded from the heat, guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine and enjoy a variety of attractions. This summer, for a true retreat and revitalization, the answer lies in heading to Yeongjongdo, where a perfect culinary retreat awaits without the need to travel far.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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