Younghwaloo (영화루) Chinese Restaurant in Suwon (수원)
Younghwaloo (영화루) in Suwon (수원)
Located in Paldal-gu near the historic Paldalmun gate, Younghwaloo (영화루) is a long-standing Chinese restaurant in Suwon (수원). Established over 60 years ago and still operated by a Chinese-Korean (화교) family, it offers a traditional dining experience in a neighborhood known for its charming alleys and the nearby Hwaseong Fortress.
The restaurant’s main address is 경기도 수원시 팔달구 정조로791번길 3, situating it within walking distance from Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. The venue operates on two floors and provides parking in a small underground lot, though the narrow alley location may require some patience when arriving by car.
Menu Highlights
Younghwaloo specializes in classic Chinese dishes that have been refined over decades. Popular menu items include:
- Tangsuyuk (탕수육) – praised for its crispy texture and balanced sweetness
- Ganjjajang (간짜장) – a signature dish noted for its smooth, non-sweet sauce and fresh ingredients
- Jjajangmyeon (짜장면) and Jjamppong (짬뽕) – traditional noodle dishes served with a mild, clean broth
- Samseon Jjamppong (삼선짬뽕) and Palbochae (팔보채) – seafood-based dishes with rich flavors
- Chili Shrimp (칠리새우) and Gunmandu (군만두) – well-liked side dishes
- Bokkeumbap (볶음밥) – fried rice cooked to a dry, fluffy texture
Atmosphere and Experience
The restaurant maintains a nostalgic, old-school Chinese eatery atmosphere, favored by local senior patrons and families alike. The interior features a small aquarium and traditional decor that complements the historic neighborhood vibe of Haenggung-dong. While the location is cozy, it can get busy during peak hours, leading to wait times of up to 30 minutes for some dishes, especially the popular ganjjajang.
Younghwaloo is closed on Mondays and open from 11:00 to 21:00 Tuesday through Sunday, with last orders around 20:15. The staff may not always be attentive to wait times, so visitors should plan accordingly. Despite this, many reviews highlight the restaurant’s consistent quality and authentic flavors, making it a reliable choice for those seeking traditional Chinese cuisine in Suwon.
Traveler Notes
Younghwaloo is suitable for family gatherings and casual meals. Parking is available but limited, so consider public transport or walking from nearby landmarks like Paldalmun or Hwaseong Haenggung. The dishes tend to be mild and less oily compared to typical Chinese restaurants, appealing to those who prefer less spicy or less greasy options.
Due to its popularity and traditional preparation methods, some dishes may take longer to serve. Visitors are advised to check current opening hours and availability before visiting.
Recent Local References
- Google reviews from 2024-2025 note the restaurant’s 60-year history, Chinese-Korean ownership, and strong reputation for ganjjajang and tangsuyuk.
- Multiple Naver blog posts from 2024-2026 describe the restaurant’s location near Paldalmun and Haenggung-dong, highlighting the nostalgic atmosphere and menu variety.
- Reviewers mention the mild, clean flavors and the presence of local elderly customers, confirming the restaurant’s long-standing community role.
- Recent posts confirm operating hours as 11:00-21:00 Tuesday through Sunday, with Monday closed.
