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We’ve a brief listing of nations that we get pleasure from visiting time and again, and lots of it has to do with the meals. South Korea is a type of international locations.
We’ve taken three journeys to Seoul to this point and with every go to, we delve deeper into the town’s culinary panorama to replace and enhance upon this Seoul restaurant information.
It’s necessary for us to eat like locals so we’ve made it our mission to search out the most effective Seoul eating places serving essentially the most scrumptious and genuine examples of widespread Korean dishes like BBQ, bibimbap, kalguksu, naengmyeon, and lots of others.
Compiled and refined over time because of the assistance of locals, Seoul meals blogs, crowd evaluation websites, and my Korean sister-in-law who’s a former chef, the second version of our Seoul restaurant information has expanded to 25 eateries to offer vacationers as full a Korean meals expertise as doable. If you happen to’re visiting Korea and wish to discover the most effective meals in Seoul, then this information can be very helpful to you.
This restaurant information leads you to the most effective locations to eat in Seoul, however if you wish to know what Korean dishes to search for, then you should definitely try our Korean food information as nicely. It lists 45 of the most effective dishes to eat in Seoul and South Korea.
SEOUL RESTAURANTS QUICK LINKS
To assist facilitate your Seoul journey planning, I’ve compiled hyperlinks to inns, excursions, and different travel-related providers right here.
HOTELS
High-rated inns in Myeongdong, the most effective space to remain in Seoul for first-time guests.
TOURS
OTHER SERVICES
SEOUL TRAVEL GUIDE
If you happen to’re planning a visit to Seoul, then you should definitely try our detailed Seoul travel guide. It’ll have all the data you want – like when to go, the place to remain, which palaces to go to, and many others. – that can assist you plan your journey.
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THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN SEOUL
That can assist you navigate by this listing of the most effective locations to eat in Seoul, I’ve organized the eating places by district. As a vacationer, you’ll be spending essentially the most time in widespread neighborhoods like Myeongdong, Insadong, Hongdae, and Itaewon.
Myeondong is in Jung-gu, Insadong in Jongno-gu, Hongdae in Mapo-gu, and Itaewon in Yongsan-gu. I’ve added a location map to the underside of this Seoul meals information as nicely that can assist you discover these eating places extra simply.
DONGDAEMUN-GU
1. Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi
Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi is one restaurant amongst a cluster specializing in jjukkumi, a notoriously spicy Korean dish of stir-fried child octopuses marinated in a purple chili gochugaru sauce.
Situated in Jjukkumi Alley, you’ll know you’re on the proper space once you see this bronze statue of an octopus on the nook.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Ren posing next to the octopus statue](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jjukumi-alley1.jpg.webp)
I’ve a excessive tolerance for spicy meals. I did the 2X Fireplace Noodle Problem with out flinching however these devilish child octopuses made me wave the white flag. It’s one of many spiciest issues I’ve ever eaten in my life.
Koreans have a excessive tolerance for spicy meals and jjukkumi is taken into account very spicy even by their requirements. As scrumptious as this Korean dish was, I may barely end it as a result of it was so scorching!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Jjukumi at Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jjukumi.jpg.webp)
Jjukkumi is usually eaten as ssam – wrapped in perilla leaves and consumed with soju, a Korean liquor sometimes made with rice, wheat, or barley.
There are lots of jjukkumi eating places in Jjukkumi Alley however Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi is alleged to be the most effective. It’s run by Grandma Na Jeong-sun who opened her restaurant over 35 years in the past when the neighborhood didn’t have its present cluster of jjukkumi eating places. A real pioneer certainly!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Wrapped jjukumi at Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jjukumi-alley2.jpg.webp)
Na Jeong-sun Halmae Jjukkumi
Tackle: 144, Muhak-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Jegi-dong
Working Hours: 11AM-10:30PM, Mon-Fri
What to Order: Jjukkumi
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000-15,000 per particular person
DONGJAK-GU
2. Noryangjin Fish Market
Open since 1927, Noryangjin Fish Market is one among Korea’s largest seafood markets. You’ll discover a whole bunch of stalls providing all kinds of dwell seafood like scallop, abalone, crab, lobster, prawn, sea urchin, and octopus.
It’s one of the vital widespread locations in Seoul to attempt sannakji, Korea’s notorious dish of octopus sashimi. You’ll be able to try my article on Noryangjin Fish Market for extra footage and data.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Looking down at Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/noryangjin-fish-market1.jpg.webp)
Sannakji was one of many dishes I used to be most excited to attempt on our first journey to Korea. Again then, we had been quoted KRW 5,000 for one small octopus. Primarily based on what I’ve learn on-line, foreigners are sometimes quoted increased costs so don’t be afraid to discount down.
When you’ve purchased all of your seafood, you’ll be able to convey them upstairs and ask one of many many Korean eating places to organize it for you.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Buckets of live seafood at Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/noryangjin-fish-market2.jpg.webp)
We had been at Noryangjin Fish Market to attempt sannakji however we couldn’t resist choosing up some abalone as nicely. I don’t understand how a lot they value now however we paid KRW 10,000 for these 4 items just a few years in the past.
The cooking value is separate and we had been initially quoted KRW 20,000. I believed that was too excessive simply to grill up some abalone and chop up an octopus so I bargained it all the way down to KRW 15,000.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Grilled abalone at Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/noryangjin-fish-market3.jpg.webp)
Sannakji is principally simply octopus sashimi, however what makes it unnerving for a lot of is that the tentacles are nonetheless squirming when served. It’s controversial as a result of individuals suppose the octopus continues to be alive when it isn’t.
The tentacles proceed to maneuver as a result of they comprise ganglia which might function individually from the octopus’ physique. When an octopus loses an arm, it may now not management it. However for the reason that ganglia are nonetheless intact, it’s able to working independently of the octopus and reacting to stimuli, therefore the continued motion.
I like octopus and this was the one and solely time I’ve had it uncooked. Served with soy sauce and wasabi, it was completely scrumptious, naturally candy and never as gummy as I believed it could be.
You should definitely chew it nicely as a result of the suction cups STILL WORK. I picked up a tentacle with my chopsticks and it practically took the plate with it.
Just a few deaths by choking are nonetheless reported annually from the tentacles latching on to individuals’s throats, so you should definitely chew your meals like your life trusted it.
This dish might not be for everybody however when you’re an adventurous eater, then sannakji is a dish it’s essential to eat in Seoul. It actually is sort of good.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Sannakji at Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/sannakji-1.jpg.webp)
Noryangjin Fish Market
Tackle: 688 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Noryangjin
Working Hours: Open 24 hrs (Excessive Class Fish Market)
What to Order: Sannakji, contemporary seafood
Anticipate to Pay: Is dependent upon the seafood
GANGNAM-GU
3. Han Chu Korean Fried Rooster & Beer
We love chimaek eating places and Han Chu is continuously listed as the most effective eating places in Seoul for Korean fried rooster.
Chimaek is a compound phrase for chi-cken and maek-ju, the Korean phrase for “beer”, so it refers back to the widespread duo of Korean fried rooster and beer. Two of our favourite issues!
Han Chu has been in enterprise for over 20 years and is alleged to be one of the vital widespread chimaek eating places amongst many native celebrities.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Han Chu Fried Chicken & Beer exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hanchu-korean-fried-chicken.jpg.webp)
Korean fried rooster is double-fried, leading to crunchier and fewer greasy pores and skin. We’ve eaten at just a few chimaek eating places in Seoul and the preparation varies from place to position.
Pictured beneath is an order of their supremely crispy and juicy common fried rooster. As you’ll be able to see, they provide you numerous so one order will be sufficient for 2.
Han Chu is a chimaek restaurant so you should definitely wash it down with an ice-cold mug of beer. We didn’t attempt it however their deep-fried inexperienced peppers full of pork are stated to be superb as nicely.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean fried chicken at Han Chu in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/korean-fried-chicken.jpg.webp)
Han Chu Korean Fried Rooster & Beer
Tackle: 68 Nonhyeon-ro 175-gil, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Sinsa
Working Hours: 4PM-2AM, each day
What to Order: Fried rooster, deep-fried inexperienced peppers
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 20,000 per particular person
4. Yeontabal BBQ Restaurant
NOTE: The Gangnam department of Yeontabal seems to be closed as of three April 2022. You would possibly wish to go to a unique department as an alternative.
Barbecue is without doubt one of the finest issues about Korean meals. Prime cuts of meat like bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated beef sirloin or tenderloin) or galbi (marinated beef brief ribs) are grilled in your desk utilizing fuel or charcoal grills.
We expect Korean barbecue is finest loved over charcoal as a result of it imparts an exquisite smokiness to the meat. That’s what they use right here at Yeontabal. They’ve 4 branches in Seoul however we went to the one in Gangnam.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Yeontabal exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yeontabal-bbq-restaurant1.jpg.webp)
Like several fan of Korean meals, we’ve loved Korean BBQ many instances however this was fingers down the BEST barbecue we’ve ever had. It was tender and juicy with the attribute sweetness and smokiness of Korean BBQ cooked over charcoal. It was completely scrumptious.
Meat is usually costly in Korea so count on barbecue at any Seoul restaurant to be one among your pricier meals. If you happen to’d wish to eat at Yeontabal, then chances are you’ll wish to buy vouchers upfront from Klook. Like many Korean BBQ eating places, you want to get a minimal of two orders.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at Yeontabal in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yeontabal-bbq-restaurant2.jpg.webp)
Try all these scrumptious bits of caramelization! This barbecue was so good. It could be costly however in my view, Korean BBQ is one thing it’s essential to eat in Seoul. It truly is that a lot better in Korea.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at Yeontabal in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yeontabal-bbq-restaurant3.jpg.webp)
Yeontabal BBQ Restaurant
Tackle: 1317-16 Seocho-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Gangnam
Working Hours: 11:30AM-10PM, each day
What to Order: Grilled king beef ribs
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 40,000-45,000 per particular person
JONGNO-GU
5. Gwangjang Market
Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market is thought for being one of many oldest conventional markets in South Korea. It’s additionally one among its largest with over 5,000 outlets underneath its roof.
Aside from stalls promoting contemporary produce and seafood, this Korean meals market is thought for its ready meals part with distributors providing several types of Korean dishes like soondae (blood sausage), kimbap (Korean sushi rolls), and tteokbokki (rice rolls). I even noticed a few stalls with small dwell octopus in tanks for sannakji.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Inside Gwangjang Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/gwangjang-market1.jpg.webp)
I learn that Gwangjang Market is especially recognized for bindaetteok or mung bean pancakes. On the heart of the market are a number of meals stalls like this one promoting bindaetteok.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Cooking bindaetteok at Gwangjang Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/gwangjang-market2.jpg.webp)
Pictured beneath are skewered fish truffles, tteokbokki, and some different dishes I didn’t acknowledge.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Fish cakes and tteokbokki at Gwangjang Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/gwangjang-market3.jpg.webp)
We visited Gwangjang Market early within the morning and it was already bustling with Korean clients having breakfast. In the case of conventional Korean breakfast, I learn that Gwangjang Market is without doubt one of the finest locations to eat in Seoul.
The Korean distributors would sign for us to sit down down however we had a number of eating places on our itinerary that day so we politely declined.
If you happen to resolve to go to Gwangjang Market within the morning, then chances are you’ll wish to have breakfast right here. The meals is comparatively cheap and there’s a wealth of conventional Korean dishes to select from.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Diners at Gwangjang Market in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/gwangjang-market4.jpg.webp)
Gwangjang Market
Tackle: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Jongno 5-ga
Working Hours: 8:30AM-6PM, Mon-Sat
What to Order: Soondae, tteokbokki, bindaetteok, kimbap
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 5,000-10,000 per particular person
6. Imun Seolnongtang
I discovered this text itemizing Seoul’s oldest restaurants, on the very high of which is Imun Seolnongtang. This restaurant has been specializing in seolnongtang or ox bone soup for near 120 years.
Open since 1904, they’re the primary eatery within the nation to formally register for a restaurant license, making it the oldest restaurant not simply in Seoul, however in all of South Korea.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Imun Seolnongtang exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/imun-seolleongtang1.jpg.webp)
After I was asking my Korean sister-in-law for meals suggestions, seolnongtang was one of many first dishes she urged.
Seolnongtang is ox bone soup which is made by boiling beef shank bones for a interval of a number of hours to a whole day. This gradual simmering course of regularly extracts the flavour from the bones, turning the broth cloudy and milky white. Brisket and different cuts of beef are then added to the broth together with rice and gentle wheat noodles.
Pictured beneath is the seolnongtang earlier than we seasoned it. Salt, floor black pepper, and chopped spring onions can be found in your desk so you’ll be able to season the soup to your liking.
Seolnongtang is a wealthy and hearty soup that’s excellent for chilly winter days. We had been questioning why soups and stews are so widespread in Korean delicacies. It wasn’t till we visited Seoul in winter did we perceive. Comforting dishes like seolnongtang are precisely what your physique wants when it’s freezing outdoors.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Seolnongtang at Imun Seolnongtang in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/imun-seolleongtang2.jpg.webp)
My sister-in-law additionally beneficial that we drink makgeolli with our seolnongtang. Makgeolli is a sweet-sour alcoholic beverage constructed from rice or wheat blended with nuruk, a Korean fermentation starter.
Like seolnongtang, it’s milky white in colour and has a barely increased alcohol content material than beer, about 6-8%. It went very nicely with the seolnongtang.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Makgeolli at Imun Seolnongtang in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/imun-seolleongtang3.jpg.webp)
Imun Seolnongtang
Tackle: 38-13 Ujeongguk-ro, Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Jonggak
Working Hours: 8AM-9PM, each day
What to Order: Seolnongtang, makgeolli
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000-15,000 per particular person
7. Jalppajin Memil
After I was doing analysis on the place to eat in Seoul, I got here throughout Jalppajin Memil on Klook. What drew me to it had been its TripAdvisor critiques. It has stellar rankings from its Korean reviewers whereas a few English feedback described its meals as distinctive.
The dish being supplied on Klook is known as “boiled pork slices with pomelo sauce”. That doesn’t sound like your typical Korean dish so I had a very good feeling this meal can be memorable, and it was.
Jalppajin Memil is only a brief stroll from Gyeongbokgung so this can be a nice restaurant to have lunch or dinner after visiting the palace.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Jalppajin Memil exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jalppajin-memil1.jpg.webp)
We bought the small order of boiled pork slices with pomelo sauce which is sweet for 2-3 individuals. It is available in medium and huge sizes as nicely.
This turned out to be the most effective Korean dishes we’ve had to this point in Seoul. We advised the proprietor that earlier than we left and he blushed after the praise. Ha!
In keeping with one TripAdvisor reviewer, the chef and proprietor was as soon as featured on a preferred Korean meals present, so that claims so much concerning the high quality of his meals.
I’m not an skilled on Korean delicacies however this does seem to be a novel fusion dish, largely as a result of it’s served with some kind of fermented shrimp and a candy citrusy sauce.
He calls it pomelo sauce however it appears to be made with yuzu or one thing comparable. No matter it’s, the mix of pork with the salty shrimp and sweet-sour sauce is improbable.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Pork belly dish at Jalppajin Memil in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jalppajin-memil2.jpg.webp)
Jalppajin Memil
Tackle: 41-1, Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Gyeongbokgung
Working Hours: 11:30AM-10PM, Mon, Wed-Sat (3-5PM break time) / 12NN-9PM, Solar / Closed on Tue
What to Order: Boiled pork slices with pomelo sauce
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000-20,000 per particular person
8. Tosokchon
Tosokchon is synonymous with samgyetang, a scorching and nutritious soup constructed from a complete younger rooster full of glutinous rice and boiled in a broth of Korean ginseng, jujube fruits, garlic, ginger, and numerous herbs and condiments.
They’ve been open for over thirty years and are recognized for serving among the finest samgyetang in Seoul. In actual fact, the late Korean president Roh Moo-hyun was a frequent buyer.
Like Jalppajin Memil, Tosokchon is only a brief stroll from Gyeongbokgung so you’ll be able to eat right here earlier than or after a visit to the palace.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Tosokchon exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/tosokchon.jpg.webp)
Samgyetang is usually thought-about a summer season dish as a result of it’s believed to replenish misplaced warmth and enhance your power. This apply is based on the notion of Yi Yeol Chi Yeol — “combating warmth with warmth” — which is derived from conventional Korean medication ideas.
It’s stated that consuming a scorching, nourishing dish like samgyetang can facilitate blood movement within the inside organs and assist decrease physique warmth by emitting sweat.
Samgyetang is one among our favourite Korean dishes. It’s a hearty dish that makes you’re feeling good after consuming it. At Tosokchon, you’ll be able to attempt it with both common or black rooster.
Tosokchon is without doubt one of the finest finest Korean eating places in Seoul and THE place to go for samgyetang. Don’t miss it, particularly when you go to Seoul in summer season.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Samgyetang at Tosokchon in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/samgyetang.jpg.webp)
Tosokchon
Tackle: 5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Sajik-dong, Jongno-gu, 서울특별시 South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Gyeongbokgung
Working Hours: 10AM-10PM, each day
What to Order: Samgyetang
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000-20,000 per particular person
9. Si.Wha.Dam
NOTE: The Insadong department of Si.Wha.Dam seems to be closed as of three April 2022.
If you happen to’re involved in experiencing trendy Korean delicacies, then Si.Wha.Dam is without doubt one of the finest eating places in Seoul to attempt it. They’ve two branches providing tasting menus with artfully introduced dishes, this one in Insadong and one other in Itaewon.
Korean dishes are sometimes served household type so it isn’t usually you see Korean meals that appears like this. Si.Wha.Dam calls itself a “museum of Korean delicacies” which is apt since their meals appears extra like conceptual artwork items than precise meals.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Si.Wha.Dam exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/si-wha-dam1.jpg.webp)
See what I imply concerning the dishes being artfully introduced? They’ve a number of tasting menus obtainable. Ren went with “A Verse of Poem” whereas I attempted “A Piece of Portray”. Every got here with a number of programs.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Set menu at Si.Wha.Dam in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/si-wha-dam2.jpg.webp)
They’ve colourful names for all of the programs as nicely. This one is known as “Korean Lunch Field” and consists of bite-sized bulgogi sandwiches made with seared rice truffles.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Set menu at Si.Wha.Dam in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/si-wha-dam3.jpg.webp)
This one is known as “A Piece of Spring on the Apricot Department”. It consists of parsley tea with agency, sticky gelatin formed like cherry blossoms. You choose up the blossoms with these two-pronged twigs on the proper. Fairly proper?
You’ll be able to verify my article on Si.Wha.Dam for extra footage and data. In the case of Korean haute delicacies, Si.Wha.Dam must be the most effective locations to eat in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Set menu at Si.Wha.Dam in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/si-wha-dam.jpg.webp)
Si.Wha.Dam
Tackle: 13, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Anguk
Working Hours: 11:30AM-10PM, each day
What to Order: Tasting menu
Anticipate to Pay: Begins at KRW 33,000
JUNG-GU
10. Hadongkwan
Like Imun Seolnongtang, Hadongkwan is without doubt one of the oldest eating places in Seoul. They’ve been open since 1939 and have a status for serving among the metropolis’s finest gomtang or beef bone soup.
Hadongkwan is situated within the coronary heart of the Myeongdong buying district, making it an incredible place to have lunch or a day snack when buying within the space. The restaurant closes at 4:30PM or when substances run out.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Hadongkwan exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hadongkwan1.jpg.webp)
Gomtang is a beef bone soup made by simmering numerous beef elements like ribs, oxtail, brisket, and ox head or bones over a low flame. Like seolnongtang, the broth turns into cloudy although not as opaque because it’s made with extra meat than bones.
Rice can be added to the soup and you’ll season the broth with salt and minced inexperienced onion at your desk. I loved each soups however I personally most popular gomtang.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Gomtang at Hadongkwan in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hadongkwan2.jpg.webp)
At Hadongkwan, you may get common or particular gomtang. We bought the latter which comes with beef tripe. Scrumptious!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Gomtang at Hadongkwan in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hadongkwan3.jpg.webp)
Hadongkwan
Tackle: 10-4 Myeong-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Myeongdong
Working Hours: 7AM-4:30PM, each day
What to Order: Gomtang
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000 per particular person
11. Yuktongryeong
Ren went on a visit to Korea as soon as together with her girlfriends. They stayed at an AirBnB in Myeongdong they usually requested their host Ernie to advocate a very good BBQ place. He pointed them to Yuktongryeong which in response to him, is the most effective Korean BBQ restaurant in Myeongdong.
They invited Ernie to affix them for dinner so he did all of the ordering. Yuktongryeong focuses on Jeju black pork in order that they feasted on that and a thick slab of ribeye steak. They liked every part.
Myeongdong is without doubt one of the hottest vacationer neighborhoods in Seoul so when you get a yearning for Korean BBQ whereas purchasing for cosmetics, then Yuktongryeong is a good place to go. Locals at all times know finest.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at Yuktongryeong in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/yuktongryeong1.jpg.webp)
Is there something extra appetizing than meat grilling over charcoal? Ernie ordered in Korean so Ren couldn’t perceive what he was saying, however she thinks he might have ordered a set which included this massive trumpet mushroom.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at Yuktongryeong in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/yuktongryeong2.jpg.webp)
Yuktongryeong
Tackle: 37-1 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Chungmuro 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Myeongdong
Working Hours: 11:30AM-1:30AM, each day
What to Order: Jeju black pork
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 30,000-35,000 per particular person
12. Grandma Yu’s Bibimbap (Jeonju Yuhalmeoni Bibimbap)
Like barbecue or japchae, bibimbap is without doubt one of the most well-known Korean dishes outdoors of the nation. As a college scholar within the US, I keep in mind being mesmerized by this colourful dish served in a heavy stone black pot.
I needed to search out the most effective bibimbap restaurant in Seoul and Jeonju Yuhalmeoni Bibimbap (aka Grandma Yu’s Bibimbap) usually got here up. There have been a pair extra accessible bibimbap eating places in Myeongdong like Gogung, however I selected this one as a result of it was described as having a loyal native following.
Run by Grandma Yu, this Korean restaurant has been round for over forty years and their Jeonju bibimbap is alleged to be one of the vital genuine in Seoul. Bibimbap is the last word Korean consolation meals and there’s no higher place to have it than at grandma’s home, proper?
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Grandma Yu’s Bibimbap exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jeonju-yuhalmeoni-bibimbap1.jpg.webp)
Bibimbap actually means “blended rice” and refers to a bowl of heat white rice topped with namul (sauteed and seasoned greens like cucumber, zucchini, radish, and mushroom) and gochujang (Korean chili paste). An egg (uncooked or fried) and sliced meat, sometimes beef, are sometimes added. The contents are then blended collectively completely earlier than being eaten.
There are a number of different types of bibimbap like yukhoe bibimbap (beef tartare bibimbap) and dolsot bibimbap (scorching stone pot bibimbap). Grandma Yu focuses on a model of bibimbap from the town of Jeonju.
Jeonju bibimbap is legendary all through Korea and is predicated on a royal courtroom dish from the Joseon Dynasty. I learn that an genuine Jeonju bibimbap is made with rice cooked in beef broth and might comprise over thirty substances, among the most important being crispy Jeollado bean sprouts, sesame oil, and gochujang.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Bibimbap at Grandma Yu's in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jeonju-yuhalmeoni-bibimbap2.jpg.webp)
That is what the bibimbap appears like after you’ve blended all of it up. Seems to be a lot prettier within the earlier than image proper?
It tastes actually good although – wholesome, crunchy, and clear. We had been right here for lunch and the restaurant shortly stuffed up with locals so attempt to come as early as you’ll be able to.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Bibimbap at Grandma Yu's in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/jeonju-yuhalmeoni-bibimbap3.jpg.webp)
Grandma Yu’s Bibimbap (Jeonju Yuhalmeoni Bibimbap)
Tackle: 12-2, Bukchang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Metropolis Corridor
Working Hours: 11:30AM-10PM, Mon-Fri
What to Order: Jeonju bibimbap
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000 per particular person
13. Manjok Ohyang Jokbal
Jokbal is one other dish that my Korean sister-in-law beneficial. After I googled “finest jokbal in seoul”, one restaurant dominated the search outcomes – Manjok Ohyang Jokbal.
The restaurant is a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence awardee with stable rankings from its Korean reviewers. Fortunately for us, Klook was providing a voucher to this very restaurant.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Manjok Ohyang Jokbal interior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/manjok-ohyang-jokbal1.jpg.webp)
Jokbal is a dish of pig’s trotters (ft) cooked in soy sauce and spices. It’s sometimes braised in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and rice wine, and might comprise different substances like onion, leeks, garlic, cinnamon, and black pepper.
The trotters are simmered till they’re fork tender, earlier than being deboned and reduce into thick slices. Jokbal eating places sometimes provide the dish in common or spicy variations.
Manjok Ohyang Jokbal gives bossam as nicely, which is thinly sliced pork stomach boiled in spices. It’s a dish we’ve been which means to attempt for a very long time so we had been joyful to search out that Manjok Ohyang Jokbal gives a jokbal and bossam set menu.
Klook gives vouchers for simply jokbal or bosam, or each in a set menu. Pictured beneath is the jokbal bossam set menu.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Jokbal and bossam at Manjok Ohyang Jokbal in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/manjok-ohyang-jokbal2.jpg.webp)
Each jokbal and bossam are sometimes eaten as ssam, wrapped in a bit of lettuce with sauces and different greens. They’re thought-about anju dishes, which means they’re meant to be eaten with alcoholic drinks like soju or beer. Positively our form of dish!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Jokbal and bossam at Manjok Ohyang Jokbal in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/manjok-ohyang-jokbal3.jpg.webp)
We had been additionally given a dipping sauce with shredded cabbage and garlic. Whether or not eaten as ssam or dipped on this sauce, the jokbal and bossam had been superior.
It’s humorous, Klook made the error of giving us two medium-sized orders which is supposed for 4-6 individuals. We thought we’d be bringing a doggy bag house however we wound up consuming every part on the spot!
The pork was scrumptious, gentle and gelatinous with good spice and texture from all the perimeters. Manjok Ohyang Jokbal turned out to be one among our favourite locations to eat in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Jokbal and bossam at Manjok Ohyang Jokbal in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/manjok-ohyang-jokbal4.jpg.webp)
Manjok Ohyang Jokbal
Tackle: 18-77, Euljiro 6, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Dongdaemun Historic and Cultural Park
Working Hours: 4PM-2AM
What to Order: Spiced pig’s trotters bossam set menu
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 20,000-25,000 per particular person
14. Myeongdong Kyoja
Myeongdong Kyoja has been in enterprise for over fifty years and is thought for serving among the finest kalguksu or knife-cut noodles in Seoul. Like Hadongkwan and Yuktongryeong, the restaurant is situated in Myeongdong so it’s an incredible place to cease for lunch or dinner when buying within the space.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Myeongdong Kyoja exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/myeongdong-kyoja.jpg.webp)
Kalguksu is a Korean noodle dish consisting of handmade, knife-cut wheat flour noodles served in a big bowl with broth and different substances.
It will get its title as a result of the noodles aren’t extruded or spun, however reduce. They’re made with dough from wheat flour and eggs, then rolled out thinly and reduce into lengthy strips.
Substances like dried anchovies, shellfish, and kelp are simmered for a number of hours to organize the broth earlier than the noodles and greens are added and boiled collectively.
Kalguksu is usually thought-about a summer season dish however you’ll be able to have it at any time of the yr. You should definitely attempt Myeongdong Kyoja’s steamed mandu or Korean-style dumplings as nicely.
We get pleasure from consolation meals so we liked Myeongdong Kyoja. All issues thought-about – location, affordability, and high quality – we expect that it’s the most effective locations to eat in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Kalguksu at Myeongdong Kyoja in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/kalguksu.jpg.webp)
Myeongdong Kyoja
Tackle: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, 서울특별시 South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Myeongdong
Working Hours: 10:30AM-9:30PM, each day
What to Order: Kalguksu, mandu
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000-15,000 per particular person
15. Myeongdong Meals Road
I discover Myeongdong to be somewhat too loopy with all its cosmetics outlets and overly aggressive salespeople, however I maintain going again to the world as a result of I like Korean street food.
Beginning round 5PM each evening, distributors arrange carts alongside Myeongdong’s fundamental strolling avenue to supply a banquet of avenue meals. If you happen to get pleasure from it as a lot as we do, then you should definitely go away one evening free in your Seoul itinerary for a Myeongdong avenue meals feast.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Myeongdong street food in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/myeongdong-street-food1.jpg.webp)
There’s lots of scrumptious Korean avenue meals available in Myeongdong. A few of our favorites embody Korean fried rooster with tteokbokki. We had already eaten Korean fried rooster twice on this journey so we needed to actually restrain ourselves from shopping for a cup right here!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Fried chicken at Myeongdong in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/myeongdong-street-food2.jpg.webp)
These lobster tails had been superior. Set on a grill, they blowtorch the meat earlier than sprinkling it with some shredded cheese. The cheese is then melted underneath a Zaigle (infrared grill) and completed off with some kind of spicy purple sauce, in all probability made with gochujang.
As you’d count on, this is without doubt one of the pricier avenue meals dishes in Myeongdong however it’s so value it.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Lobster tails at Myeongdong in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/myeongdong-street-food3.jpg.webp)
This lovely pancake-like morsel of goodness is known as gyeranppang or “egg bread“. Made in machines that resemble waffle canine makers, a complete egg is cracked into oblong-shaped slots stuffed with pancake batter and crisped till golden brown.
The result’s a wealthy and eggy snack with a barely crisp, chewy crust. You’ll be able to see the egg operating by it within the image beneath. It’s one among my favourite Korean avenue meals snacks.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Gyeranppang at Myeongdong in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/myeongdong-street-food4.jpg.webp)
Myeongdong Meals Road
Tackle: Myeongdong 2-gil
Nearest Subway Station: Myeongdong
Working Hours: Round 5PM onwards
What to Order: Grilled lobster tails and scallops, Korean fried rooster, gyeranppang
Anticipate to Pay: Wherever between KRW 2,000-15,000 per dish
16. WooSung Galbi
After I was doing analysis for the most effective eating places in Seoul for barbecue, three issues stood out about WooSung Galbi.
One, it’s stated to be a favourite amongst locals and Korean meals bloggers. Two, they’ve a centered menu and provide simply two objects – pork galbi and pork rinds. And three, it’s comparatively low cost. Three wonderful causes so as to add this restaurant to your itinerary!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea WooSung Galbi exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woosung-galbi1.jpg.webp)
As marketed, WooSung Galbi is a no frills, throwback restaurant with plastic stools and an unadorned inside. Situated in Yaksu Market, it was packed throughout dinner with us being the one non-Korean clients.
Except for beer, they actually do have simply two objects on their menu. We began off with two orders of the pork galbi which we cooked ourselves over a charcoal grill. Scrumptious!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at WooSung Galbi in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woosung-galbi2.jpg.webp)
We had been already full from the pork galbi however we couldn’t go away with out making an attempt the pork rinds as nicely. We’ve by no means had pork rinds at a Korean BBQ restaurant earlier than.
As anticipated, it was gentle and gummy however go away it on the grill lengthy sufficient and it begins to pop, curl up, and grow to be crunchy like chicharon. We liked it.
It had a equally candy marinade because the pork galbi and got here with a wasabi dipping sauce. Very fascinating certainly and an incredible dish to have with beer.
As described, meat is dear in Korea so we had been joyful to discover a place like WooSung Galbi. It must be the most effective locations to eat cheap Korean BBQ in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Korean bbq at WooSung Galbi in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woosung-galbi3.jpg.webp)
WooSung Galbi
Tackle: 372-40 Sindang3-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Yaksu
Working Hours: 2PM-2AM
What to Order: Pork galbi, pork rinds
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000-20,000 per particular person
17. Woo Lae Oak
I had just a few Korean pals in school they usually used to take me to the Woo Lae Oak restaurant in Virginia. That was over twenty years in the past however it wasn’t till this journey that I discovered Woo Lae Oak is definitely a restaurant in Seoul.
Not solely was it began in Korea, however it’s additionally one among Seoul’s oldest eating places! Open since 1946, Woo Lae Oak is a Korean BBQ restaurant recognized for his or her bulgogi.
Curiously, they’re additionally recognized for being the most effective eating places in Seoul to attempt naengmyeon or chilled buckwheat noodles. That’s the dish we needed to attempt at this time.
After I learn that Woo Lae Oak is one among Seoul’s oldest eating places, I used to be anticipating to discover a hole-in-the-wall hidden away in an alley someplace. Turning the nook, we had been shocked to search out that it occupies its personal two-story constructing!
Like their department within the US, Woo Lae Oak is a extra upscale restaurant that’s vastly widespread with locals. It stuffed up shortly over lunch despite being so massive.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Woo Lae Oak exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woo-lae-oak1.jpg.webp)
Woo Lae Oak gives two sorts of naengmyeon – mul naengmyeon and bibim naengmyeon. Pictured beneath is bibim naengmyeon. It’s a much less soupy model topped with a spicy dressing made primarily from gochujang. Served chilly, you combine up all of the substances earlier than consuming.
I had the bibim naengmyeon and I believed it was scrumptious. The buckwheat noodles are chilly and agency, and the gochujang dressing extra flavorful than scorching. I’ve been wanting to do that dish ever since I noticed it on a documentary about North Korea.
Naengmyeon is initially a North Korean dish that turned widespread all through Korea after the Korean Warfare. Historically, naengmyeon is served in a big stainless-steel bowl with a tangy iced broth.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Naengmyeon at Woo Lae Oak in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woo-lae-oak2.jpg.webp)
Ren had the mul naengmyeon. Initially from Pyongyang, mul naengmyeon is served as a chilly soup with the buckwheat noodles swimming in a broth constructed from beef, rooster, or dongchimi (watery brine constructed from kimchi). It was milder in taste although each bit as scrumptious because the bibim naengmyeon.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Naengmyeon at Woo Lae Oak in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woo-lae-oak3.jpg.webp)
The buckwheat noodles are clearly the star of this dish. They’re historically eaten lengthy with out slicing to represent lengthy life and good well being.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Naengmyeon at Woo Lae Oak in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/woo-lae-oak4.jpg.webp)
Woo Lae Oak
Tackle: 62-29, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Euljiro 4-ga
Working Hours: 11:30AM-9:30PM, each day
What to Order: Naengmyeon, bulgogi
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000-20,000 per particular person
18. Yonggeumok
Yonggeumok can be one among Seoul’s oldest eating places. Open since 1932, they’re the third oldest restaurant within the metropolis and have been serving chueotang, a kind of soup constructed from pond loach, for near ninety years.
Once we had been there, we bought the sensation that Yonggeumok doesn’t see lots of overseas guests. The girl inside appeared to suppose that we had been simply misplaced and asking for instructions!
It was solely after I stated “Yonggeumok?” did she understand we had been right here for his or her well-known chueotang.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Yonggeumok exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yonggeumok1.jpg.webp)
A fiery purple bowl of chueotang. Don’t fear, it isn’t as spicy because it appears. Chueotang is constructed from pond loach which is a kind of freshwater mudfish. They’re boiled in water till tender, then sieved to take away all of the bones and pores and skin.
The fish meat is boiled once more with beef or rooster broth and seasoned with gochujang (purple chili paste), doenjang (soybean paste), grated ginger, and floor black pepper.
Yonggeumok’s chueotang is available in two varieties – the primary with the entire mudfish intact and the second with the fish floor into the soup. Once we had been there, the lady taking our order was asking us one thing in Korean that we couldn’t perceive.
It was solely after I examine Yonggeumok’s two variations of chueotang did I understand what she was asking. She was doing a grinding movement together with her hand so I feel she needed to know which model we most popular – floor or complete.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Chueotang at Yonggeumok in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yonggeumok2.jpg.webp)
Ultimately, she gave us the bottom model which is what we might have chosen anyway. I learn that the older generations favor the entire model of the loach which comprises tiny, spiny bones.
The chueotang had a pleasant and tangy taste attribute of these kinds of Korean soups. Ours was stuffed with mushrooms, fried tofu, rice, and noodles, maybe just a few different issues as nicely.
You couldn’t actually make out the loach because it had already been floor up into the soup. It was scrumptious and hearty, excellent for chilly winter nights.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Chueotang at Yonggeumok in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/yonggeumok3.jpg.webp)
Yonggeumok
Tackle: 24-2, Dadong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Jonggak
Working Hours: 10:30AM-10PM, Mon-Fri / 10:30AM-8PM, Sat-Solar
What to Order: Chueotang
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000-15,000 per particular person
MAPO-GU
19. Oksang Dalbit – CLOSED
Like Han Chu, Oksang Dalbit is a chimaek restaurant providing Korean fried rooster and beer. They usually come up in weblog posts itemizing the most effective eating places in Seoul for chimaek.
Situated in Hongdae, they’re open from 5PM until the wee hours of the morning, and is alleged to be a preferred spot for college students and native residents.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Oksang Dalbit exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/oksang-dalbit1.jpg.webp)
Oksang Dalbit is a cool place to hang around and drink beer. Clients can doodle on their partitions and it was one of many few locations we went to that performed up to date American pop music. It felt very very like an American school bar, with out the rowdy school youngsters.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Oksang Dalbit interior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/oksang-dalbit2.jpg.webp)
Oksang Dalbit serves two sorts of rooster – fried and garlic pepper – each of which you may get deboned. We bought the boneless fried and garlic pepper combo and each sorts of rooster had been scrumptious.
If you happen to get pleasure from spicy meals like I do, then you definately’ll love the garlic pepper. The rooster is served with a aspect of pickled radish for acidity and crunch.
Oksang Dalbit’s fried rooster is lit. Actually. What makes it distinctive is that they serve it flaming. It’s actually on fireplace after they convey it to your desk.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Fried chicken at Oksang Dalbit in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/oksang-dalbit3.jpg.webp)
Oksang Dalbit
Tackle: 411-2 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Sangsu
Working Hours: 5PM-4:30AM
What to Order: Boneless fried and garlic pepper rooster
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000 per particular person
SEOCHO-GU
20. Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim
The Korean dish we had at this restaurant was maybe the one dish I used to be most excited to attempt in Korea. I’m speaking about ganjang gejang or uncooked crab marinated in soy sauce.
My Korean sister-in-law cals it her absolute favourite Korean dish. After getting a style of it, I can actually perceive why.
Like Jjukkumi Alley, there’s a cluster of eating places in Sinsa-dong known as Ganjang Gejang alley that makes a speciality of this dish. I selected Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim primarily based on an English-speaking reviewer’s feedback. He loved the restaurant and didn’t appear to have any issues ordering.
With an costly Korean dish like this, I didn’t wish to make a mistake and order the flawed factor!
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/wonjo-masan-halmae-aguJjim-restaurant1.jpg.webp)
There it’s, our ganjang gejang with all the attractive orange roe. Gejang is made by marinating contemporary uncooked crabs both in ganjang (soy sauce), or in a sauce made with chili pepper powder.
Crabs marinated in soy sauce are known as “ganjang gejang”, whereas crabs marinated in chili pepper powder are known as “yangnyeom gejang”.
You’d suppose that uncooked crab marinated in soy sauce is a straightforward dish to organize, however it isn’t. It’s described as being one of many extra difficult Korean dishes to make which might be why it’s costly.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Ganjang gejang at Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/wonjo-masan-halmae-aguJjim-restaurant2.jpg.webp)
To make ganjang gejang, crabs are completely cleaned then put in a hangari or earthenware crock the place they’re salted for about six hours.
A combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, scallions, garlic, ginger, and contemporary purple chili pepper is boiled briefly earlier than being poured over the salted crabs.
An hour later, the marinade is faraway from the bowl and reboiled earlier than being poured over the crabs once more. This course of is repeated a number of instances earlier than the dish is chilled and consumed.
Some distributors had crabs soaking in marinade at Gwangjang Market they usually defined that ganjang gejang will be preserved like this for weeks, even months at a time earlier than being consumed.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Ganjang gejang at Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/wonjo-masan-halmae-aguJjim-restaurant3.jpg.webp)
Ganjang gejang is messy and exhausting to eat however it doesn’t matter. It’s so good you gained’t care. Simply seize a section and begin sucking on it. The meat has a gelatin-like consistency that oozes out simply. It’s candy, chilly, wealthy, and just a bit bit salty.
The very best a part of the meal is once you add rice into the shell and blend it up. The mix of the ganjang gejang with the Korean sticky rice is unbelievable, prefer it turns into virtually caramel-y in taste.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Ganjang gejang at Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/wonjo-masan-halmae-aguJjim-restaurant4.jpg.webp)
They supply ssam greens so you’ll be able to wrap up the ganjang gejang and rice in leafy parcels as nicely. If you happen to like crab, then you want to attempt ganjang gejang in your subsequent journey to Korea. For me, it represents the perfect meals in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Ganjang gejang at Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/wonjo-masan-halmae-aguJjim-restaurant5.jpg.webp)
Wonjo Masan Halmae Agujjim
Tackle: 10 Gangnam-daero 99-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Sinsa
What to Order: Ganjang gejang
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 30,000-40,000 per particular person
YONGSAN-GU
21. Sigol Bapsang
If you happen to get pleasure from consuming Korean meals, then you definately in all probability like banchan. Banchan refers to these little aspect dishes served earlier than your fundamental course.
Banchan dishes are sometimes the supporting solid to a Korean meal, however at Sigol Bapsang, they’re the star. That’s Sigol Bapsang with the orange signal, to the left of the GS25 comfort retailer.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Sigol Bapsang exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sigol-bapsang1.jpg.webp)
Sigol Bapsang is in a tiny restaurant in Seoul with simply 5 tables. It’s actually a gap within the wall. What makes it so fascinating is that it appears fully misplaced in cosmopolitan Itaewon.
Seoul is a sprawling trendy metropolis of metal and glass, however stroll into Sigol Bapsang and also you’ll immediately be transported to old style, rural Korea.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Sigol Bapsang interior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sigol-bapsang3.jpg.webp)
At Sigol Bapsang, you’ll be able to have a feast of no less than twenty several types of banchan together with rice and a steaming bowl of jjigae or fermented soybean paste stew. The banchan is alleged to be refillable however we didn’t want any – we had been full simply from this primary serving!
We loved our banchan meal so I used to be shocked to search out blended critiques for Sigol Bapsang. I did my analysis and Sigol Bapsang is the one place I may discover that serves banchan as an “entree”.
Till I can discover a higher restaurant in Seoul, then I’d say Sigol Bapsang is value testing. They’re open 24 hrs each day, making it an incredible place for a late evening snack.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Banchan set meal at Sigol Bapsang in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/banchan.jpg.webp)
Sigol Bapsang
Tackle: 235 Itaewon-ro, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Itaewon
Working Hours: Open 24 hrs
What to Order: Banchan
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000-15,000 per particular person
CITYWIDE
22. BBQ Olive Rooster Cafe
BBQ Olive Rooster Cafe is a well-liked chimaek restaurant with many branches in Seoul.
Ren and her girlfriends are Ok-drama fanatics and this restaurant has been featured in multiple collection, together with Ren’s all-time favourite Goblin. It was so prominently featured on the present that Ren made it a degree to get pleasure from a meal right here on their journey.
BBQ Olive Rooster Cafe gives many several types of Korean fried rooster. They tried the golden olive and soy garlic flavors. In keeping with Ren, it’s the most effective Korean fried rooster she’s had to this point in Seoul.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Fried chicken at BBQ Olive Chicken Cafe in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/bbq-olive-chicken-cafe.jpg.webp)
BBQ Olive Rooster Cafe
Working Hours: Varies per department
What to Order: Golden Olive Rooster, candy potato fries
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 15,000 per particular person
23. Sulbing
Sulbing has a whole bunch of branches in South Korea. It was one other place that their AirBnB host beneficial to Ren and her pals.
Ernie was giving them a tour round Myeongdong when he identified this cafe to them. Sulbing serves several types of consolation meals however what they’re actually recognized for is their bingsu.
If you happen to’ve by no means had it, bingsu refers to a household of Korean shaved ice desserts topped with issues like chopped fruit, purple beans, chocolate, matcha, and different goodies.
Pictured beneath is Sulbing’s decadent tiramisu bingsu. Sulbing’s bingsus are enormous in order that they shared two between six individuals. They bought a honeydew melon bingsu as nicely which was good, however not fairly pretty much as good as this tiramisu.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Tiramisu bingsu at Sulbing Cafe in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/sulbing-cafe.jpg.webp)
Sulbing
Tackle: 20 Myeongdong 10-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Myeongdong
Working Hours: 10AM-11PM, each day
What to Order: Bingsu
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 12,000 per particular person
24. Lotteria
Lotteria is South Korea’s primary quick meals chain. If the title appears acquainted, it’s owned by the Korean-Japanese conglomerate Lotte Group.
They opened their very first store in Tokyo, Japan in 1972, adopted by the primary Korean restaurant in 1979. Right now, they’ve branches in Japan, Korea, China, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Lotteria exterior](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/lotteria1.jpg.webp)
There are lots of Lotteria branches all through the town, however we knew there would in all probability be one at Incheon Airport. In actual fact, we noticed two. This Mozzarella Bacon Burger was my final meal in Korea.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Mozzarella bacon burger at Lotteria in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/lotteria2.jpg.webp)
Try that cheese pull! What makes this burger so good is its breaded mozzarella patty. If you wish to attempt one thing extra Korean in taste, then go for the Hanwoo Bulgogi Burger. It’s one among Lotteria’s hottest burgers.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Hanwoo bulgogi burger at Lotteria in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/lotteria3.jpg.webp)
Lotteria
What to Order: Mozzarella Bacon Burger, Hanwoo Bulgogi Burger
Anticipate to Pay: Round KRW 10,000 per particular person
25. Pojangmacha
My Korean sister-in-law urged that we try a pojangmacha in Seoul. Pojangmacha isn’t the title of a restaurant, however a kind of eating expertise.
Just like Fukuoka’s Yatai food stalls, a pojangmacha is a small tented house that serves Korean avenue meals and alcoholic drinks like soju and beer. The time period pojangmacha actually means “coated wagon”.
We walked by loads of pojangmacha in numerous elements of Seoul. We chanced upon this one after having dinner at Yonggeumok.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Pojangmacha in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pojangmacha1.jpg.webp)
This pojangmacha supplied several types of skewers with bacon, lamb, rooster, and octopus. Mainly something that’s straightforward to eat and good with beer like tteokbokki, soondae, or mandu will be discovered at pojangmacha tents.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Grilled food at a pojangmacha in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pojangmacha2.jpg.webp)
If you happen to wish to drink and eat avenue meals, then having just a few drinks at a pojangmacha is one thing you need to attempt in Seoul. I’m certain it’s cheaper than consuming beer at any bar or membership.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Grilled food at a pojangmacha in Seoul, South Korea](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pojangmacha3.jpg.webp)
SEOUL FOOD TOURS
It goes with out saying that nobody is aware of the meals in Seoul higher than an area, so what higher method to expertise Seoul’s delicacies than by occurring a meals tour? A educated information will take you to the most effective markets, avenue meals stalls, and eating places in Seoul so all you need to do is comply with and eat. Try Get Your Guide for an inventory of Seoul meals excursions.
LOCATION MAP
A few of these eating places in Seoul will be exhausting to search out, particularly for the reason that indicators are in hangul, so I’ve pinned all of them on a map to make it simpler for you. Click on on the hyperlink to open the interactive map in a brand new window. I added just a few others as nicely that we needed to go to however couldn’t get to.
![Korean Food Guide: 25 Must-Eat Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea Map with pins](https://www.willflyforfood.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/seoul-map.jpg.webp)
FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE FOOD IN SEOUL
As with all our guides, this Seoul meals information is on no account a completed product however I do hope it factors you in the proper course. As you’ll be able to in all probability inform from this intensive listing, there may be a lot good meals available in Seoul.
In case you have any strategies or suggestions, then please tell us within the feedback beneath. Thanks for studying and we hope you loved this listing of the most effective locations to eat in Seoul!
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