Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Seoul, Korea, South

Seoul, Korea, South, Seoul, Food & Drink, Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them

Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Seoul, Korea, South

Gwangjang Market - Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes)

1. Gwangjang Market - Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes)

This busy market is famous for its crispy outside and soft inside mung bean pancakes, a beloved Korean street food. The main challenge solved is offering a snapshot of traditional Korean street eats.
  • Authenticity: Experience the genuine taste of Korea.
  • Historical Significance: One of Korea’s oldest markets, operating since
- Variety

2. - Variety

Besides Bindaetteok, try other Korean street foods here.
  • Atmosphere: Bustling market environment full of local vibes.
  • Accessibility: Centrally located with easy access via Seoul Metro.
Myeongdong Kyoja - Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodles)

3. Myeongdong Kyoja - Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodles)

Known for their rich broth and hand-cut noodles, Myeongdong Kyoja offers one of the best kalguksu experiences in Seoul. It solves the challenge of finding a warm, comforting meal.
  • Signature Dish: Specializes in kalguksu with a unique garlic flavor.
  • Consistency: Maintains quality through generations.
  • Location: Right in the heart of the bustling Myeongdong shopping area.
  • Reputation: Highly regarded with numerous customer recommendations.
  • Family-Friendly: Offers a cozy space perfect for family dining.
Jangsu Galbi - Bulgogi (Marinated BBQ Beef)

4. Jangsu Galbi - Bulgogi (Marinated BBQ Beef)

This place serves deliciously marinated beef grilled at your table, an essential part of Korean BBQ culture. The main challenge addressed is providing an authentic Korean BBQ experience.
  • Interactive Dining: Grill your food right at your table.
  • Quality Meat: Known for serving tender and flavorful cuts.
  • Traditional Atmosphere: Classic Korean BBQ setting.
  • Value for Money: Offers generous portions.
  • Popular Choice: Often frequented by locals, ensuring a genuine experience.
Kimchi Field Museum - Kimchi Tasting

5. Kimchi Field Museum - Kimchi Tasting

Learn about Korea’s iconic dish, kimchi, and taste various types made from different vegetables and seasonings. This solves the challenge of understanding and experiencing traditional Korean fermentation techniques.
  • Educational Experience: Offers insight into kimchi history and making.
  • Cultural Insight: Dive into an essential part of Korean dining culture.
  • Hands-On Activity: Participate in kimchi-making workshops.
  • Variety of Flavors: Discover diverse kinds of kimchi in one place.
  • Museum Environment: A unique combination of learning and tasting.
Tosokchon Samgyetang - Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

6. Tosokchon Samgyetang - Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Famous for its nourishing ginseng chicken soup, which is believed to restore energy and revitalize the body. It addresses the need for a healthy and hearty meal.
  • Health Benefits: Rich in nutrients, perfect for revitalizing.
  • Traditional Recipes: Experience time-honored methods of preparation.
  • Cozy Dining: Warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Iconic Reputation: A must-visit spot recommended by locals.
  • Central Location: Easy to access within central Seoul.
Namdaemun Market - Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

7. Namdaemun Market - Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

A bustling market where you can find hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, honey, nuts, and cinnamon. The challenge solved is discovering a popular Korean winter snack.
  • Sweet Treat: Perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
  • Street Food Experience: Enjoy an authentic open-air market vibe.
  • Cheap Eats: High satisfaction at a low cost.
  • Quick Snack: Ideal for on-the-go munching.
  • Seasonal Favorite: Best enjoyed during the colder months.
Insadong Ssambap - Ssambap (Rice Wrapped in Greens)

8. Insadong Ssambap - Ssambap (Rice Wrapped in Greens)

Experience a healthy and traditional meal with rice and side dishes wrapped in various types of leafy greens at Insadong. It solves the challenge of finding a nutritious and balanced meal.
  • Health Consciousness: A wholesome and balanced dining option.
  • Multiple Flavors: Each wrap combines different flavors and textures.
  • Cultural Context: Dine in a traditional neighborhood famous for its art.
  • Interactive Meal: Create each bite to your liking.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Plenty of plant-based options are available.
Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari - Dakhanmari (Whole Chicken Soup)

9. Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari - Dakhanmari (Whole Chicken Soup)

Known for serving a whole chicken in a savory broth, this dish is about communal dining and shared experiences. It addresses the need for a sociable meal option.
  • Communal Dining: Perfect for sharing among family and friends.
  • Satisfying Portions: A hearty meal that fills you up.
  • Engagement: Customize your soup with added ingredients and spices.
  • Authentic Recipe: Following old family traditions in preparation.
  • Consistent Quality: Highly-rated by previous diners consistently.
Samcheongdong Sujebi - Sujebi (Hand-Pulled Dough Soup)

10. Samcheongdong Sujebi - Sujebi (Hand-Pulled Dough Soup)

Head to this cozy eatery for sujebi, a comforting soup with hand-pulled dough flakes served in a rich broth. It solves the issue of locating a genuine homemade taste.
  • Homey Vibe: A warm, inviting space reminiscent of home cooking.
  • Seasonal Special: Especially satisfying in colder weather.
  • Unique Texture: Hand-pulled dough creates a chewy consistency.
  • Family Business: Enjoy dishes made with care and tradition.
  • Quiet Location: Provides a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
Noryangjin Fish Market - Hoe (Sliced Raw Fish)

11. Noryangjin Fish Market - Hoe (Sliced Raw Fish)

This market is perfect for seafood lovers, offering fresh and raw fish served as hoe, the Korean version of sashimi. The main challenge solved is accessing a wide variety of fresh seafood.
  • Freshness Guaranteed: Direct market-to-table experience.
  • Interactive Purchase: Choose your fish and have it prepared instantly.
  • Seafood Variety: Options for nearly every kind of seafood imaginable.
  • Cultural Exposure: Immerse yourself in a local trading environment.
  • Late Hours: Open late, providing flexibility for evening visits.
Mapo Jeongdaepo - Jokbal (Braised Pig’s Trotters)

12. Mapo Jeongdaepo - Jokbal (Braised Pig’s Trotters)

Known for tender and flavorful pig’s trotters, served with a spicy sauce and vegetables. It addresses the challenge of exploring Korea’s less known but delectable dishes.
  • Specialty Dish: Famed for expertise in jokbal preparation.
  • Rich Flavors: Offers a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory.
  • Night Dining: A popular evening dish spot among Seoul locals.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: Cozy and lively interiors.
  • Cultural Experience: Reflects the communal dining aspect of Korean culture.
Dom Beonjip - Bossam (Boiled Pork Wraps)

13. Dom Beonjip - Bossam (Boiled Pork Wraps)

Experience rich, tender boiled pork, wrapped in lettuce and dipped in a salty, spicy sauce. It solves the need for a hearty meal that showcases Korean diners' communal spirit.
  • Juicy Taste: Renowned for perfectly cooked pork.
  • Sharing Style: Ideal for group dining and sharing.
  • Traditional Side Dishes: Served with a variety of banchan (side dishes).
  • Cultural Ambiance: A warm, family-friendly setting.
  • Value for Money: Offers good portions at reasonable prices.
Gwanghwamun Jip - Jeon (Korean Pancakes)

14. Gwanghwamun Jip - Jeon (Korean Pancakes)

Get a taste of different types of jeon, or savory pancakes, in this central Seoul eatery where each piece is perfectly crispy. The challenge addressed is enjoying multiple Korean appetizers in one sitting.
  • Diverse Options: Experience a range of flavors and ingredients.
  • Crispy Perfection: Known for its flawlessly fried pancakes.
  • Warm Reception: Offers friendly and accommodating service.
  • Central Venue: Easily accessible from major tourist spots.
  • Drinks Pairing: Complements well with Korean alcoholic beverages.
Sinseon Seolleongtang - Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)

15. Sinseon Seolleongtang - Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)

A classic Korean soup made by boiling ox bones for hours, resulting in a milky, deeply flavorful broth. It addresses the need for a nutritious and warm dish.
  • Health Benefits: Rich in protein and nutrients.
  • Traditional Method: Slow-cooked to achieve perfect broth.
  • Comfort Food: A warm and satisfying option any time of the day.
  • Quiet Spot: Offers a relaxed dining environment.
  • Generous Portions: Known for ample servings that satisfy hunger.
Inwangsan Sundubu - Sundubu-jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)

16. Inwangsan Sundubu - Sundubu-jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)

A well-loved stew filled with uncurdled tofu, vegetables, and often seafood or meat for a rich flavor profile. It helps travelers find a fulfilling, meatless meal.
  • Spice Level Variety: Choose your preferred level of heat.
  • Comforting Warmth: Ideal for chilly days.
  • Nutritionally Balanced: Contains a variety of ingredients in one bowl.
  • Casual Setting: Simple, unpretentious dining experience.
  • Versatile Options: Several combinations and customizations available.
Hongdae Churros & Jjukkumi - Jjukkumi (Spicy Stir-Fried Baby Octopus)

17. Hongdae Churros & Jjukkumi - Jjukkumi (Spicy Stir-Fried Baby Octopus)

Known more for vibrant nightlife, Hongdae offers spicy baby octopus that will excite your taste buds. The main challenge is finding an adventurous dish.
  • Spicy Adventure: Offers a spice kick for adventure seekers.
  • Texture Delight: Combines chewy octopus with crunchy vegetables.
  • Youthful Vibe: Experience the energetic atmosphere of Hongdae.
  • Street Style: Enjoy casual, informal dining.
  • Pairing Options: Complements well with Korean side dishes and drinks.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village - Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

18. Ikseon-dong Hanok Village - Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

A spot known for its charming traditional Korean houses, offering the spicy and chewy deliciousness of tteokbokki from quaint street stalls. It solves the need for a snack in a picturesque setting.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Beautiful, traditional Korean backdrop.
  • Spicy Favorite: A staple Korean street food with a spicy, sweet kick.
  • Cultural Exploration: Offers a glimpse of Korean tradition amidst modernization.
  • Quick Bite: Perfect for a snack while exploring.
  • Photogenic Area: Ideal for capturing Korean hanok architecture.
Dongdaemun Dakgalbi - Dakgalbi (Spicy Korean Chicken Stir-Fry)

19. Dongdaemun Dakgalbi - Dakgalbi (Spicy Korean Chicken Stir-Fry)

This area offers a delicious stir-fried chicken dish combined with veggies and rice cakes, cooked right at your table. It tackles the challenge of finding an interactive dining experience.
  • Stir-Fry Fun: Cook together with friends and family.
  • Rich Flavor Mix: Sweet and spicy sauce with diverse ingredients.
  • Vibrant Surroundings: Explore the lively Dongdaemun district afterwards.
  • Filling Meal: Offers a satisfying, hearty eating experience.
  • Innovative Dining: Often comes with interesting accompaniments like cheese.
Eulji Myeonok - Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles)

20. Eulji Myeonok - Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles)

Escape the Seoul heat with this refreshing cold noodle dish, ideal in summer. It addresses the need for a meal that's cool and light.
  • Summer Special: Perfect to cool off in warm weather.
  • Unique Texture: Chewy noodles served in a light, tangy broth.
  • Local Favorite: Well-liked spot among Seoul residents.
  • Historic Venue: Long-standing establishment with a traditional recipe.
  • Efficient Service: Fast-paced and customer-friendly staff.
Seorae Maeul - Gogigui (Korean BBQ)

21. Seorae Maeul - Gogigui (Korean BBQ)

Located in the French district, Seorae Maeul delivers delicious Korean BBQ, including beef, pork, and chicken options. The main challenge solved is trying high-quality Korean BBQ in a unique ambiance.
  • International Flavor: Combines Korean BBQ with a French district vibe.
  • Variety of Meats: Offers a wide selection of cuts and flavors.
  • Interactive Dining: Grill your own meat at the table.
  • Chic Environment: Modern interiors with a sophisticated feel.
  • Welcoming Staff: Known for friendly and attentive service.