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Seoul Food Guide — 15 Korean Food and the Best Places to Try It

The ultimate Seoul food guide that’ll make you go mashisoyo! (delicious) 😍

Thanks to the Singapore South-Korea VTL scheme , we not only managed to revel in the country’s gorgeous hikes, iconic attractions and epic day trips but also, indulge in delicious local food.

So we’ve put together this Seoul food guide for all our fellow foodies — things you definitely can’t miss while you’re in town!

Read also: 7D Singapore-South Korea VTL Itinerary Under S$2.9k incl. Covid Expenses

1) Korean Barbeque

What’s a trip to Korea without some authentic KBBQ?

Best eaten traditionally by wrapping the meat in a lettuce leaf, some restaurants even offer eight flavours of samgyeopsal or grilled pork belly — such as wine, ginseng and curry.

But if you’re on a budget or prefer original flavours, Old House Charcoal Meat Restaurant in Hongdae (옛날집 참숯구이) is one of our favourite KBBQ spots.

We loved the thick and juicy pork belly, pork ribs, beef ribs, as well as other side dishes like the fluffy Korean Steamed Egg ( Gyeran Jjim 계란찜). Best part is, it’s open till the wee hours of the morning — perfect for a late dinner or supper!

*Pro-tip:  Book on Klook (min two pax) to skip the queue.

Cost:   From ~S$14 Opening hours:  4PM – 5AM Address:  169-6, Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu (Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 8)

2) Dakgalbi 닭갈비 — Spicy Stir-fried Chicken

Dakgalbi is a spicy stir-fried chicken dish mixed with rice cakes, onions, cabbage and cheese. Or as I like to call it, heaven in a pot.

Hong Chun Cheon Dakgalbi is a restaurant famous for this dish, with many outlets across Korea. Leaving hungry isn’t a possibility — the servings here are huge! But if you’re still feeling peckish, add on cheese fried rice. It comes with seaweed, sesame and of course, loads of cheese.

Cost:  From ₩10,000 (~S$12) Opening hours:   10:30AM – 11PM Address:  Hongik-ro 6-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu (Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 9)

3) Fresh Seafood

Honestly, raw crab meat didn’t sound too appetising at first. But after trying, I couldn’t get enough of it. 🤤

The crabs served at Sunmine Hengbok Gejang in Dongdaemun  (순미네행복게장) are marinated in soy sauce and spicy sauce — no strong fish smell at all! The restaurant also provides aprons so you won’t dirty your clothes while eating.

*Pro-tip: Use the crab shell to scoop some sauce with the meat and eat it directly from the shell. It gives the meat a lot more flavour!

Cost: From ~S$23 Opening hours:  10:30AM – 11PM (Weekdays), 10:30AM – 10:30PM (Weekends) Address:  38 Eulji-ro 43-gil, Euljiro 6 (yuk)-ga, Jung-gu (Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station, Exit 14)

4) Grilled Intestines ( Gopchang 곱창)

Photo credit: Klook

In Korea, gopchang refers to a cattle’s small intestines. Despite how it sounds, it’s actually really delicious.

The chewy salted and seasoned pork intestines come in a generous portion at Aunt’s Grilled Intestines (Gopchang Restaurant) (이모네 곱창) — also available on Klook at a discounted rate!

Cost: From ~S$15 Opening hours:  5PM – 10PM (Closed on Sun) Address:  131-1, Chungmuro 4-ga, Jung-gu (Chungmuro Station, Exit 8)

Read also: 23 Best Things To Eat In Seoul’s Most Popular Districts — Hongdae, Myeongdong, Dongdaemun

5) Dalgona Candy (달고나 캔디)

Popularised by K-drama ‘ Squid Game ‘, dalgona candy is a common snack in Korea made with melted sugar and baking soda.

You can easily find it anywhere on Seoul’s streets. We got ours at a street stall along the famous Myeong-dong shopping street , which comes in a ‘Squid Game’ casing!

Needless to say, we had to buy safety pins (we couldn’t find needles) from a nearby convenience store to try out the game. True to the show, the triangle design took little effort to cut out while the umbrella design cracked under a minute. 😭

Cost:  ₩4,000 (~S$4.60) How to get there:  Myeong-dong Station, Exit 6

6) Sundubu Jjigae 순두부찌개 — Spicy Soft Tofu Stew

Here’s the best dish to warm up your body during winter — spicy soft tofu stew.

Most restaurants serve this Korean staple, but we really loved the stew at this small eatery we chanced upon after hiking Naksan Park .

This cosy shop located near Hyehwa Station serves both affordable and delicious noodles and soups, as well as gimbap (seaweed rice roll). We’re not exactly sure of the shop’s name, but you’ll spot it right beside WANNA COFFEE cafe.

Cost: From ₩5,000 (~S$6) Opening hours:   10AM – 10PM Address:  2 Dongsung 2-gil, Donsung-dong, Jongno-gu (Hyehwa Station, Exit 2)

7) Tteokbokki 떡볶이 — Spicy Rice Cakes

You can find tteokbokki (rice cakes) everywhere in Korea, both in restaurants and street stalls. It’s a popular local snack, perfect for a quick bite as you brave the cold winters!

Most days, we couldn’t resist buying a plate of tteokbokki on our way back home for supper 😆

Cost:  ₩3,000 (~S$3) How to get there: Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station, Exit 1/2 (We got ours at a street stall opposite Dongdaemun Design Plaza)

8) Samgyetang 삼계탕 — Ginseng Chicken Soup

Truly a chicken soup for the Seoul, samgyetang is a Korean traditional ginseng chicken soup meant to help cool down the body during hot and humid weather.

It’s made up of a whole chicken stuffed with garlic, rice and of course, ginseng. Tosokchon Samgyetang is a popular spot for this dish among tourists. It’s near Gyeongbokgung Palace , one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks.

Cost:  From ₩15,000 (~S$17) Opening hours:   10AM – 10PM Address:  5, Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, (Gyeongbokgong Station, Exit 2)

9) Chicken and Beer ( Chimaek 치맥)

Photo credit: @chickentwotwo via Instagram

No Seoul food guide is complete without the ultimate OTP (one true pairing) — chicken and beer 😍

Two Two Chicken is a popular chain with multiple outlets across Korea. Expect a large portion of crispy fried chicken with a variety of flavours such as soybean, teriyaki, garlic and green onion.

We stuck to the original, which was still finger-lickin’ good and juicy on the inside!

Cost:  From ₩17,000 (~S$20) Opening hours:   10AM – 1:30AM Address:  6-4 Namsandong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu (Myeung-dong Station, Exit 3)

10) Budae Jjigae 부대찌개 — Army Stew

Also known as budae jjigae , army stew is a Korean hotpot filled with ramen, noodles, sausages, spam and rice cakes.

Indulge in a free-flow buffet of kimchi , ramen , fries and drinks at Nolboo Budae Jjigae and Cheolpangui restaurant — you’re sure to leave fully satisfied.

Cost:   From ~S$13 Opening hours:  11AM – 11PM Address:  33-43, Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu (Sinchon Station, Exit 2) 

Read also: 7 Korean Dishes You Must Try Outside Seoul – Jeonju, Geoje and Yeosu Edition

11) Bingsu 빙수 — Shaved Ice Dessert

The number one dessert cafe in Korea has got to be Sulbing , which serves one of the best bingsu s (shaved ice dessert)!

You won’t have trouble locating an outlet — there’s more than 400 in Korea. Some bestsellers include the signature Injeolmi Sulbing consisting of shaved milk, red bean and rice cake, as well as Matcha Cocoa for green tea lovers. One serving is plenty for two people to share.

Cost:  From ₩7,000 (~S$8) Opening hours:   10AM – 11PM Address:  20 Myeongdong 10-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu (Myeung-dong Station, Exit 8)

12) Bibimbap 비빔밥 — Korean Rice Bowl

Photo credit: Myeongdongjeong

You can’t leave Korea without having bibimbap — a rice bowl mixed with seasoned vegetables and meat.

At Myeongdongjeong , feast on bibimbap like royalty in your very own private dining area. Feeling a little extra? Purchase the set meal on Klook — you’ll get to wear a hanbok while dining.

Cost:   From ~S$29 (2pax set) Opening hours:  11AM – 4PM (Lunch), 5PM – 11PM (Dinner) Address:  Seong Chang Building 1F (Parking lot beside Sejong Hotel), 299, Samil-daero, Jung-gu (Myeong-dong Station, Exit 10)

13) Pancakes ( Jeon 전)

Nothing beats freshly made Korean pancakes at the street stalls found along Sinpo International Market . We were surprised at how fluffy yet crispy the pancakes were, compared to the ones we usually eat in cafes!

The market has a history of over 100 years. Besides mung bean pancakes, it’s also known for dakgangjeong — a fried chicken dish glazed with sweet and spicy sauce.

Cost:  ₩1,000 per piece (~S$1) Opening hours:   10:30AM – 11PM (Weekdays), 10:30AM – 10:30PM (Weekends) Address:  11-5, Uhyeon-ro 49beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon (Dongincheon Station, Exit 2)

14) Traditional Korean Tea and Dessert

After working up an appetite from shopping at Insadong , treat yourself to tea and desserts in a cosy cafe!

What sets Banjak Banjak Bitnaneu apart from other cafes in the area is that it’s a traditional Korean tea house famous for handmade tea. Besides tea, there’s also fruit smoothies and desserts like rice cakes and bingsu .

Cost: From ~S$8 Opening hours:  11AM – 10:30PM Address:  28-1 Insadong-gil, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu (Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 5)

15) Jeju Green Tea and Giant Pastries at Starbucks

Here’s something you probably can’t find in a Singapore Starbucks: Malcha (green tea, yes it’s spelt that way) latte from an organic farm in Jeju.

For someone who doesn’t really like green tea, the malcha or green tea latte was surprisingly my favourite drink on the menu. I loved how it doesn’t give off a very strong tea taste but rather, blends nicely with milk to create a really creamy taste.

The pastries were also considerably larger than in Singapore, with a thick and crispy crust!

Cost:  From ₩6,100 (~S$7) Opening hours:   9AM – 8PM How to get there: There’s a Starbucks outlet everywhere in Seoul

Bonus: Convenience Store Snacks

Convenience stores can be found at almost every corner in Korea. It’s here you’ll find some pretty interesting snacks!

Like the famous banana milk drink which comes in different flavours — vanilla, honey and strawberry. Or the super addictive corn chip snacks. And of course, spicy ramyeon is a must-have for late-night supper!

Cost:  From ₩1,500 (~S$2) Convenience stores to look out for: GS25, emart24, CU

Read also: 15 Korean Food You Must Eat in Seoul

Korean Phrases to Know Before You Go

It’s always helpful to learn the local language as some restaurants don’t have English menus. Here are some commonly used phrases:

While there’s no doubt Singapore is a food paradise , feasting in South Korea is always something we enjoy. There’s both familiar favourites and unique dishes you can’t find anywhere else — and we can’t wait to return to try them all 🤩

Foodies — check out these food guides for inspiration on your next trip: – Shanghai Food Guide — 15 Mouth-Watering Dishes You Won’t Regret – Ultimate Hong Kong Food Guide: 50 Best Eats Incl. Halal Food – Okinawa Food Guide — From the Unusual to the Unapologetically Delicious

What’s your favourite dish in this Seoul food guide? Share with us in the comments below!

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• The 29 Essential Restaurants in Busan, South Korea
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The 38 Essential Seoul Restaurants

From a luxe barbecue feast at an exclusive basement counter, to fried chicken and spicy rice cakes at an old school beer bar, here’s where to eat in Seoul

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Seoul’s food traditions extend back centuries, from the hearty bowls of seolleongtang (ox bone soup) found in cozy restaurants to the simple vegan fare of Buddhist temples. But the Korean capital’s dining scene has experienced a sea change in the last decade, as chefs look both outward and inward to keep up with customers’ evolving tastes and expectations.

The new modern Korean cuisine started at renowned fine dining spots like Mingles, where chef Mingoo Kang combines traditional ingredients with Western cooking techniques, and the global approach has proliferated through casual eateries and bars. Many of the city’s star chefs who had been working overseas, like Mosu’s Sung Ahn, also returned home during the pandemic, bringing international experiences and tastes back with them. Drink menus typically dominated by soju and beer have expanded to include wine, sake, and cocktails, while standout bars such as Charles H and Bar Cham have elevated Seoul’s drinking scene to worldwide recognition.

The country’s own cuisine is also thriving. Korean barbecue has entered a new heyday, as chefs continue to explore ways to improve the experience with better ingredients and services. Young craft distillers have also attracted attention for new takes on old Korean spirits, gaining exposure thanks to a slew of restaurants and pubs interested in redefining traditions. And, after some classic businesses succumbed to the pandemic, long-time powerhouses of the Seoul dining scene are getting more affection now than ever. A bowl of simple warm noodles and a cold beer at an old standby restaurant just hits differently.

The Culinary Studio of the research institute Onjium showcases Korean food culture through a refined multi-course menu in their Michelin-starred restaurant. The institute’s mission, “making modern things more dignified by taking inspiration from the past,” is appropriate for dishes that take inspiration from historical regional recipes on the verge of disappearing. Cho Eun-hee, a certified Korean royal court cuisine trainee, leads the kitchen alongside researcher Park Seong-bae. A dining room overlooking the beautiful stonewalls of Gyeongbokgung Palace adds to the sense of heritage.

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Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu specializes in Pyongyang-style kalguksu (hand-cut noodles). The star of the menu is sagol kalguksu, a hearty bowl of noodles in thick beef bone broth with pumpkin, mushrooms, and green onions for garnish; the subtle sweetness from the vegetables nicely mingles with the umami of the broth. In the summer, try the special kongguksu, noodles in cold broth made from ground soybeans, sesame, and various nuts. No matter the time of year, order a side of the soft, meaty dumplings for the table.

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Wind your way through the alleys of Seochon until you come across the unassuming hanoak (traditional Korean house) that houses Bar Cham. There, award-winning bartender Lim Byung-jin serves uniquely Korean signature cocktails, each named for the region that produced the local spirit featured in the drink. The interior, which goes hard on oak (or “cham” in Korean), is cozy and relaxing. Bar Cham made the 2022 Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, and there are various non-alcoholic cocktail options just as delicious as their alcoholic counterparts.

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When a restaurant advertises itself as a “landmark,” it’s almost always a letdown, but the claim is justified in the case of Anju Maeul. The cozy wooden space is always full of drinkers, and there used to be an eternal line of people waiting for their turn by the door; there’s now a kiosk that takes reservations and alerts you via text. The star on the handwritten menu is seasonal seafood. Be sure to try the seasonal sashimi, and the tofu topped with salted herring roe is a fan favorite. Don’t hold back when you order; some items sell out in minutes, so you may not have a second chance.

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Kkot, Bape Pida

At Kkot, Bape Pida (Flower Blossom on the Rice) in Insa-dong, 95 percent of the ingredients for the vegetable-heavy menu are sourced directly from certified organic farms. Vegetable jeon (pancakes) and fresh salads with perilla dressing are delicious without the help of any artificial additives, but the signature item is bibimbap elegantly wrapped in a yellow egg bojagi (wrap). While not everything on the menu is vegan, there are enough options to make a vegan meal, along with a variety of high-quality traditional liquors. In recognition of its work toward a sustainable planet, the restaurant received a Green Star from the Michelin Guide in 2021.

Named the best bar in Korea on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list in 2022, Charles H is a speakeasy discreetly hidden away in the lower level of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. After passing through a secret passage, guests find a glamorous interior suited for a lux hotel bar with decor inspired by Korea’s traditional metal ornaments. The cocktail list contains classics and original creations inspired by Charles H. Baker, the eponymous bon vivant who wrote the classic cocktail book The Gentleman’s Companion .

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Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang is Korea’s largest hanbok (traditional clothing) and textile market, but it also happens to be the oldest street food market in the country, filled with food stalls boasting a wide array of dishes. See something you like? Just grab a seat and start ordering. Look out for yukhoe (Korean beef tartare with sesame oil and Asian pear) and bindaetteok (fried mung bean pancakes).

Tucked away in an alley in Euljiro, Eunjujeong originally specialized in pork belly, but it’s become famous for its kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), a lunchtime special and a side on dinner orders of pork belly. Pots filled with uncooked pork and spicy, tangy kimchi wait for guests at each table; they cook up in minutes, but keep yours simmering longer to make the broth even tastier. Eunjujeong uniquely offers ssam, an assortment of leafy vegetables, to wrap chunky pieces of meat from the jjigae, and there is a vending machine where you can purchase different noodles to add to your broth. Be careful about making plans after a meal, as the pungent smell of kimchi jjigae can linger on guests for hours.

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Wooraeok has been serving delicious Korean barbecue in Seoul since 1946, but the restaurant is also well known for its Pyongyang naengmyeon (Pyongyang-style cold buckwheat noodles). While most versions of this dish feature a subtle broth — often derided as bland — Wooraeok’s version is meatier and more flavorful, making it suitable for first-timers.

Born and Bred

Born and Bred is a three-story paradise for hanwoo aficionados. The three above-ground floors operate as different concepts: a butcher shop, a private dining space, and a casual restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional barbecue meal. While the casual restaurant promises a superb experience, try your luck securing a spot at the exclusive basement counter. The meal features just about every cut of Korean beef and it’s become a benchmark for countless high-end barbecue restaurants.

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Also featured in:

The 14 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Seoul

Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai

Among Yeonnam-dong’s vibrant streets you’ll find Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai, where Thai chefs have served the area for over a decade. The interior is decorated with items that owner Im Donghyuk and the team brought from Thailand. Try a handful of dishes and chase them down with ice-cold Thai beers, or something from the selection of Champagne and natural wines. Sister restaurant Soi Yeonnam Mao in Gangnam is another excellent option with a smaller menu featuring Tuk Tuk’s greatest hits.

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Euljiro Boseok

The newtro (a portmanteau of “new” and “retro”) trend is responsible for the hipster takeover of the old neighborhood of Euljiro, where the narrow alleys have filled with a unique mixture of old and new restaurants and shops. Euljiro Boseok, a Korean bar and one of the forerunners of the trend, serves creative recipes using fresh, familiar ingredients. The most iconic dish is the spicy octopus capellini seasoned with perilla oil, though the prawn minari jeon (pancake) is also a must-try. Despite the Korean-style food, Boseok skips the usual Korean liquors like soju or makgeolli for a selection of Japanese sake and natural wine. The bar counter only seats 20, so make a reservation via Instagram DM.

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When it comes to gomtang, a Korean beef soup traditionally served to the king, not many do it better than Hadongkwan. Gomtang has been the only item on the restaurant’s menu since it opened its doors in 1939, but you can customize your order with different cuts of meat such as brisket or tripe. Order at the door as you walk in and you’ll get your bowl almost right away. Don’t be alarmed when it arrives lukewarm; that’s how it’s always been served, even to royalty. Add leek, salt, and kimchi to taste at your table, and enjoy your cheap, quick, hearty lunch or breakfast.

Coffee Libre

For over a decade, Coffee Libre has pioneered the specialty coffee market in Korea. These days, the operation buys beans directly from over 100 farms in 12 countries, roasts them in Korea, and supplies more than 400 cafes in the country. Beyond supplying others, the brand has four of its own stores, including the main location in Yeonnam. Coffee Libre’s latte, made with an acidic double shot of espresso and warm milk, has become the standard for specialty coffee shops in Korea.

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Geumdwaeji Sikdang

Although Geumdwaeji has been open for just over six years, it is currently the barbecue restaurant in town, especially when it comes to pork belly. Even during the pandemic, Geumdwaeji received global recognition for being a frequent dinner spot of celebrities, including members of BTS. Aged and cooked on a cast iron grill over briquettes, Geumdwaeji’s pork is juicy and rich, with a chewy texture — everything you look for in a perfect bite. Meanwhile the tangy, meaty kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) is so popular that Nongshim, Korea’s leading manufacturer of instant noodles, recently launched a collaboration with Geumdwaeji. They do not take reservations, so be prepared to wait an hour or two by the door.

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Miro sikdang.

Every hike should end with homestyle Korean dishes and a drink like it does when you make the journey up to Miro Sikdang, a small pub-like Korean restaurant located on a hill near Hongik University. With a keen eye for exceptional ingredients, chef Seungjae Park creates simple yet delicious dishes like bulgogi, seafood scallion pancakes, and a spicy whelk salad with Spam.

JinMi Sikdang

For over a decade, JinMi Sikdang in Mapo has been proudly serving a single item: ganjang gejang, a lesser known Korean delicacy of soy-marinated crab. JinMi uses only the highest quality blue crabs from Korea’s west coast. The walls are full of traces of celebrities who have visited over the years. It is possible to walk in, but reservations are highly recommended, as they may run out of crabs even before dinner time.

Yooyongwook Barbecue Lab

Many people dream of quitting their jobs to chase their cooking dreams, but Yoo Yong-wook actually did it. Yoo’s weekend barbecue parties on his family farm became the most coveted social dining experience in town thanks to social media; even celebrities were reaching out for a seat at the table. So finally, after six years of serving friends, in 2020 he decided to leave his corporate job and open a restaurant. Inside a moody 120-year-old arcade building, Yooyongwook Barbecue Lab serves a nine-course meal centered on barbecue techniques. As the name implies, Yoo (who goes by lab director rather than chef) strives to develop new recipes using wood fire and smoke, like his signature beef rib inspired by Korean soy sauce-based seasoning. You’ll need a reservation a few months out and some luck to dine.

Somunnan Gamjatang

Once filled with factories, Seongsu-dong now bustles with trendy cafes, restaurants, and pop-up stores. Despite the rapid and drastic changes in the area, some timeless classics remain, like Somunnan Gamjatang (famous gamjatang), which serves the eponymous savory red stew of pork bones and potatoes. Soju is unavoidable and don’t forget to add on sujebi, fresh hand-pulled dough that’s roughly torn straight into the hot broth at the table. While tang dishes are meant to be shared between two or more people, there is also a singular portion option of gamjaguk (potato soup), so don’t be afraid to visit alone. It’s always crowded and loud, so not the best option for those who want to enjoy a conversation over their meal.

Fritz Coffee Company

Award-winning baristas, a dedicated buyer for green coffee beans, and a famed baker joined forces to start Fritz Coffee Company, which is seated in a beautiful old space that was once a Korean barbecue restaurant. The coffee powerhouse imports beans directly from producers around the world and roasts them in-house. The bread and pastries, freshly baked every morning by famed baker Minsu Heo, are the pairing that Seoul’s best cup of coffee deserves.

Bawi Pasta Bar

Fresh pasta is having a moment in Korea, and Bawi Pasta Bar is at the center of the trend. Chef Kim Hyun-Joong started the business as a one-man operation in a deserted alley, pressing dough into noodles to order. His early hit, mint pistachio pesto, has become a cult favorite, along with others like squid ink pasta topped with caviar. Although Bawi has relocated to a newer, bigger venue, Kim still cooks alone for the most part for the eight-seat counter, and much of his 10-course dinners unfold in front of guests’ eyes. The calm black interior and excellent playlist add a zen-like ambiance that wouldn’t be out of place at a high-end Japanese restaurant. Reservations through Catchtable, a local reservation app, are a must — though very hard to come by.

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Chef Sung Ahn opened Mosu San Francisco in 2015 and was awarded a Michelin star the following year for innovative dishes that built on his career in Japanese and French kitchens. But in 2017, Ahn closed the restaurant and permanently relocated back to his motherland to open Mosu Seoul, where he surprised guests with elegant dishes that creatively interpret Korean ingredients, like burdock tarte tatin, almond tofu, and hearth-grilled hanwoo. The high-ceiling space is cozy, the service is top-notch, and the prestigious wine program, handled by award-winning sommelier Jinbeom Kim, is the finest in Korea. It didn’t take long for Mosu to return to the Michelin Guide at its new location, attaining two stars in 2020.

Right from its debut in 2019, Mongtan established itself as Korea’s quintessential barbecue spot for a unique experience. The signature udae galbi (long beef rib) is a real crowd-pleaser. It’s first cooked in the kitchen over a blazing straw fire — which might seem like a gimmick but gives the meat its distinctive aroma and flavor — before it’s seared over sizzling-hot metal pot lids at the table to finish. Complete your meal with naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) or onion fried rice. Always expect to wait at least a couple of hours, unless you’re one of the lucky few who manage to score an online reservation (available only on weekdays).

Seoul’s first natural wine bar, Big Lights, played a significant role in today’s natural wine craze in Korea. The wine bar opened in 2017 as a semi-private bar that only took reservations through referrals — thankfully, that’s not the case anymore. Its new location functions as part of the showroom for Danish furniture brand Fritz Hansen, with furniture and lighting by the retailer. The wine list lives up to the hype, and the food cooked using wood fire is also top-notch. Keep an eye on their Instagram for occasional wine tastings, when rare wines are sometimes sold by the glass at reasonable prices.

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Hannamdong Hanbang Tongdak

At Hannamdong Hanbang Tongdak, 30-day-old chickens are marinated in a broth of Korean medicinal herbs (licorice, cinnamon, etc.) and slowly roasted over a wood fire rotisserie-style. The result is crispy, sweet skin encasing meat that is juicy and seasoned to the core. The chickens are a little small (so order one per person), but they’re quite substantial, stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujube, and ginkgo. Try topping it off with a piece of kimchi to cut through the hefty flavors and pairing with a draft beer, which always goes well with a good chicken. Go around 5 p.m., when they open on weekdays, to avoid the multi-hour wait that builds up later in the evening.

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Tteok (rice cake) is a typical Korean snack that comes in many shapes and forms, but Dosuhyang specializes in a less common variety, North Korean-style injeolmi. Workers form each one by hand from mortar-crushed glutinous rice and red bean paste, giving the rice cakes a rustic aesthetic complete with finger marks. The taste is delicate, subtle, and not too sweet. While walk-ins are welcome, make a reservation over the phone to secure some of the limited quantities produced every day.

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Tartine Bakery Dosan

Chad Robertson’s San Francisco icon, Tartine Bakery, chose Seoul as its second home, opening its first global outpost in 2018; the city now has six locations. The Dosan branch shares space with Kinfolk Lounge, the independent lifestyle magazine’s first physical space, in a two-story glass-walled building that boasts a beautiful seating area with a courtyard and a terrace. Enjoy Tartine classics such as sourdough and banana cream pie with specialty coffee while reading a Kinfolk magazine. The space also hosts various pop-ups and exhibitions, so check out the website for current events.

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With access to fresh seafood and the rich cultural influence of Japan, Seoul is home to some of the finest sushi outside of Japan. There are options at all price points, from cheap lunch boxes to high-end sushi, but many cite Kojima as the best in Korea. Located on top of luxury clothing store Boon the Shop, the restaurant is led by chef Kyung Jae Park, one of Seoul’s most respected sushi veterans, who gained a following while training at the Shilla Hotel’s Ariake and then cemented his reputation at his first restaurant, Sushi Chohi.

Chef Kim Geon, who won a Michelin star for his restaurant Goryori Ken in 2022, also runs this casual Japanese izakaya where you’ll find a lengthy menu of traditional Japanese bar food in a relaxed atmosphere. Start with the bacon-spangled potato salad and a cold draft beer, soju, or sake while deciding the rest of your order. The signature sashimi moriawase collects the season’s best fish, including yellowtail, mackerel, and scallops, with each piece prepared and aged according to its characteristics to ensure maximum flavor. Another popular classic is Fukuoka-style mackerel fried rice, a satisfyingly salty and complex rice dish with shredded grilled mackerel, shiso, and umeboshi. While walk-ins are accepted, call ahead to check for availability.

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Since 1989, Han Chu has been the best place for draft beer in Apgujeong. The old drinking spot, at the end of the trendy streets of Garosu-gil, is always crowded with people enjoying cold beer and some fried chicken after a long day at work. Gochu twigim (deep-fried stuffed peppers) and tteok-bokki (spicy rice cake) are also excellent drinking companions.

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While Seoul is home to a lot of high-end Japanese dining, Mitou stands out for its original kaiseki courses using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Japan-trained chefs Kwon Young-woon and Kim Bo-mi head the elegant and refined space comprised of an eight-seat counter and a private room. The restaurant is always booked months in advance.

Critically acclaimed restaurant Mingles shows the future of contemporary Korean dining. For almost a decade, chef Mingoo Kang’s innovative style — applying modern techniques and ingredients to Korean tradition — has continued to redefine the possibilities of the cuisine. From the warm, minimalist wooden interior to beautiful serveware created by local craftsmen, Mingles feels modern and traditional at the same time. The unconventional beverage program, which marries wines and Korean liquors, also elevates the experience.

Hansung Kalguksu

Opened in 1983, Hansung Kalguksu is, as the name suggests, a beloved kalguksu (hand-cut noodles) restaurant. Hansung’s version is relatively simple, with clean beef broth and zucchini for topping. Although a good bowl of noodles always satisfies, Hanseong is a popular drinking spot known for its wide variety of dishes. Diners come to have a good time with chilled drinks and classic items such as hanwoo suyuk (boiled hanwoo beef), jeyuk (boiled pork), modeum jeon (assorted fritters including shrimp, oysters, and fish), and mandu (dumplings). Nakji-bokkeum, spicy stir-fried octopus, is a popular option, but the pro move is to tweak your order by adding kalguksu noodles. Keep in mind the restaurant closes on Saturdays but opens on Sundays.

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JinMi Pyongyang Naengmyeon

North Korea’s traditional dish, Pyongyang naengmyeon (often shortened to “Pyongnaeng”) has become one of Seoul’s most beloved cold dishes for its subtle, clear broth and chewy buckwheat noodles. While some classic Pyongnaeng houses have stood for decades, JinMi has proven to be a strong new competitor, thanks to chef Yim Se-Kwon, who has 20 years of experience in some of the most iconic Pyongnaeng restaurants. The restaurant is also great for other classic items like mandoo (dumplings), bulgogi, and jeyuk (boiled pork belly), and JinMi’s eobok-jaengban (North Korean-style beef hotpot) with layers of meat and clear broth is a well-known favorite among Seoul’s bar crowd.

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This small Italian gelato shop keeps the city’s sweet-lovers happy with gourmet offerings using local fruits and vegetables, fresh nuts, and grains. Popular signature flavors include rice, honey with Gorgonzola, and gamtae (seaweed) caramel. The menu lineup changes every month; look out for seasonal flavors like corn, watermelon, and chestnut.

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Joongang Haejang

Seoul never sleeps, and many restaurants are open 24 hours to shelter the hungry souls wandering the city, including Joongang Haejang. The signature gopchang jeongol (beef intestine hotpot) perfectly balances savory intestines and spicy broth, ideal for a late-night feast or for remedying a hangover the next day. The fast turnover rate at the restaurant allows them to source the freshest ingredients from the market. While most items are sized for sharing, the individual-sized soups also provide a hearty meal.

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Korea’s leading French dessert shop is operated by husband and wife patissier duo Otsuka Tetsuya and Min-sun Lee. The two met at Pierre Herme Paris in Tokyo, where Tetsuya served as executive chef and Lee as pastry chef. Using techniques accumulated in France and Japan, the two patissiers offer more than 50 high-quality desserts both classic and innovative, including pastries, cookies, and cakes. Maison M’O is often credited for popularizing madeleines in Korea, offering them in flavors like lemon, salted chocolate, and chestnut. If you can’t make it to the patisserie in Bangbae-dong, pick up some sweets online or at Blue Bottle Coffee locations across Korea.

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Chef Jo Woo-Ram worked for five years at Maison Verot, a famous charcuterie restaurant in Paris, before opening ​​Maison Jo, Seoul’s leading French charcuterie house. The takeout menu of high-quality charcuteries includes pate, terrine, and saucisson, all made from Korean ingredients, as well as baguettes and other French breads and pastries made by patissier Lee Eunhee. Maison Jo’s jambon-beurre — a generous amount of butter and jambon blanc stuffed between slices of housemade baguette — is one of the city’s best sandwiches. You can also pick up premium European groceries such as olive oil, vinegar, and various natural wines.

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THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Seoul

Restaurants in seoul, establishment type, online options & offers, traveler rating, michelin guide, dietary restrictions, restaurant features, neighborhood.

• Kyochon Chicken Dongdaemun 1
• Jyoti Indian Restaurant
• Buddha's Belly
• Daol Charcoal Grill
• Han-gong-gan
• Mugyodong Bugeokukjib
• Casablanca Sandwicherie
• Jonny Dumpling

All the best places to eat in Seoul, a foodie’s playground

Aug 31, 2022 • 12 min read

From traditional eats to high-end fare, Seoul is a foodie’s dream © Kosamtu / iStock / Getty Images

Just like Seoul itself, the South Korean capital’s culinary scene brings together the best of the entire country – and beyond.

Foodies will find restaurants serving regional recipes from the provinces, neighborhood markets slinging nostalgic snacks, high-end chefs innovating with local and international flavors and young restaurateurs bringing passion to independent pubs and patisseries.

Whether you’re after Michelin-starred cuisine or just something cheap and filling, Seoul has something for every kind of craving. Here are Seoul’s must-visit restaurants.

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Best cheap eats in Seoul

For a cosmopolitan metropolis, Seoul is an easy place to eat on the cheap – as long as you stick to Korean food. Fierce competition keeps prices reasonable, and culinary tradition means that side dishes are always both free and bottomless. Low prices do not equate to bad food: you can eat very, very well for just a few thousand won, a blessing at a time when travel costs have spiked. 

Diving into South Korea’s hole-in-the-wall restaurants

Savor the stews at Ttukbaegi-Jip

Tucked on a back street just south of the popular Insa-dong neighborhood, humble Ttukbaegi-Jip has been dishing out homely Korean stews and meals for decades. For only ₩6000–7000, you’re served your choice of stew, rice and an array of homemade side dishes like mixed soybean sprouts and sauteed zucchini. Eat them separately or mix them together to make bibimbap – and top it off with the homemade gochujang (red pepper paste) on every table.

Tteokbokki’s the thing at Kokkiri Bunsik

Tteokbokki (rice cakes cooked in a spicy and sweet gochujang -based sauce) is a classic Korean snack. Near Mapo Station, Kokkiri Bunsik offers a no-frills, table-side variety where you can customize your basic tteokbokki with hard-boiled eggs or glass-noodle-filled fried dumplings. Tteokbokki for two starts at just ₩2500, with add-ons each costing just one or two thousand more.

Hail a ride to Songlim Sikdang

Originally used by taxi drivers because they were fast and cheap, “taxi restaurants” are now popular dining spots for everyone. Only a couple of blocks from Konkuk University, Songlim Sikdang is one of Seoul’s largest taxi restaurants, with more than 300 seats. The soups and stews here are all inexpensive – just ₩7500 – and come with rice and side dishes. A favorite menu option is the marinated pork (₩9000), which comes in a large broth-filled pan for you to cook at your table.

Yoojin Sikdang is a longtime stalwart

Though much has changed in the Jongno neighborhood – new skyscrapers have risen, and old homes have become trendy cafes – decades-old Yoojin Sikdang remains the same. Its Pyongyang-style naengmyeon (a cold noodle dish), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), soups and stews are some of the cheapest around town, ranging from ₩6000 to ₩15,000 – so expect a crowd at this eatery on the north side of historic Tapgol Park .

Best high-end dining in Seoul

Seoul chefs are working hard to elevate the level of the city’s haute cuisine. Many of Seoul’s most exciting talents have trained internationally and play at combining Korean and Western cuisines and techniques, while others are finding ways to take humble traditional recipes to new heights. With hansik (Korean food) now popular worldwide, it’s an exciting time to taste how it’s being elevated in its birthplace.

Enjoy elevated Korean preparations at Poom

Poom takes traditional gourmet Korean dishes and reinterprets them with a modern twist. The seasonal menu means the chefs here use only the best ingredients. Its meat and seafood dishes, such as the grilled and marinated beef, are standouts and akin to what would have once been served to Korea’s royalty. The restaurant is located in the posh Cheongdam neighborhood, the playground for movie stars, K-pop idols and other members of Seoul’s glitterati – which is why lunches come in at around ₩200,000, and dinners ₩300,000.

Korean and Western flavors combine at Mingles

As its name suggests, this fine-dining establishment in the Apgujeong neighborhood aims to “mingle” the flavors of Korean and Western cuisines. Traditional Korean ingredients such as soybean paste and mugwort are married beautifully and unexpectedly with lamb and crème brûlée, pushing modern Korean cuisine into new territory. The nine-course lunch menu is around ₩150,000, while the 11-course dinner menu costs ₩250,000.

Toc Toc will surprise your taste buds

With ingredients and flavors from a variety of cuisines, it’s hard to put a label on Toc Toc . Familiar dishes such as pasta, terrine and steak take on unexpected flavors, while signature dishes like the truffle dumplings have to put the Gangnam District hotspot on the foodie map. With tasting menus starting at just ₩90,000 for weekday lunch, Toc Toc is also a relatively affordable place to sample haute cuisine in Seoul.

Best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Seoul

South Korea can sometimes be a tough place for vegetarians and vegans to navigate. These diets aren’t widespread in the country, and many foods that seem to be plant-based actually include ingredients like anchovy broth or salted shrimp. Thankfully, it’s less tough than it used to be, and Seoul in particular is home to numerous places offering plant-based menus.

Plant Cafe serves up international vegan fare

One of the first vegan restaurants in Seoul to offer plant-based options beyond Korean cuisine,  Plant Cafe , with locations in  Itaewon and Yeonnam, offers tasty vegan bowls, veggie burgers and wraps, most priced between ₩10,000 and ₩15,000. Its vegan drink options include everything from smoothies and cold-pressed juices to teas and kombucha. The vegan bakery serves up cakes, cookies and other tasty baked treats.

The food has a Buddhist twist at Sanchon

Korea’s Buddhist vegetarian cuisine has gained international exposure in recent years. Aside from visiting a temple, dining at Sanchon is one of the most popular ways to sample this unique fare, which omits ingredients such as garlic and chives.

Located in the Insadong neighborhood, Sanchon was established by a former Buddhist monk with a focus on seasonal ingredients and traditional methods of preparation – and its humble setting and colorful plate presentation have made the place a hit. Lunch and dinner set menus are both ₩33,000, with traditional Korean music and dance performances taking place in the evenings.

Vegan fare goes upscale at Balwoo Gongyang

Despite its modern setting, Balwoo Gongyang ’s menu is filled with traditional Korean Buddhist dishes that refrain from meat and certain roots such as shallots and leeks. The homemade sauces and pastes are paired with the freshest of seasonal ingredients to create well-balanced dishes like pumpkin-and-millet porridge and deep-fried mushrooms with gochujang sauce. Tasting menus range from ₩30,000 to ₩150,000.

Fuel up in between rounds at Drunken Vegan

As the name suggests, Drunken Vegan restaurant and bar is perfect for those looking for some vegan snacks and food to go with a nice selection of drinks. The vegan lasagna and vegan fish-and-chips, both ₩18,000, are crowd-pleasers. Typically of the Hongdae neighborhood, the space is cozy, yet the atmosphere is casual and socially forward. The restaurant/bar is LGBTQI-friendly, and shares space with an adult store.

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Best Korean barbecue in Seoul

Korean barbecue is one of the most fun eating experiences you’ll find anywhere in the world. Cooking pork belly or beef ribs at your table, combining the sizzling meat with a myriad of side dishes so that every bite is different, then washing it all down with ice-cold beer or soju: it’s no wonder this is the preferred meal for a night out with friends, for Koreans and visitors alike.

Get a taste of Gangwon-do at Ogeunnae Dak Galbi

Tender cuts of chicken in a sweet-and-spicy marinade are cooked to juicy perfection at the famous Ogeunnae Dak Galbi , located in the Yongsan District. This restaurant is the best place (apart from the Chuncheon region, where the dish originated) to eat the popular dak galbi (chicken and vegetables stir-fried in a red pepper paste-based sauce). (One order is ₩14,000.) Eat the chicken and veggies on their own, or pair them with a bowl of cold buckwheat noodles for ₩8000 for the ultimate Gangwon-do Province dinner.

You’ll find the beef at Daedo Sikdang

Started in 1964, Daedo Sikdang is a Korean barbecue institution. At the original branch near Wangsimni Station (and Seoul’s largest meat market) as well as at branches in the Sinsa and Mapo neighborhoods, you’ll hear the sizzle of the well-marbled hanwoo (Korean beef) sirloin cooking in the restaurant’s trademark cast-iron pan. This is high-quality beef, with a price tag to match – an order of the sirloin will set you back a hefty ₩46,000. Forget dessert and cap off your meal by ordering the famous kkakdugi-bokkeumbap – diced radish kimchi and rice stir-fried to perfection in beef renderings.

The protein comes from the sea at Getbeol Eui Jinju

This lively restaurant chain grills fresh seafood such as scallops, clams and shrimp right at your table. If you don’t feel like barbecuing, opt to have your seafood steamed or cooked together in a soup. With sauces on the side, it’s a nice break from the common barbecued meat. Plan on a bill between ₩30,000 and ₩70,000.

Impress your date at Maple Tree House

This upscale chain of Korean barbecue restaurants is a good option when you’re looking to impress. Watch as prime cuts of meat – including Jeju-do black pork belly (₩19,900) and aged hanwoo strip loin (₩49,500) – are expertly cooked at your table. Dishes like bibimbap (rice with meat and cooked vegetables), kimchi stew and cold noodles can be enjoyed on their own or added to your barbecue meal. The original Maple Tree House is located in the leafy Samcheong neighborhood; you’ll also find branches in Itaewon and Gangnam.

Best traditional marketplaces in Seoul

Wherever you travel, traditional markets are the best place to go for authentic flavors on the cheap. And Seoul has some great ones, where locals and tourists alike come to fill up on noodles, street snacks, seafood and lots, lots more.

Try Namdaemun Market for noodles and fish stew

This sprawling market complex next to Namdaemun Gate has a number of notable food alleys. One is the alley for  kalguksu (knife-cut noodles), where patrons get free bibim naengmyeon (cold noodles in a spicy-sweet sauce) and kalguksu with any order of bibimbap.

For something you’ll likely be hard-pressed to find outside Korea, try the alley specializing in braised hairtail fish, where the specimens are cooked to tender perfection in a traditional pot filled with radish and a spicy-sweet sauce. Other popular snacks around the market include fist-sized handmade dumplings and hotteok – fried mini cakes filled with a choice of a sweet or savory filling.

Eat your way through Gwangjang Market

One of the nation’s oldest traditional markets, Gwangjang Market is a vast downtown complex known for selling a variety of tasty and cheap food. Some popular eats here include kkoma kimbap (small seaweed rolls dipped in a mustard soy sauce) and yukhoe (beef tartare). Gwangjang is most famous for its bindaetteok , fried mung-bean pancakes that are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. They’re perfect when paired with a bottle of makgeolli , a cloudy unrefined rice wine.

Build your own lunch box at Tongin Market 

Small and traditional, Tongin Market , in the old Seochon neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , has quickly become a draw for its unique build-your-own lunch box system. After paying a small flat fee of ₩5000, you’ll receive a compartmentalized lunch tray with some old traditional coins. As you walk around the market, picking out what you want, a vendor will place the food onto your tray and take the number of coins it costs. Repeat until you run out of coins. Be sure to try the gireum tteokbokki ( tteokbokki that’s stir-fried in oil), a market specialty.

If you love fish, you can’t miss Noryangjin Seafood Market

The seafood offerings at Noryangjin , Seoul’s largest fish market, are some of the most diverse and fresh you’ll find. As you browse the different vendors to see what’s available, your haggling skills will be useful here. You should also (politely) ask whether the vendor is willing to throw in a few freebies. Once the seller completes the initial seafood preparation, you’ll likely be directed to an associated restaurant where you can have your freshly purchased seafood prepared just the way you like. The restaurant will apply a small service charge in addition to what you paid for your fish. 

Best free things to do in Seoul  

Best noodle restaurants in Seoul

There’s nothing as satisfying as a good bowl of noodles, an essential element of Korean cuisine. And Seoul has no shortage of places to slurp them up, in every variety from hot noodle soups and Chinese-influenced black-bean sauce noodles to cold North Korean noodles in a chilled broth. 

Myeongdong Kyoja specializes in knife-cut noodles

In operation since 1966, Myeongdong Kyoja  in the eponymous Myeongdong neighborhood, specializes in kalguksu , knife-cut noodles topped with stir-fried vegetables and meat in a savory chicken broth. While kalguksu is usually made with seafood or beef broth, the dish here has a slight smoky yet light flavor, and its signature kimchi is a garlic-lover’s dream come true. Steamed dumplings and a popular cold mixed noodle are also on the menu. All dishes are in the ₩10,000 range.

Try Younghwaru if you like your noodles spicy

Located in the Seochon neighborhood, Younghwaru has been around for more than half a century. The Chinese-influenced dishes of jjajangmyeon (noodles with meat and vegetables cooked in a black bean sauce) and jjamppong (noodles in a spicy seafood broth) are favorites of Koreans, and Younghwaru’s spicy versions are Seoul classics. Both dishes include a generous amount of chopped Cheongyang peppers, a Korean chili pepper known for its heat. A bowl of jjajangmyeon here costs ₩7000, while jjamppong is ₩8000.

Wooraeok offers Pyongyang-style noodles

The soothingly bland dish Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) takes on new life at Wooraeok, near Euljiro-4-ga Station. A distinct and robust beefiness has made its Pyongyang naengmyeon  (₩16,000) a year-round favorite for locals since the spot opened in 1946. Pair the dish with cooked bulgogi beef to experience a truly winning meal.  

You might spot a celebrity at Jinju Hwoegan

One of Korea’s most famous places for kongguksu (noodles in a cold soybean broth), Jinju Hoegwan has served everyone from politicians and business leaders to celebrities. Sourced from Gangwon Province , all the beans in the soybean soup are of the best quality, forming part of a secret recipe that gives the broth its extra nutty taste. Even the dough for the noodles differs from others thanks to ingredients such as potato starch and ground nuts, which are added for extra flavor and elasticity. Jinju Hoegwan is located near City Hall station. A bowl of kongguksu is ₩13,000.

This article was first published Feb 28, 2020 and updated Aug 31, 2022.

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Best Restaurants in Seoul

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12 Things You Need to Eat in Seoul, South Korea

Have some foodie fun in vibrant Seoul, South Korea

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Seoul is a foodie paradise, especially for those who like to indulge in local street food to take advantage of flavorful local fare at wallet-friendly prices. A lot of the food here comes with a spicy kick — but not all of it. Much can be customized to your tastes, depending on your level of spice tolerance. Aside from spice, much of the food you’ll find in Seoul is comforting, simple and in a lot of cases, fun to eat. Not sure where to start? Here are 12 essential dishes to try in Seoul on your next visit.

Colorful, healthy, fun to eat and easily adaptable to many food and dietary preferences, bibimbap is one of the most well-known dishes in Korea and very easy to find in Seoul. Bibimbap consists of rice, topped with a variety of vegetables, often beef, and comes with a fried egg on top. The whole bowl is mixed with gochujang (Korean chili paste) and tossed together to create a savory, flavorful combination that’s filling without being too heavy.

Some restaurants offer a more traditional take on the dish, while others exchange beef for other proteins such as octopus or other unique options. No matter which options you go for, the dish is sure to please most palates and you can find it everywhere from hope-in-the-wall eateries to more upscale establishments.

Probably the most quintessential Korean food on this list, kimchi is something that goes with nearly everything in Korea and a meal is often considered incomplete without it. The spicy and slightly sour fermented side dish is also known to have several health benefits, including those attributed to the healthy bacteria that comes from the fermentation process.

Kimchi is most often made with cabbage, but there are a variety of ways to make it, including with cucumber or Korean radish. It gets eaten alongside a meal, or mixed with rice, adding a nice, spicy kick to whatever you’re eating. You can learn more about kimchi at Seoul's Kimchi Museum , which even offers visitors a chance to make some themselves.

This is one of the most common foods you’ll see in Seoul being sold by street vendors. Locals stop by on the way home from work, or at lunch for the cylindrical rice cakes, triangular fish cake and vegetables, cooked in spicy and slightly sweet red chili sauce that offers a flavorful and affordable meal, either on the go or to take home.

You might walk by a vendor selling kimbap (also called gimbap) and mistakenly assume you’ve stumbled upon a sushi cart. You wouldn’t be entirely wrong – kimbap is actually nicknamed ‘Korean sushi’ since the two dishes are so similar. This quick, on-the-go snack or pick-me-up between meals consists of rice rolled with a wide variety of fillings (from carrots and cucumber, to beef or strips of omelet) and wrapped in seaweed. Kim (or gim) means seaweed in Korean, and bap means rice. This is a more casual dish than its Japanese counterpart, with kimbap being treated almost like a sandwich and meant to be eaten with your hands.  

Korean fried chicken

One of the most popular foods in Seoul is Korean fried chicken (called, funnily enough, KFC or just “chikin”) and you can find it everywhere in the city, from no-name, hole-in-the-wall shops to well-known sit-down restaurants. But this isn’t just any fried chicken. KFC is fried twice and comes out lighter and crispier than what you’ll find in North America with the meat itself retaining its juiciness. Going for KFC is often a social activity in Seoul, accompanied by a cold beer (or two).

This dish of grilled, marinated beef is one of the most popular Korean meat dishes. Beef is sliced thinly and put into a marinade that usually consists of some combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and sometimes pureed Korean pear and ginger. Since the beef is cut so thinly is doesn’t need to marinate for long and the dish is most often grilled (although it can also be pan fried).

You’ll find bulgogi served with rice, or as lettuce wraps with various toppings such as onions, sliced vegetables and kimchi.

“Jeon” is a term that basically means a savoury Korean pancake, often eaten as a snack or appetizer. You might be thinking of the syrup-soaked version you might order at brunch in North America, but this is a little different. In this case, meats, seafoods, vegetables and eggs are mixed with flour batter and then pan-fried with oil. Depending on the ingredients of choice, the pancakes are named differently. For example, a pajeon is made with spring onion, and a kimchi jeon is made with kimchi. This is a great between-meal snack to try as you explore Seoul and its as tasty as it is fun to eat.

Who doesn’t like deep fried foods? OK, there are people out there who might opt out, but for the most part, fried things are always a popular choice. Twigim is a popular street food found in Seoul and considered an ideal accompaniment to a cold beer. Often referred to as Korean tempura, this dish is basically items, including sweet potatoes, eggs, shrimp, fish and assorted vegetables, covered with a flour batter and deep fried. In markets and at street stalls you’ll see carts piled high with glistening twigim – a tempting snack at budget-friendly prices. 

Looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth in Seoul? Look no further than hotteok, easily found at many street-food markets and stalls. These sweet, satisfying treats consist of a dough-based pancake filled with sugar and cinnamon and sometimes nuts, or other sweet ingredients that gets fried, resulting in a pleasingly crisp exterior and soft, gooey interior. They can also be found with savory filling. 

Another popular street food in Seoul, dakkochi make for an easy on-the-go snack or small meal when you want something that packs a lot of flavour but that isn’t too heavy. This dish, basically grilled chicken skewers with spring onions in a spicy and tangy marinade, can be found all over the city and makes for a simple yet satisfying snack or small meal.

Healthy and packed with vegetables, japchae consists of sweet potato noodles (or glass noodles) stir-fried with nutty sesame oil and thinly sliced vegetables and beef. The noodles themselves are a bit sweet and slightly chewy and the dish is often garnished with sesame seeds. Since the noodles aren’t your typical wheat-based pasta, the dish is refreshingly light yet satisfying.  

Gyeran Bbang

Gyeran bbang, Korean egg bread, is a comforting street food found all over Seoul and a popular snack in the colder winter months. When you see Gyeran bbang in food stalls it basically looks like an oblong muffin topped with an egg – and that’s essentially what it is. You get a soft, simply-flavored muffin (as in, not too sweet, not too savory) with a whole egg either inside or sitting just on top. It’s an easy snack to eat on the go for a quick energy boost while you sightsee. 

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15 Best Restaurants in Seoul for Locals and Foreigners

Seoul is one of the largest and most bustling cities in the world, with a population of over 10 million people and counting. 

So, there’s no shortage of good food around. Because of Seoul’s international appeal, you can find any cuisine. 

There’s French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Greek and even Mexican restaurants amid a plethora of so many others.

This is the most comprehensive guide on the best restaurants Seoul has to offer. Because there are literally thousands of restaurants, we’ll keep the focus on Korean cuisine. 

These are the topmost ranked by locals and foreigners alike for taste, authenticity, price and presentation.

Whether you’re on a budget or you want to spend a night out on the town, there’s definitely something in this guide for everyone. 

From the fancy and luxurious to the more fast-food type spots, these are some of the most unique places at which to dine.

Best Restaurants Soul Quick Overview

The article goes into each restaurant in detail, but the table below provides a breakdown of what each restaurant offers, the general price range ($ is least expensive to $$$$ being most expensive) and it’s average rating out of five stars. 

You should always look into each restaurant before placing a reservation. Some require an advanced booking, while other accept walk-ins.

1. Mingles Restaurant

Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Cuisine: Korean (traditional and modern)

Price Range: $$$$

Nestled near the Han River in the Gangnam-Gu district , Mingles Restaurant is one of the most popular eateries in Seoul. 

They have impeccable service and give their all with every customer. They take great pains to make every dish not only a traditional display of Korean culture, but also a dash of modernism

They pride themselves on how they devise, design and develop the menu. They use only fresh ingredients, which changes with seasonal availability. 

Everyone who has ever visited the establishment leaves feeling like the food was made with love and given the utmost care.

2. MOSU Seoul

Average Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cuisine: Korean Fusion, Asian

MOSU Seoul is a quaint Korean-style bistro with a cute staff who aims to give topnotch hospitality. 

Their dishes are creative, artistic and meld many different worldwide cuisines with traditional Korean-style foods. They have eel, sea urchin, pork, abalone, tacos and a variety of vegan-friendly dishes.

The name MOSU comes from the cosmos flower as it is the basis for reminiscing about childhood happiness. 

Therefore, the owners strive for every customer to leave with not only an excellent dining experience, but also lifelong memories.

Cuisine: Korean Cuisine with French Presentation

Located in the Dongguk University area at Jangchung-dong as part of The Shilla, La Yeon offers quintessential Korean fare. 

It’s the pinnacle of haute cuisine with impressive presentation and to-die-for hospitality. Their niche, however, focuses on a French type of display, which makes it very upscale.

But what highlights La Yeon is the special attention paid to the ambiance inside the restaurant. 

Not only is it a luxurious, relaxing and gorgeous atmosphere but they also have breathtaking vistas of Seoul. No matter where you sit in the restaurant, you’re guaranteed to get an excellent view.

Cuisine: Contemporary Korean-European Fusion

Price Range: $$$

Soigné is a great restaurant that combines traditional Korean cuisine with various countries around Europe. 

This is one of the most ideal spots after doing a little sightseeing at Montmartre Park. The staff is friendly and eager to please with delectable food selections.

Their menu items combine Italian and French cuisines with a little influence from Spain and Germany to present what they call “storytelling dining.” 

It’s truly an experience to witness and difficult to write about. Words cannot describe what customers take away from their dining journey here.

Average Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Cuisine: Cold Korean Noodle Spot

Ulaeog (phonetically pronounced Woo Lei Oak), is a typical Korean noodle shop. But, it’s flavors are anything but average.

Located in the Gwangjang Market, it’s a great place to grab a quick bite for lunch or to enjoy an early supper.

This place is a staple in Seoul, being in business since the late 1970s. 

Ulaeog is famous for their bulgogi, noodle soups, pyeongyang naengmyun, buckwheat noodles and sesame-marinated kimchi. The broths they use are unusual but bursting with flavor.

6. Maple Tree House

Average Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Cuisine: Classic Korean BBQ

On the northern side of the Han River, very close to Seoul’s city center is one of the best classic Korean BBQ joints: Maple Tree House. 

Any trip to Seoul would be remiss and severely lacking without at least one trip to this establishment.

Their menu comprises all beef or pork options with a few items containing prawns or tofu. But, for the price, you get heaping portions of food. 

This includes the main dish along with sides. Because they’re considered a late night spot, they also have alcoholic beverages available.

7. Korea House

Cuisine: Traditional Full Course Korean

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$

For a true authentic Korean dining experience, Korea House is the place to go. 

Not only is their menu full of delicious, mouthwatering morsels but they also offer live performances during dinner. They also have a wedding hall and is the official government reception hall of Korea.

Therefore, you can get many Korean historical experiences all in one place. 

Their food, décor, costumes, performances and displays date back to Korea’s Joseon Period (1392 to 1892). Everything is very formal, orderly and managed. 

The atmosphere and the area are absolutely enchanting.

8. Seoul’n’Soul

Cuisine: Korean Fusion

Seoul’n’Soul is a bistro-style restaurant featuring classic Korean flavors with other international cuisines from places like Brazil, Italy, Mexico and Spain, to name a few. 

This is the unsung hero of our best restaurants list here. It’s close to the Sookmyung Women’s University too.

They offer beef, ox, shrimp, fish and chicken, with everyone having eaten there giving a glowing review. 

Each dish is simple yet personal, even though their menu is not very large. But it’s a great place for Koreans to take their foreign friends.

9. 7th Door

Cuisine: Modern Korean Featuring Fermentation

Price Range: $$

For “the ultimate journey to the heaven of taste,” 7th Door provides an unparalleled experience in Korean cuisine. 

They base their menu on the DNA of traditional food: fermentation and aging. Because 7th Door caters their menu to every reservation, you must book your table in advance.

Since the cuisine is for adults only, children under 13 years old are not permissible. Much of what they serve comprises fish, anchovies, seafood, caviar and rice. 

The whole restaurant and dining experience is a spiritual journey you can only understand with a hands-on approach.

10. Hangaram

Hangaram is a traditional Korean restaurant located very close to Seoul’s City Hall. They take great care in providing home-style vittles in an exquisite restaurant setting.

Almost everyone who dines there leaves feeling their bellies full of the chef’s love.

The goal is to use food as medicine, from the vegetables down to the herbs and savory meats. 

They serve all the Korean favorites and staples such as hotpots, bulgogi , kimchi and japchae . The portions are generous and the prices are fantastic.

11. Yang Good

Cuisine: Korean BBQ

Specializing in halal lamb from Australia, Yang Good is an excellent BBQ place. 

They also have beef, crab, eel, abalone and many vegan-friendly dishes as well. The flavors of the food dance on the tongue like an angel on the head of a pin.

The staff is inviting, welcoming and helpful; they’ll even offer to grill your meat for you so you enjoy the food properly. You can see their YouTube promo video here.

12. Myeongdong Kyoja

Cuisine: Cold Noodles

Situated in the heart of the Myeongdong district, Myeongdong Kyoja has been in the noodle business since 1976. 

Many people come for lunch and dinner to enjoy their array of cold noodles, noodle soups and other rice dishes.

They specialize in many traditional foods that foreigners and locals crave alike. They have kalguksu, mandu , bibimguksu and kongguksu. They even make their own special kimchi and ensure that every dish is healthy, well balanced and delicious.

Cuisine: Korean BBQ & Other Fare

The upscale Mayfield Hotel hosts several excellent restaurants, one of which is Nakwon, offering traditional Korean BBQ. 

They use mostly fresh ingredients that the hotel grows itself, aside from the meat of course.

Nakwon is also famous for its special and secret method for aging their ribs. They have a large menu with many options from which to choose. 

There’s also crab, chicken, pork, fish, octopus, tofu and squid. Aside from BBQ, they also have Korean standards like bulgogi, noodle soups and bibimbap .

14. Jungsik Seoul

Average Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Cuisine: Modern & Contemporary Korean Cuisine

One of the most popular upscale Korean cuisine restaurants in Seoul is Jungsik. It is the ultimate experience in fine dining while encountering courteous and helpful staff. 

Their love affair with food has birthed a new category of dining altogether: New Korean Fine Dining.

With a team of highly prized and qualified master chefs, they devise a cornucopia of food options that make it difficult for customers to decide on which one to choose.

Cuisine: Traditional Full Course Korean Cuisine

For a high-end meal after a relaxing day at Soekchon Lake or Songpanaru Park, Bicena offers traditional Korean fare as full course meals. 

They have intricate and separate menus for weekdays and weekends as well as for lunch and dinner. Reservations are mandatory, but you can place them up to two months ahead.

They offer a wide array of foods on their menus and they cater each to the season. They offer caviar, soups, fermented foods and a plethora of meats. 

For instance, in the summer, their menus are rather light, serving things like chicken, fish, rice and fancy fruit salads.

While this is a huge list of some of the best restaurants Seoul has, it is by no means complete. There are thousands of restaurants offering quality foods to fit a wide range of budgets, tastes and dietary requirements. 

However, the ones mentioned are the most unusual and tantalizing ones we could find.

From traditional meals to noodle shops and BBQ spots, there’s something for everyone to try. 

If you want a high-end bistro experience or something more down-to-earth, Seoul Korea has it all. There are so many Korean fusion restaurants that you could lose yourself for days in them.

Regardless of where you go, you’re sure to get a memorable experience. Not only will the food be delicious but the staff will leave a lasting impression.

It’s why there are some people who will travel specifically to Seoul just for the food.

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The Best Places to Eat in Seoul

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Seoul is famous around the world for its rich history and ultra-modern technology. But what about the Seoul food scene? Discover a local expert’s picks for the best places to eat in Seoul, South Korea.

Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is a frenetic megacity fueled by approximately 10 million people. The Asian city moves at a breakneck speed in all aspects of life, with food being no exception to this pace.

Locals take breaks from their smart phones to eat popular dishes like fried chicken, bbq and bibimbap. Though these dishes have transcended Korea to achieve global popularity, it would be difficult (if not impossible) to find better versions than the food in South Korean megacities like Seoul and Busan .

But where are the best places to eat in Seoul? By best, we don’t mean the most expensive. Instead, we’re interested in discovering where Seoul locals eat the best South Korean food.

A Local’s Picks for the Best Places to Eat in Seoul

We’re anxious to properly visit Seoul since it’s arguably one of the top food cities in the world . Though we’ve visited Seoul multiple times, we’ve yet to venture beyond the airport.

Our initial encounters of the Incheon Airport’s lightning-fast internet and tasty Korean food options excite us for the things we’ll do and eat in Seoul when we finally venture beyond the terminal and plan a five-day Seoul itinerary .

We’ve asked local expert Robert Schrader of Leave Your Daily Hell to provide his picks for the best food in Seoul and where to eat it. Rob’s love for Seoul has motivated him to visit the South Korean capital multiple times over the past decade.

Read on for Schrader’s inside scoop on what and where to eat in Seoul:

Favorite Local Seoul Restaurant

I’ll admit: I don’t eat in proper restaurants in Seoul very often, on account of Seoul’s amazing variety of street foot (and other fast food). But I love the BBQ at 853 in Insadong. It’s not fancy or glamorous and it’s often crowded due to its location, but 853’s meat is next-level good and makes up for all that.

When it comes to Korean street food, Seoul’s is next-level good. At one of the main street food promenades in Myeongdong, you can order delicacies like butter-grilled scallops and roasted lobster tails with cheese!

853 is located at 16 Insadong 12-gil, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Iconic Seoul Food

Bibimbap is not only Seoul’s most iconic food but is probably South Korea’s.

My favorite place to have one is at Jeonju Jungang. Though it’s right in the heart of Myeongdong, this restaurant still manages to feel hidden since its unassuming entrance gets lost in the neon lights.

Jeonju Jungang is located at 21 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Chungmuro 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Favorite Seoul Cafe

Seoul’s coffee scene is one of the most sophisticated in all of Asia. Even brewing techniques that are still rare in the west (Chemex, Coffee Cone) have been mainstream in Seoul for at least as long as I’ve been visiting there.

On the other hand, I’m decidedly simple in my own coffee taste. This is why the perfect Americano on offer at Felt Coffee in Gwanghwamun is a must-visit as far as I’m concerned.

Felt Coffee has multiple locations. The Gwanghamun cafe is located at 246 D Tower B2 in Chungjin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Special Occasion Meal

As a photographer, my hunger for a good view often exceeds my hunger for food. At Walking On the Cloud, I don’t have to choose between these two items.

Some people (especially Koreans) might argue that this place is a bit overrated since it’s prominently featured in local media, but to me the panorama alone is worth the journey up to the 59th floor of the 63 building, to say nothing of fresh seasonal set menus, and some of the most tender beef steaks in Korea.

Walking on the Cloud is located at 50 63-ro, 영등포구 Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Favorite Seoul Dessert

Seoul is home to an array of desserts both simple and elaborate from the iconic Bingsu shaved-ice sundae to fish-shaped Bungeoppang pastry to almost as many flavors of soft-serve in Japan. Ironically, my favorite dessert in Seoul is the local version of “strawberry hard candy,” known as Ddaligi Satang in Korean.

To create the candy, artisans melt sugar over fresh strawberries until it’s hard. Ddaligi Satang isn’t extremely caloric but eating the candy can be dangerous. The sugar is very sticky and chewy, which makes it surprisingly easy to bite the side of your mouth open!

Another great Seoul dessert is the honey-filled hotteok pancake. These specialty pancakes are best if you can get them fresh out of the street vendor’s fryer.

You can find desserts all over Seoul. Just follow your nose.

Hidden Seoul Gem

If you’re looking for a classic Korean meal in a traditional setting and don’t mind getting a little bit out of Seoul’s core, head to Jihwaja. This restaurant is located just north of Gyeongbokgung (and just to the west of the Blue House presidential palace).

Jihwaja serves so-called “royal” Korean cuisine, which allegedly uses only pure recipes that date back to the Joseon dynasty period. There are a lot of elaborate and beautiful dishes here, but my favorite is simple: The beef ribs!

Jihwaja is located at 125 Jahamun-no (48, Cheongun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Meet The Seoul Local Expert

Robert Schrader is a writer, photographer and occasional over-eater who definitely gorges whenever he’s in Seoul. (Thankfully, he’s also an avid hiker of the city’s many hills and mountains, which is why he’s not the size of Gyeongbokgung Palace). Follow his adventures on Leave Your Daily Hell .

You can follow Robert on Facebook and Instagram .

Seoul Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• Check out the Travelocity website for airfare and hotel deals for your trip. You can also check for hotels on Booking.com , Expedia and Hotels.com .
• Find an apartment in Seoul with a kitchen .
• Buy a universal travel adaptor from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in Asia.
• Buy a Seoul travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss any bites or sites.
• Book a fun Seoul tour with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Seoul food experience .

Hungry for More in Asia?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article.

Original Publication Date: May 11, 2019

Get our free guide to eating like a local when you travel.

What to eat in Seoul | 12 Most-Loved Korean Dishes in Seoul to try

Wondering what to eat in Seoul during your visit? You’re not alone! With unique and delicious dishes that can’t be found anywhere else, it’s no wonder Seoul is a foodie’s paradise and often called the best place to eat in Korea.

If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, or are just curious about Korean cuisine, check out this list of 12 most-loved Korean dishes in Seoul ! From traditional favorites like bibimbap and bulgogi to more modern dishes like tteokbokki, you’ll surely enjoy the best flavors Seoul has to offer.

1. Bibimbap | Mixed Rice Bowl

Bibimbap is one of the most popular Korean dishes, and for good reason! A bowl of bibimbap makes a healthy lunch or dinner and gives you enough energy for an active day.

Bibimbap literally translates to “mixed rice”. It is typically made with rice, vegetables, and meat, all cooked in a distinctive stone pot and then garnished with raw eggs, nori (seaweed), and sesame seeds. The pot is then brought to your table still bubbling, and you mix everything together before eating. Bibimbap is definitely worth trying if you are looking for a delicious and filling meal.

Seoul is the perfect place to try bibimbap, as there are countless restaurants that serve this dish. Whether you are looking for a traditional experience or something a little more modern, you’ll surely find a bibimbap restaurant that suits your taste.

2. Samgyeopsalgui | Grilled Pork Belly

Samgyeopsalgui is a popular Korean dish that consists of thin slices of grilled pork belly served with rice and other side dishes. The pork belly is marinated in a special yummy sauce before being grilled, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Seoul is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, so it is the perfect place to try samgyeopsalgui, especially at one of the following restaurants: Hallimdon-ga (near Sinchon station), Dojeok (near Sangsu station), or Simin sikdang (near Jongno 3-ga station). Otherwise, you can find samgyeopsalgui in the menu of almost any BBQ restaurant in Seoul.

3. Kimchi | Fermented Vegetables

A traditional side dish made from cabbage, radish, and other vegetables, kimchi is one of Korea’s most famous fermented foods with a distinctive flavor of spicy, salty, and sour. In addition, the kimchi fermentation process increases its nutritional value, making it a healthy food choice. Kimchi is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and minerals.

Aged kimchi is called “jang” and has a strong flavor, while fresh kimchi is called “jeot” and has a milder flavor. Although kimchi is usually served with rice, it can also be used in soup or stew, as a filling for fried pastries called “kimchi buns”, or as a popular ingredient in Korean BBQ.

The best way to really experience kimchi is to try it in multiple dishes. That way you can appreciate the different ways that it can be used and the different flavors that it can provide. There are many great restaurants in Seoul that serve it. You can also find kimchi at most Korean markets.

When shopping for kimchi, look for jars that are marked “vegan” or “vegetarian,” as some brands of kimchi contain fish sauce or other animal-based ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian kimchi is just as delicious as the traditional kind, so don’t be afraid to give it a try!

4. Samgyetang | Chicken Soup

Samgyetang is a soup made with chicken, rice, ginseng, and other Korean ingredients. It is one of South Korea’s most loved dishes and is particularly popular in the summer months.

Since Korean people belive samgyetang is beneficial for their health, they often eat this dish as a tonic or an immunity-booster. Samgyetang is traditionally made with a whole chicken, but nowadays it is also common to find versions made with chicken breast and served with kimchi and rice on the side.

There are many great places to try samgyetang in Seoul. One of the most popular spots is Tosokchon – a famous restaurant located near Gyeongbokgung Palace and has been serving samgyetang since the Joseon Dynasty.

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy soup, samgyetang is definitely worth trying. Whether you are a fan of chicken or not, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

5. Bulgogi | Grilled Beef

If you’re visiting Seoul, one dish you absolutely must try is bulgogi. Bulgogi is a Korean dish of grilled or roasted meat, typically beef. The meat is usually thinly sliced and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other spices. When it’s grilled, the result is incredibly flavorful and tender meat that just melts in your mouth.

There are many great places to try bulgogi in Seoul. One of the most popular spots is Gwangyang Bulgogi in Gangnam where only the freshest ingredients are used and this dish is served with a variety of traditional side dishes. Some other restaurants to try bulgogi are Hangaram (near City Hall station), Parc Seoul (near Hangangjin station), and Batgodong (near Apgujeongrodeo station).

6. Dak-galbi | Spicy Stir-fried Chicken

Dak-galbi is a much loved Korean dish made with chicken, gochujang (red pepper paste), and vegetables. The chicken is marinated in the gochujang sauce, then grilled on a hot plate. Dak-galbi is typically served with rice and a variety of side dishes. It’s a delicious and hearty meal, perfect for a cold winter day.

If you’re visiting Seoul, you definitely have to try dak-galbi. There are many great places to eat it, but one of the most popular spots is Yoogane Dakgalbi with 2 restaurants in Myeongdong and Daegu. The restaurants are often crowded, but it’s worth the wait.

7. Gimbap | Seaweed Rolls

A famous Korean dish made of rice, vegetables, and meat rolled in seaweed, gimbap is typically served with gochujang (a spicy red pepper paste) and soy sauce for dipping. It is a great meal to take on the go and can be found at many convenience stores and markets in Seoul.

While gimbap may look simple, it is packed with flavor and nutrition. The rice is usually seasoned with sesame oil and salt, and the vegetables can vary depending on what is in season. Common fillings include cucumber, carrot, radish, egg, and spinach. Gimbap can also be made with beef or pork for a heartier meal. With so many delicious options, it is no wonder that gimbap is one of the most popular Korean dishes!

Gimbap can be found at most Korean restaurants, but there are a few places in Seoul that are particularly famous for their gimbap. One such place is Gimgane in Jung-gu, where the gimbap is made fresh to order. Another option is Joseon Gimbap near Anguk station with tasty and reasonably-priced Korean dishes.

8. Japchae | Stir-fried Glass Noodles

Japchae is a popular Korean dish made from stir-fried glass noodles mixed with vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, carrots, and spinach, as well as beef or chicken, and then seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. The dish is often served as a side dish or appetizer, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course.

A popular dish in Korean restaurants, Japchae is often served at special occasions such as weddings and birthdays. The dish can also be found at street markets and food stalls. Japchae is a popular choice for takeout and delivery due to its easy transportation and storage.

9. Tteokbokki | Korean Rice Cakes

If you are looking for a delicious and traditional Korean dish, tteokbokki is a great choice. The dish is flavorful and spicy and is sure to satisfy your hunger. Made of rice cakes and red pepper paste, tteokbokki is normally served with boiled eggs and vegetables. However, there are also many variations that can be found in Korean restaurants nowadays, such as cheese-filled or black sauce tteokbokki.

While many restaurants offer tteokbokki in their menus, the best places to try this dish are perhaps Seoul’s street food markets.

10. Haemul-pajeon | Korean Pancake

Typically eaten as an appetizer or main course, Haemul-pajeon is a popular dish in Korea that consists of a savory pancake made with scallions, seafood and green onion and served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili pepper flakes. The most common type of seafood used in Haemul-pajeon is shrimp, but squid, clams, and crab can also be used. Haemul-pajeon can be found at most Korean restaurants and food markets in Seoul.

Galbi is a Korean dish made of beef short ribs that are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic, before being grilled over charcoal. It is typically served with sides like kimchi, rice, and noodles.

Galbi is a popular dish in South Korea, and can be found at restaurants throughout the country. If you are visiting Seoul, be sure to check out some of the city’s best galbi restaurants, from hole-in-the-wall places to upscale dining establishments. And who knows, maybe you’ll even find yourself hooked on this tasty Korean treat!

12. Budae-jjigae | Kimchi Stew

A delicious stew that is perfect for a cold winter day, budae-jjigae is a popular Korean dish made by boiling kimchi, vegetables, and Western ingredients such as sausages. The dish is very filling and satisfying with a distinctive spicy flavor.

While visiting Seoul, you can try budae-jjigae at Nolboo – a famous restaurant near the Swiss Grand Hotel. Another highly-rated place is Myeongdong Budae Jjigae near Myeongdong shopping streets.

Summary: What to eat in Seoul | 12 Most-Loved Korean Dishes in Seoul to try

That’s it for our list of 12 must-try Korean dishes when in Seoul. Have you tried any of them before? Let me know in the comment section below – I’d love to hear about your experience! And if you haven’t been to Seoul yet, be sure to add these delicious eats to your itinerary!

Check out my other informative articles about visiting Seoul:

Top 8 Unique Things to do in Seoul for Curious Travelers

SEOUL FREE WALKING TOUR: 7 Reasons to Book With SeoulMate

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6 thoughts on “ What to eat in Seoul | 12 Most-Loved Korean Dishes in Seoul to try ”

I’m definitely curious about Korean cuisine & would love to try most of the dishes on this list especially the stir-fried glass noodles & seaweed rolls. Thanks so much for this!

This post got my mouth watering. I LOVE Korean food! Thanks for sharing!

These are all awesome things to eat in Seoul! I loved how the city had many vegetarian-friendly versions of the above foods as well. My favorite is the Bibimbap of course 🙂

Tteokbokki is something I have been longing to try out, especially after watching the k-dramas. I am a vegetarian, and this is the only dish that I can consider trying.

I am now hungry after reading this. I love Korean food and fell in love with the Korean pancake while travelling there. I also love the fact that they have so much side dishes.

Wow! I would love to try them all. I am also curious to know about Korean Tea habits.

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Vietnamese Flavors and Beyond

Vietnamese Flavors and Beyond!

Seoul Food Travel Guide: 10 Must Eats in Seoul

In this Seoul food guide, I will share with you the ten must eats in Seoul. We just had ten exciting days in Seoul and the best part of the trip was definitely exploring the amazing food scene there.

This is by no means a definitive list of must-try foods in Seoul. I’m sure we will be visiting Seoul again in the future because I already miss the food there. In that case, we will try more mouthwatering dishes and update the post with new information. In this post, I will do my best to explain the dishes we recommend and why you should try it in Seoul.

Korean Barbecue

What is Korean barbecue: it is the Korean way of grilling meat. The meat is often grilled on a gas or charcoal grill built into the dining table and the servers will grill the meat for you at your table.

Why you should try Korean barbecue in Seoul: Korean Barbecue is already famous outside of Korea. We had it a number of times in the US, and I was wondering if it could get any better in Seoul. And it could! The reason is I feel that the meat quality in Seoul is better for grilling than the one in the US. The hanwoo (Korean beef) has beautiful marbles and high-fat content. Once grilled, it is so tender and juicy. You can usually order different types of cuts, marinated or not marinated meat. Pork belly is also a popular choice. We tried Jeju black pork belly which was delicious.

It seems that some barbecue places require customers to order at least two servings of each type of barbecue meat. Some places, such as the Maple Tree House, don’t require that and I personally prefer places that give me full freedom to order whatever I like to try.

Samgyetang (Korean ginseng chicken soup)

What is samgyetang: samgyetang is Korean ginseng chicken soup. They stuff a whole young chicken with sticky rice, ginseng, chestnut, and jujube dates and simmer until tender.

Why you should try samgyetang in Seoul: It is a very delicious, nourishing and comforting soup. In addition, Korean ginseng is famous all over the world for its quality and health benefits. There’s no better place to eat samgyetang other than in Korea. Don’t expect this soup to be strong or flavorful like kimchi soup though. It’s on the lighter side and when you eat, you can pick out the chicken meat and dip with salt to taste. Please excuse our terrible quality photo above. It was a bowl of samgyetang at Tosokchon, a popular samgyetang restaurant in Seoul. I promise that it tastes better than it looks in my photo.

Korean Fried Chicken

This is another famous Korean dish that you definitely want to eat in Seoul!

Why you should try Korean fried chicken in Seoul: you will find that the chicken here is smaller than your regular fried chicken in American, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. The fried chicken we had at Kkanbu Chicken in Seoul was well-seasoned and crispy without being overly greasy. You will have a lot of options to choose from, breaded or no breaded chicken, with sauce or no sauce, spicy or non-spicy. Local people seem to love eating fried chicken with a (or a few) glass of beer.

What is gamjatang: gamjatang is a spicy pork bones soup. It also contains other ingredients including potatoes, glass noodles, perilla leaves and rice cakes.

Why you should try gamjatang in Seoul: this hearty and comforting soup is a must eat in Seoul because it has so many layers of flavors. Eating it is also quite fun. You will need to use chopsticks to pick out the meat when eating. Great time to practice chopstick skills! We had this delicious soup at Onedang Gamjatang for breakfast twice when we were in Seoul. I actually found it to be a great dish to wake all your senses up for the day.

Speaking of breakfast, Korean cuisine doesn’t have a “breakfast foods” category like other cuisines. Korean people just have the same type of food they eat in other meals for breakfast.

What is mandu: mandu are Korean dumplings and can be cooked in different ways (for example steam, boil or fry). The ones we tried at Gaeseong Mandu Koong had a delicious filling made from pork, ginger and chives. I find mandu to be comforting and fulfilling, especially when served in a hotpot.

Why you should try mandu in Seoul: I’m not sure about other mandu restaurants but the mandu at Gaeseong Mandu Koong is so fresh and tasty. They have a workstation by a window near the restaurant entrance where we watched two ladies wrapping the mandu skillfully.

What is galbitang: here’s another well-known Korean dish outside of Korea, galbitang. Galbitang is a clear soup made with beef short ribs and daikon radish.  It also contains other ingredients such as glass noodles and green onions.

Why you should try galbitang in Seoul: this is my most favorite Korean soup so to me, it’s a must eat in Seoul. The soup has a natural sweetness from simmering beef short ribs and radish. It is comforting and heart-warming without being heavy, and the short ribs are so tender after long hours of simmering. I really liked the galbitang at Hanilkwan in Seoul. Their galbitang has a very clear broth with a subtle herbal fragrance which I’ve never seen at Korean restaurants I tried in the US.

Ganjang Gejang

I was quite hesitant to include ganjang gejang in this guide since I don’t like it, to be honest. However, it’s a famous dish in Seoul and everyone’s taste is different, so I decided to list it here.

What is ganjang gejang: ganjang gejang is marinated raw crabs in soy sauce. The crab meat becomes sweet, soft and flavorful after being marinated for long hours (or even a few days).

Why don’t I like it? Firstly, I don’t quite like its soft, gelatin-like texture. Secondly, I can’t quite deal with the idea of eating raw crabs. I kept thinking about risks of food poisoning, but Korean people have been eating this dish for ages, so it must be safe I guess.

It’s time for desserts!

What is bingsu: bingsu is a Korean shave ice dessert with sweet toppings such as red bean, fruits, rice cakes and sweetened condensed milk.

Why you should try bingsu in Seoul: I got addicted to it when we were in Seoul, so I ate it almost every day. It’s not too sweet and is usually refreshing with contrasting flavors and textures. If you travel to Seoul in the summer, the heat and humidity can wear you down quite quickly. A bowl of bingsu can cool you down and relieve your thirst. There are many types and different flavors for bingsu so you won’t get bored of it. Among all the flavors we tried, the black sesame red bean bingsu at Sulbing cafe was the best.

Modern and elevated Korean foods

Why you should try elevated Korean foods in Seoul: before our trip, I always wondered how Korean foods could be elevated. How can one create an elegant version of comforting Korean dishes? If you also wonder the same thing, try one or two fine dining restaurants that serve modern Korean cuisine in Seoul to see how talented Korean chefs take Korean foods to a new height. We had interesting and tasty meals at Mingles and Jungsik in Gangnam area. The food was beautiful and creative, featuring Korean ingredients and techniques as foundations.

Korean Street Foods

I knew very little about Korean street foods before our trip. As a result, I was surprised to see an array of street foods that look interesting in Seoul. Myeongdong is a hot spot for street foods besides shopping. Every night, vendors set up carts to sell street food snacks and you will see them cook/prepare the food on the spot. I will admit that we didn’t try anything there and Myeongdong is very crowded at night. However, it was pretty fun to see vendors making the food. Some of the snacks that stand out to me were tornado potatoes, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and 32-cm long ice cream.

For each of the food above, I already mentioned where we had it in Seoul. If you want to read more about my meals at those places as well as other must-try restaurants in Seoul, check out my 10 Must-try Restaurants in Seoul post. To find the addresses of these restaurants, you can use Google, Naver app or Visit Korea website  which has addresses in both English and hangeul (Korean alphabet). Taxi drivers most of the time only understand addresses written in hangeul.

Hi, I'm Sophie! Delightful Plate is where I share authentic Vietnamese recipes that have been cooked in my family for years, as well as other Asian recipes and recipes inspired by ingredients and flavors from other cuisines.

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The 8 Best Places to Try Street Food in Seoul

With an apparently infinite number of vendors serving up street treats such as hotteok (stuffed pancake), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (fish cake), Seoul is essentially one big open-air restaurant. Cheap, hearty and delicious, Seoul street food is a must-try on any visit to the capital of South Korea – but if you’re looking for diversity and accessibility, these are some of the best places to sample it.

1. gwangjang market (광장시장).

2. Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market (서울 밤도깨비 야시장)

Market, Street Food, Korean, Fusion

For food, festivities, and a whole lot of outdoor fun, the Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market is the place to be. Held on Friday and Saturday evenings from March to October at the Yeouido Hangang Park and Banpo Hangang Park along the Han River, the city-organised market is a great place to shop for unique handmade accessories by local artists, watch a concert and (most importantly) delve into the city’s budding food truck culture. With more than 50 trucks serving up tasty treats ranging from Koreanised tacos and steak-in-a-cup to lobster rolls and Cuban sandwiches, you’re sure to find something to please your palate. Get there early, as the lines do get long.

3. Myeongdong Street Food Alley

Market, Street Food

4. Namdaemun Market (남대문시장)

For a taste of traditional Korean food, check Namdemun Market . Dating back to the 1400s, Namdemun is not only Seoul’s oldest market, but is also its largest with more than 10,000 stalls, vendors and restaurants that line countless blocks of car-free streets. Whether you’re looking for jewellery, luggage, stationery, hiking gear, camera parts or traditional handicrafts, you’re sure to find what you seek and at an affordable price. Of course, no visit to Namdaemun Market is complete without sampling its cuisines. For a one-stop dining experience, make your way to the market’s Food Alley, a Korean food street where a variety of Korean classics is on offer. From steamed corn and dakkochi (chicken skewers) to the more adventurous sundae (blood sausage) and jokbal (pigs’ feet), there’s no shortage of tasty street treats here.

5. Dongdaemun Night Market (동대문시장)

With more than 26 shopping malls, 30,000 specialty shops and 50,000 manufacturers, Dongdaemun is the centre for fashion lovers in Seoul . Not only does the sprawling market offer clothes and accessories at an affordable price, it also has some of the most unique items, as it’s home to many of the city’s aspiring designers. Open at just about any hour, Dongdaemun is one of the few places in the world where you can shop till you drop at 3am. Of course, there are also plenty of late-night snacks available to keep you going. For the tastiest, head to the areas of Gwanghui Market and Jeil Pyeonghwa Market. Here, vendors fry and grill the night away, cooking up Korean classics such as mandu (dumplings) and sundae (blood sausage) as well as internationally inspired fare including burgers and tater tot-coated corndogs. It’s truly the perfect mix of fashion, fun and flavour.

Common Ground (커먼그라운드)

Korea’s first pop-up store built with shipping containers, Common Ground has become one of Seoul’s coolest hangouts. Comprised of more than 200 large containers, the multipurpose complex boasts a number of trendy mid-sized shops selling a variety of wares by up-and-coming designers . It also attracts gourmands with its food offerings. In addition to its third-floor restaurant sprawl, Common Ground features a courtyard dedicated to four food trucks: Bold (meat bowls and buns), Space Bar (seasonal desserts and alcoholic beverages), the Coast (casual seafood) and Kimchi Bus ( kimchi-based items). The outdoor dining experience is especially enjoyable at the weekends, when small concerts are held for the entertainment of shoppers.

Tongin Market (통인시장)

Conveniently situated to the west of Gyeongbokgung Palace is Tongin Market, one of Seoul’s most charming traditional markets. While it may on first impression appear to be a typical market, it also doubles as an important historical landmark, as it was established for Japanese residents in 1941, when Korea was under Japanese rule. In recent years, its popularity has been revitalised thanks to its Dosirak Cafe, where you can get a lunchbox to fill with whichever market snacks you’d like for just ₩5,000 (£3.25). Foods on offer include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), pajeon (savoury pancakes), dumplings and a wide variety of kimchi, among others.

Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town (신당동떡볶이골목)

Tteokbokki – a chewy, cylinder-shaped rice cake drowned in a spicy red pepper sauce – is without a doubt the most representative of street foods in Korea, as well as a must-try on any visit to the country. Perhaps there’s no better place to sample this specialty than Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town, which is said to be the birthplace of today’s common gochujang version of the dish. Having been around since the 1970s, the sprawling cluster of tteokbokki joints has been the go-to for locals looking to relieve their stress by gorging on this favourite Korean comfort food. In addition to offering the classic dish, many restaurants here offer twists on the original, utilising a wide variety of sauces and ingredients such as cellophane noodles, seafood, eggs and cheese. There are countless places to eat here, but local favourites include Mabongnim Halmeoni Tteokbokki, I Love Sindangdong and Jongjeom.

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A chef’s guide to the best restaurants in Seoul

Korean temple food and fried chicken might seem like an odd couple, but they’re both integral parts of Mingoo Kang’s world. The celebrated chef behind Seoul restaurant Mingles is remixing Eastern and Western cuisines and techniques. The result is a winning combination that saw the restaurant voted as the best restaurant in South Korea for several years by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards and claim of two Michelin stars. But what restaurants in Seoul does vhef Kang eat at when he is off duty? The answers pivot between the city’s most innovative restaurants and its most highly prized local secrets.

Here are the best foods and restaurants in Seoul to track down, according to a world-class chef.

The best Korean fried chicken in Seoul

When friends of chefs come to visit Seoul, I take them to Hyodo Chicken . Chef Shin Changho from Joo Ok (another of Seoul’s two-Michelin starred establishments) and I were involved in the menu development and we had a lot of fun with the recipes. And still this place is where you can enjoy authentic Korean chicken culture.

The best Korean barbecue in Seoul

If you have something to celebrate, it should be done at Born & Bred , the best barbecue restaurant in Korea! This is where you can really experience the best of Korean beef and barbecue culture.

The best fine-diner in Seoul

Mosu is one of the rare restaurants in Korea that can really be described as fine-dining. South-Korean born and Californian-raised chef Sung Anh first opened Mosu in San Francisco earning a Michelin star in its first year. In 2017 Anh relocated Mosu to Seoul.

The best Seoul restaurant you should know about

Joo-ok is a modern Korean restaurant and is really a gem of the Korean fine-dining scene. With the food chef Shin Changho is creating, it’s really a surprise that his restaurant is not well known overseas. For people who want to experience the local Korean scene and culture, look no further. This is definitely where they should eat.

Where chef Kang dines for inspiration

Sometimes I feel like I want to have a moment with a chef from a different part of Korean cuisine. Sushi Sunsoo  is representing the Korean sushi scene, and eating at chef Choi Ji-hoon’s sushi restaurant, seated at his counter, is an opportunity to be inspired.

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These meals will make you want to travel, just to eat!

Prepare yourself to drool over these 41 meals, each featuring mouthwatering photos, details, and where you can eat it.

I've also included some of my personal travel eating tips and answered some of your top questions... like "Mark, how do you make money to travel?".

You must love food as much as I do!

Just enter your name and email below and I promise to only send you delicious emails :)

Seoul travel guide for food lovers

In this Seoul Travel Guide for Food Lovers I’m going to share with you practical information about where to stay, how to get around, and most importantly, what to eat when you’re in Seoul.

There are a lot of amazing things about Seoul, but for you and I as food lovers, it’s the never ending amount of delicious food that makes Seoul such an exciting city.

Seoul Travel Guide for Food Lovers!

Arriving and Leaving Seoul

There are a number of ways you could enter Seoul, but likely, if you take an international flight from a different country, you’ll land at  Incheon International Airport .

Incheon International Airport

Incheon International Airport is a giant airport that caters to basically the entire northern part of South Korea, and is located approximately 1 hour by train from the center of Seoul. The airport is very nice and modern with easy transportation facilities (and there’s free wifi as well). I’ve even spent the night at Seoul Incheon Airport before, and it’s a pretty decent place to spend the night if you need to.

Getting from the airport to Seoul : The easiest way to get from the airport to the center of Seoul is by train. Once you get out of customs, follow the signs for the Airport Railroad, and you’ll have to cross over the road (either over or on ground) and get to the adjacent building which is the train station. There are a couple different options:

• Express Train  – This is the faster high speed train that goes directly from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station, and if you want to make sure you have a seat or if you have a lot of baggage this might be the best option. It takes about 43 minutes and the price is 14,800 Won ($12.62) per person.
• Seoul Metro  – I’ve never taken the express train, because the metro goes the same route, only take a few minutes longer and costs much less. But it does stop at 11 different stations along the way, and it can be busy, so you may need to stand. It takes about 56 minutes and costs 3,250 Won ($2.77).

You can read more information here , also scroll below to the Transportation section of this guide for more information about buying subway tickets and getting around Seoul.

Visa – No Visa Required

Another wonderful thing about visiting South Korea is that for many nationalities, getting a 90 day or 30 day stamp on arrival is a breeze. However, make sure you do your own research for your own nationality . If you qualify, all you have to do is fill out the small entry card (which you’ll be given on your flight), fly into Incheon International Airport, go through immigration, and they’ll stamp you into South Korea.

Alright, now you’re in Seoul!

Taking the Train Around South Korea

If you’re traveling onwards from Seoul to other parts of South Korea, taking the train is one of the most convenient ways to get around. Many trains to other parts of South Korea leave from either Seoul Station, Yongsan Station, or Cheongnyangni Station.

It’s recommended to book your train tickets a few days ahead of time so you can confirm that you’ll have a seat.

From Seoul my wife and I traveled to the food paradise of Jeonju, and we pre-booked out ticket the day before we left.

Where To Stay In Seoul?

Seoul is a huge city and there are many different areas to stay in depending on your interests.

However, what I noticed about places to stay in Seoul, is because the public transportation system is so efficient and convenient to use, it’s not hugely important which area you stay in (as long as you’re somewhat central), because you can always get to where you need to go.

Seoul has nearly every form of accommodation available from modern hostels to major 5 star hotel brands. Prices for accommodation are overall quite high, but you do have plenty of options.

In this Seoul travel blog guide, I’m going to share a few of the main areas that you should consider and why:

• Jung-Gu and Jongno-Gu – These two districts are what I would call the most central to Seoul sightseeing and shopping and right in the heart of the downtown area of Seoul. You’ll find many hotels in this area and it’s a great area to stay if you want easy access to the famous attractions without spending much time on the metro.
• Myeongdong – Myeondong is one of the biggest shopping districts in Seoul, and it’s home to lots of restaurants, hotels and trendy fashion and nightlife. Stay in Myeongdong to be surrounded by shopping.
• Seoul Station  (Yongsan-Gu) – The area around Seoul Station is huge, and you’ll find both high end and lower end hotels. There’s not so much to do or see right at Seoul Station (although it’s very close to Namdaemun market and Myeondong), but it’s convenient for transportation.
• Hongdae (Hongik University) – Hongdae is located in Western Seoul and it’s known especially for being a university town and therefore there’s plenty of shopping, restaurants, street food, and nightlife. It’s overall a great local area of Seoul and a fun area to walk around and explore. There are lots of guest houses in this area, so it’s a good place to looks for budget to mid-range accommodation.
• Gangnam-Gu – Finally, there’s Gangnam, which is an area of Seoul that is known for being high end and very trendy. There are some very fancy and upscale hotels in this area.

Where did I stay?

Airbnb Rental  (<- use that link for a $25 discount) – I’ve stayed at a number of hotels in Seoul, but on my latest trip, when my wife and I were writing this Seoul travel guide, we stayed at a rental apartment near Seoul Station. I think an apartment rental works quite well in Seoul, especially if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family so you can all be together and get a pretty decent deal.

Phil House – I also stayed at Phil House, a small and friendly hotel that’s clean and modern. The only problem is that it’s located a little far from central Seoul (but close to the Subway station), but it’s usually a pretty good price.

*NOTE : The link to hotels above are affiliate links, meaning that if you make a booking I will get a small commission at NO extra expense to you. Your support will help me continue making free travel guides like this. Thank you!

10 of My Favorite Korean Foods

I’m a huge fan of Korean food and especially the Korean feasts where a mind-blowing array of main and side dishes are placed on the table before you.

I’ve listed a few of my absolute favorite Korean foods I’ve tried so far, and dishes that you can find across Seoul and South Korea. This is not an extensive list, just a samplers platter of a few of my personal favorites.

• Banchan  (side dishes) – Let’s begin with banchan, which is the name used to describe the multitude of Korean side dishes that can include all sorts of mini plates of pickles, chili marinated bits, fritters, and even sometimes little bites of leftovers. While a main dish might be the heart of Korean food, the banchan side dishes are the body, they make a meal function and make a meal complete. Kimchi is one of the most common banchan.
• Gamjatang  (pork bone potato stew) – This soup is made with pork spine bones and potatoes which are boiled until the meat left is fall apart tender. You can usually order the kimchi version, which is absolutely sensational. Of all the food mentioned in this Seoul travel guide blog, this is one of my absolute favorite dishes.
• Gogigui (all things grilled meat) – One of the ultimate Korean meals are pieces of meat, grilled on your table before you with all the side dishes and dipping sauces. Korean barbecue is incredibly delicious.
• Sundubu Jjigae  (kimchi stew) – Mainly made with un-curdled tofu and lots of red chili flakes, sundubu jjiggae is both spicy and richly flavorful. The tofu is so good it almost tastes likes scrambled eggs.
• Naengmyeon  (type of noodles) – Of all the Korean noodle dishes, naengmyeon which is a type of buckwheat noodle with some other starches mixed in and served icy cold, is one of my personal favorites. The chewy texture and surprising icy-ness makes this dish fantastic.
• Samgyetang  (ginseng chicken soup) – Known to be a health dish, but also really delicious, samgyetang is a Korean spring chicken ginseng soup. A whole young chicken is typically stuffed with rice and garlic, and boiled with ginseng and jujube.
• Godeungeo-gui  (grilled fish) – Any chance that I can get to eat fish, I take it, as fish is one of my personal favorite things to eat. In Seoul you’ll find a dish called godeungeo-gui , which is grilled salted mackerel. The fish is usually nice and oily (full of delicious oils), and goes great with rice and kimchi.
• Mandu  (dumplings) – Many cultures around the world have some kind of dumpling, and in Korea, mandu are meat and vegetable filled dumpling pockets. They can either be steamed or deep fried, and they are delicious either way.
• Hanjeongsik (full set meal) – Hanjeongsik , a Korean full set meal, is one of the ultimate Korean meal experiences. An array of food that will literally cover every square centimeter of your table is placed before you, including a mix of main and side dishes. It’s a dream come true for food lovers.
• Patbingsu  (shaved ice dessert) – This last Korean food on the list is a dessert that is not my personal favorite, but it’s one of my wife’s favorites. The literal translation is red beans and ice, but they have become somewhat of a national and international Korean shaved ice phenomena full of bright and colorful toppings. Here are some of the famous places to eat patbingsu in Seoul .

Also, be sure to check out my more extensive list of top Korean food here .

Korean Street Food

When it comes to Korean street food in Seoul, there are both traditional snacks and also many modern trendy street foods.

I’m personally a huge fan of more of the traditional Korean street food dishes (ex. rice rolls, blood sausage), but not so much of a fan of the modern trendy things you’ll find on the streets and at shopping markets (ex. hot dogs, sweets).

Here’s a mix of some of the most common street foods you should try when you’re in Seoul.

• Tteokbokki  (rice cake rolls in chili sauce) – This is probably the most common Korean street food snack, which includes bite sized rice cakes braised in a tangy chili based sauce. You’ll find tteokbokki at countless street food stalls throughout Seoul, and it’s especially common for young people.
• Gimbap  (seaweed rice rolls) – This is one of the greatest Korean street food snacks in my opinion, Korean rice and seaweed rolls. The rolls can be filled with a combination of mostly vegetables, and what I really love about them is the common use of sesame seeds and sesame oil to give them a wonderful taste and aroma.
• Dakkochi (grilled chicken skewers) – Another one of my favorite street foods featured in this Seoul travel guide are dakkochi, skewers of chicken and leek, grilled to perfection and either seasoned with salt or with red chili paste.
• Twigim (deep fried nuggets) – Twigim can refer to a variety of bite sizes fritters, which are battered and deep fried. They are often compared as Korean tempura.
• Odeng (oden) – Similar to Japanese oden , but called odeng in Korea, it consists of various fishcakes and vegetables on skewer boiled in dashi broth.
• Hotteok  (stuffed pancake) – Hotteok is a stuffed pancake that can either be sweet or savory. I’m partial to the salty version, sometimes filled with sweet potato noodles and bulgogi. They are oily and delicious.
• Gamja dog (deluxe hot dog) – Yes, I had to end with the gamja dog, the creation that is a hot dog on a stick, covered in French fries.

A few of must-visit places for street food in Seoul:

• Gwangjang Market – One of the ultimate places for traditional Korean street food
• Namdaemun Market – Snacks all over and busy environment
• Myeong-dong – Lots of modern Korean street food, especially in the afternoon and evening
• Dongdaemun Food Street – There’s a street with a bunch of Korean food stalls during the day, located at Dongdaemun Market.

When you’re walking around Seoul and if you see other street food snacks like steamed silk worms, water chestnuts, or fruit, be sure to give them a try!

Are you enjoying the photos in this guide? Check out the camera I use here .

Restaurants in Seoul

There are not only thousands of restaurants in Seoul, but there are literally thousands of really good restaurants in Seoul. So in this Seoul travel guide, I’m writing from my personal experience about restaurants and dishes that I enjoyed. However, I haven’t even come close to eating at a measurable percentage of all the restaurants in Seoul.

The point I want to make is: Don’t limit yourself to just the restaurants I’ve mentioned below, but do some research in the area you’re staying in and you’ll likely find similar restaurants.

If you see a good looking restaurant, check it out. It probably will be really good. Ok, now that I’ve said that, here are a few of the restaurants I ate at:

• Jaedong Sundubu  – This place serves a seriously amazing bowl of sundubu jjiggae (soft tofu stew). Address: Bukchon-ro 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea; How to get there: Take the subway to Anguk station and Exit #2.
• Bukchon Son Mandu – This famous restaurant in Seoul serves mandu dumplings, both steamed and fried, and an awesome bowl of naengmyeon, cold buckwheat noodles. Address: Branches in Insadong and within the Bukchon Hanok Village (original branch); Open hours: 11 am – 10 pm daily; Prices: About 5,000 – 10,000 Won ($4.27 – $8.53) per person.
• 예송숯불갈비 (for grilled meat, sorry not sure of the English name) – This is just a local typical neighborhood grilled meat restaurant near Seoul Station that serves both pork and beef. I liked it because it was friendly and no-frills, just good food and a nice atmosphere. Address: ; Open hours: 10:30 am – 11:30 pm daily; Another good option for grilled meat in Seoul is New Village Restaurant .
• Hanchu (한추 fried chicken and beer) – I got this restaurant recommendation from my friends Dan and Jeffrey of  Foodiehub . Hanchu does crazy good fried chicken, and their trick is they add some pounded fresh chili to the batter. Address: 549-9 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Open hours: 5 pm – 3 am daily; Prices: One whole fried chicken is 17,000 Won ($14.50).
• Jinjujip (진주집) – Oxtail soup (kkori gomtang) is a dish that Koreans do very well, and while I enjoyed, it seemed to be overpriced. But never the less, it was pretty good. This place is located within the back alley of Namdaemun Market. Open hours: I’m not fully sure, but I think it’s mainly a lunch restaurant; How to get there: Namdaemun Market, take the metro to Hoehyeon Station, Exit 5; Price – 21,000 Won ($17.62) for the oxtail soup, which was very pricey.
• Gogung (고궁 – 인사동점) Bibimbap – Bibimbap is a famous Korean dish of rice and toppings all mixed together. When you’re in Insadong (there’s also a branch in Myeong-dong ), this is a great place to try bibimbap. Address: 38 Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-300, South Korea; Open hours: 11 am – 9:30 pm daily; How to get there: Take the metro to Anguk Station, Exit 6.
• Dongdaemun Grilled Fish Street – Located near the Dongdaemun Market in the Pyeonghwa Market , there’s a street, more like a walking alley, that’s filled with grilled fish restaurants. They all looked pretty similar, and they all remain quite local. The fish was salty and grilled to perfection. How to get there: Take the metro to Dongdaemun Station, Exit 9, walk up the street to the market, and then cut into the alley.
• Namdaemun Hairtail Alley – Similar to the grilled fish alley, but this time within Namdaemun Market, there’s a hairtail fish alley where you’ll find a number of restaurants serving a spicy hairtail  (cutlassfish) chili stew. I had it for the first time on this trip to Seoul, and it’s now one of my favorite Korean dishes. Open hours: throughout lunch and early evening, probably best to go at lunch, and some restaurants are closed on Sunday; How to get there: To get to Namdaemun market, take the metro to Hoehyeon Station, Exit 5.
• Gamjatang near Seoul Station – On this trip to Seoul, this was my first meal, as soon as my wife and I got to Seoul Station we were hungry. Just outside the station, across the street from Exit 15 is a nice neighborhood restaurant to eat gamjatang. How to get there: Seoul Station to Exit 15, cross the street and walk to your right hand side.

I’ve included most of these restaurants and everything within this Seoul travel guide on the Seoul map below (or you can look at it here )

Latest South Korea blog posts:

Here are some of the latest articles about food and travel in South Korea that I’ve published.

Spicy Braised Hairtail Stew (갈치조림) at Seoul’s Hairtail Alley

You can smell Hairtail Alley before you see it; The aroma of spicy chili flakes fill the air. When I was in Seoul, I sort of happened upon these wonderful culinary backstreets by chance. But after trying this delicious Korean dish, it has become one of…

Delicious Meal at Seoul’s Dongdaemun Grilled Fish Street

In Seoul, some of the best meals you’ll eat are at restaurants located down walking side streets. Just a five minute walk from Dongdaemun Station, in an area full of delicious food, is an alley which is known as the…

Gwangjang Market: Awesome Korean Street Food in Seoul

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If you love Korean food, you don’t want to miss eating your way through Gwangjang Market in Seoul. It’s one of the ultimate places to experience traditional Korean street food and culture all under one delicious roof. In this Gwangjang…

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Korean Air – Do They Serve the Best Airplane Food? (video)

(If you can’t see the video, watch it here: http://youtu.be/8ND3a0rpfIw) You’ve probably eaten a lot of bad airplane food. But have you had good airplane food? I’ve taken Korean Air a few times now, and I’d have to say their…

For the love of Bibimbap (돌솥 비빔밥)

Immediately after licking that glorious bowl of sundubu jjigae clean, I decided to go for restaurant number two. I had about 30 more minutes before I had to head back to the Seoul-Incheon Airport and decided to check out a…

VIDEO: Sundubu jjigae (순두부찌개), piping hot and insanely soothing

(If you can’t see the video, watch it on YouTube here: http://youtu.be/D3S6dl_nCmY) All I can say is, sundubu jjigae is one of the ultimate comfort dishes in the world. On my recent layover in Seoul, I couldn’t resist a bowl…

Things To Do In Seoul

Here are a few of the top things to do when you’re in Seoul, when you’re in-between meals of course. Also, be sure to check out my more complete list of 25 things to do in Seoul .

• Gwangjang Market – This old market is one of the greatest culinary destinations in all of Seoul, and if you love food, there’s absolutely no way you’re going to want to miss a chance to eat here. The market is set up with dozens of street food vendors that sell both snacks and full meals and you’ll find dishes like tteokbokki, gimbap, soondae, mung bean pancakes, and all sorts of fresh seafood. Gwangjang Market is the ultimate Seoul food destination. Even though it’s been written about in nearly all Seoul travel guides, it remains very local. Open hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily; How to get there: Take the subway to Jongno 5-Ga, Exit 8 or 9.
• Noryangjin Fish Market – Another interesting place to go when you’re in Seoul is the Noryangjin Fisheries wholesale market, one of the biggest fresh seafood markets in Seoul. The amount and diversity of fresh seafood available is remarkable. You can walk around and just admire all the seafood creatures, and there are also restaurants within the market where you can buy seafood and have a restaurant cook it for you. Additionally they have freshly sliced raw fish (which is called hwareo hoe, like sashimi) that you can buy. Open hours: 24 hours, but anytime in the day is good; How to get there: Take the subway to Noryangjin station, Exit 7.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace – The Gyeongbokgung Palace is probably the number attraction in Seoul according to most Seoul travel guide books, and it is worth a visit when you are there. Built in the Joseon dynasty in the 1300’s, it’s a huge complex of gates, walls, courtyards, and palaces. It’s such a huge area that it’s almost like a park, with ponds, bridges, and gardens. Open hours: 9 am – 6 pm from Wednesday – Monday, closed on Tuesday; Entrance price: 3,000 Won ($2.56); How to get there: Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung station Exit 5.
• Bukchon Hanok Village – A hanok is the word for traditional Korean homes, and Bukchon Hanok is one of the best preserved traditional villages in Seoul. The village, although it’s still real and people still live there, has become a very popular tourist attraction for both foreigners and local Koreans. I think it’s a pretty nice area to just walk around leisurely, eat some food, and just enjoy the scenery. Open hours: business hours throughout the day and evening; How to get there: Take the metro to Anguk Station, Exit 2.
• Changdeokgung Palace – Changdeokgung Palace was one of the main palaces during the Joseon Dynasty, and it remains one of the best preserved and most beautiful places in Seoul. The catch is that you have to join a tour to see it, so you’re not as free to walk around on your own terms. Open hours: 9 am – 6 pm from Tuesday – Sunday, closed on Mondays; Entrance price: 300 Won ($0.26) for entry into the palace ground, 3,000 Won($2.56) for entry and tour of the secret garden; How to get there: Take the subway to Anguk station, Exit 3.
• Myeongdong Shopping  – It seems that a lot of people come to Seoul for the shopping, and one of the most popular shopping destinations is the Myeongdong walking street (or entire neighborhood). You’ll mostly find clothes and cosmetics, but there are also some street shops and plenty of street food available especially in the afternoon and night.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream – Walking and exercising in parks goes great with being a food traveler. I’m a huge fan of eating and then taking a stroll around the city without doing really anything but just walking and people watching. The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a 5.8 km long stream and walkway that runs adjacent to a busy road that goes right through the center of Seoul. It was formerly just a waterway, but the city breathed new life into it by cleaning it up and making it a public recreational park.
• Namdaemun Market – This is another place I really enjoy in Seoul, and I included it in this Seoul travel guide not so much for the street shopping, but because it’s a great place to eat. There are some wonderful food alleys within the market, and also some great street food. Namdaemun Market is busy and hectic and a great environment. Open hours: Business daytime hours; How to get there: It’s easiest to get there from Hoehyeon Station and follow the clearly marked signs for Namdaemun Market.

This wraps up a few of my favorite things to do in Seoul. But in reality, I think the best thing to do is just walk around and explore the food!

How To Get Around?

Seoul not only has one of Asia’s best and most extensive public metro transportation systems, but it’s one of the best city subway systems in the world.

There’s almost nowhere you can’t get to, even off the beaten path places, by taking the Seoul Metro, and walking a little ways.

T-money Card

The T-money card is the all access pre-paid money card for transportation in Seoul, and buying one makes getting around much easier and quicker.

You can buy a T-money cards at most convenience stores like 7-Eleven or CU and you can re-load money at all subway stations.

The T-money card can cost 2,500 – 4,000 Won ($2.13 – $3.41) depending on where you buy it, and then you can add as much money at a time as you like. When you’re done with your T-money card, you can get a refund at convenience stores but they will take a 500 Won processing fee.

Even if you’re just staying in Seoul for a few days, a T-money card is well worth purchasing.

Main Modes of Transportation:

• Seoul Metro – When you look at the Seoul Metro map, it looks pretty intense. And it is. But the good news is, it’s actually very easy to figure out and to use. Stations are well marked, and they’ve done a great job at managing crowds and stations. Just take your time, figure out your destination and the exit you want to take, and you can get almost anywhere in central Seoul using the metro. To pay, you can either buy a single ticket at the self service machine, or if you have a T-money card (which I’d recommend) you can add however much money onto your card and just swipe it to ride. Open hours: 5:30 am – 12 am midnight daily; Prices: 1,250 Won for a normal ride (with T-money card) or 1,350 Won without a T-money card, and then rates go up depending on distance.
• Buses – Additionally, Seoul has an extensive bus network that you can use to get pretty much anywhere as well (if you know the route you need to take). You can use your T-money card to pay for bus rides as well. Here’s more information about riding the bus .
• Taxis – Finally, if you need to get somewhere quickly or if the Metro has already closed, taxis in Seoul are always available. Taxis in generally are pretty good, but make sure they use the meter and make sure you have a bit of an idea where you’re going. You can even use your T-money card to pay for taxis. Here are some good taxi tips . Prices: 3,000 Won ($2.56) is the base price and then goes up by distance.

Public transportation in Seoul is excellent, extensive, and you can get about anywhere you need to go just with the Seoul metro.

Prices and Expenses

I would classify Seoul as a pretty expensive city to visit, similar to Tokyo or Singapore . And also, the cost of living in Seoul is very high.

Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense when traveling to Seoul, and unless you have a friend you can stay with, there’s no great way around expensive accommodation (even hostels are pricey). That being said, you can find budget food and both attractions and transportation are pretty affordable.

Here are some sample prices and expenses for Seoul:

Accommodation:

• Hostel dorm bed: $20 – $35 USD per night
• Mid-range hotel or guest house: $50 – $150 USD per night
• High end: Everything over $150 and way over

Transportation:

• Seoul Metro Ride: 1,250 Won ($1.05) for a normal ride
• Taxi: 8,000 – 15,000 Won ($6.82 – $12.80) for a short rice, 15,000 – 30,000 Won ($12.80 – $25.60) for a longer ride
• Street food dish: 1,000 – 3,000 Won ($0.84 – $2.52)
• Local restaurant: 5,000 – 10,000 Won ($4.20 – $8.39) per dish or person
• Indoor restaurant: 10,000 – 15,000 Won ($8.39 – $12.59) won per person
• Nicer sit down restaurant: 15,000 Won ($12.59) and up per person
• Drink at a bar: 3,000 – 5,000 Won ($2.56 – $4.27)
• Coffee at coffeeshop: 2,000 – 5,000 Won ($1.68 – $4.20)
• Big bottle of water: 1,500 Won ($1.28)

Overall money budget:

• Budget: $30 – $65 USD per person per day
• Mid-range: $65 – $100 USD per person per day
• High end: $100 – $300 per person per day

This is not an exact guide, but just meant to give you an idea of the kind of prices you can expect to pay when you visit Seoul.

South Korea Travel Videos:

I’ve traveled to Seoul a number of times, but the series of videos below is from my most recent trip, where my wife Ying and I spent 6 days in Seoul and then traveled onwards to Jeonju (another amazing Korean food destination by the way).

Most of the things included in this guide are featured in this playlist of Seoul travel videos:

(Or you can watch the full playlist here )

Seoul is a huge and modern city in South Korea, home to never ending shopping, historical attractions, a thriving art and design scene, and an abundance of delicious food that will keep you occupied for as long as you stay.

In this Seoul Travel Guide for Food Lovers we’ve covered information and tips on where to stay, how to get around, and Korean food and restaurants.

I hope this guide will give you some great ideas for your trip so that you can make the most of your time in Seoul and eat some seriously amazing food!

Have you been to Seoul? Any extra tips?

I’d love to hear from you now in the comments section below. Leave a comment!

Was this Seoul travel guide helpful for you?

If you’d like to help me continue making free guides and videos, here are 3 ways you can help:

• Book your accommodation using this link (it’s an affiliate link to Booking.com, and at NO extra cost to you, I will get a small commission).
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Living and traveling in Korea

The 27 Oldest Restaurants In Seoul and Why You Need To Find Them

There are a lot of trendy cafes and restaurants in Seoul but you’ll find that they’re often short lived, a flash in the pan as they say. Article upon article is written about the hottest restaurants in Seoul, Korea right now, but check them a year later and you could be hard-pressed to find many of those viral sensations still existing.

When it comes to the best restaurants in Seoul for me and my husband, they’re usually the oldest restaurants in Seoul that we seek out because of their longevity and consistency, it’s a sure way to get a good and delicious meal.

I love heading to Myeongdong to go shopping and Insadong for the souvenirs and culture , but when it’s time to eat, we find the tried and true restaurants to enjoy. If you want to be assured you’re getting delicious Korean food, definitely check out one of the oldest restaurants in Seoul.

The oldest restaurants in Seoul are where you should be eating:

What is seolleongtang (설농탕)?

What is chuotang (추어탕), what is gomtang (곰탕), imun seolleongtang (이문설농탕), yonggeumok (용금옥), eunho restaurant (은호식당), jaem bae ok (잼배옥), cheongjinok (청진옥), hadonggwan (하동관), hanilgwan (한일관), okcheonok (옥천옥), woorae-ok (우래옥), buyeojib (부여집), gangseo myeonok (강서면옥).

• Myeongdong Halmae Nakji (명동할매낙지)

Jinjujib (진주집)

• Yeonnamseo Sikdang (연남서식당)

Mapo Jinjja Wonjo Choidaepo (마포진짜원조최대포)

Yeolchajib (열차집), samgeori meonjimak sundaeguk (삼거리먼지막순대국), ojangdong hamheung naengmyeon (오장동함흥냉면), taejo gamjaguk (태조감자국), jeonju jungang hoekwan (전주중앙회관), goryeo samgyetang (고려삼계탕), hamheung gombo naengmyeon (함흥곰보냉면), yeokjeon hall (역전회관), jinju hoekwan (진주회관).

• Daedo Shikdang (대도식당)

Junglimjang Seolleongtang (중림장설렁탕)

Honam jip (호남집).

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Common Dishes You’ll Find At The Oldest Restaurants In Seoul

Before we get too deep in to the deliciousness of the oldest restaurants in Seoul, I think you need to know what you’ll be eating. As you check out the restaurants, you’ll notice a bit of a theme in what they serve with some common old-school Korean delicacies. So, in case you don’t know…

Seolleongtang (설농탕) is a milky beef bone soup that’s made by boiling down ox leg bones for several hours until the broth becomes rich and creamy white. This soup isn’t spicy which makes it easy to eat for kids as well as your favorite but unadventurous foodie friend. The best seolleongtang restaurants are known for their broth so pay special attention to how it tastes as you sup.

Chuotang (추어탕) is mud fish stew. The mudfish, or loach fish, is crushed up in its entirety and boiled with leaks, green onions, cabbage, garlic, soybean paste and red pepper paste. It has a very familiar taste, yet it’s hard to say exactly what it is.

To me it’s a bit like an all spice taste and at times the bite can be a little gritty, ground up fish after all, but it’s worth it. On top of that, loach fish soup/mud fish stew is quite healthy.

Another seemingly simple looking soup that is all about a delectable nutrient-dense broth that has been stewed for hours, gomtang is a traditional soup that was enjoyed by the royal courts. It is typically a clear beef soup made by boiling different cuts of beef including ribs, ox tail, and brisket, among other parts.

The difference between gomtang and seolleongtang:

While it may sound similar to the above seolleongtang, there are some differences. Gomtang and seolleongtang differ primarily in their use of ox bone, with gomtang being a clear beef soup made from brisket and other beef cuts, and seolleongtang a milky white beef bone soup from boiling cow shank, head, and bones.

Additionally, the seasoning is slightly different with gomtang being seasoned with guk-ganjang or soup soy sauce, whereas seolleongtang is seasoned with salt. If you like one though, you’ll likely enjoy the other in my experience.

The Oldest Restaurants In Seoul

When you start to plot the oldest restaurants in Seoul out on your trusty map, you’ll likely notice that they’re north of the Han River. Is it a coincidence? Not at all. The districts south of the river weren’t developed until later so if you’re on the hunt for the oldest of anything, you’ll find it in the north, or Gangbuk (강북) area of Seoul.

To be up front, we haven’t yet eaten at all of these restaurants. This is as much a list for you as it is for me. I found a list of Seoul’s oldest restaurants on Korea Joongang Daily and was pleasantly surprised to realize we’d eaten at quite a few and then gave myself the mission of eating at more of them. (We all need our aspirations, right?)

If you compare the lists, you’ll notice there are some missing from there and some I’ve added. Some of the originals from the article have closed unfortunately and I just know some good old restaurants too. For the ones we haven’t yet eaten at, I checked out the menu, the reviews, and the history to fill in the info gaps. Get ready to plan what’s for dinner in Seoul.

What to eat: Seolleongtang

Opened in 1904, it was the first restaurant licensed by Seoul City. The seolleongtang has a thinner broth than some other places but really hits the spot. We’ve eaten here numerous times. If you’re visiting during lunch hour, you’ll find it to be very busy with local business-people and you might need to wait.

Go a bit earlier or later to walk right in. If you’re in the Insadong area and want something that is delicious and has been around for more than 100 years proving why it’s good, this is where you should be eating.

• Address: 38-13 Woojeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 우정국로 38-13)
• Hours: Every day: 8:00am ~ 9:00pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 4:30pm)

What to eat: Chuotang

Opened in 1932 in a different location, it has been in its current location since 1961 and serves Seoul-style chuotang as well as Jeollanam-do style chuotang. What’s the difference? Seoul-style has whole loach in the stew while Jeollanam-do is made with ground loach.

I’m a Jeolla-style loach soup lover myself, but this is THE spot to try Seoul-style if you want to try it. Now, there have been three generations of chuotang masters serving up delicious stews that are made daily.

• Address: 24-2 Dadong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 다동길 24-2)
• Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00am ~ 10:00pm

What to eat: Kkori Gomtang

Opened in 1932 originally in Namdaemun Market under the name of Pyeonghwaok, this restaurant has gone through four generations as Eunho Restaurant now. Their kkori gomtang is cooked using only oxtail bones for a thinner lighter bone broth.

Ideal spot if you’re near Seoullo 7017 and Seoul Station or are visiting Culture Station Seoul 284 and Docking Seoul .

• Address: 28-4 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 남대문시장4길 28-4)
• Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:05am ~ 9:00pm; Saturday – Sunday: 6:05am ~ 4:00pm

Opened in 1933 in a different location, the restaurant you find today has been in it’s current location since 1982. Known for a delicious bowl of gomtang, this is an ideal spot to check out if you’re near Sungnyemun Gate (숭례문) (Namdaemun) and Deoksugung Palace .

• Address: 68-9 Sejongdaero 9-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 세종대로9길 68-9)
• Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00am ~ 9:30pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 5:00pm); Saturday: 11:00am ~ 3:00pm

What to eat: Haejangguk

Opened in 1937, this restaurant serves haejangguk (해장국), commonly known as hangover soup. For a country that does a lot of drinking, you won’t be surprised they have a number of hangover cures with the most traditional being a hydrating soup.

You should also not be surprised that they open super early in the morning so people that are going for an all-night binge can eat this as their last round of a night out before drifting off to sleep.

Cheongjinok serves one of my husband’s favorite versions of haejangguk, a soup made with cabbage, congealed ox blood, and a hearty beef broth. If you’re wondering what a good Korean cow intestine soup tastes like, try it here. Just a note, not all haejangguk is made this way. You can find “haejangguk” on many a menu but they aren’t all the same.

• Address: 32 Jongno 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 종로3길 32)
• Hours: Every day: 6:00am ~ 9:30pm

What to eat: Gomtang and Seolleongtang

Our go-to restaurant when we’re in the Myeongdong area and want something tried and true, no thrills or frills, Hadonggwan will hit the spot. There are plenty of places to eat in Myeongdong to be sure, but Hadonggwan, which opened in 1939, is the oldest. This restaurant serves up a delicious bowl of gomtang (곰탕) and seolleongtang.

• Address: 12 Myeongdong 9-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 명동9길 12)
• Hours: Monday – Saturday: 7:00am ~ 4:00pm

Opened in 1939, this bulgogi and naengmyeon restaurant is said to have high-quality beef ribs simmered for more than 10 hours to make a rich galbitang broth with tender meat. Also added to the broth are ginko, chestnuts, jujube, garlic, ginseng, and radish. There’s something on the menu for everyone here and now they have a number of branches too.

• Address: 14 Apgujeong-ro 38-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강남구 압구정로38길 14)
• Hours: Every day: 11:30am ~ 10:00pm (Break time: 4:00pm ~ 5:00pm)

Opened in 1941, Okcheonok serves seolleongtang. Apparently a favorite of former Korean president Lee Myung Bak. Someone check it out and tell me if the president had good taste.

• Address: 16 Hajeong-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul (서울 동대문구 하정로 16)
• Hours: Monday – Saturday: 7:00am ~ 9:00pm; Sunday: 7:00am ~ 3:00pm

What to eat: Pyeongyang naengmyeon (평양냉면) and Bulgogi (불고기)

Looking for a delicious bowl of Pyeongyang naengmyeon that even President Obama enjoyed? Check out Woorae-ok which opened in 1946. This place always has a line so get there early and just be prepared for a bit of a wait. Is it worth it though? Yes it is. Go hungry!

We eat a lot of Pyeongyang naengmyeon, it’s one of my husband’s favorite dishes, and this was up there in the goodness factor. I do think it’s a bit pricy though compared to other naengmyeon spots and is more based on hype, but would go back again.

• Address: 62-29 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 창경궁로 62-29)
• Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11:30am ~ 9:00pm

What to eat: Oxtail soup, doganitang, and seolleongtang

Opened in 1947, now in its third generation of ownership, they started as a doganitang, ox knuckle bone soup, restaurant. Known for their generous portion sizes, they added other soups to their menu and locals continue to flock to the restaurant to eat it up.

• Address: 24 Seonyudong 1-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울 영등포구 선유동1로 24)
• Hours: Every day: 10:00am ~ 10:00pm

What to eat: Pyeongyang naengmyeon

Opened in 1948, it was the choice of visiting dignitaries from North Korea at the South-North Red Cross Conference. If you like pyeongyang naengmyeon as much as we do, then it’s a restaurant to add to your list.

• Address: 35 Sejong-daero 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 세종대로11길 35)
• Hours: 11:00am ~ 10:00pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 5:00pm)

What to eat: Oxtail soup

Opened in 1950, this is a busy lunch spot for locals, though the main meal to try is quite pricy. I’m a fan of doganitang, ox knuckle soup, myself, so I’d go for that, but the gomtang looks to be very filling. This might be the next one on our list to check out.

• Address: 22-2 Namdaemunsijang-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울시 중구 남대문시장길 22-2)
• Hours: Every day: 8:00am~ 9:00pm

Yeonnam Seo Sikdang (연남서식당)

What to eat: Korean bbq

Opened in 1953 just after the Korean War, don’t plan to sit if you’re heading to eat here. At a time when it was hard to get tables and people just made do, this family got their hands on some oil drums and propped them up to be used as grills and they became popular with local workers who had little time to eat anyway.

This is the original stand and eat spot, but you can find other restaurants similarly fashioned that jumped on what became a trend for standing restaurants later. It’s an experience, but don’t expect a ton of sides. Since the table is a grill, you pretty much just get the meat and drinks. If you want something more, you’ll have to bring it yourself.

• If you’ve been before and thought it was in a different location, you’re right. It moved in 2022 so the address listed above where it is now established.
• Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11:30am ~ 6:30pm

What to eat: Galbi

Opened in 1956, if you visit, be sure to walk around a bit. There are some great things to do in Gongdeok and a lot of people really overlook the area. If you like Korean bbq, you’ll like what they’ve got on order; pork ribs, pig skin , and all the fixins.

• Address: 112-4 Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울시 마포구 마포대로 112-4)
• Hours: Every day: 11:00am ~ 11:00pm

What to eat: Bindaetteok (Mung bean pacakes)

Opened in 1956, the main dish at this spot makes it stand out among the oldest restaurants in Seoul as it’s mung bean pancakes. Also a popular dish at Gwangjang Market , Yeolchajib is a popular makgeolli drinking spot with mung bean pancakes and other jeon, or Korean-style pancakes.

• Address: 47 Jongno 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울시 종로구 종로7길 47)
• Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00am ~ 10:30pm; Saturday: 2:00pm ~ 8:30pm; Sunday: 2:00pm ~ 8:00pm

What to eat: Sundaeguk (Korean blood sausage soup)

Opened in 1957, Samgeori Meonjimak Sundaeguk serves up another popular hangover soup, but also just a husband-favorite, sundaeguk. This soup took a little time to grow on me, but as I was often out with a group of musicians after concerts in my younger days who would inevitably end up in a sundaeguk spot, I’m now quite the fan.

• Address: 11 Siheung-daero 185-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울시 영등포구 시흥대로 185길 11)
• Hours: Wednesday – Monday: 8:00am ~ 8:00pm

What to eat: Hamheung naengmyeon

Serving up two cold Korean soups that are especially popular in the summer in Korea , this restaurant was opened in 1958. The two menu items include a spicy and not so spicy naengmyeon. Order mulnaengmyeon which features a chilled beef broth soup with buckwheat noodles, or order the bibimnaengmyeon, a spicy sauce instead of broth noodle dish.

To top it off, you can also order hongeo sashimi, or sliced raw skate, here. Not something you can have just anywhere, so eat it up! This spot is on our summer list this year.

• Address: 105 Mareunnae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 마른내로 108)
• Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:30am ~ 8:00pm; Friday – Sunday: 10:30am ~ 8:30pm

What to eat: Gamjaguk (Spicy pork bone soup)

Opened in 1958, if you haven’t had gamjatang yet, you’re missing out. This is a great Korea stew that is hearty and delicious and Taejo Gamjaguk has the perfect one to fill you up if you’re over in the northeastern side of Seoul.

• Address: 43 Bomun-ro 34-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul (서울시 성북구 보문로 34길 43)
• Hours: Every day: 10:10am ~ 11:00pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 4:30pm)

What to eat: Rice and vegetables served in a hot stone bowl

If you don’t have the time to visit the Jeonju Hanok Village , but you want to try the food you should eat there, then make time to visit Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan which was opened in 1959 in Seoul. Bibimbap is pretty much a winner with any palate, so take your friends, order a lot, and share the numerous delicious dishes.

• Address: 32-1 Sejong-daero 14-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울시 중구 세종대로14길 32-1)
• Hours: Every day: 8:30am ~ 10:30pm

What to eat: Samgyetang (Ginseng chicken soup)

Opened in 1960, this restaurant serves up a delicious samgyetang soup, or ginseng chicken soup. They pride themselves on buying chickens that are about 49 days old, add ginseng, jujube, garlic, and sticky rice, along with traditional Korean herbs, for a delicious and healthy stew.

• Address: 55-3 Seosomun-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울시 중구 서소문동 55-3)

What to eat: Naengmyeon

Opened in 1960, this is another popular naengmyeon restaurant and also featuring Hamheung in the title may have you confused with the one I mentioned just a few restaurants up. Sitting near Jongmyo Shrine , if Gwangjang Market is too busy for you, try this delicious spot with mulnaengmyeon and bibimnaengmyeon as well as big delicious mandu.

• Address: 109 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울시 종로구 창경궁로 109)
• Hours: 10:30am ~ 8:00pm

First established in Seocheon in 1928, Yeokjeon Hall was originally called Hosang Restaurant based on the sign at their door. The sign didn’t make it clear when they moved to Seoul, but articles would suggest it was in the 1960s. It’s officially listed on the list of the oldest restaurants in Seoul as established in 1962.

There are set menus which include their well known specialty bulgogi option called crunchy bulgogi (바싹불고기) that is served along with a dish of steamed pork, a bowl of ox blood soup (선지국), and a plate of spicy grilled octopus (낙지볶음).

There is also an ala carte menu and other set meal options if you’re not a huge fan of ox blood soup like our crew when we visited. The bulgogi and beef tartare bibimbap (육회비빔밥) along with the side dishes were amazing though!

• Address: 67-1 Yonggang-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울시 마포구 용강동 67-1)
• Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 11:30am ~ 9:30pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 5:00pm); Saturday – Sunday: 11:30am ~ 9:00pm (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 4:30pm)

What to eat: Kongguksu (Cold Soymilk Noodle Soup)

Opened in 1962, Jinju Hoekwan is known for serving up one of the best bowls of kongguksu, a cold soy milk broth noodle soup, around. Another one of those delectable cold summer soups, it’s thick, filling, and becomes one of those summer dishes you look forward to finding. Find it here if you can.

• Address: 26 Sejong-daero 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울시 중구 세종대로11길 26)
• Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00am ~ 9:00pm; Saturday: 11:00am ~ 8:00pm

Daedo Sikdang (대도식당)

There are plenty of Korean bbq restaurants in Seoul, but not many have been open since 1964 like Daedo Sikdang. The only dish you can order is hanwoo sirloin (한우 등심), making it easy to know what’s for dinner. They serve it with a trademark cast iron skillet and kimchi radish fried rice.

• Address: 431 Hongik-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (시울시 성동구 홍익동 431)

Opened in 1972, I stopped into this hole in the wall when I visited Seosomun Shrine many years ago. I remember seeing that it opened in 1972 and was immediately comforted knowing I’d surely get a good bite, and I did. Simple, delicious, right where you need it to be.

• Addrses: 459-1 Cheongpa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 청파로 459-1)
• Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00am ~ 9:00pm (Break time: 3:30pm ~ 5:00pm); Saturday – Sunday: 9:00am ~ 9:00pm

Something a bit different from the many soup restaurants that make up the old-school restaurant list. Honam Jip opened in 1974 and prepares a tender mackerel. Choose from six different kinds of fish with the mackerel and cutlassfish being the most popular.

• Address: 5 Jongno 40ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 종로40가길 5)
• Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12:00pm ~ 12:00am

There are clearly plenty of old-school delicious Korean restaurants to choose from in Seoul, Korea. Get ready to dig in and enjoy it!

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

34 BEST Places to Visit in Seoul (Attraction Guide for 2024)

Seoul is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines cyber-punk sights with old-world goodness. It’s a truly unique city.

There are numerous cool places to visit in Seoul and a lot of sights to see. This city has it all, from a fascinating and unusual culture to great food, amazing shopping, and great entertainment options. It’s also very welcoming and used to travelers making it a safe and accessible place in Asia. There countless points of interest in Seoul, so you’ll have an exciting and busy trip to the city.

Knowing where to go, and what to visit  in Seoul can seem a little intimidating. It’s a sprawling metropolis and doesn’t quite have the complete ease of its East Asian neighbor Japan. However, Seoul is actually a very safe city and is popular amongst tourists, so the tourist trails are well worn and easy to explore.

With this easy guide, you’ll find it easy to travel to Seoul and come back with stories and pictures that other people just can’t match! There are a lot of cool places to visit in Seoul, so let’s get to it!

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Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Seoul:

The best places to visit in seoul, faqs on the best places to visit in seoul, final thoughts before visiting seoul’s best places.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

• Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
• Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
• Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.

Where to go in Seoul South korea in a city of 10 million? Your experience while travelling in South Korea will be dramatically different by the accommodation you choose. You want to make sure you’re closest to all the coolest things to do.

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#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – What to Visit in Seoul for Korean architecture

• A great place to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.
• You’ll be able to take some awesome pictures in this area!
• Just be aware that people still live in these houses, so be respectful of their privacy.

Why it’s so awesome: The traditional houses in Seoul are called Hanok and they date back to the Joseon Dynasty between 1392 and 1910. These houses are designed to maintain a balance between the house and the outside world of mountains, rivers, and land contours. This makes them extremely aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-sees in Seoul! You may even be able to find an Airbnb in Seoul in this architectural style if you’re lucky!

What to do there: People actually still live in this residential area, which is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so be respectful of their spaces and time. If you can, join a guided tour early in the morning to get even more insights. Or take some extra time and explore the area and make sure you get some pictures too. There are some spots where you can see the traditional houses against more modern landmarks, and they make for the most striking photo-ops of all.

#2 – Myeongdong – Where to go in Seoul if you love to shop!

• Literally shopper’s paradise!
• You’ll find amazing deals in this area on every kind of cosmetics you can imagine.
• Make sure you take advantage of the samples and the changing deals and offers.
• If you want to find out more,  get a guide  to show you around!

Why it’s so awesome: The women of Seoul look amazing. They’re always beautifully dressed and have impeccable make-up, and this area is why. Myeongdong is a whole shopping area dedicated to every cosmetic store and brand you could ever want. So, no matter what type of skin you have or what make-up look you want, you’ll be able to find the right products in this area.

What to do there: This is the most famous place in Seoul for shopping and there are always a lot of special deals and offers in this area so keep your eyes open and take advantage of them. A lot of shops also offer free samples, so don’t be afraid to try a brand you’ve never heard of! This is a trip mostly for the girls, so leave the guys at home and take your best friends along for the ride.

#3 – Lotte World – A must-do in Seoul for families!

• The world’s largest indoor amusement park.
• If you get tired of the rides, then visit the shopping complex also on-site!
• This is a Seoul must-do and a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: Lotte World is huge. It includes both an indoor and outdoor amusement park and there is also a hotel, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and a shopping center on-site! So, even if you get tired of the rides, you can always slip out and grab a meal or a bargain before returning to the Lotte fun.

What to do there: Take the kids, or friends, and just enjoy the amusement park. The rides and attractions are some of the best you’ll ever see at Lotte World and it’s well worth taking an entire day in this park to soak it all in.

Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.

#4 – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Seoul

• When you travel to Seoul, you absolutely must not miss this historic building!
• The largest and most important palace in Seoul.
• If you wear a traditional hanbok dress, they’ll let you in for free.

Why it’s so awesome: The Gyeongbokgung Palace is often compared to the Forbidden City in Beijing and is a Seoul must-see. Built in 1395, it was the main royal palace of the Joseon family, who ruled Korea for hundreds of years.

The palace was mostly destroyed by Imperial Japan during the early 20th century but over the following years, it has been meticulously restored. It is now considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

What to do there: There are lots of places in the city where you can hire a hanbok – a traditional Korean dress. If you turn up at the palace wearing it, they’ll let you in for free. Aside from that, just explore the site. I’d recommend jumping on a guided tour to get to know all of the details about this stunning palace.

Also, make sure you show up to see the changing of the guard or the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance . Either one happens between 10 and 4 pm every hour on every day except Tuesday and it’s a really fun thing to see in Seoul.

#5 – N Seoul Tower – A place to go in Seoul to see the city from a different angle.

• The best place for panoramic views of the city.
• The building also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events as well as restaurants and snack bars.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for the top place to visit in Seoul, they don’t get much more “top” than this. The N Seoul Tower is located on Mt. Namsan and has been Seoul’s most iconic site since its opening in 1980. It’s actually a communication and observation tower, but over the last few years, it’s become one of the most important and celebrated sites in the city.

What to do there: Go to the top and enjoy the views. Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to see it high up and at a distance so you can get an idea of the scale, and this tower offers the best place in the city to do just that.

Afterwards, go down to see a movie or an exhibition in the cultural space, or just grab a table at the upscale restaurants there and enjoy a fantastic meal. If you are passing through Seoul, then you see this (but not climb) on a Seoul transit tour from the airport.

#6 – The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum – Where to visit in Seoul if you are alone.

• Reading the books and poetry from another culture is a great way to gain a deeper understanding, and this is a great entry point into South Korean Literature.
• If you love books and history, this is a Seoul must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a museum built in honor of the beloved South Korean poet Yun Dong-Ju. It’s a three-room museum where you can explore photos from his life as well as first editions of his poems. The space itself is beautiful as well; the indoor space perfectly captures the contemplative, inspiring mood of the poetry and is a Seoul itinerary must for the contemplative travelers.

What to do there: Spend some time exploring the photos and contemplating this poet’s work before going outside. You can take a wall on Poet’s Hill at the back of the museum and get great views of the city and the N Seoul Tower. After your visit, you might even be inspired to get writing!

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#7 – The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine – An important historical site in Seoul.

• A sobering but beautiful shrine that remembers a very dark time in history.
• Don’t take the kids to this site as some of the displays may upset them.
• If you want to explore Seoul, going back to its roots is a good way to start.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Catholic shrine on the Han River and marks the Byeonin Persecution of 1866. At this time, nine French missionaries were martyred which led to the French fleet attempting an invasion into Korea. In retaliation, the Jeoldusan government targets, punished and murdered French and Korean Catholics, leading to this site became known as the ‘beheading mountain’. This obviously isn’t a fun site, but it’s an important part of Korean history and must be seen if you want to understand the present.

What to do there: The shrine is especially beautiful at night when votive candles give it an otherworldly glow, but it’s still beautiful and sobering when you go during the day. Don’t bring your kids with you as the Shrine houses a gallery and museum display torture implements that were used on the captured Catholics.

#8 – The Seoul Museum of Art – The perfect attraction in Seoul if you are on a budget!

• One of the best points of interest in Seoul that’s also free!
• The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building which offers great photo opportunities.

Why it’s so awesome: How about a free thing to do in Seoul! This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.

What to do there: Before you go, check out what special exhibitions they have on during your stay. Korean art is very unique and well worth exploring, so spend some time getting to know their unique style. But make sure you check out the regular display as well because it’s beautiful and soulful.

#9 – The Cheongun Literature Library – Another place in Seoul for the bookworms!

• An amazing place to spend some time if you love books!
• One of the most beautiful museums in Korea.
• If you’re trying to work out what to do in Seoul on a quiet afternoon, this is a site where you can sit back and relax.

Why it’s so awesome: The collection of books at this library is fairly average, but it’s the space that makes it amazing. The reading rooms are located on the second floor of a traditional Korean house which is spacious, sunny, and welcoming. So, if you love to read , this is a perfect place to settle in and do it!

What to do there: Make sure you spend some time exploring this traditional Korean house. This style of Korean architecture is unique and oddly harmonious with the natural surroundings, so it’s worth taking note of it. And then, get away from the busyness of the city by choosing a book and taking it upstairs to read. There’s nothing like reading a good book in an atmospheric space, so take advantage of the opportunity.

#10 – Everland – A very cool place in Seoul for a day trip

• A great place to take the whole family while you’re visiting Seoul
• This park has the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul breaks a lot of world records and this affects how they build things and what they enjoy. Everland is the largest outdoor theme park in South Korea and has five zones of rides and attractions. This includes the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so come expecting some thrills.

What to do there: Get there early because there’s a lot to do and you’ll need the whole day to fit it all in. If you love roller coasters, make sure you ride the world’s tallest wooden coaster and be prepared to scream your lungs out along the way!

#11 – The NANTA Theater – Seoul and South Korea’s artistic scene is definitely a must-see.

• Another side of Korean culture and one you probably won’t expect!
• The most popular theater performance in the city.

Why it’s awesome: Every culture is different and sometimes it’s great to get a first-hand view of just how different another country can be. The NANTA Theater is the perfect place to get a different view on the modern culture of South Korea. It’s the most popular theatre in the city and has a non-verbal, musical base. Perhaps a little strange, but it’s a terrific window to seeing another side of the city while backpacking in Seoul .

What to do there: This theatre has shows regularly so check out what’s on before you arrive in the city. And once you’re there, just enjoy the culinary-themed comedy performance with acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like it and never will again! The shows sell out fast – they’re incredibly popular – so book early to make sure you don’t miss out.

#12 – The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum – Quite the quirky place in Seoul to visit!

• The first museum of 4D optical illusions in South Korea.
• Includes more than 100, slightly quirky exhibits.
• The perfect place to go with friends or with your family while you’re visiting Seoul.

Why it’s awesome: Even if you’ve been to an optical illusion museum before, you probably haven’t seen one like this. A lot of the exhibits in this museum are slightly quirky and unusual, and you’ll probably spend a lot of your visit to this venue laughing your head off at the displays you can become part of. It’s just a little run-of-the-mill Korean madness.

What to do there: Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you spend a few hours at this museum because you’ll need it. Even if you’ve seen optical illusion museums before, this one is unique. Make sure that you check out the Disney displays and become a part of popular movies like Frozen and Cinderella in your own personal works of art. Sort your booking in advance to have an even better experience!

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#13 – Tosokchon – A must-do in Seoul to delight your tastebuds.

• Home to one of the most famous dishes in the city.
• Expect queues, but the wait is definitely worth it.
• Buy a ticket  online if you want to skip the line

Why it’s so awesome: Every city has a dish that they’re famous for and one of Seoul’s most famous dishes is known as Samgyetang. This is ginseng chicken soup, and the best place to buy it is at Tosokchon restaurant on Jahamun-ro 5-gil Road. Once you taste the dish, you’ll understand why people queue up to eat it every day.

What to do there: Arrive early if you want to be in the front of the line and just wait patiently. The dish is worth the trouble, as all the locals in line will tell you, so just accept the wait and enjoy your food once it arrives. Make sure you try it though; it’s a must-do when visiting Seoul!

#14 – The Cheonggyecheon Stream – A quiet and romantic place to see in Seoul.

• A chance to take a break from the busy city and enjoy a slice of nature.
• You can also walk the length of the stream, which will take you alongside lots of Seoul’s best tourist attractions.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul is a busy modern city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crowds and pollution and enjoy a bit of nature. And that’s exactly what this stream is for. The locals often visit on hot summer days and spend time sitting in the shade and dipping their feet in the water, and you can do the same when you need a little break.

What to do there: Walk down to the stream and just spend some time relaxing. The stream is like a little oasis in the middle of the city, so take the time to slow down and rest. You can also walk the length of the stream if you’re feeling energetic and stop off at local attractions along the way.

#15 – Bukhansan National Park – The most beautiful nature in Seoul.

• A traditional market where you can find almost anything you want to buy.
• The prices are extremely good, so make sure you check it out if you want something specific.

Why it’s so awesome: While you’re in Seoul, you might find the city can be overwhelming at times. No matter, because just outside the city centre you’ll find the Bukhansan National Park, which is the best place to go hiking in Seoul. Aside from outdoor recreational activities, the national park boasts impressive mountain views and lush forestry. You might also see some ancient temples and fortresses along the way.

What to do there: The reason most people visit the Bukhansan National Park is to do some hiking. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner level hiker, you’ll find a trail suitable to your ability here.

#16 – Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s street food delights!

• One of the best places to eat in Seoul.
• This market is popular with tourists and locals.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want good street food when you visit another country, then you need to go where the locals go. And the locals all know to go to Gwangjang Market. This was the first permanent market in Korea selling local delicacies and fine linen and it also contains some of the best stalls in the city if you enjoy trying street food.

What to do there: You can do some shopping while you’re at this market, but mostly you want to try the food. The market’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm, so bring your appetite and try as much of the street food as you can. Make sure that you try the bindaetteok or mung bean pancake and tteokbokki and noodles for a really unique eating experience.

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#17 – Hongdae – A must-see for foodies!

• Seoul’s nightlife center.
• This area is near the university, which is why it’s filled with young people and fashionable places to eat and party.

Why it’s so awesome: The areas around universities in most cities are beacons for popular eateries and wicked nightlife and Seoul is no different. Just moments from Hongik University, one of the most prestigious in the city, this area attracts students, locals, and tourists who enjoy the best and most fashionable shopping and dining in the city. Some of Seoul’s best hostels are in the area too!

What to do there: This is an area that really comes alive at night, so save it for an evening when you don’t have much to do. Find somewhere to eat, because this is one of the best places to eat in Seoul, and then go shopping. There is a range of clothing stalls and shops selling vintage goods so take your time and see what’s available. And if you enjoy clubbing, you’ll find lots of different options in this area.

#18 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Seoul!

• The best place in the city to experience old Korea.
• There are some amazing cafes and pubs in this area too, so make sure you have a meal during your explorations.
• If you’re trying to decide what to do in Seoul off the tourist trail, this is the perfect place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This area isn’t usually listed as one of the best places to visit in Korea, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a mix of history, food, and creative shopping options. The area was first established in 1920 and preserves that time almost perfectly. Wandering the alleys could almost make you believe that you’ve moved back in time, and makes for a great afternoon.

What to do there: Just wander the alleys and enjoy the time away from Seoul’s tourist spots. There’s always something hidden to discover and explore in this area, and it’s well worth spending some time there to get a real feel for the past.

But don’t neglect the present either, because the shops are some of the most interesting in the city too. So, do some shopping and then stop at one of the artisan cafes or gastro pubs for a meal. It’s also worth it to join a pub crawl tour with a local guide to get to know the hidden gems of this cool district.

#19 – Insa-dong

• If you want unique souvenirs, this is one of the hotspots in Seoul for them.
• The center of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
• A great place to explore Seoul and support local craftsmen at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture and crafts then this is the place where it’s all gathered together so you don’t miss anything. Insa-dong specializes in goods that can only be purchased or enjoyed in Korea, so it’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home!

What to do there: There are about a hundred galleries in Insa-dong and they display every type of Korean craft that you can imagine or have ever heard of. Make sure you check out the hanboks, which is a piece of traditional Korean clothing, traditional teas, and folk crafts. Also, try to go on a Sunday as streets are blocked off to allow for stalls and booths as well as traditional performances and exhibits.

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#20 – Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park – A haunted place to visit in Seoul… maybe…

• A slightly creepy look at the other side of entertainment.
• There are stories going around that the park shut down because of a ghost!
• If you want to find unusual things to do in Seoul, this is the perfect place to start.

Why it’s so awesome: Yongma was built in 1980 and was a small, family-run amusement park. It shut down in 2011, allegedly because of ghosts, though it’s far more likely that the owners had economic reasons for closing their doors. But since then, the park was bought by a savvy businessman who invites visitors to become part of the park’s demise.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to explore an abandoned amusement park, this is your chance. You can clamber over old dodgem cars, try out the carousel, and take pictures next to a sad clown roller coaster.

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored. Or you can explore Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park with a guide. You can enjoy the picture at the photo spot for K Drama & K Pop during this Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park + Strawberry Picking tour

#21 – Seodaemun Prison – Possibly one of the most important historical places to visit in Seoul.

• Not a fun place to visit, but an important one if you want to understand South Korean history.
• This was a prison built for Koreans who rebelled against Japanese forces.

Why it’s so awesome: Built in 1908, this prison held Korean rebels who fought against Japan’s invasion and occupation. Before it was created, the country had virtually no penal system, and this location came to symbolize the determination of the Korean people to win their freedom despite the costs. Many Korean patriots died in custody, were tortured or executed at this location, and it’s a sobering reminder of the darker side of humanity.

What to do there: This isn’t a fun place to visit in Seoul. It was designated as a historic site in 1988 and renovated in 1995 and is a stark and sometimes brutal slice of Seoul’s history. As you walk through the prison-turned-museum, you’ll see torture chambers with terrifyingly realistic mannequins of famous Korean patriots and get an idea what it was like for the people who lived and died within the prison’s walls.

#22 – Coffee Hanyakbang – Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs

• The perfect place for coffee lovers of all ages.
• A nearly hidden gem that only the locals know about.
• If you live for your morning coffee, you’ll find lots of new coffee tastes at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Almost everyone loves coffee and this tiny shop allows you to celebrate it in style. It’s almost hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway but coffee connoisseurs know that it’s there and turn up in droves to get the perfect coffee experience. The shop is decorated in a mix of Korean and Chinese styles and is determinedly rustic, with lots of wood and exposed pipe. And it sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at decent prices.

What to do there: Drink your morning coffee, of course! The owners roast the beans by hand at the back of the shop and grind them on site, so the whole shop has that rich, tongue-tingling smell of fresh coffee. And the making of each coffee is a science too, with everything precisely calculated to create the perfect cup, every time. So enjoy!

#23 – The War Memorial of Korea – A different take on a war memorial.

• A strangely lighthearted look at Korean military history.
• Fun and educational, so it’s a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 6 exhibition halls and an outdoor space for war machines too big to fit inside at this site and the place is packed. In fact, there are over 13,000 pieces of military equipment and memorabilia at the Korean war memorial , placed on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea.

The focus is on the Korean and Vietnam war and this isn’t the type of museum where you just stand back and look. The displays are designed to be touched and felt, to give visitors a better idea of what the wars were really like.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this memorial so make sure you put aside a few hours. The Combat Experience Room is particularly interesting and uses audiovisual effects to surround you with the sounds, sights and smells of the battlefield. Outback, the lines of tanks and heavy artillery are laid out like a metal petting zoo, and if you’re interested in this type of machinery, you’ll have an amazing time exploring it all.

#24 – Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple – For some sacred sightseeing in Seoul.

• A Buddhist temple that’s an important part of the locals’ lives.
• The garden surrounding the temple has some ancient trees that are simply amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes there’s nothing like exploring a temple that’s still in use in the modern-day if you want to understand a culture better. And this temple in the middle of Seoul’s high-rise district is one of the best places to visit in the city to learn more about its people. This Zen Buddhist temple is always full of locals and tourists, which makes it an exciting, as well as an interesting place to people, watch and spend some quality time.

What to do there: Spend some time just watching the people as they come and go on their everyday business. And when you’re done, explore the compound itself. You could also find yourself a guide that will show you around and explain each statue in detail.

The trees in this area are apparently over 500 years old and they’re strung with banners and streamers in bright colors to make them look even more spectacular! This all combines to make this temple one of the top places to visit in Seoul if only for a quick contemplative meditation.

#25 – Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress – More of Seoul’s old landmarks!

• If you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city, then make it to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Located only an hour and a half from Seoul.
• One of Seoul’s most important historical sites.

Why it’s so awesome: Built between 1794 and 1796, this fortress was created to house the remains of the King’s father, who had been murdered by his own father. It’s an enormous complex that was meant to be the first step in moving the capital from Seoul to the city of Suwon, where the Fortress is located. This obviously never eventuated, but the fortress remains and was declared a UNESCO site in 1997 .

What to do there: It will take you a couple of hours to see the entire castle, so if you have a spare morning or afternoon while you’re in Seoul then make the trip out to see it. There are a lot of different features including the interior and exterior as well as a palace museum, so make sure you take enough time to see it all.

#26 – Seoul’s Children’s Park – A beautiful place to go outdoors in Seoul.

• A great place to take the kids.
• Even if you don’t have children, you’ll enjoy this massive green area in the central Seoul.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the skyscrapers and find yourself longing for some greenery, then you can find this park in the middle of the city. Not only does it include a lot of green, open areas, there are also some cool exhibits and attractions in the park that will interest everyone, not just the young.

What to do there: Escape from the city and spend some time in nature. This park also includes amusement rides and playgrounds as well, so if you feel like being a little more active then there are lots of things to try!

#27 – A Lotte Mart – A weird choice of things to see in Seoul but hear me out!

• Lotte Marts in Seoul aren’t like the ones back home, so make sure you stop by for a look and a snack, you’ll be surprised what you’ll find there.
• If you love snacking but want to save some money, you can eat like the locals do with some very unusual meals and snacks from this store.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a bit strange to suggest that you go to a supermarket, but this is one experience you really shouldn’t miss because these stores are one of the most famous places in Seoul.

Lotte Marts are iconic in the city and they’re one of the coolest grocery stores in the world. While wandering around you’ll get a much better idea of how important food is in Seoul. And you might also find some new treats to try too!

What to do there: Make sure you take part in the whole experience. Lotte Marts usually have free food samples as well as an incredibly wide range of foods that you’ve probably never seen anywhere else. Just watch your wallet, because it’s too easy to overspend in Lotte Mart, and buy something tasty.

#28 – The Jongmyo Shrine – Another cultural highlight of Seoul.

• A UNESCO-listed site and close by the popular suburb or Insadong.
• A Seoul must-see when you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Seoul and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about its ancient traditions. This shrine is the most popular attraction in Seoul and it’s a UNESCO Heritage site;  the perfect way for you to learn more about the history of the city.

What to do there: If you go to the shrine on Saturday then you can explore on your own. Any other day except Tuesday when the shrine is closed, you will need to join a guided tour. There are tours in English every couple of hours. While you’re there, make sure that you pay attention. You’ll learn about ancient customs, music, and even about memorial services during your visit, so it’s worth paying attention.

#29 – National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – More awesome Korean art!

• The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul is an amazing traditional style building.
• Located on what used to be Seoul’s Defense Security Command.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a must-visit on your Seoul itinerary. It’s an enormous museum that’s built on the principles of madang , which encourages people to socialize together by providing a large, communal courtyard just for that purpose. And it works too, which makes it a great place for people watching.

What to do there: The exhibits at this museum change regularly, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and don’t miss out. Also, spend some time exploring the building while you’re there. Korean architecture is unique and deserves some time and attention.

#30 – Socheon – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Seoul

• If you’re looking for the best food in the city then you need to go to Socheon, which is where the locals go.
• You’ll have some of your best meals in a slightly dingy restaurant in this part of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Socheon is one of the best places in Seoul for cheap and delicious local food and a good break from the tourist attractions. Located on the west side of Gyeongbokgung, this area caters mostly to locals, so you won’t find as many fancy restaurants and neon lights there. Instead, you’ll find mostly ordinary, slightly run-down restaurants that serve some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.

What to do there: Some restaurants serve great food in this area but they’re a little hard to find. Most of them don’t have a website or even a menu in English, so you’ll have to order your meal from pictures or by what the locals are eating. To get a great meal, walk until you find a place that contains a lot of locals. Figure out what you want and just point – whatever you get, it’ll be delicious!

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

• One of the best places in Seoul for bargain shopping!
• Bring cash so you can haggle down the prices.

Why it’s so awesome: Dongdaemun shopping area is a veritable labyrinth of wholesale and retail shops. You could quite literally get lost in this area looking for something, and the crowds of locals and tourists alike enjoying the bargains are evidence of how good the prices and the variety of goods are.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific to buy, chances are that you’ll find it in this area. Take cash with you so you can haggle and find something sweet. But if you just want to wander and people watch, this is the perfect place for it too. Many of the shops are open all night, so there’s always something going on for you to observe.

#32 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza – A famous modern landmark in Seoul.

• One of the hotspots in Seoul for shopping and entertainment options.
• The building itself is unusual, stunning, and looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is one of the most eccentric in the city and looks amazing in photographs for you to put on your social media feeds. The long, sinuous curves of the building seem to go on forever and as if that wasn’t enough it also contains countless stores, exhibition spaces, parts of the original Seoul fortress that used to stand on the site, and a design museum.

What to do there: Make sure you take a photo of yourself with this building to show the people back home because the curving lines back for a great background. And then just explore the building. You can shop, explore the history of the site, or just wander the floors looking for anything that looks like fun. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who’s looking for Seoul vacation ideas.

#33 – Mapo-Gu – A quirky area in Seoul to visit.

• One of the quirkiest places to go in Seoul.
• If you’re looking for weird and wonderful experiences and cafes, this district will exceed your wildest expectations.

Why it’s so awesome: Mapo district is one of Seoul’s 25 districts and it’s also one of the most unusual. It’s home to a large number of themed cafes, so if you want your cup of coffee with a side of cats, dogs or raccoons, you’ll find all that and more in this district.

What to do there: Korea is constantly innovating and looking for new ways to explore old ideas and you can experience that first hand while you’re in Mapo-Gu. Try the poop café if you’re looking for one of the most unusual places in Seoul, or just wander from one café to another hugging cute animals!

#34 – Nami Island

• One of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Seoul.
• It’s usually thronged with tourists so show up early if you want to avoid the lines.

Why it’s so awesome: Nami Island is a lovely nature area close to the city that’s a fantastic place to visit in the winter and summer months. In summer it has rides, zip wires, hiking, and lots of large open spaces to explore. And in the winter, it’s set up for all the winter sports and activities that you’ve ever dreamed of trying.

What to do there: Nami Island is an awesome place to visit in winter as the lake freezes and gives you an amazing view across the lake. It’s also home to a lot of winter sports and activities, which is why tourists and locals alike travel there in throngs to enjoy the colder months. Also, if you like to read, make sure you visit Petite France, which is a village modeled after the famous book The Little Prince.

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Find out what people want to know about the where to go in Seoul South Ko.

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

Three days should be enough to see the main highlights, but there are some gorgeous hikes around the city that are worth staying longer to see.

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

Yes, Seoul is a safe place to visit and violent crimes are rare.

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

No, Seoul isn’t a cheap place to visit, though there are some cheap attractions that will help keep costs down.

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

The Seoul Museum of Art is a free place to visit in Seoul and a great place for art lovers to explore.

Seoul is an ultra-modern city where you can experience the latest technology alongside ancient traditions and culture. This capital of South Korea is a powerhouse in the world economy at the moment, which makes it a very attractive location for visitors from all walks of life.

South Korea perhaps gets overlooked sometimes by its other East Asian neighbors, however, it is a rich country with an ancient history and vibrant people. Backpacking in South Korea is a rewarding journey, but more than likely you’ll start in Seoul.

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, with ancient palaces next to skyscrapers and night markets, and it’s the perfect location for anyone looking to experience a different side of Asia. And if you use this easy guide to where to go in Seoul, South Korea to visit the most sobering historical sights, you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

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Nice list. I am going next week there and this abandoned theme park look like something I will visit

Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.

Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.

Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”

I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.

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Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Seoul

T hough the global obsession with South Korea’s cultural and tangible exports (K-pop, K-beauty, K-dramas ) has at long last catapulted  Seoul into the limelight, travelers should understand that belying these of-the-moment pleasures is a rich, complex history stretching over 2,000 years. If there’s a single destination that embodies dichotomy, it’s Seoul. As South Korea’s capital and largest city, with over 26 million people in the metropolitan area, it offers a beguiling mix of historic and modern; natural and technological; affordable and extravagant. (Even the Korean flag is emblazoned with a yin-and-yang symbol.) 

It’s massive, too—sprawling over 233 square miles with the Han River dividing Seoul north to south. From there, the city is organized into 25 districts, which all have their own distinct neighborhoods. Centrally located Jung-gu, for example, is home to historic Gwanghwamun, shopping mecca Myeongdong, and hipster haven Euljiro. 

The most important thing to know? Don’t let Seoul’s size dissuade you. It’s easier than you think to get around, and there are free translation and navigation phone apps for extra peace of mind. But because Seoul is packed with things to do, places to eat and drink, and hotels to stay, we’ve narrowed down our top picks in this guide curated by a lifelong visitor. 

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Getting there and around

After landing at Incheon International Airport, download the Papago app for Korean to English translations (and vice versa), and purchase a refillable T-Money Card to pay for taxis, subways, and buses—the three main modes of transport. While you can hail taxis, which are plentiful as they are affordable, from the streets, you can also book them in advance with Kakao Taxi . The app supports English, and lets you select your pickup, destination, and payment method. (If you’ve just landed at the airport; however, just head to a taxi stand outside.) Because traffic is regularly an issue, make the subway your primary way of getting around. Seoul’s system is widely regarded as one of the world’s best with spotless cars, free Wi-Fi, announcements in Korean and English, and even heated seats come winter.

The best things to do in Seoul

Because traditional Korean spirits are trending big time right now, book a Matter of Mind class at  Epkkot 's lab and studio, discreetly tucked away in Chungmuro. Founder Yang Yoomi, one of Seoul’s few female distillers, guides participants on a creative journey to help identify their true selves while diving deeper into the world of Korean spirits. The introspective process, Yang believes, is similar to brewing with rice, whose grains must be constantly tended to. 

Though the Western art world has finally shifted its gaze towards Seoul, resulting in Frieze’s first art fair in Asia and international outposts of König Galerie and Pace, it’s important to support establishments like  Leeum Museum of Art ,  PKM Gallery , and  Kukje Gallery , who’ve championed their home country from the start. For a one-of-a-kind art piece you can afford to take home, visit Hyung Jun Kim and Seo Seok Man’s  THR Ceramic Studio in Gyeonggi-do, where they sell their quirky pieces depicting expressive goblins ( Dogabi ) and chickens ( Naldak ) and offer ceramic-making classes, too.

Seoul is a bonafide shopping mecca, and department stores—which double up as social hubs, giving you a glimpse into how everyday life in Seoul can look—take the crown with their convenience and mind-boggling variety. (Ground and upper floors are dedicated to different departments and brands, while basements house food halls and sell groceries.) Myeongdong’s  Shinsegae Department Store has been a beloved city initiation since 1930 and is considered by many as the most glamorous, while Yeouido’s  The Hyundai  is a stark white architectural masterpiece showcasing a well-curated mix of established and up-and-coming brands—many of them Korean—to attract a younger, more fashion-focused clientele.

Where to eat in Seoul

Want to discover a lesser-known side of Korean cuisine? Bypass the barbecue, and instead try  Pyongyang naengmyeon, North Korean buckwheat noodles in an icy beef broth, from  Wooraeok and  Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon . Another affordable everyday staple,  kalguksu , or knife noodle soup, represents comfort in a bowl. Though it’s doled out all across the city,  Myeongdong Kyoja has been serving up some of the best since 1966. (You can even ask for a free second helping of noodles.) And for sluggish mornings following late nights, a bowl of  gamjatang (spicy pork bone soup) from Seongsu-dong’s  Somunnan Gamjatang , a standby hangover remedy that’s open 24 hours, will fix you right up.

For a well-crafted meal that won’t break the bank, make a reservation at  Miro Sikdang . Tucked away up a steep hill in Mapo-gu, the unassuming eatery adored by in-the-know locals sends out ingredient-driven homestyle Korean cooking such as Spam-studded spicy whelk salad and its famous  tteokbokki  (spicy stir-fried rice cakes). If you’re looking to splurge, Seoul has you covered with Michelin-starred restaurants like  Mosu ,  Jungsik , and  Mingles —all of which artfully present contemporary cuisine through a Korean lens. For a sweet treat like no other, drop by one of  Nudake ’s locations. The boundary-pushing dessert concept by hip eyewear brand Gentle Monster bakes up whimsical creations like Birth, a snow-white layer cake topped with edible egg-shaped candles, and Fog, a black-white ombre cake layered with cheddar-cheese cream and black-olive bits in a gallery-like setting.

If you prefer to devote an evening to just one neighborhood instead of hopping around, consider Sindang. Similarly to what happened in Seongsu and Euljiro in the past few years, visionary creatives have started trickling in and reimagining the spaces that once belonged to rice shops and factories into some of Seoul’s buzziest new spots to eat and drink. Your best bet is to duck—that’s because the unmarked door is super low—into  Zoo Sindang , a hidden bar specializing in Chinese zodiac-themed cocktails right when it opens, then popping by  Jimbba , a chic nook that’s equal parts retailer of interesting Korean spirits and tasting room for a sip of something you can’t find back home. Next, grab an Arancia Granita (espresso topped with fresh orange sorbet) at  Mail Room —an impossibly charming new espresso bar done up in vintage art and knick-knacks—for a pick-me-up before dinner at  Bird Shop with a Mala Bird Burger, a hefty fried chicken sandwich smothered with mala paste and jalapeño yogurt. 

Where to stay  

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in Gwanghwamun has everything you need for a convenient and culturally-rich stay. On top of being walkable to historic sites and attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong, the venerated property pays homage to Korean heritage through original pieces by local artists like Choi Byung Hoon, chic accommodations kitted out with hanbok-inspired headboards and vintage pottery, a modern Korean sauna, and  Oul , a lively bar devoted to lesser-known Korean spirits. Other vetted luxury hotels include Gangnam’s  The Shilla Seoul , Park Hyatt Seoul , and  Grand Hyatt Seoul .

In Bukchon is  Rakkojae Seoul , the city’s most unique accommodations. Occupying a lovingly restored  hanok (traditional Korean house) that balances architecture with nature, the minimalist rooms remain true to their roots with classic touches like  hanji  (paper made from mulberry tree bark) wallpaper, and floors warmed by  ondol , an underfloor heating system for a hushed, tranquil experience that feels far removed the city.

Prefer to plant yourself in a busier setting? Book a room at the new  Le Méridien Seoul, Myeongdong , where bright and cheery accommodations await, and friendly bilingual staff can quickly steer you in the right direction.  Ryse, Autograph Collection Seoul is another solid pick, as the design-driven and laid-back vibe mirrors its address in Hongdae, an energetic neighborhood anchored by Hongik University.

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What to eat in Seoul: a guide for vegetarians

By Matthew C. Crawford

It’s easy to assume that South Korean food is meat-centric, but this doesn’t hold true. Since ancient times, Koreans have been extremely versatile in using non-meat ingredients including grains, greens, herbs, roots, spices, berries, mushrooms and seaweed. And the country boasts a long tradition of Buddhist temple food , which is vegan and eschews the five pungent vegetables (garlic, scallions, leeks, onions and chives).

To experience temple food , visit the fine-dining restaurant Balwoo Gongyang in Seoul or any temple dining hall in the country. One reason why temple food has taken off is that Koreans are growing more health-conscious and mindful about their diets. This attitude change has led to a boom in vegetarian food products and dining options, which is lucky for me since I went meat-free in 2020 — a time when being a vegetarian in Seoul was a fun adventure. By contrast, the vegetarians I knew here in the early 2000s were all too often stuck with foods like instant noodles.

Some sophisticated vegetarian restaurants in Seoul now serve Western food with a Korean twist, including Lazy Farmers (A-dong, 5 Hoenamu-ro 35-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul) and Nammi Plant Lab , just down the street from Turtle , a vegan cakeshop and café. Seoul also has a wide selection of Indian and Nepali restaurants, like Everest and others near Exit 3 of Dongdaemun Station. Otsal , near Seoul National University Station, has a separate veg menu. And for a fine-dining experience , visit Ganga , at one of its various locations.

While cuisine like this and temple food contain no animal products, you’ll want to be cautious with standard South Korean fare because almost all soups and stews are flavoured with dried anchovy powder. Meanwhile, kimchi is normally made using tiny salted shrimps and fermented fish sauce.

But don’t let this discourage you from trying the country’s traditional vegetarian dishes . You’ll just need to enquire before ordering and request that some ingredients be omitted. Google Translate can be very helpful with this. Here are 10 classic vegetarian dishes to try in South Korea :

Mandu: Plump, savoury pockets to feast on

Stop at almost any food stall in Korea, and you’ll see fried mandu (dumplings). At restaurants, these are served steamed, boiled or bobbing around in soups lik e manduguk. Though a close cousin of China’s jiaozi and Japan’s gyoza, mandu have a spicy personality of their own when napa cabbage kimchi is added to the filling. While mandu are often stuffed with pork or shrimp, dumpling shops also make veg versions featuring napa cabbage, zucchini, garlic and other veggies. To confirm that your order is meat-free, simply point and ask, using the words gogi (meat) and yachae (vegetables). What to say : Gogi mandu an meogeoyo. Chaesik mandu juseyo. (I don’t eat meat. Vegetarian mandu, please.) Where to eat: For gourmet mandu mentioned in the Michelin Guide, head to Gaeseong Traditional Dumplings House (11-3 Insa-dong 10-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul). Their huge North Korean-style dumplings are packed with shiitake mushroom.

Bibimbap: Energy-packed greens in a bowl

The colourful rice-bowl dish bibimbap is many people’s intro to Korean cuisine. It’s so well-known that it's entered the English dictionary, along with kimchi and bulgogi. While vegetarians should steer clear of versions like yukhoe bibimbap (featuring raw beef), they’ll enjoy sanchae bibimbab (literally, “mountain vegetables mixed with rice”). These bowlfuls of nutrient-rich vegetables like aster leaf, bellflower root and bracken are typically served in restaurants near hiking trails. But the dish can be had at select restaurants in Seoul. If you’d like yours without a fried egg on top, be sure to let the server know. What to say : Gyeran ppae juseyo . (No egg, please.) Where to eat: Taerim Sanchae Jeongsik (32 Nohae-ro 60-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul) , in northeastern Seoul, is renowned for its sanchae bibimbap set meal.

By Arundhati Ail

By Sneha Thomas

By Adilah Ismail

Dubu: Plant-protein at its most versatile

East Asia’s most recognizable plant-based food is probably dubu (tofu). It comes in many textures in Korea, from firm and chunky to delicately gelatinous. Variations on the typical off-white hue can be found too, including a darkly tinged one made with black sesame and pinkish and greenish blocks. While the simple versions, like platters of steamed dubu slices ( modubu ), are tasty and satisfying, variations like dubu jorim (braised pan-fried tofu) are abundantly flavourful thanks to their soya sauce-based coating. Also of note is kongbiji , a thick, satisfying stew of soya-bean puree. As pork is sometimes added to this, be sure to check with the server. What to say: Dwaeji gogi deureo innayo ? (Is there pork in this?) Where to eat: Baeknyeonok (2407 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul), near Seoul Arts Centre, has been serving quality dubu dishes since the early 1990s. The jayeonsik sundubu baekban (natural soft-tofu meal) is sure to please.

Yeonipbap : Dining on the heavenly lotus

Throughout Asia, the lotus symbolises spiritual awakening since the plant rises from muddy darkness up to the light, unfolding a pristine flower. In Korea, lotus motifs adorn traditional architecture, and the plant also has a place on the dining table. Sliced lotus root, which looks like a wagon wheel, is simmered in soya sauce and served as a crunchy side dish. The root is also served battered and deep-fried, as a snack like potato chips or as a candied treat. For a memorable meal, seek out yeonipbap — glutinous rice and medicinal ingredients including gingko nuts, pine nuts and chestnuts that are wrapped in a lotus leaf and then steamed. The softer parts of the leaf are edible. Where to eat: Located between Seoul’s two main palaces, Yibap (102-ho, 29 Changdeokgung 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul) offers a tasty, affordable yeonipbap set.

Deulkkae sujebi : The ultimate in umami

A key flavouring agent in Korean cuisine is rich, nutty-tasting perilla oil, extracted from the seeds of the perilla plant (also known as wild sesame). The perilla lends its leaves as a wrap, while its seeds are ground up into a powder called deulkkae , which is mixed into the broth of dishes like deulkkae sujebi . This plant-based soup is hearty, refreshing and simple. The main elements are sujebi (pieces of dough that are tossed into the boiling pot) and deulkkae . Not only rich in flavour, perilla seeds are also packed with essential fatty acids, fibre and various minerals. What to say: Myeolchi garu deureo innayo ? (Is there dried anchovy powder in this?). Or, just use Google Translate. Where to eat: Always busy around lunch hour, Pyeongchang Dotori Maeun Kalguksu (15 Gukhoe-daero 28-gil, Yeungdeungpo-gu, Seoul) serves a unique deulkkae sujebi made with acorns.

Chunggukjang: Culinary alchemy, rooted in tradition

Centuries ago, Koreans mastered the art of fermentation, allowing them to preserve foods from their autumn harvest and endure through the winter months. In this way, various types of kimchi and soya-bean pastes were developed. These pastes, known as jang , include the spicy red gochujang and the earthy brown doenjang . The most common Korean stew is doenjang jjigae (soya bean paste stew), which is eaten as an accompanying dish. Its close relative chunggukjang is thicker and serves as a stand-alone meal. Don’t be put off by the pungent odour — it’s rich, fortifying and mildly evocative of baked beans. Mingling with the fermented soya beans in the stew are cubes of tofu, pieces of kimchi and slices of chilli pepper. Be sure to check that the restaurant doesn’t add pork morsels, though. What to say: Dwaeji gogi deureo innayo ? (Is there pork in this?) Where to eat: Near the Lotte World amusement park, Cheonggukjang gwa Gamasotbab (4 Baekjegobun-ro 20-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul) specialises in chunggukjang served with a bowl of barley and rice.

Makguksu : Cold, chewy bowlfuls for noodle lovers

Travel east of Seoul and you enter a fresh, rugged landscape of forest-clad mountains. Lacking rice paddies, the area’s food culture has been shaped by crops like corn, potatoes and buckwheat, which is used to make the noodles in the regional dish makguksu . Perfect as a summer heat quencher since it can be served in an icy broth, the dish is topped with flaky dried laver (the type of seaweed used to wrap sushi rolls), sesame seeds and a red sauce that’s a blend of spicy, salty and sweet. Makguksu comes with half a hard-boiled egg, which vegetarians can decline. What to say: Gyeran ppae juseyo .(No egg, please) Where to eat: Saembat Makguksu (27 Seochojungang-ro 24-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul) is one of Seoul’s most beloved makguksu restaurants; it also offers Korean-style pancakes and blocks of tofu.

Jeon: Pan-fried perfection

Vegetarians in Korea are in for a bounty of pan-fried treats known as jeon , loosely translated as “pancakes” or “fritters.” The most common are crispy golden pajeon (spring onion pancakes). Avoid haemul pajeon (seafood and spring onion pancakes), since they include squid, clams and oysters. Other types include kimchijeon , bright orange and spicy, and the potato-based gamjajeon , which is starchy and chewy. Especially toothsome are thick, crumbly nokdujeon , made from ground mung beans and served at dozens of stalls at Seoul’s Gwangjang Market, the ground zero for Korean market food. All jeon are served with a soya-sauce based condiment for dipping. Take note that pajeon and kimchijeon batter includes egg; but gamjajeon and nokdujeon are eggless. Where to eat: The traditional eatery Toenmarujib Doenjang Yesul (5-26 Insa-dong 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul) fries up various jeon and offers a special bibimbap made with strong doenjang .

Gimbap: Well-rounded rice rolls

Gimbap look just like sushi rolls but are more of a casual meal than the Japanese version. In Korea, they’re often packed in lunch boxes or brought along on picnics. A standard roll of gimbap starts with a layer of white rice on a dried sheet of seaweed called laver. Spread on top before it’s rolled and sliced are julienned carrot, picked radish, cucumber, braised burdock root, spinach, egg and ham. Vegetarians can easily order the vegetable option at a diner or stall. Sometimes, ham and imitation crab meat (made of fish) are added to a veg roll. You can always ask the server to leave out the ham, crab meat and egg. If language difficulties ensue, use Google translate, typing in “No ham. No crab meat. No egg” Where to eat: The forward-thinking gimbap restaurant Seler Mari offers three types of vegan gimbap , including one with spinach and doenjang .

Tteok: Rice treats for your sweet tooth

Among Korea’s traditional sweets, tteok (rice cakes) are paramount. They even figure in common sayings like “Lying down and eating tteok ,” meaning “It’s as easy as 1-2-3.” Every traditional market has at least one tteok shop, with some of the classics being mujigae (rainbow) tteok , injeolmi (dusted with bean powder), yaksik (with medicinal ingredients like jujube and a note of caramel) and sul tteok (light, puffy and cupcake-shaped). Jeju Island has its own type, called omegi tteok . These larger, ball-shaped treats are made from millet and often coated in mashed adzuki beans. Where to eat: Jangkkobang (27 Gangnam-daero 61-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul), in ritzy Gangnam, is a tea shop specialising in glutinous rice cakes and other classic Korean desserts.

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22 May 2024 - 7 min read

Top 11 Popular Streets in Seoul You Must Visit

Seoul, the pulsating heart of South Korea, is a city that beautifully marries the traditional with the modern. Its streets, each bearing its own unique story and charm, are the arteries through which the life of the city flows. Traveloka will take you on a stroll down some of Seoul's most iconic streets, uncovering the hidden gems and popular hotspots that make each one a must-visit.

1. Myeongdong: The Shopper’s Paradise

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Nestled in the center of Seoul, Myeongdong is a bustling hive of activity. Renowned for its vibrant shopping scene, this street is lined with stores ranging from high-end international brands to local boutiques. As you weave through the crowds, the air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of street food vendors selling everything from spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki) to the sweet, spiraled ice cream cones that have become a social media phenomenon.

Even more beautiful during winter, take a break from the commercial buzz and step into the serene surroundings of the Myeong-dong Cathedral. This beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral, with its impressive Gothic architecture, is a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle. This Cathedral is also known as one of the coziest winter landmarks in Seoul.

For a non-verbal performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat, head to the NANTA Theatre located in Myeong-dong. NANTA is a popular Korean cooking-themed show, blending comedy, drama, and live music with incredible culinary and acrobatic feats. The energetic performances and hilarious antics are sure to entertain audiences of all ages and nationalities.

Myeongdong is definitely a must-visit in Seoul! You can unlock many tourist attractions around the area by using a Seoul Pass in Traveloka, starting from a 48-hour pass that can be used to enter many selected attractions in Myeongdong.

NANTA Show Tickets in Seoul/Jeju

2. Insadong: Where Tradition Meets Art

If you are keen to dive into Korea’s rich heritage, Insadong is your go-to destination. This quaint street is famed for its traditional tea houses, antique shops, and art galleries. Walking along Insadong, you can explore the artistic expressions of Korea, from classical paintings to contemporary art. The street is also home to numerous cafes where you can experience the traditional Korean tea ceremony, savoring flavors that have been cherished for centuries.

Insadong is renowned for its dynamic art scene, housing numerous galleries that showcase both traditional and contemporary Korean art. Some of the must-visit galleries include the Insa Art Center and the Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art, where you can view works by local artists and gain insights into the evolving Korean art landscape.

Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, two of Seoul's most illustrious historical landmarks, are also to be found around Insadong. They offer a fascinating glimpse into Korea's royal past. Visitors to these grand palaces are often seen donning the traditional Korean attire, Hanbok, enhancing the atmospheric journey back in time.

Wearing a Hanbok not only allows for free entry into many of Seoul's royal palaces but also adds a layer of authenticity and enchantment to the experience. Explore the palace with Hanbok Rental that you can buy online in Traveloka.

[Rental Time Extension Event ~12/31] Gyeongbokgung Palace Changdeokgung Hanbok Rental, Gongju Hanbok | South Korea

3. Itaewon: The Melting Pot of Cultures

Known for its diverse cultural scene, Itaewon is Seoul’s international district, bustling with expatriates and tourists. The street is lined with a myriad of restaurants offering cuisines from around the globe, from Middle Eastern to Mexican. Itaewon is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. Whether you are looking to shop for unique foreign goods, enjoy international cuisine, or dance the night away, Itaewon is the place to be.

4. Hongdae Street – The Youthful Pulse of Seoul

Located near Hongik University, Hongdae is a vibrant neighborhood known for its youthful spirit and creative vibe. The street is a hub for live music, fashion, and art, making it a favorite hangout spot for students and young adults. By day, explore the quirky shops and cafes; by night, enjoy the lively street performances and bustling night markets. Don't miss the Hongdae Free Market on weekends, where local artists display and sell their handmade crafts.

If you are a fan of BTS - South Korea’s biggest K-pop boy group) - don’t miss a chance to take a memorable journey to iconic locations around Seoul that BTS has visited or where their groundbreaking music videos were filmed. You’ll visit the iconic streets and venues that are part of their journey to success. Book your BTS Fans Day Tour now in Traveloka!

KPOP BTS Fans Day Tour | Hwarangdae Station, Hakdong Park, Aunt's Cafeteria | Depart from Seoul

5. Garosugil: Seoul’s Trendiest Fashion Boulevard

In the fashionable district of Sinsa-dong, Garosugil (Tree-lined Street) offers a picturesque setting with ginkgo trees that turn a stunning yellow in the fall. This trendy street is known for its chic boutiques, stylish cafes, and upscale restaurants. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to snap pictures of their outfits and the beautiful surroundings. Garosugil is also a great place to observe South Korea's latest fashion trends and perhaps pick up a unique piece or two to add to your wardrobe.

6. Cheonggyecheon: A Walk Along the Stream

Cheonggyecheon is not a street in the traditional sense but a 10.9-kilometer long, modern public recreation space in downtown Seoul. The stream has been transformed into a tranquil haven right in the middle of the bustling city, with walkways that allow for peaceful strolls. It's particularly beautiful at night when the bridges and surrounding buildings are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the daytime hustle and bustle of the city.

7. Songpa-gu: A Thriving District in Seoul

Songpa-gu, located in the southeastern part of Seoul, is a dynamic district that beautifully blends cultural heritage with contemporary lifestyle attractions. This area is particularly famous for housing the expansive Olympic Park, built for the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Songpa-gu offers a unique mix of recreational activities, historical sites, and bustling urban life, making it a captivating destination for both locals and tourists.

The centerpiece of Songpa-gu is the Olympic Park, a sprawling green space that hosts beautiful sculptures, lush gardens, and sports facilities still in use today. Visitors can enjoy leisurely bike rides, peaceful walks, and picnic spots all around the park. The park also serves as a venue for various cultural events and concerts, making it a vibrant hub of activity throughout the year.

Adjacent to Olympic Park, Lotte World Adventure is one of Seoul's top attractions, featuring the world's largest indoor theme park. This magical place offers a wide range of rides and attractions, an ice-skating rink, and a bustling shopping mall. The outdoor Magic Island, with its fairy-tale castle and thrilling rides, overlooks the beautiful Seokchon Lake, providing a picturesque setting for family fun and excitement.

Seokchon Lake, located just beside Lotte World, offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The lake is a popular spot for jogging, casual strolls, and seasonal festivals, including the famous cherry blossom festival in spring. The lake’s circular path makes it a favorite for both morning and evening walks, offering stunning views of the surrounding cityscape and Lotte World Tower.

Lotte World Theme Park

8. Dongdaemun: A Shopper’s Delight Around the Clock

Dongdaemun is renowned for its vast shopping complexes and bustling night markets, making it a paradise for shopaholics. It features large, multi-story shopping centers like Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), which become hubs of activity after sundown, offering everything from fashion and accessories to electronics at competitive prices.

The area is a fantastic place to find the latest Korean fashion trends and enjoy street food stalls that spring to life during the evening, offering local snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

9. Namdaemun-ro: Steeped in History and Commerce

Namdaemun-ro is centered around the historic Namdaemun Market, Korea's oldest and largest market, dating back to the 15th century. This street is a whirlwind of activity where locals and tourists alike flock to shop for everything from Korean souvenirs and apparel to gourmet ingredients. Nearby, the impressive Sungnyemun Gate, also known as Namdaemun Gate, offers a picturesque backdrop, standing as a proud reminder of Seoul’s rich history amidst the contemporary buzz of the market.

10. Sangsu-dong: Seoul’s Hipster Haven

Sangsu-dong, a lesser-known gem compared to the bustling Hongdae area, is emerging as a cultural hotspot with a laid-back vibe. This neighborhood is lined with artisan cafes, indie music venues, and unique boutiques, making it a favorite among young locals and expatriates. The street art and relaxed atmosphere of Sangsu-dong make it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon sipping craft coffee and exploring contemporary art galleries.

11. Apgujeong Rodeo Street: Korea’s Glamorous Side

ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock.com

Apgujeong Rodeo Street, often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, is the epitome of luxury and fashion. This upscale area is famed for its designer boutiques, chic cafes, and high-end beauty salons. Fashionistas and celebrities frequent this street, which is brimming with opportunities for luxury shopping and fine dining. Moreover, the K-Pop culture is vibrant here, with chances to spot celebrities and visit shops specializing in K-pop merchandise.

Each of these streets offers a different slice of Seoul, from the traditional to the trendy, the serene to the spirited. Whether you’re a shopaholic, foodie, culture enthusiast, or simply a wanderer, Seoul’s streets offer endless opportunities to explore and enjoy.

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So, next time you find yourself in this dynamic city, make sure to wander off the beaten path and into the vibrant life of its most beloved streets. Find more Seoul tourist recommendations and experience the city in the most memorable ways. Book your flight to Seoul now and find the best hotel options all at once only in Traveloka!

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After almost 20 years, park hyatt seoul remains the best place to stay in gangnam.

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The exterior of Park Hyatt Seoul

On my twenty-plus trips to Seoul, I generally steered clear of Gangnam, the district south of the Han River immortalized by the South Korean rapper PSY’s 2012 smash hit “Gangnam Style.” Something, however, shifted in me while planning my recent spring jaunt. Gangbuk, the district north of the Han River—where I’d typically plant myself—started feeling a touch too familiar. Plus: how could I judge a place I hadn’t actually spent quality time in?

To that end, I decided to dedicate a couple of days (and nights) to the beating heart of Gangnam, Gangnam-gu. Despite having 185 hotels to choose from according to Tripadvisor , I set my sights on Park Hyatt Seoul . Because if there was a hotel that epitomized the famous neighborhood’s glamour, this was it.

The Lounge at Park Hyatt Seoul

Even before my taxi scooted up to the main entrance one balmy April night, the hotel’s facade caught my eyes. The first hospitality project taken on by the renowned Japanese design firm Super Potato back in 2005, the glassy and boxy, yet understated building stood out against Gangnam’s neon-bright skyline.

I soon discovered this mindset of quiet luxury touches on every aspect of the hotel. The check-in process, which happens upon zipping up in an elevator to the 24th floor lobby decorated with original Korean art and granite, is efficient and gracious. After hopping off yet another elevator to my room—the setup is a bit confusing, but doesn’t take long to figure out—I was mesmerized by the corridors. Glossed over in most hotels, these channeled gallery vibes by honoring traditional Korean craftsmanship with wood lattice panels, bojagi-print carpeting, and artifacts displayed behind glass.

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A King Bed City View Deluxe Guest Room at Park Hyatt Seoul

Since just ten accommodations are allocated per floor, they all feel more like private hideaways than conventional hotel rooms. Minimalist with golden wood, low-slung furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows—which offer natural light during the day, and awe-inspiring city views come night—their biggest draw might be the spa-like bathrooms, where you can luxuriate in a deep tub with Le Labo’s Bergamote 22 products high above Gangnam’s animated streets.

The 24th-floor infinity pool at Park Hyatt Seoul's Park Club

Since wellness is on the tip of everyone’s lips, the Park Club —accessible only by annual members and hotel guests—is outfitted with Technogym equipment, Ocelas Spa, sauna and steam room, and an infinity pool. The facilities are thoughtfully open from early morning to late evening, making it easy to slot in a workout or some well-deserved pampering when convenient. Another perk? The Park Club loans out complimentary activewear, so you don’t have to worry about doing laundry on the road.

The Timber House at Park Hyatt Seoul

With three refined concepts, eating and drinking well come easily at Park Hyatt Seoul. Billed as an Italian eatery, Cornerstone also presents one of the most enticing breakfast buffets in town. Just imagine kicking off the day with an a la carte menu item of your choice supplemented with a bountiful, help-yourself spread of Korean cuisine (including bibimbap), Western staples, fresh fruits and cheeses, and baked goods galore. Adjacent to the 24th-floor reception desk is The Lounge , an understatedly chic hangout for afternoon tea and elevated Korean comfort food like Domi Jjim (braised sea bream) and Yukgaejang (spicy beef soup) artfully presented on wood trays with rice and banchan. My favorite seat in the entire property, though, is at the bar of Timber House , a hushed subterranean den where you can tuck into exquisite cocktails and carefully-prepared sushi to live DJs playing vinyls.

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9 Best Things to Do in Vienna in May 2024

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Tallahassee Weather in May 2024, and Best Places to Visit

Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. In May 2024, Tallahassee’s weather is expected to be warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 65°F (18°C) to 85°F (29°C). The humidity levels are typically moderate, making it a pleasant time to visit the city. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing the local culture, Tallahassee has something to offer everyone.

Tallahassee is home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for enjoying the warm weather. The Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is a must-see, with its stunning azalea gardens, rose gardens, and walking trails. The Cascades Park is another popular spot, with its cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and amphitheater. For those who enjoy hiking or biking, the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail offers a scenic 16-mile paved trail.

History buffs will appreciate Tallahassee’s rich history. The city is home to the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, which chronicles the state’s history from its Spanish colonial beginnings to the present day. The Mission San Luis is a reconstructed 17th-century Spanish mission, offering a glimpse into the area’s past. And for a unique architectural experience, visit the Goodwood Museum & Gardens, a historic plantation home with beautiful gardens and a collection of American and European art.

Best Places to Visit in Tallahassee

In addition to its beautiful parks and gardens, Tallahassee is also home to a number of museums and cultural attractions. The Tallahassee Museum is a living history museum that recreates life in the Florida Panhandle from the 1800s to the early 1900s. The Museum of Florida History explores the state’s rich history through interactive exhibits and artifacts. And for a unique cultural experience, visit the LeMoyne Arts Center, which showcases the work of local and regional artists.

Tallahassee is also a great place to experience the local culture. The city is home to a number of live music venues, theaters, and art galleries. The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra performs a variety of classical and popular music throughout the year. The Florida State University School of Theatre offers a variety of live performances, from musicals to dramas. And for art lovers, the Tallahassee Museum of Arts features a collection of American and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Tallahassee is a city with a rich culture. The city is home to a number of cultural institutions, including the Tallahassee Museum, the Museum of Florida History, and the LeMoyne Arts Center. The city also has a vibrant live music scene, with a number of venues hosting local and national acts. Tallahassee is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Florida State University Homecoming, the Tallahassee Film Festival, and the Southern Shakespeare Festival.

Best Months to Visit

Tallahassee is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The average temperature in Tallahassee in May is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with average humidity levels of around 65%. The average temperature in October is 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with average humidity levels of around 60%. The city also has a number of events and festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before your visit.

Nearby Transportation

Tallahassee is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is located at the intersection of Interstate 10 and Interstate 75, making it a convenient stopping point for road trippers. Tallahassee also has an international airport, with flights to major cities across the country. The city is also served by Amtrak, with regular train service to Jacksonville, Orlando, and Miami.

Tallahassee has a diverse culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from traditional Southern fare to international cuisine. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include fried chicken, collard greens, black-eyed peas, and sweet tea. Tallahassee is also home to a number of breweries and distilleries, so be sure to sample some of the local craft beers and spirits.

Best Hotels

Tallahassee has a number of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Some of the city’s most popular hotels include the Hotel Duval, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tallahassee – University Center, and the Courtyard by Marriott Tallahassee Downtown/Capital. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and business centers.

Tallahassee is a vibrant and welcoming city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, you’re sure to find something to love in Tallahassee. So come on down and experience the “Sunshine City” for yourself!

Justin Alexander is a seasoned globetrotter with an unyielding passion for travel and a fervent dedication to sharing his wealth of knowledge about destinations worldwide. An intrepid explorer at heart, Justin has traversed the far reaches of the globe, seeking out unique experiences and hidden treasures in every corner of the earth.

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Here are five fun ‘Western’ foods to eat in South Korea

SEOUL — I’ll never forget the first pizza I had in Seoul. Not because the cheese had a slight tinge of sweetness. Not because it was the first Western food I’d had since arriving a month prior.

Not even because I was handed a box of chocolate puffs and a cup of pickles to eat with it. No, it was the moment I bit into what I thought was a simple, cheese pizza only to discover that there were individual kernels of sweet corn hidden underneath the cheese.

I always double-check my pizza toppings now.

When traveling abroad, people often want to try the local cuisine. What they might not realize is that foods from home might have been changed to be “local,” too. Whether it’s sweet potato pizza, salad topped with Frosted Flakes (actually . . . not bad — would eat again), or tacos with french fries inside them, South Korea is no stranger to altering foods from abroad.

According to Krishnendu Ray , a professor of food studies at New York University, these hyper-exaggerated foods — which can sometimes feel like caricatures of their original selves — are part of a larger trend that can be seen in many emerging global powers like South Korea. These foods aren’t dissimilar from the sweet and sour chicken of Americanized Chinese food , or the really spicy Indian food Americans like to eat.

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When foods get imported to another culture, they often swing to extremes: really sour, really sweet, really spicy, or just plain weird. In fact, my biggest food-related culture shocks since moving here for a year have actually come from what Koreans call “American” or “Western” food rather than anything Korean. It’s almost as if unfamiliar food has to be somewhat difficult to eat in order to feel “authentic.”

“There’s also this kind of crazy thing of adding cheese to things to Americanize things,” said Ray. He says this is part of the caricature. “It’s not like Americans are always eating these yellow cheese things away.”

According to Ray, the foods most ripe for this kind of change are ones that allow the “content to change, but the platform to kind of be analogous.”

Foods like pizza, kebabs, or tacos can be made with different ingredients, blended together, and completely transformed from savory foods to dessert foods while remaining aesthetically similar to what people in different countries see on American television. Here are five foods to look out for on your next trip to Korea.

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London Bagel Museum

Near Anguk Station, the London Bagel Museum has become a TikTok sensation. People wait for two or three hours for the chance to try the variety of bagel/cream cheese flavors in the aggressively UK-themed cafe complete with a tapestry of what I can only assume are random British people and Union Jacks. (Yes, I did contact the restaurant to check. No, they don’t know either — but apparently they bought it vintage.)

The bagel texture is much more doughy and soft than a New York bagel, but I’m a fan of that. One of their bestsellers is the Potato Cheese bagel, which is a plain bagel with mashed potatoes topped with a slice of American cheese. It’s served at room temperature and tends to sell out. The cream cheese selection is also quite extensive and includes flavors like Earl Grey jam, peach mango yogurt, and truffle pesto.

If you are up for waiting, make sure you go early to put your name and number in their system (they’ll text you when your table is ready) and find something to do nearby for the next couple of hours. You only have 10 minutes to get back to the restaurant once your table is ready.

The store at 20 Bukchon-ro 4-gil, Jongno-gu, in Seoul is the most popular, but they also have locations in Jamsil and Dosan. Doors open at 8 a.m., but people start lining up before that.

Jeonju Bibim Rice Burger

Lotteria, the fast-food branch of Korean multinational conglomerate Lotte Group, is also the biggest fast-food chain in South Korea. Over the years, they’ve served rice burgers on and off, and recently they brought them back with the Jeonju Bibim Rice Burger.

It’s essentially a bibimbap bowl — egg included — assembled into a burger-shaped vehicle, and the two rice buns have impressive structural integrity. At ₩8800 (or about $6.59) for a meal with a soft drink and fries, it’s affordable and filling and even has a vegetable in it, which is not always a given when dining in Korea.

Philly Cheesesteak Kimbap

Across the street from Sogang University, Roll and Lol serves kimbap with a twist: it’s Philly Cheesesteak flavored. The dish is an homage to the time the owner, Jihoon Song, spent studying at culinary school in America.

The Philly Cheesesteak roll is not so much a kimbap as a kimbap-inspired food.

“Because I’m Korean, right?” Song quipped. “I can say whatever I want.”

Song experimented with many combinations before deciding on this recipe which includes beef, cheddar cheese, and homemade cheesewhip wrapped in a springroll wrap and then put into a tortilla. As Song readily admits, there is no kim (seaweed) or bap (rice). It’s an American dish he learned to make while working at a French restaurant in the United States, made with ingredients available in Korea, and served in the kimbap roll shape.

Despite my initial skepticism, the roll is pretty good. Thanks to the spring roll wraps, the tortilla doesn’t get soggy. In a country where cheese is a relatively recent addition to the cuisine, the Philly cheesesteak’s kimbap cheddar cheese/cheese whip combo simulates a Philly Cheesesteak surprisingly well.

74,101, Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, www.instagram.com/rollandlol/

Slunch Factory’s Mac and Cheese

The Slunch Factory is a vegan restaurant in Yeonnam. Their appetizers include a vegan mac and cheese mixed with mashed potatoes, which is plated as if it’s fine dining on a plate four or five times the size of the single serving of mac and cheese.

It’s two foods I don’t see often in Korea . . . combined –– plus it’s vegan. I wouldn’t necessarily go back to Slunch Factory for vegan food, but the mac and cheese (and mashed potatoes) are something I might start making at home. Who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes?

161-6, Seongmisan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, www.instagram.com/slunch_factory

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Every pizza in Korea ever

Of all the foods that can be made with lots of different ingredients and remixed across cultures, I think pizza is one of the most contentious. It’s also quite complicated. Pizza is an Italian food, so some might think it’s strange for an American to comment on what it should or should not be like. Perhaps, I’ve never had the real thing. But most pizzas in Korea are not trying to be Italian, at least not really.

“A lot of the world experiences Mexican food, Italian food, Chinese food via the United States,” said Ray, the professor of food studies. Even if the food is Italian, it becomes a particular kind of Italian food as it filters through American experience.”

Many Italians think American pizza is outrageous. In Italy, it’s a food you order individually and the toppings are expertly paired together to complement each other like fine wine. According to my Italian friend with strong feelings on the topic, it’s not supposed to be overflowing with toppings or so heavy that it sends you into a food coma after three slices.

Korean pizza is on another level. Chicago pizza with shrimp and sweet potatoes, dusted with powdered sugar, hotdogs cut into octopus shapes on pizza, and a Mexican taco-themed pizza are just a few of the creations I’ve encountered. Every pizza, even if it’s just from Domino’s, is a potential Korean pickle-filled adventure. They use different cheese here and less of it, and it’s really hard to find a plain cheese pizza.

But a particular standout sweet pizza is the injeolmi gorgonzola pizza at Yangsikguok. Made with a squid ink crust, steamed and pounded glutinous rice flour that kind of melts into the cheese, black sesame, and honey. Paired with other dishes eaten family-style, it’s a nice addition to the vaguely Italian-inspired menu. Now to convince my Italian friends to try it.

27, Donggyo-ro 38-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Serena Puang was a Globe intern in 2022. Follow her on Twitter @SerenaPuang .