It goes without saying that all croissant lovers need to visit Nudake Sinsa when in Seoul. Brought to you by Gentle Monster, Nudake Sinsa is a viral bakery cafe in Gangnam which specializes in a single type of pastry — the croissant. This is Nudake’s third outlet after their first two outlets in Dosan and Seongsu.

Curious whether Nudake (and in particular, Nudake Sinsa) is worth the hype? Read on to find out.

We popped by Nudake Sinsa just after lunch. Whilst we didn’t expect to see a crowd outside the cafe given the timing of my visit, we were surprised to find Nudake Sinsa filled with a decent crowd on the first level. As for their dining space on the second level, it was close to full house.

The first thing that will catch your eye when you first enter Nudake Sinsa are the gigantic croissant sculptures that sit in the centre and at the corner of the clean and minimalist cafe space. And then right behind one of the croissant sculptures is a long table filled with different flavours of croissants for your picking.

This is where things get interesting. Nudake Sinsa doesn’t sell just regular croissants. Their menu features the Oniwassant, a French and Japanese fusion treat, which is a hybrid of the Japanese onigiri and a croissant. Their Oniwassant menu features 3 different shapes (a square, circle and flower) in 6 flavours.

 Being matcha lovers, we gravitated towards the first sight of matcha. This is the Peak Oniwassant (6,000 won), a flavour from Nudake’s signature menu. Even though we packed the Peak Oniwassant to go, we are happy to report that the square-shaped Oniwassant was still crispy and flakey the next day, and these textures paired well with the light matcha cream.

And if you’re looking for something more savoury, try the Pollock Roe Oniwassant (6,000 won) or the Green Onion Oniwassant (6,000 won). The former is a croissant filled with savory pollack roe cream cheese and pollack roe maple syrup, whereas the latter comprises a croissant filled with onion cream and scallion toppings. 

A tip — Nudake Sinsa is available for reservations on CatchTable. So if you’re serious about trying some of their Oniwassants, you know what you have to do. 

Nudake Sinsa
43 Gangnam-daero 162-gil,
Gangnam District, Seoul
Tel: +82 70-4177-6977

If there is one thing that you must try when in Seoul, it is Ganjang Gejang. For the uninitiated, Ganjang Gejang is a traditional Korean dish that comprises fresh raw crabs marinated in a mild soy-sauce based brine and it is absolutely delicious.

One of the best places to enjoy Ganjang Gejang in Seoul is Gebang Sikdang, a small and cosy restaurant in Gangnam which was featured in the Michelin Guide Seoul 2023. Helmed by Bang Geon-hyuk, a fashion marketer, and his parents who are veterans of the soy sauce marinated crab restaurant business, Gebang Sikdang is out to please and here is what you can look forward to during your meal. 

Gebang Sikdang’s menu primarily focusses on raw crab dishes and you’d be delighted to find dishes like the Soy Sauce Marinated Crab Roe Bibimbap (21,000 won), Spicy Sauce Marinated Crab Set (market price), Spicy Sauce Marinated Crab Roe Bibimbap (21,000 won) and more. Each dish is served with a seasonal fruit salad, 2 side dishes of the day, kimchi and dongchimi, soybean paste soup and laver. However, do note that each diner is required to order at least 1 meal.

But, the star of their menu is the Soy Sauce Marinated Crab Set. This set comprises a portion of soy sauce marinated crab, a seasonal fruit salad, a side dish of the day, handmade seasonal kimchi and dongchimi, clam seaweed soup. Whilst the price of this set is subject to the market price of the crabs, this set will be worth the while.

As someone who has never had Ganjang Gejang, I didn’t know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by how much roe the dish was served with, and by the size of the blue crab.

Gebang Sikdang marinates the raw blue crabs with soy sauce, chilli pepper powder, garlic, ginger, rice malt, and other ingredients and this made for an exquisite flavour profile. The crab meat was fresh, soft yet firm, and each bite was a wonderful explosion of salty (which comes from the crab roe) and sweet (the soy sauce). That said, as the flavour profile of the meat is quite strong, you may wish to mix the meat together with the rice for a more balanced meal.

Another dish that we really enjoyed was the Spicy Sauce Marinated Crab Roe Bibimbap. The kick from the gochujang paired perfectly with the sweet flesh of the raw crab, and the saltiness from the laver added another layer of flavour to the entire dish. So if you’re someone who needs spice in your meals, this may be a better option for you than the Ganjang Gejang.

Given the size of the restaurant, we would highly recommend placing a reservation in advance of your trip. Reservations may be made via CatchTable, and a deposit of 20,000 won would be required per diner. For those who are driving in Seoul, parking is available onsite albeit in limited quantities.

Gebang Sikdang
17 Seolleung-ro, 131-gil
Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82-10-8479-1107

Yes, Seoul is definitely a big hub for spicy noodles, minimalist cafes and quirky restaurants full of dishes that are to-die-for. However, these yummy plates might not be the most cost-effective – plus if cafes are popular, you might need to wait in line for a really long time before you even get a whiff of your food.

Not to fear – South Korea has an abundance of convenience stores that will satisfy your food cravings. Tteokbokki? Check. Ramen? Yup. Fun, quirky ice creams and snacks? Definitely. Check out this guide to see to get on your next convenience store raid in South Korea!

Photo Credit: Instagram

BAKED EGGS

Probably the most versatile item on this list, Baked Eggs are a must-get on your convenience store raids in Korea. They are a great light breakfast in the morning or can go with any home-cooked meals such as ramen or kimchi fried rice.

What we love is how they’re like wobblier ramen eggs with that nice ooey-gooey yolk that’s super satisfying to eat.

Photo Credit: Instagram

BONG BONG

You may recognize this iconic white grape drink by its cute name and packaging. Well-loved for its sweet and refreshing flavour with crunchy aloe bits, Bong Bong is super kid-friendly and an all-round delicious drink.

However, did you know they have an ice cream version? Like a frozen can of Bong Bong, this icy treat is perfect for the summer!

Photo Credit: Instagram

BUNGEO BBANG – CARP/FISH BUN

This fish-shaped bread is an iconic street food in South Korea but you can also get these carp buns in any nearby convenience stores! These fun little morsels can be filled with all sorts of yummy fillings – think ice cream, red bean and chocolate!

Photo Credit: Instagram

CHOCOPIE

One of South Korea’s favourite chocolate snacks has to be Chocopie. This chocolate covered whoopie-pie dessert is traditionally filled with fluffy marshmallow. However, you may be able to chance upon some fun flavours they have such as banana or strawberry jam.

CUP COFFEE

We don’t really know how Korean convenience store coffees are so good, but we aren’t complaining. They have all sorts of brews from Machiattos to Mochas and Nitro Cold Brews. They’re a great way to start your morning or a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon.

Photo Credit: Instagram

CUP RAMEN

This item needs no introduction as it appears everywhere – be it in Korean dramas or variety shows. Our favourites are the Samyang Spicy Chicken Noodles Carbo Version, Shin Ramen Black and the classic Shin Ramen. People buy cartons of these back home and it isn’t hard to understand why the moment you taste its addictive soup and chewy noodles!

Photo Credit: Instagram

DOSIRAK – KOREAN BENTO BOXES

Feeling famished? Pick up one of these Korean Bento Boxes known as “Dosirak”. They’ll contain a bunch of traditional Korean side dishes (banchan), some meat, and rice or noodles. The possibilities are endless with this box.

A big plus is that they’re super affordable, so if your wallet’s feeling a bit lighter than you’d like, head to your nearest mart and grab one of these microwaveable bentos!

Photo Credit: Instagram

FLAVOURED ALMONDS

This is a familiar snack for many Korean snack lovers. What some don’t know is that the honey-butter almonds they know and love come in a myriad of different flavours as well. There’s Yogurt, Wasabi, Spicy Chicken, Cookies & Cream and even Tiramisu – there’s flavour for everyone.

Photo Credit: Instagram

HOT BAR – SKEWERED MEATS

Hot Bars are simply different kinds of meat or pastes on a skewer that you can pop into a convenience store microwave to enjoy in a matter of seconds. These meats can range from cocktail sausages to crab sticks and spicy beef. They’re great on their own but they also pair really well with instant ramen!

Photo Credit: Instagram

INSTANT BULGOGI

Korea is really good with their range of instant food so keep an eye out for their Instant Bulgogi. They come in pork, chicken and beef and usually come with a medley of veggies as well! It makes for a great meal if you pair it with some rice and soup!

Photo Credit: Instagram

INSTANT TTEOKBOKKI

If you can’t seem to find a place with affordable tteokbokki, you can always turn to the convenience stores that sell some you can microwave. They’re still quite delicious and tastes just like the real thing! They even have one that comes with cheese.

Photo Credit: Instagram

JOLLY PONG BUCKWHEAT CRISPS

If you’re looking for an alternative and more unconventional snack, Jolly Pong might be something you’d like! They’re buckwheat crisps and have a nice earthy smoky taste. They’re also extra crunchy, making them super satisfying to eat.

Photo Credit: Instagram

MELONA ICE CREAM

Despite its name, Melona doesn’t just have melon-flavoured popsicles. They come in a variety of vibrant fruit flavours such as peach, banana, strawberry and coconut. These summery fruit popsicles are popular all-year-round and are a must-get when in Seoul!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SAMGAK KIMBAP

“Samgak” means triangle so these are essentially triangle-shaped Korean rice rolls. These little packs are perfect for a quick meal on-the-go. It’s fun to scan the shelves to see what flavours of kimbap they have – luncheon meat, pork floss, spicy chicken and even cheese!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SUNBAEK UYU MILK BUN

This famous snow-white bun is highly-raved about for its fluffy texture and super delicious and milky filling, hence the name Milk Bun. Pro Tip: If you put these in the fridge before eating, it’s like eating a bun filled with vanilla ice-cream!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SAMYANG SPICY CHICKEN GYOZA

You’ve heard of the ultra spicy noodle challenge, now try the dumpling spin-off! Don’t be fooled by its tame exterior for each dumpling skin hides a fiery spice that will leave you either running far away or craving for more! It also comes in the Carbo version (less spicy and cheesier).

Photo Credit: Instagram

WATERMELON “SUBAK” BAR

Cutely shaped and coloured to look like a slice of watermelon, the “Subak Bar” is the most perfect summer ice cream to hold around. You’ll see students hold this rather instagrammable bar of ice cream outside convenience stores, snapping pictures of themselves with this icy treat!

Photo Credit: Instagram

YOGURT JELLY/GUMMIES

Yogurt snacks are the Korean equivalent to the love for all things melon-flavoured in Japan. Try these addictive Yogurt Jellies that taste similar to Yakult or Vitagen in a chewy gummy! They’re strangely delicious and before you know it, you’ll be finishing your packet.

Photo Credit: Instagram

YOGURT MOCHI

To conclude our list, you have to try this Yogurt Mochi. These sweet puffs are super-bouncy and chewy mochi filled with a yogurt-flavoured cream inside. They’re super satisfying to chew and pull apart to eat, with a sweet milky flavour!

Cafe hopping in Seoul can take a toll, especially on your wallet. Despite having a plethora of cafes to patronize, Seoul is also home to several traditional markets that provide an abundance of tantalizing dishes well-loved by locals – and possibly you, once you try them too!

It may be a little confusing to navigate through traditional market food because dish names are all in Korean and sometimes, menus may not have English in them. Don’t worry though, because we’ve got your back with this list of 10 Traditional Market Foods to Try On Your Next Trip to Korea.

BINDAETTEOK – MUNG BEAN PANCAKES

Mung bean pancakes are a very popular market food in Korea. You’ll see many middle-aged ladies with a large pan of oil, deep-frying pancakes with various fillings to a crispy golden-brown disc.

Bindaetteok is made from ground-up mung beans, rice, kimchi, various kinds of vegetables, pork, eggs and several Korean seasonings. They are packed full of flavour and every single bite will be different and new. Dip them into a little soy sauce or spicy pepper paste and they’ll be a must-get every time you head to Korea.

Photo Credit: Living Nomads

HOTTEOK – KOREAN SWEET PANCAKES

One of Korea’s most raved-about street food can be found in almost every traditional market. These tasty honey-filled pancakes are a simple sweet treat that should be reserved for cheat days because it is extremely indulgent.

Hotteok dough is filled with different fillings – traditionally honey or brown sugar – and then slapped onto a pan of hot oil, fried to perfection. It’s best eaten when warm so you can see the fillings ooze out of the crispy yet chewy dough. It’s a simple fact – Korean pancakes are better than any other pancakes.

Photo Credit: Blogspot

JEON – KOREAN MIXED PANCAKES

Yes, we aren’t done talking about pancakes. Another kind of pancake you’ll find commonplace in Korean markets would be the various kinds of jeon. These pancakes could range from the standard potato or kimchi pancakes you find in restaurants, to various vegetables and seafoods mixed in a batter and flattened on an oil-filled grill.

Similar to Bindaetteok, freshly-fried jeon are best enjoyed with a side of soy-sauce or spicy pepper paste. They are an umami-filled simple market food that will keep you coming back for more.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

MANDU – KOREAN STEAMED DUMPLINGS

If you see little balls sitting atop wooden baskets or large steamers, they’re probably Korean Mandu. Mandu are traditional korean dumplings filled with pork, various vegetables and occasionally, some glass noodles.

Most dumplings are made fresh and then steamed till their skin is translucent, giving hungry customers a sneak peek into the fillings hidden inside. If you prefer a spicy kick, try the kimchi mandu. They don’t even need any sauce accompanying them because they’re just so flavourful.

Photo Credit: Instagram

KALGUKSU – KOREAN KNIFE-CUT NOODLES

Following the mandu are these handmade noodles that normally come with a few mandu alongside it. Kalguksu is a light yet flavourful noodle soup that is served with a side of minced garlic, scallions, chilli flakes, a sprinkle of seaweed and sesame oil. These condiments are used to add extra flavour to match the noodles to your liking.

For extra flavour, add some vinegar to add a tangy edge to the soup. A bite of the thick, silky noodles and a bite of a kimchi mandu makes for satisfaction.

Photo Credit: Instagram

MARINATED SEAFOOD

Especially in sea-side regions like Busan, fresh marinated seafood is extremely popular among the local patrons of traditional markets. Various kinds of seafood – crabs, mussels, octopus and fish – are marinated in all kinds of sauces ranging from sweet soy sauce to spicy pepper paste.

Most well-known and loved is ganjang-gaejang which is crabs marinated in soy sauce. The sweet-savoury combination of crab is lip-smackingly delicious – especially if you’re a fan of crab roe. The soy sauce marinade will meld with the savoury roe, making it a flavour explosion.

MAYAK-GIMBAP – “NARCOTIC” RICE ROLLS

Mayak means drug in Korean and the rice rolls that are coined “mayak-kimbap” are just as addictive as the most potent drugs. They are seemingly simple – just seasoned rice rolls with julienned carrot and picked radish or cucumber, brushed with sesame oil – but once you have one, it’s impossible to stop at just one roll.

These addictive rice rolls occasionally come with a side of hot mustard sauce in case you wanted a bit of a punch.

TTEOKBOKKI – SPICY RICE CAKES

If you haven’t tried tteokbokki on your trips to Korea, you are sorely missing out on one of Korea’s most famous street foods. Tteokbokki can be found in almost every corner of Korea, whether in the traditional markets or in sheltered carts on road-sides.

If you’re a fan of spice, these rice cakes will be right up your alley. They are coated in a spicy yet sweet gravy made from Korean spicy pepper paste. Occasionally, scallions and assorted fishcakes known as eomuk will be thrown into the mix as well.

Photo Credit: Instagram

SOONDAE – KOREAN BLOOD SAUSAGE

Admittedly, this dish isn’t for everyone – especially if you can’t fathom the thought of eating animal blood. However, it is still a pretty popular local dish that is packed with flavour.

Soondae is made with cows or pigs’ blood and glutinous rice or glass noodles. The sausage is traditionally served with a spicy gravy, with some salt or in a hearty stew. The spicy sauce might be the easiest way to eat soondae for first-time eaters as it covers the slightly gamey taste of the sausage.

SANNAKJI & YUKHOE – LIVE OCTOPUS OR BEEF TARTARE

Last on our list is the raw foods you can find in Korean markets – not for the faint-hearted, but definitely worth a try.

Made viral with several videos on the internet is sannakji, which is Korean-style live octopus – still wriggling around on your plate and on your tongue as you consume it. Though simply dressed in sesame oil and soy sauce, it is rather difficult to eat. Just make sure you chew it thoroughly before swallowing. It will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

Another kind of raw food you can find would be yukhoe – marinated raw beef. This indulgent beef sashimi is usually served with a raw egg yolk over the top, and sometimes with a salad beneath it. Similar to sannakji, it is also dressed very simply with sesame oil and soy sauce.

Seoul is one of our favourite destinations in Asia and the city is known for its many distinct and lively districts where you will never get bored of the endless shopping, delicious local food and exciting things to do.

Ask any local where you should go when you are in Seoul and many will tell you that Hongdae is a neighbourhood you must not miss. It is not difficult to guess why Hongdae is one of the top choices—there is just so much going on!

From indulging in spicy Korean Army Stews and getting a tipple with your friends in a bar to street shopping and catching street performances, here are 12 Things To See, Do & Eat When You Are In Hongdae.

WHERE TO EAT

#1 BAN BOSSY BOUTIQUE

Boasting primarily pastel colours in pink, mint and white, walking into Ban Bossy Boutique is like stepping into Barbie-land. It is the perfect spot for afternoon tea with your girlfriends, complete with Instagram-worthy backdrops and an appealing array of cupcakes.

An afternoon tea at Ban Bossy Boutique looks something like this—munching on exquisitely decorated cupcakes and sipping on a pretty beverage. Yes, this is the life in Seoul!

19-22 Wausan-ro 17-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, Korea
Tel: +82 02 337 9896
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 10pm
Sat and Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hongik University

#2 MUKSHIDONNA TTEOKBOKKI

Mukshidonna Tteokbokki is a fuss-free restaurant that specialises in Budae Jjigae and guests get to customise the stew with an array of ingredients. Every pot comes with tteokbokki (Korean rice cake) by default, and that is their signature.

Popular ingredients on the menu are seafood, bulgogi and cheese but if you are looking for the staples, there is always ramyeon and udon.

22 Hongik-ro 6-gil
Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Hongik University

Photo Credit: shawnongph

#3 SIMPSON TANG

Opened by a pair of Korean singers, Hwang Bo and Shim Tae Yoon, Simpson Tang—also known as Sim Seun Tang to the locals— is another popular Budae Jjigae restaurant to visit when you are in Hongdae.

The soup base is made from ox bones and mixed with red chilli paste and kimchi to produce a fragrant stock. Standard ingredients such as sausages, spam, cabbage and cheese are added into the soup.

30 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 70-4100-8318
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9.30pm
(Closed on Sunday)
Nearest Station: Hongik University

Photo Credit: Doma

#4 DOMA

Korean barbecue is not taken lightly by the locals and if quality is what you are after, Doma will not disappoint. Using only beef from Nebraska, diners can choose to get assorted sets with different cuts of meat or get individual meats such as Raw Prime Rib Meat, Bottom Sirloin Triangle and Seasoned Prime Ribs.

Grill them over hot charcoal and enjoy them with a mixture of savoury ban chan dishes!

33 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 03 3477 5111
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 5am
Sat to Sun: 12.30pm – 3pm, 5pm – 5am
Nearest Station: Hongik University

Photo Credit: OkDongsik

#5 OKDONGSIK

For those who are craving for a comforting bowl of gomtang (beef bone soup), OkDongsik is an up-and-coming restaurant that deserves a mention. Opened in 2017, the cosy restaurant only has counter seats where diners are able to watch the chef at work.

In order to achieve that full-flavoured beef stock that is satisfying till the very last drop, premium black pork meat and bones are simmered for hours in the kitchen. Have the clear soup with plump white rice and some ban chan at the side.

44-10 Yanghwa-ro 7-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 507 1424 9911
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat to Sun: 11am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Hapjeong

WHERE TO DRINK

Photo Credit: Playground Rooftop Bar & Cafe

#6 PLAYGROUND ROOFTOP CAFE & BAR

Playground Rooftop Cafe & Bar is where you will find the party animals—from foreign exchange students to hip young locals. The two storey bar has its own rooftop space where you can enjoy a beer or cocktail with your friends.

Otherwise, social butterflies will enjoy taking part in their weekly events—language exchange coffee meetings, international parties and cocktail parties are just some to name.

14 Wausan-ro 21-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 337 0774
Mon to Fri: 6pm – 11pm
Sat to Sun: 6pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Hongik University

Photo Credit: gogosallyyyy

#7 VINYL

If street bars are your thing instead, Vinyl is a quirky watering hole where colourful alcoholic drinks are served in transparent IV bags. Go there for their neat range of cocktails but it really is the hipster interior that will keep you lingering on for a chat with your traveling partners.

61-1 Wausan-ro
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 322 4161
Mon to Fri: 4pm – 12.30am
Sat to Sun: 6pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Sangsu

Photo Credit: Robin’s Square

#8 ROBIN’S SQUARE

For the serious drinkers who are looking for craft cocktails in the Hongdae vicinity, leave it to the experienced bartenders at Robin’s Square to whip up your poison of choice. Nestled on the basement level of the Vans store, the unpretentious bar offers crafts spirits sourced from all over the world.

69 Wausan-ro
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 6085 6421
Sun to Thu: 7pm – 4am
Fri to Sat: 7pm – 5am
Nearest Station: Sangsu

WHERE TO SHOP

#9 HONGDAE SHOPPING DISTRICT

Located near Hongik University, Hongdae Shopping District is where you will find the best buys at affordable prices that are kept low to attract students.

There are free concerts from time to time, and you can even pop by the Hongdae Free Market from March to November to see shoes, shirts, ceramic accessories and more handmade by Hongik University students.

Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Nearest Station: Hongik University

WHAT TO SEE

#10 STREET PERFORMANCES

Walk down the streets of Hongdae and you will be greeted by many street artistes showcasing their talents. You will most definitely be impressed by the dancers who put up show stopping performances that do not lose out to professional Kpop groups. If you are feeling the beat, no one will fault you for grooving to the music!

Photo Credit: Bunny Cafe

#11 BUNNY CAFE

Animal lovers will find Bunny Cafe right up their alley. Home to 12 adorable furry bunnies of various breeds, visitors get to cuddle up with them and take lots of pictures for keepsake.

What is a trip to an animal cafe without personally feeding them personally? Simply top up W2,000 for a bag of tidbits and you get to feed the bunnies! Do note that you are only allowed to feed the bunnies with food purchased at the cafe.

136-10 Eoulmadang-ro
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 333 1660
Daily: 1pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Hongik University

Photo Credit: govoyagin

#12 NANTA THEATRE

Catch a live comedic performance at NANTA Theatre which offers excellent shows that will leave you laughing and crying at the same time. There are both cooking and acrobatic shows but the former is what’s most popular there. The best part? You don’t even have to understand Korean to appreciate the shows.

29 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil
Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 739 8288
Nearest Station: Hongik University

When visitors are in Seoul, their itineraries are often packed with touring the grand palaces, retail therapy and relaxing at the aesthetically-pleasing cafes. While we can understand why travellers love these activities, Seoul actually has so much more to offer!

Traditional markets are often overlooked and deserve more attention to the amount of culture, food and interesting experiences that can be offered all in one place.

Feast on affordable street food, gawk at gigantic freshly caught fish and observe as the stall vendors make big batches of kimchi. Here are 7 traditional markets in Seoul you need to visit to get the very best out of your trip.

#1 GWANGJANG MARKET

Opened in 1905, Gwangjang Market boasts over 5000 shops and 42,000 square metres. This is the traditional market you must visit if you are tight on time while in Seoul.

Gwangjang Market is food heaven for those who love affordable Korean street food and snacks; from cheap and generous portions of mung bean pancakes to steaming plates of spicy rice cakes and crispy deep-fried snacks.

Most of the food stalls here have been operating for many years, thus they are well-loved by the locals for the wallet-friendly prices and years of expertise they spent to hone and perfect the dishes.

In addition to food, visitors will be able to watch as stall owners make huge batches of fresh kimchi and explore the many uniquely Korean stalls available here, including antiques and cheap clothing!

88 Changgyeonggung-ro,
Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu,
Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Station: Jongno 5-ga/Euljiro 4-ga

#2 NORYANGJIN FISHERIES WHOLESALE MARKET

Featuring an impressive array of tanks filled with live seafood, Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market is Seoul’s biggest seafood market. Seafood lovers visiting the capital city, this is the ultimate market for you!

The market is made up of two buildings, and here’s everything you need to know before visiting.. Indulge in fresh assortment of seafood, including raw, live octopus.

Buy your fresh seafood from any of the seafood vendors, then head to the restaurants nearby for a freshly cooked meal with the seafood you just purchased for a delightful hot meal.

674 Nodeul-ro,
Noryangjin-dong, Dongjak-gu,
Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Station: Noryangjin

Photo Credit: Seoul Insiders Guide

#3 TONGIN MARKET

A doshirak is a Korean lunch box that local mothers would pack for their children to bring to school and for their spouses to take to work. Tongin Market is popular for its one-of-a-kind concept of filling up your own lunchbox at any of the participating food stalls in the marketplace.

To have the complete dosirak experience at Tongin Market, visitors simply have to head over to the entrance of the market to exchange their money for a roll of traditional coin replicas. Then, they can visit the numerous participating stalls to pick out their side dishes and exchange them for a coin or two before heading off to the next stall to fill up their lunch box.

Load up a dosirak with various exciting side dishes including savoury pancakes, kimbap, egg rolls and dumplings; head upstairs to feast on your lunchbox once you are done, there are numerous tables and chairs provided to enjoy your meal.

18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil,
Tongin-dong, Jongno-gu,
Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Station: Gyeongbokgung

Photo Credit: The Seoul Guide

#4 CHANGSIN MARKET

Go on a major throwback and head to Changsin Market, where there are various old-school toys to reminiscence on simpler times before technology and smartphones blew up.

Nostalgia will hit you like a tidal wave as you take in the many toy shops lining the market here with dolls, robots, kitchen sets and even toys that you have to assemble on your own.

6 Jongno 52-gil,
Jongno-gu,
Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Station: Dongdaemun

Photo Credit: The Soul of Seoul

#5 YANGNYEONGSI MARKET

Traditional herbal medicine has been believed to offer amazing positive effects for our bodies for decades (and even centuries) in Asia.

Discover the world of medicine at Yangyeongsi Market, where the smell of the medicinal herbs lingers throughout the market with the wholesale stores, street vendors and pharmacies that line the market. The traditional pharmacies will typically be spotted with wooden cabinets that cover the floor to the ceiling with an impressive collection of oriental medicine.

Korea is famous for its red ginseng, with numerous health benefits including aiding mental and physical health stimulation, as well as boosting the immunity system. Visitors will be given plenty of opportunities to purchase them at wholesale prices at Yangyeongsi market.

51-1 Namseong-ro,
Jung-gu,
Daegu, South Korea
Nearest Station: Banwoldang

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Nestled within a residential area, Anthracite Coffee Roasters stands out amongst the buildings surrounding it. Anthracite Coffee Roasters is a café chain in Seoul, South Korea and this particular outlet in Yongsan-gu is our favourite. The café occupies the entire old building, with an open-space terrace on the second floor.

The impressive interior excited us the moment we stepped in. The first floor is the main counter area where the skilled baristas whip up aromatic cuppas for you to enjoy. The backdrop of the counter is a digital wall mural that displays futuristic and cosmic digital art that adds a little something extra to the gorgeous architecture and interior design.

You can grab a beverage and snack of your choice and head to level 2, where the main seating area is. If the weather is nice and cool, you can even grab a seat outside on the terrace.

No matter what coffee you like, they have the works. Enjoy the original splendour of coffee with their range of Espressos which they have beautifully named–Pablo Neruda, Natsume Soseki and William Blake–some of the most celebrated poets in history. The complex flavours of good coffee mirror an alluring poem, both enticing the body and soul of the consumer.

They specialise in both single origin and a carefully-curated list of house blend coffee that you can choose from. You can pick from a plethora of different single origin choices such as–Ethiopia, Kenya, Honduras and Guatelama, each with its own one-of-a-kind flavours and aromas.

As the weather was pretty warm in Seoul on the particular day of our visit, we opted for an Iced Latte (6,000 Won), using their own signature house blend beans. From one coffee lover to another, we can tell that a lot of effort was put in to create this ideal blend of coffee here.

The Piora Original Iced Tea (6,500 Won) was a delightful and refreshing treat but it fell short of impressing us after we had a taste of the amazing coffee whipped up by the baristas. So we say, skip the tea and stick to what they do best.

Anthracite Coffee Roasters in a must visit in Seoul if you are a huge fan of coffee. Even if you are not obsessed with coffee, a trip here might just make you one!

Anthracite Coffee Roasters
738-20 Hannam-dong
Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2-797-7009
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

Hadongkwan is a traditional Korean restaurant in Myeongdong that serves only two items on their menu—Gomtang (thick beef bone soup) and Suyuk (boiled beef or pork slices).

Having been around for 80 years, Hadongkwan has made a name for itself among locals and tourists who love to drop by for a comforting bowl of Gomtang, especially during winter. Only the highest grade of ingredients are used and no artificial flavourings are added to their food.

If you are looking for a light and nutritious breakfast or lunch option at Myeongdong street, Hadongkwan is where you should go to. 

Originally located in a back alley near Cheonggye Stream when they first started out, the restaurant was demolished due to redevelopment initiatives and it has since moved to central Myeongdong.

Despite scaling up, Hadongkwan has retained its original wooden signboard, doors and furniture so long time customers still feel that sense of nostalgia.

Their signature dish is the Regular Gomtang (W12,000), which is Korean beef soup with rice. The light, yet flavourful soup is the result of boiling beef and radish for hours and only using natural ingredients. We enjoyed the clean soup tremendously and it was made better with savoury beef slices.

For those who find it too light to their liking, add some fresh spring onion and salt into the soup. All diners are given radish kimchi as sides as well to spice up their meal.

Looking for something better? You have to go for their Special Gomtang (W15,000) instead. On top of beef slices and rice, diners are also treated to a generous portion of tripe as well—what you get is a variety of textures from the soft rice, tender beef and chewy tripe slices.

The best part about Hadongkwan is that the restaurant offers free soup refills, so do not be shy about asking for more soup from the friendly waitresses!

Hadongkwan
12, Myeongdong 9-gil
Jung-gu, Seoul
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Euljiro il-ga

For more recommendations, read our Seoul’s features to discover the best things to see, do and eat in the city.

KyoChon has the best fried chicken in Seoul, South Korea. There, we’ve said it. There is no lack of Korean fried chicken restaurants in Seoul, but KyoChon’s rendition is head and shoulders above the rest.

KyoChon offers its Korean fried chicken in several flavours—Garlic Soy Series, Honey Series, and Red Series (Red Pepper). Do not leave Seoul without having KyoChon’s Korean Fried Chicken.

We visited one of KyoChon outlets in the Hongdae district. Unlike other older KyoChon outlets which are a lot more casual, it impressed us with a modern and sleek setting.

“Kyo” translates to wisdom and enlightenment and “Chon” means village. KyoChon was created to remind the brand’s founder of home and the amazing fried chicken he used to have. The one thing that sets Kyochon apart from many other fried chicken joints, is the fact that they use only natural ingredients.

This means that their chickens are not injected with hormones and only canola oil is used to fry the chicken. No trans fat or MSG, just simple and fuss-free chicken that is oh-so-good!

The menu was extremely straightforward and we went right for the Garlic Soy option. You can choose from different serving types, including—Whole Chicken (W16,000), Sticks [Drumlets] (W18,000), Wings & Drummettes (W18,000) and Combination (W18,000).

We had the Combination platter to have a go at the different chicken types. All we can say is, “Wow!”

It was probably the most satisfying fried chicken experience we ever had in our entire lives. From the crispy exterior to the evenly coated sauce and tender meat, KyoChon has created THE perfect fried chicken. Honestly, we were probably too appalled by how good it was that we gobbled the entire platter up within a mere few minutes.

For something that has no MSG or preservatives, it was damn addictive! The garlic soy sauce was just right. Mildly sweet with a strong garlic flavour, each bite we had got better and better. It was an out-of-body experience that we can barely put into words.

Also, the simple process of savouring a chicken drumlet to the bone is ultra-satisfying. Be sure to get all the good, crispy parts at the ends of your drumlet to enjoy it fully. There is no debate, KyoChon has our heart and our tummies.

If there is just one Korean fried chicken place to go in Seoul, South Korea, look no further. Be prepared to be so satisfied by their amazing Korean fried chicken!

KyoChon (Hongdae)
362-15, Seogyo-dong
Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 3381300
Daily: 3pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Sangsu

Take a walk around Gyeongnidan-gil and you will fall in love with the area instantly. The quiet hood is charming at every turn and surprise after surprise awaits.

The neighbourhood is further up from Itaewon and it is filled with many Indie coffee shops and boutiques, trendy barber, lifestyle shops and local designers. And among them all, one cafe that we really love is Berkeley Coffee Social.

Berkeley Coffee Social isn’t of an impressive scale nor is it particularly outstanding. But we love the space for its homely vibes.

It is where the residents hang out at when they need their morning cuppa or simply a space to work from; it is evident from the crowd. The crowd is a simple one—locals in the most casual outfits, some with laptops, some with their cats.

The humble cafe in the hood roasts and brews coffee from many parts of the world. You know this means that you have to try their Joe.

Berkeley Coffee Social also does simple toasts that are a great hit among its patrons. While toasts do not sound like the most exciting thing to eat, know that they are still lovingly prepared with freshly baked bread and hearty homemade spreads. And hey, they do take effort in the presentation too!

The next time you are in Seoul, be sure to drop by Berkeley Coffee Social in Gyeongnidan-gil for a cuppa.

Berkeley Coffee Social
Yongsan Itaewondong 255-32
Seoul South Korea 04344
Tel: +82 2 792 2048

Heading to Seoul? Read our Seoul guides to discover the best things to see, do and eat in the city.

One local dish that everyone looks forward to trying in Seoul is Budae Jjigae, or also commonly known as ‘Korean Army Stew’. Bada Sikdang is an eatery in Itaewon district that is frequented by locals who are craving for Budae Jjigae.

Bada Sikdang has been serving its Budae Jjigae for over 45 years. What makes the Budae Jjigae at Bada Sikdang unique is the addition of cheese; it may not follow the exact recipe for the traditional Budae Jjigae, but it is an interesting twist for those who are looking for something different.

Other than Budae Jjigae, Bada Sikdang also offers BBQ meats such as T-bone Steak (W30,000 per pax), Beef Ribs (W25,000 per pax), Pork Chops (W15,000 per pax), as well as the signature Beef Sausages (W25,000 per pax).

Drop by Bada Sikdang in Itaewon for a fuss-free Korean stew and you will leave with happy tummies.

Visitors are expected to take off their shoes before they enter the eatery and cloth shoe bags are available at the entrance. The simple eatery was buzzing with activity as the waitresses serve up aromatic dishes and guests chatter among themselves.

You can even peek into their kitchen and watch the chefs in action as they whip up your food inside.

For the uninitiated, Budae Jjigae is also referred as ‘Johnson Tang’. This is the name you should be searching for on the menu if you cannot read Korean.

The rich sausage stew is made of beef bone broth as its base and the addition of chilli powder, high-quality ham, fresh lettuce and not forgetting the key ingredient—cheese. Melted cheese goes well with almost everything and it sure made the pot a lot tastier!

Bada Sikdang’s rendition is a lot drier than the usual Budae Jjigae and while the regulars swear by it, we prefer the usual Korean Army Stews which are soupier and heartier.

Do take note that there is a minimum order starting from 2 pax (W20,000).

The portion of the Budae Jjigae portion is actually not huge so we recommend ordering the popular Pork Chops (W15,000) to share. The smokey barbecue sauce that was lavishly poured over the tender meat was the winning factor for us. Have it together with plain rice to balance the flavours on your palate.

Bada Sikdang
18 Itaewon-ro 49-gil
Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 02 795 1317
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

Migabon is an eatery in Myeong-dong which specialises in Korean porridge. Juk, or Korean porridge, is a local delicacy and there not many places in Seoul that do it better than Migabon. We love indulging in Korean barbecue and sinful Korean fried chicken but there are days when we want to settle for a comforting bowl of juk.

Apart from their delectable range of porridge dishes, Migabon also serves Ginseng chicken soup. 

Breakfast is the best time to visit Migabon and the crowd starts filling in before 9am. As the restaurant is located on the second level of a building, there may be a queue forming at the first floor once it starts getting crowded.

Most people have a quick meal here and leave as Migabon is not the type of place where you will linger around to chitchat.

The star of the show goes to their Mushroom and Beef Porridge (W8,000). There was a great balance between the rich minced beef and light mushroom and the combination of these two ingredients gave the dish interesting textural variety on the taste buds.

Migabon’s rendition is the definition of how a good bowl of porridge should be like—flavourful and smooth.

Something else to consider is the Abalone Porridge (W10,000) which has a much lighter flavour has compared to the Mushroom and Beef Porridge. It makes for a hearty option during breakfast but we prefer having it together with banchan given at the side to boost its overall taste.

Migabon’s Boiled Chicken with Ginseng (W13,000) came with the usual ingredients such as ginseng, sticky rice and garlic stuffed in a whole chicken.

While we enjoyed the mild flavours of the Samgyetang, it was decent at best compared to the ones we tried at Tosokchon and Korea Samgyetang. So for those who are visiting Migabon, we would recommend sticking to the porridge.

Migabon
2-2 Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2752 0330
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Myeong-dong

For more recommendations, read our Seoul’s food & travel guides on the best places to go to.

Korean BBQ restaurants in Seoul are on a whole new level—think high-quality meat at lower prices, using only charcoal grills to give the meat a smokey taste. 

If you are looking for a good Korean BBQ restaurant that is conveniently located in Myeongdong, we highly recommend Wangbijib restaurant for its delicious range of grilled meat and easy accessibility.  

Wangbijib currently has three branches in Seoul and the outlet at Myeongdong is nestled within the second level of a building. Although the restaurant looks spacious, the seating capacity is limited so do expect to queue if you are visiting during peak hours.

One thing to note at Wangjibip is that they have great ventilation systems so you would not leave the restaurant smelling like Korean BBQ.

While prices are not the cheapest in the city, the Korean restaurant is very popular among locals and tourists because of the obvious difference in quality as compared to other KBBQ joints in Seoul.

Wangjibip offers free-flow Banchan. We had the standard banchan dishes such as steamed bean sprouts, broccoli, kimchi and fresh lettuce. Feel free to get a bottle of soju to complete your dining experience!

Moving onto the best part—the glorious meat!

We had the Grilled Assorted Premium Beef (W33,000 for 150g) which is a mixture of different premium beef cuts. The luscious cuts of meat were bright red in colour and came with a good layer of melt-in-your-mouth beef fats.

The servers at Wangbijib are trained to grill the meat for you so all you have to do is sit back and watch the magic happen.

Our medium rare beef slices were grilled to perfection; tender and flavourful on every bite, with a subtle smokey taste thanks to the charcoal. We are still salivating at the thought of it!

If you look closer, you will notice that Portobello mushrooms are given at the side as well. They may look unassuming but all of us at the table were raving about it—the mushrooms are surprisingly juicy and sweet.

Grilled Pork Skirt Meat (W15,000 for 150g) was perfectly done as well. While it is not as tender as the beef, it has a chewy texture and is a flavoursome addition to your grill. The portion was smaller than expected but you get a better grade of meat in return.

You should also go for their Soybean Paste Stew (W4,500). Served hot from the kitchen, ours came with a generous serving of tofu and vegetables.

Wangbijib
26, Myeongdong 8ga-gil
Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 3789 1945
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Myeongdong

Owned by SPC Group—the same conglomerate behind Paris Baguette—Passion 5 is a fine dessert emporium located in Itaewon, Seoul.

The upscale cafe cum gallery is made up of five components—cafe, bakery, patisserie, chocolate and lastly, passion from Passion 5′s pâtissiers. 

Visitors are surrounded by many exquisite dessert creations enshrined behind polished glass and a stellar selection of aromatic baked goods. Other highlights at Passion 5 include a rotating gelato chiller and the most outstanding eclair display. With almost 300 dessert items featured, it is a feast for your eyes as much as it is for your taste buds.

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#1 CAFE

The care was abuzz with chatter and filled with patrons on the day of our visit, boasting mostly young Koreans, foreigners and expats. If you are intending to head there for tea, be sure to reach early for seats are limited at the cafe.

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Coffee beans are sourced all the way from Colombia and Ethiopia and visitors get to choose between Black N Blue or Coffee Diva.

You will find their signature Hand Drip Coffee (W7,000) on the drinks menu and other choices such as Espresso (W5,000), Cappuccino (W7,500) or Cafe Latte (W7,500).

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Do take a look at their rotating gelato chiller, which is just beside the cafe’s counter!

#2 BAKERY

The bakery section is where you can fill your tummy with a scrumptious array of savoury sandwiches, buns and other types of baked pastries. Simply grab a clean tray and a pair of tongs and you are ready to go.

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There are individual items and full loaves of bread on sale at Passion 5, so take your time to wander around when you are there. We had the Delicious Cheese Cake (W3,700) which we enjoyed thoroughly as the soft cake was brimming with cheese flavours.

If you are craving for something sweet, you can find the Apple Mango Pudding (W3,300) at the Patisserie section.

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#3 PATISSERIE

Passion 5′s Patisserie section is a sweet tooth’s heaven; you can practically find artisanal desserts that are Instagram-worthy at every corner. From cakes and swiss rolls to cheese tarts and eclairs, it is hard to resist taking everything from the counters!

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Can’t decide between having a cheese tart or egg tart? Why not get both instead! These freshly baked yummy treats are going at W2,500 each and W10,000 for four.

Nothing will prepare your hearts for this fancy collection of colourful eclairs at Passion 5. Some of the flavours include Yuzu Chocolate, Vanilla, Lemon Vanilla, Cherry, Passion Fruit… and the list goes on.

Yes, the selection is absolutely insane but we sure aren’t complaining!

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As if that’s not enough, they also have a counter just for tarts which are equally breathtaking in terms of presentation. Expect to see a delicious range such as Greengrape Tart, Banana Pudding Tart, Berry Pistachio Tart, Cappuccino Tart and Peach Tart.

We highly recommend the Jeju Green Tea Swiss Roll (W7,800) which is a delectable green tea swiss roll that is filled with sweet cream. An attractive dessert that tastes as good as it looks is Autumn Apple Eclair (W5,800).

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#4 CHOCOLATE

Walk to the end of the lane and you will find a chocolate chamber where the doors are designed to look like chocolate bars. From the outside, it feels like a scene from the movie ‘Charlie And The Chocolate Factory’.

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This is where you will find rows of premium chocolate on display. Apart from individual chocolate cubes, Tok-Tok Chocolate, Tablet Chocolate and Triangle Chocolate are some other varieties you can find there.

If chocolates are not your thing, there is also a wonderful assortment of macarons which look just as inviting.

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Passion 5
272, Itaewon-ro
Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 2071 9505
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

Need more food recommendations in Seoul?
Take a look at our Seoul Food Guide.

Finding gluten-free cafes in Seoul may not be an easy feat but we came across a charming cafe in Garosugil district for those who are looking for gluten-free baked goods.

Taking up the first floor of a building, the nilk factory offers a range of cold-pressed almond milk in different flavours, coffee, tea and gluten-free cakes. The cafe is not for those who are looking for a full meal but it is where you can hang out with your girlfriends or partner for afternoon tea or dessert.

So for those who are looking for more gluten-free options that do not compromise on flavour, check out the nilk factory in Seoul.

the nilk factory is a small and cosy cafe with simple furnishings such as hanging greens, potted plants, wooden furniture and warm lighting that encourages people to sit longer for a chat. Guests feel comfortable enough to have intimate conversations as the seating arrangement is rather spacious despite the limited space.

Guests feel comfortable enough to have intimate conversations as the seating arrangement is rather spacious despite the limited space.

If you are not there for their range of coffee drinks, then you cannot skip the handmade cold-pressed almond milk. This dairy and gluten-free nut milk is known to possess plenty of health benefits as cold-pressed almond milk helps to preserve the maximum amount of enzymes and quality without losing on flavour.

the nilk factory’s signature drinks include Almond Je’taime (300ml – W7,500, 500ml – W12,600) and Mixed Nuts (300ml – W7,500, 500ml – W12,600).

Ice Box (W8,000) is a gluten-free chocolate cake layered with a generous portion of sweet cream in between. We felt that the cake was too a little too sweet for our liking but it helps to complement the light almond milk.

Alternatively, there are also other flavours to try such as New York Cheese Cake and Carrot Cake.

the nilk factory
32 Gangnam-daero 162-gil
Gangnam-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 2039 0821
Nearest Station: Sinsa

To truly understand a city and its culture, one must take the time to appreciate and experience its food scene. With Seoul, it is no different and Myeong-dong is one of the best places to immerse yourself in some authentic and tasty Korean street food.

Besides being a good place to embark on your street food journey in Seoul, Myeong-dong is also filled with endless streets of cosmetic stores, clothing boutiques and plenty of great deals.

From perennial favourites such as the Hweori Gamja and Ddeokbokki, here are 20 Best Street Foods You Must Try When At Myeong-dong. Well, you can’t shop on an empty stomach, right?

#1 BEEF STEAKS

Who says you can only have steak at a proper restaurant? You can find a few stalls in Myeong-dong selling beef steaks done on the spot for you. Do not be surprised to find a crowd around these stalls because it is impossible to resist the heavenly aroma of these sizzling beef steaks.

#2 BUNGEO-PPANG

Bunggeo-ppang (“carp bread”) is a golden and crispy fish-shaped pastry which is traditionally stuffed with a sweet red bean paste. If you are not fond of red bean, you will be able to find alternative versions of this street food at Myeong-dong, where the Bunggeo-ppang is filled with other fillings such as pastry cream and chocolate.

#3 CHEESE DDEOKBOKKI

You may know what Ddeokbokki is but have you tried cheese ddeokbokiki? Instead of pairing the rice cake with the standard spicy sauce, this one grilled lightly and wrapped with cheese and sweet condensed milk. Definitely a sweet treat you should not miss out!

#4 DDEOKBOKKI

Ddeokbokki—or stir-fried rice cakes—is one of the more famous Korean street foods that most would know, popularised by various Korean dramas. Primarily consisting of small rice cakes, fish cakes, boiled eggs, scallions are examples of the kind of ingredients that are often added to the sweet and spicy mix.

Hot and fulfilling, this would be a good street food to have especially during the cold winters in Seoul.

#5 EOMUK GUK

A good street food to have during the cold and harsh Seoul winters, Eomuk Guk encompasses fish cake skewers served with hot broth. Not only will this be a good snack or light meal to have, Eomuk Guk is often ordered as a side dish whilst partaking in alcoholic beverages.

#6 FISH CAKE SKEWERS

If fish cakes in soup are too boring for you, go for these skewers wrapped with fish cake! There are many choices for you to pick from but our favourite of the lot goes to the sausages wrapped with fried fish cake.

#7 GIMBAP

Gimbap is a quintessential Korean dish that all must know. It is the Korean variant of sushi, which comprises rice and various meat and vegetable fillings compressed together in sheets of dried laver seaweed. The rice is also seasoned with salt and sesame oil.

#8 GRILLED OCTOPUS SKEWERS

Aside from Eomuk Guk, grilled octopus is another popular street food snack in Korea that is often paired together with an alcoholic beverage or two. Simply marinated with salt, the octopus skewers are crispy and chewy and you would find yourself finishing this snack before you know it.

#9 HONEY VANILLA ICE CREAM BREAD

Those who are looking to satisfy their dessert cravings can look out for this stall offering Honey Vanilla Ice Cream Bread. While the concept is nothing new, the ice cream treat is a choice that cannot go wrong—especially during humid and hot days in Seoul.

#10 HWEORI GAMJA

Also affectionately known as the Tornado Potato, Hweori Gamja is recognised as South Korea’s famous spiral street food. Served with various seasonings such as chilli, cheese or barbeque powder, you can also enjoy a sausage encased in Hweori Gamja itself.

#11 JAJANGMYEON

A timeless classic, Jajangmyeon is a Korean Chinese noodle dish featuring noodles tossed in black bean sauce. While it looks unassuming, Jajangmyeon is actually very popular among the locals who eat it on a frequent basis. This savoury dish is perfect for those who are looking for something to fill their tummy up.

#12 JAPCHAE

Japchae is huge in Korea and you can find it in many Korean eateries and restaurants. It is essentially stir-fried glass noodles with beef, bean sprouts, onion and vegetables. You can have it as a main or appetiser.

#13 KOREAN EGG TOAST

Yes, the Korean egg toast is as simple as it sounds—a half-boiled egg is fused with a deep fried bun. You have to eat this when you are in Seoul. Period.

#14 KOREAN GRILLED CHEESE LOBSTER

Albeit not the cheapest street food that you can find in Myeong-dong, the Korean grilled cheese lobster is worth a try if you lover seafood. Layered with a thick slab of cheese, the Korean grilled cheese lobster is a sinful treat worth indulging in.

#15 LOOP CHURROS

Loop churros are beautiful to look at and they make for great pictures to post on your social media sites. Churro stalls usually have a decent selection of toppings for customers to choose from—chocolate, strawberry, rainbow sprinkles and nuts.

#16 MANDU

Similar to the Japanese Gyoza, the Korean term ‘mandu’ means dumplings and if you have been to Korea, you would know that this is a must-try over there. Common fillings include minced meat and vegetables but they differ among stalls.

#17 MILKY BEE ROSE ICE CREAM

Although this is not a street food that you can purchase from street vendors, the Milky Bee rose ice cream is still found along the streets of Myeong-dong. Get your fix of this rose-shaped ice cream (similar to the famous Amorino ice cream) at Milky Bee, an ice cream parlour along the streets of Myeong-dong.

#18 RAINBOW COTTON CANDY

Not satisfied with just having a single-coloured cotton candy? Make sure that you seize the opportunity to grab some rainbow cotton candy during your visit to Myeong-dong. Skilfully prepared and presented in a cone shape, this is a pretty street food that will be sure to brighten up your Instagram feed.

#19 SAUSAGES

Sausage skewers can be found everywhere in Myeong-dong and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to variety; there are those with cheese fillings and others wrapped with bacon. This is a sinful snack that we are willing to forgo our diet for!

#20 TAKOYAKI

Takoyaki is a flour-based snack that is shaped like a ball stuffed with different types of ingredients such as octopus, crab meat and squid. You get it piping hot from the pan and the Takoyaki balls are served with bonito flakes, mayonnaise and sweet sauce.

Looking for more food recommendations in Seoul? Read our Seoul Food Guide.

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish made up of a mixture of seasoned vegetables and meat on a bed of warm white rice. Diners are required to toss the ingredients with savoury chili pepper paste that serves to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

There are a few variations of bibimbap you can find in South Korea but the Jeonju-style bibimbap is especially famous there. This elaborated dish was served to the royal family in the past and is widely enjoyed by locals today.

If you are looking for a Korean restaurant that specialises in traditional Jeonju Bibimbap, then Gogung in Myeong-dong is where you should be heading to. 

Its central location in Myeong-dong makes Gogung the go-to place for many tourists who want to have an authentic taste of South Korea’s Bibimbap. The Korean restaurant has three versions of bibimbap—Jeonju traditional Bibimbap, Jeonju Dolsot Bibimbap and Yukhoe Bibimbap.

Although they are more known for their bibimbap, meat lovers should be pleased to know that Gogung also happens to be a Korean BBQ restaurant that offers quality meat.

While toppings on a bibimbap may change according to the season, a classic Jeonju-style Bibimbap usually consists of soybean sprouts, raw egg yolk and beef tartare.

Gogung’s Jeonju Dolsot Bibimbap (W11,000) is an aesthetically-pleasing dish served in an earthenware bowl which helps to keep the food warm throughout your meal. We particularly liked how the edges of the rice are slightly burnt from the stone pot as it results in a slightly crispier texture.

If you are looking for something better, the Yukhoe Bibimbap (W15,000) will do the trick. Similar to the Jeonju Bibimbap, you also get a generous portion of Korean-style beef tartare, sliced mushrooms, an assortment of colourful vegetables and raw egg.

The tender raw beef was every bit delicious and seasoned really well with sesame oil and soy sauce. Have that with fresh vegetables and runny yolk to get a combustion of savoury and sweet tones in your mouth.

Complete your meal with a steaming bowl of Beef Short Ribs Soup (W11,000). Having gone through the slow and long simmering process, the succulent meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and the clear soup was rich with beef flavours.

Diners are also given a bowl of white rice together with the soup.

Gogung
27 Myeongdong 8ga-gil
Chungmuro 2(i)-ga
Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2-776-3211
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Myeongdong