Seoul is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of delicious and unique Korean dishes. Here’s a list of local foods to try and where to find them in Seoul:
- Kimchi:
- Where to try: You can find kimchi almost everywhere in Seoul, from traditional markets to restaurants. Look for kimchi stew (kimchi jjigae) or kimchi pancakes (kimchijeon) for a tasty introduction to this Korean staple.
- Bibimbap:
- Where to try: Head to Gogung in Insadong or Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan in Myeongdong for some of the best bibimbap in Seoul. This iconic Korean dish features mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and a spicy sauce.
- Korean BBQ:
- Where to try: Visit Maple Tree House in Gangnam or Palsaik Samgyupsal in Hongdae for a delicious Korean BBQ experience. Choose from various cuts of meat and grill them yourself at your table.
- Tteokbokki:
- Where to try: Myeongdong Tteokbokki in Myeongdong or Sindangdong Tteokbokki Town in Sindang-dong are popular spots to enjoy this spicy and chewy rice cake dish.
- Korean Fried Chicken:
- Where to try: Head to Kyochon Chicken in Hongdae or BonChon Chicken in Itaewon for some of the best Korean fried chicken in Seoul. Choose from crispy fried chicken or sticky glazed wings.
- Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup):
- Where to try: Tosokchon in Gye-dong or Baeknyeonok in Jongno are renowned for their hearty samgyetang, a nutritious soup made with whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, garlic, and rice.
- Jajangmyeon:
- Where to try: Go to Gonghwachun in Myeongdong or Jaedong Sundubu-jip in Hongdae for a taste of jajangmyeon, a savory black bean sauce noodle dish that’s a favorite among locals.
- Bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert):
- Where to try: Sulbing in Gangnam or BeansBins in Insadong offer a wide variety of bingsu flavors, from classic red bean to fruity options like mango and strawberry.
- Gimbap:
- Where to try: Kimbap Cheonguk in multiple locations or Gwangjang Market in Jongno are great places to sample gimbap, Korean-style rice rolls filled with vegetables, egg, and meat.
- Sundae (Korean blood sausage):
- Where to try: Head to Sindang Sundae Town in Sindang-dong or Gwangjang Market in Jongno to taste sundae, a Korean blood sausage often served with noodles and spicy dipping sauce.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can try in Seoul. Be sure to explore local markets, street food stalls, and neighborhood restaurants to discover even more culinary delights!