Hey, Lykkers! Seoul is a paradise for food lovers. The city’s dynamic food scene spans from high-end cuisine to humble street food, each offering flavors you’ll remember long after your trip.
Here’s a breakdown of eight must-try restaurants that capture the essence of Seoul, including their specialties and estimated costs.
1. Jungsik
If you’re in the mood for something upscale and unique, Jungsik is the place.
This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its innovative approach to Korean food, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist. Their tasting menu is an unforgettable experience, each dish a beautiful balance of flavor and artistry. It’s a splurge, but well worth it.
- Specialty: Modern Korean dishes, especially samgyeopsal.
- Cost: $75–$110 per person (cost may vary)
2. Myeongdong Kyoja
In the bustling area of Myeongdong, you’ll find Myeongdong Kyoja, a restaurant famous for its comforting bowls of kalguksu (hand-cut noodle soup). The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the rich, flavorful broth paired with savory dumplings is as comforting as it gets. It’s affordable, satisfying, and an absolute local favorite.
- Specialty: Kalguksu and mandu (dumplings).
- Cost: $8 per dish (cost may vary).
3. Tosokchon Samgyetang
For a hearty, nourishing meal, head to Tosokchon Samgyetang. This place is celebrated for its ginseng chicken soup, a dish traditionally enjoyed to rejuvenate the body. Each bowl is filled with tender chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, and jujube, simmered to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, especially on a cold day.
- Specialty: Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup).
- Cost: $12 per bowl (cost may vary).
4. Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari
For a unique dining experience, try dakhanmari (whole chicken soup). at this beloved eatery. You’re served a bowl with an entire chicken and a flavorful broth, perfect for sharing. The experience of cooking it at your table, adding noodles or rice cakes, and dipping each piece in garlic and chili sauces makes this a fun, interactive meal.
- Specialty: Dakhanmari (whole chicken soup).
- Cost: $18 per bowl (cost may vary).
5. Gwangjang Market
For street food enthusiasts, Gwangjang Market is a must. This bustling market offers Seoul’s best street snacks, from bindaetteok (crispy mung bean pancakes). to tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). The energy of the market, combined with the variety of foods, makes for an exciting food adventure. You’ll want to try multiple items, and prices are super budget-friendly.
- Specialty: Street food like bindaetteok and tteokbokki.
- Cost: $2–$8 per item (cost may vary).
6. Maple Tree House
For Korean BBQ lovers, Maple Tree House is a fantastic choice. This upscale BBQ joint is known for its high-quality cuts of meat, which you can grill yourself right at the table. The setting is modern and chic, perfect for an evening out. Order a few types of meat and wrap each piece in lettuce with garlic and ssamjang sauce—it’s BBQ heaven.
- Specialty: Korean BBQ.
- Cost: $22–$37 per person (cost may vary).
7. Andong Jjimdak
This spot specializes in jjimdak, a spicy braised chicken dish served with vegetables and glass noodles. The flavors are bold, with just the right amount of spice, and the textures of tender chicken, chewy noodles, and soft potatoes make each bite satisfying. It’s great for sharing, especially if you’re craving something warm and hearty.
- Specialty: Andong jjimdak (braised chicken).
- Cost: $15 per bowl (cost may vary).
8. Isaac-Toast
For quick, tasty street food, grab a sandwich at Isaac Toast. This popular chain is famous for its breakfast-style toast sandwiches, stuffed with ingredients like egg, cheese, and a unique sweet sauce that Koreans love. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal when you’re on the move, and it won’t break the bank.
- Specialty: Toast sandwiches
- Cost: $2–$4 per sandwich (cost may vary).
With these restaurant recommendations, you’re set for a culinary journey through Seoul that covers everything from high-end dining to classic Korean comfort foods. Enjoy each bite!
