Discover the Best Food Places in Seoul to Satisfy Your Cravings

If you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, Seoul is the perfect destination. From traditional Korean dishes to international cuisine, Seoul offers a variety of dining options that will satisfy any craving. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best food places in Seoul that you won’t want to miss.

🍜 Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try traditional Korean dishes:

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is a must-visit for any foodie. This bustling market is home to hundreds of food stalls selling a variety of Korean street food. Be sure to try the bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and the mayak gimbap (addictive seaweed rice rolls).

Jangchungdong Sikdang

Jangchungdong Sikdang is a Korean restaurant that has been serving up delicious food since 1945. Their specialty is the galbi jjim (braised beef short ribs), which is cooked to perfection and falls off the bone.

Myeongdong Kyoja

Myeongdong Kyoja is famous for its kalguksu (handmade knife-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings). The broth is rich and flavorful, making it the perfect comfort food on a cold day.

🍣 Japanese Cuisine

Japanese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and delicate flavors. Here are some of the best places to try Japanese food in Seoul:

Sushi Hyo

Sushi Hyo is a high-end sushi restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The sushi is made with the freshest ingredients and is beautifully presented. Be sure to try the omakase (chef’s choice) for the ultimate sushi experience.

Menya Hanabi

Menya Hanabi is a ramen restaurant that is famous for its tsukemen (dipping noodles). The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. Be sure to try the kakuni (braised pork belly) for an extra treat.

Katsukura

Katsukura is a tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet) restaurant that is known for its crispy and juicy pork. The tonkatsu is served with a variety of sauces and condiments, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

🍕 International Cuisine

Seoul is a melting pot of different cultures, which means there are plenty of international dining options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to try international cuisine:

Vatos Urban Tacos

Vatos Urban Tacos is a Mexican-Korean fusion restaurant that offers a unique twist on traditional tacos. Be sure to try the kimchi carnitas fries and the galbi tacos for a flavor explosion.

Brera

Brera is an Italian restaurant that serves up delicious pizzas and pastas. The ingredients are fresh and the flavors are authentic, making it a favorite among locals.

Maple Tree House

Maple Tree House is a steakhouse that is known for its juicy and tender steaks. The meat is cooked to perfection and is served with a variety of sides and sauces.

🍧 Dessert

No meal is complete without dessert. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth in Seoul:

Cafe Onion

Cafe Onion is a trendy cafe that is known for its delicious baked goods. Be sure to try the croissants and the tarts for a sweet treat.

Beansbins Coffee

Beansbins Coffee is a chain cafe that offers a variety of desserts and drinks. Be sure to try the bingsu (shaved ice) for a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Softree

Softree is an ice cream shop that is known for its creamy and delicious soft serve. Be sure to try the honeycomb flavor for a unique and tasty treat.

🤔 FAQs

1. What is Korean cuisine?

Korean cuisine is a traditional style of food that is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. Some popular dishes include bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi.

2. What is tsukemen?

Tsukemen is a type of ramen where the noodles are served separately from the broth. The noodles are dipped into the broth before eating, allowing for a more concentrated and flavorful experience.

3. What is tonkatsu?

Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that is a popular dish in Japan. It is usually served with rice and a variety of sauces and condiments.

4. What is Mexican-Korean fusion?

Mexican-Korean fusion is a style of food that combines traditional Mexican dishes with Korean ingredients and flavors. Some popular dishes include kimchi quesadillas and bulgogi tacos.

5. What is bingsu?

Bingsu is a Korean shaved ice dessert that is usually topped with fruit, syrup, and condensed milk. It is a popular treat during the summer months.

6. Where can I find traditional Korean street food?

Gwangjang Market is a popular destination for traditional Korean street food. It is home to hundreds of food stalls selling a variety of dishes.

7. What is omakase?

Omakase is a Japanese phrase that means I’ll leave it up to you. In a restaurant setting, it means that the chef will choose the dishes for you based on what is fresh and in season.

8. What is galbi jjim?

Galbi jjim is a Korean dish that consists of braised beef short ribs. The meat is cooked to perfection and falls off the bone.

9. Where can I find the best kalguksu in Seoul?

Myeongdong Kyoja is a popular restaurant for kalguksu. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are handmade and perfectly cooked.

10. What is a must-try dish in Seoul?

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that is a must-try when visiting Seoul. It consists of rice, vegetables, and meat, and is usually topped with a fried egg and gochujang (spicy red pepper paste).

11. What is the best time to visit Gwangjang Market?

Gwangjang Market is open from 9am to 11pm, making it a great destination for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, it can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to visit during off-peak times.

12. What is the average price of a meal in Seoul?

The average price of a meal in Seoul can vary depending on the restaurant and location. However, a typical meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 won (approximately $8 to $16 USD).

13. Is it customary to tip in Seoul?

No, it is not customary to tip in Seoul. In fact, some restaurants may even refuse a tip. However, it is always appreciated to leave a small tip for exceptional service.

👋 Conclusion

Seoul is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of dining options to suit any taste bud. From traditional Korean dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not plan your next culinary adventure to Seoul and discover the best food places that this city has to offer?

Don’t forget to try the must-try Korean dishes like bibimbap and galbi jjim, indulge in some Japanese tsukemen, and satisfy your sweet tooth with some bingsu or honeycomb soft serve. With the help of this guide, you’ll be sure to have a satisfying and delicious trip to Seoul.

Thank you for reading, and happy eating!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication. However, please note that restaurant information, menus, and prices may change over time. We recommend that you double-check with the restaurant before making any reservations or orders.