Discover the Best Places to Eat in Dongdaemun: A Foodie’s Guide

As one of Seoul’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Dongdaemun is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in the city’s best food scene. With a plethora of mouth-watering options available, it’s no surprise that Dongdaemun is a go-to place for tourists and locals alike. From traditional Korean cuisine to international flavors, Dongdaemun has something for everyone. Read on to discover the best places to eat in Dongdaemun and satisfy your cravings.

🍜 Traditional Korean Cuisine

One of the best things about Dongdaemun is its variety of traditional Korean restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a hearty bowl of bibimbap or a comforting bowl of jjigae, you can find it all here. Here are some of the best places to try:

1. Gwangjang Market

Located in the heart of Dongdaemun, Gwangjang Market is a foodie’s paradise. With over 200 food stalls, it’s the perfect place to try a variety of Korean dishes. Be sure to try the bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak kimbap (addictive seaweed rice rolls).

2. Myeongdong Kyoja

For a taste of Korea’s famous noodles, visit Myeongdong Kyoja. The restaurant has been around since 1966 and is known for its handmade kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings).

3. Baekje Samgyetang

Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) is a traditional Korean dish that is perfect for cold days. Baekje Samgyetang is one of the best places to try it in Dongdaemun. The soup is served with a whole chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, jujube, and garlic.

🍣 International Flavors

If you’re in the mood for something other than Korean food, Dongdaemun has plenty of options. The neighborhood is home to a variety of international restaurants, from Japanese sushi to Italian pizza. Here are some of the best places to try:

4. Sushi Hyo

If you’re a fan of sushi, head to Sushi Hyo. The restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality sushi, which is prepared by experienced chefs. The omakase (chef’s selection) is a must-try.

5. Trattoria de Paola

For a taste of Italy, visit Trattoria de Paola. The restaurant serves authentic Italian food, including handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a romantic dinner.

6. Meditterania

If you’re looking for something healthy, Meditterania is a great option. The restaurant serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including falafel, hummus, and shakshuka. The portions are generous, so bring your appetite.

🍸 Dessert and Drinks

No meal is complete without dessert and drinks. Luckily, Dongdaemun has plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth or in need of a refreshing beverage. Here are some of the best places to check out:

7. Cafe Onion

Cafe Onion is a trendy coffee shop that serves delicious coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. The industrial-chic decor and friendly baristas make it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon.

8. Blind Alley

If you’re a cat lover, you’ll love Blind Alley. The cafe is home to several cats that roam around while you enjoy your coffee and dessert. The signature dish is the bingsu (shaved ice dessert) topped with a cute cat-shaped cookie.

9. O’sulloc Tea House

O’sulloc is a famous Korean tea brand that has several tea houses around Seoul. The Dongdaemun location is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the busy neighborhood. The matcha latte and green tea roll cake are must-tries.

🤔 FAQ

1. What is Dongdaemun?

Dongdaemun is a neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, known for its shopping and food scene. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals.

2. What are some traditional Korean dishes to try in Dongdaemun?

Some traditional Korean dishes to try in Dongdaemun include bibimbap, jjigae, bindaetteok, and samgyetang.

3. What are some international restaurants in Dongdaemun?

Some international restaurants in Dongdaemun include Sushi Hyo, Trattoria de Paola, and Meditterania.

4. What is Cafe Onion?

Cafe Onion is a trendy coffee shop that serves coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It has several locations around Seoul.

5. What is Blind Alley?

Blind Alley is a cat cafe in Dongdaemun. It serves coffee and desserts, and is home to several cats that roam around.

6. What is O’sulloc Tea House?

O’sulloc is a famous Korean tea brand that has several tea houses around Seoul. The Dongdaemun location is a beautiful tea house that serves matcha and green tea desserts.

7. What is the best time to visit Dongdaemun for food?

Dongdaemun is a vibrant neighborhood that is busy day and night. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during weekdays and avoid weekends and holidays.

8. Are there any vegetarian options in Dongdaemun?

While Korean cuisine is known for its meat dishes, there are some vegetarian options available. Meditterania and O’sulloc Tea House are good options for vegetarians.

9. What is the most popular food to try in Dongdaemun?

Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) is a popular dish to try in Dongdaemun. It’s a traditional Korean dish that is perfect for cold days.

10. What is the best way to get to Dongdaemun?

The easiest way to get to Dongdaemun is by subway. The neighborhood is served by several subway stations, including Dongdaemun History & Culture Park and Dongdaemun Station.

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

Dongdaemun Market is open 24 hours a day, so you can visit anytime. However, if you want to experience the bustling night market, it’s best to visit after sunset.

12. What is the dress code for restaurants in Dongdaemun?

Most restaurants in Dongdaemun have a casual dress code. However, some high-end restaurants may require a more formal dress code.

13. What is the average price range for restaurants in Dongdaemun?

The price range for restaurants in Dongdaemun varies. Traditional Korean restaurants and street food stalls are generally inexpensive, while international restaurants and high-end Korean restaurants can be more expensive.

👋 Conclusion

Dongdaemun is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of options for every taste and budget. From traditional Korean cuisine to international flavors, Dongdaemun has it all. Be sure to visit Gwangjang Market for a taste of Korean street food, Sushi Hyo for high-quality sushi, and Blind Alley for a unique cat cafe experience. No matter where you go, you’re sure to have a delicious meal.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and head to Dongdaemun for a culinary adventure you won’t forget!

Disclaimer:

All information provided in this article is accurate as of the time of writing. Prices and menu items may be subject to change. Please confirm with individual restaurants before visiting.