1. What are the must-try local dishes in Gyeongju?
Some must-try local dishes in Gyeongju include:1. Ssambap – a dish where you wrap meat, kimchi, and other side dishes in fresh lettuce or perilla leaves.
2. Gyeongju royal court cuisine (Sura) – traditional Korean dishes that were once served to kings and royalty.
3. Hwangnam bread – a popular snack made from red bean paste wrapped in sweet dough.
4. Gyeongju red bean porridge – a warm and comforting dish made from mashed red beans, rice, and vegetables.
5. Makchang gui (grilled pork intestines) – a beloved street food in Gyeongju.
6. Cheonmachong steamed chicken – a whole chicken steamed with herbs and spices and served with fermented soybean paste soup.
7. Hangover soup (Haejangguk) – a spicy soup made with pork bones and veggies, believed to cure hangovers.
2. What are the best restaurants for traditional Korean food in Gyeongju?
Some highly recommended restaurants for traditional Korean food in Gyeongju are:
1. Cheonjeoin: known for its authentic royal court cuisine (sura).
2. Bulguksa temple restaurant: located inside the famous Bulguksa temple, it serves vegetarian temple food.
3. Brazen Palace: offers an extensive menu of traditional Korean dishes including ssambap, doenjang jjigae (fermented soybean paste stew), and bulgogi (marinated beef).
4. The Kitchen by Baekhwajeom: known for their makchang gui (grilled pork intestines) as well as other traditional delicacies like haemul pajeon (seafood scallion pancake).
5. Gambleuoyeokjib: specializes in hanjeongsik, which is a set course meal of various Korean dishes.
6. Seongdongjni: serves traditional royal court cuisine with a modern twist.
7. Hayeondongsik: offers a variety of traditional Korean dishes, including samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and hwangsambap (Ssambap made with local ingredients).
3. What are some popular street foods in Gyeongju?
Some popular street foods in Gyeongju include:
1. Tteokbokki – spicy rice cakes served with fish cakes and a sweet and spicy sauce.
2. Hotteok – a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
3. Bungeoppang – a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste or cream.
4. Gyeran-ppang – a fluffy egg bread cooked in a cast-iron mold.
5. Sundae – blood sausage filled with noodles and vegetables
6. Hot dog squid – battered squid stuffed with hot dogs on skewers.
7. Duruchigi – pan-fried rice cakes topped with sugar, soy sauce, and chili powder.
2. Can you recommend any traditional Korean restaurants in the city?
Yes, I can recommend the following traditional Korean restaurants in the city:
1. Hanbok-kkori: This restaurant offers a wide range of authentic Korean dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi jigae served in traditional settings.
2. Mr. An’s: This restaurant specializes in traditional dishes from Jeju Island and is known for its delicious grilled meat and seafood dishes.
3. Seoul Kitchen: Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant serves up classic Korean dishes like samgyeopsal (pork belly), doenjang jjigae (soybean stew), and kimchi-jjigae (kimchi stew).
4. Gamja Bawi: This family-owned restaurant serves homestyle Korean cuisine, including comforting soups, stews, and savory pancakes.
5. Mokja: Known for its flavorful hotpots and fried chicken dishes, Mokja also offers a variety of classic Korean dishes like kimbap (rice rolls) and dolsot bibimbap (hot stone bowl mixed rice).
3. Is there a specific market or street food area known for its variety and quality?
There are several markets and street food areas known for their variety and quality, depending on where you are in the world. Some notable examples include:
1. Thip Samai Pad Thai – Bangkok, Thailand: This street food stall has been serving up some of the best pad thai in the city for over 80 years.
2. Borough Market – London, England: This historic market is a haven for foodies, featuring a wide variety of artisanal and specialty foods from all over the UK and beyond.
3. Gwangjang Market – Seoul, South Korea: This bustling market is famous for its traditional Korean street food, including bibimbap, tteokbokki, and more.
4. La Boqueria – Barcelona, Spain: Located on Las Ramblas, this vibrant market is filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and a huge selection of ready-to-eat snacks and meals.
5. Xi’an Muslim Quarter – Xi’an, China: This bustling street food area is home to some of China’s most delicious and authentic dishes, including lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles.
6. Spice Bazaar (also known as Egyptian Bazaar) – Istanbul, Turkey: This colorful market is a paradise for spice lovers, offering a wide variety of herbs and spices used in Turkish cuisine.
7. Marrakesh Night Market – Marrakesh, Morocco: The Jemaa el-Fnaa square comes alive at night with dozens of street food vendors offering traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagines and couscous.
8. Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo, Japan: While the famous Tsukiji fish market has moved locations, the outer market still offers an abundance of fresh seafood alongside numerous food stalls serving up sushi rolls and other Japanese delicacies.
9. Mercado San Miguel – Madrid , Spain: Recently renovated into a covered gourmet food hall-style market , Mercado San Miguel offers an array of delicious tapas, cured meats, and other Spanish specialties.
10. Gràcia Neighborhood – Barcelona, Spain: This charming neighborhood is home to a variety of food markets and street food stalls offering classic Catalan dishes such as pan con tomate and various seafood dishes.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly options available in Gyeongju?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available in Gyeongju. Many traditional Korean dishes can be easily modified to be vegetarian or vegan, such as bibimbap without meat or kimchi stew without seafood. There are also some restaurants that specialize in plant-based cuisine, including Gongdeokjeong and Gangjeong Sikdang. Additionally, many international restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
5. Which restaurants have the best views of historic landmarks while dining?
Bavel The NoMad Restaurant,Freddy Smalls, The Abbey
This is a subjective question and may vary depending on the specific landmark in question. Some restaurants that have been noted for their great views of historic landmarks include:
1. Bavel – located in Los Angeles and offers views of the city’s downtown skyline and the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall.
2. The NoMad Restaurant – situated in the historic NoMad Hotel in New York City, this restaurant offers views of the Empire State Building.
3. Freddy Smalls – located in West Hollywood, California, this restaurant has a patio area with views of the famous Hollywood sign.
4. The Abbey – situated in Dublin, Ireland, this restaurant offers stunning views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
5. La Vue D’Or – located on Mount Etna’s slopes in Sicily, Italy, this restaurant boasts panoramic views of the ancient Greek Theater ruins and surrounding landscapes.
Ultimately, there are many restaurants around the world that offer great views of historic landmarks while dining. It is best to research and ask locals or other travelers for recommendations based on your specific location and desired landmark view.
6. Are there any special events or festivals centered around food in Gyeongju?
Yes, there are several events and festivals in Gyeongju that showcase local food and cuisine. Some of them include:
1. Silla Cultural Festival: This festival celebrates the culture and history of the Silla Dynasty, which ruled in Gyeongju from 57 BC to 935 AD. As part of the festival, there is a food market featuring traditional dishes from the region.
2. Gyeongju Traditional Wine Festival: This annual event features various types of traditional Korean alcoholic beverages, as well as local food and performances. It takes place in September at the Bulguksa Temple grounds.
3. Pippin Food Festival: This festival celebrates the locally-grown pippin fruit, also known as jujube or Chinese dates. Visitors can taste different pippin dishes, participate in cooking classes, and learn about its health benefits.
4. Daeboreum Fire Festival: Held on the first full moon of the lunar year (usually February), this festival includes various bonfire-related activities such as jumping over fires for good luck, roasting sweet potatoes, and eating traditional foods like tteok (rice cakes).
5. Andong Mask Dance Festival: While not taking place specifically in Gyeongju, this nearby festival features traditional dances accompanied by street food stalls serving regional delicacies from all over Korea.
6. Gyeongju Downtown Food Street Festival: Every October, downtown Gyeongju transforms into a bustling food street with vendors selling various dishes such as rice rolls (ssam bap), grilled squid, steamed corn on the cob, and more.
Overall, there are numerous opportunities to taste local cuisine and experience unique cultural traditions through food at these festivals in Gyeongju.
7. Can you suggest any unique dining experiences, such as dining in a traditional Hanok house?
1. Dine on a Floating Restaurant: Seoul is home to several floating restaurants that offer a unique dining experience on the Han River. Enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful city skyline and river views.
2. Temple Stay Dining: Immerse yourself in Korean culture by participating in a temple stay program and enjoying traditional vegetarian meals with Buddhist monks.
3. Hanok Village Dining: Visit one of Seoul’s historic hanok villages, such as Bukchon Hanok Village or Namsangol Hanok Village, and dine in a traditional Korean house while surrounded by beautiful architecture.
4. Themed Cafes: Seoul is known for its unique themed cafes, from cat cafes to board game cafes to even a sheep cafe! Visit one of these themed establishments for an unforgettable dining experience.
5. Street Food Tour: Explore Seoul’s vibrant street food scene by joining a guided street food tour, where you can sample various local delicacies and learn about their history and cultural significance.
6. Dinner with a View: Seoul has no shortage of skyscrapers with breathtaking views of the city. Book a dinner reservation at one of these high-rise restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience.
7. Private Chef Experience: For a more intimate dining experience, hire a private chef to prepare a personalized meal for you and your group in the comfort of your own accommodation.
8. Korean BBQ in Insadong: Enjoy delicious Korean barbecue in the heart of Insadong, with its charming traditional architecture and bustling streets filled with traditional market stalls.
9. Traditional Tea Tasting: Savor a variety of traditional teas at one of Seoul’s many tea houses, which also offer snacks and desserts to complement your tea selection.
10. Chauffeured Dining Bus Tour: Experience Seoul’s nightlife while dining on a luxury bus that takes you to popular tourist spots as you enjoy dinner onboard the bus.
8. What is the price range for local restaurants and street food stalls in Gyeongju?
The price range for local restaurants and street food stalls in Gyeongju can vary depending on the type of food and location. Generally, a meal at a local restaurant can cost between 6,000 to 20,000 South Korean Won (approximately $5-17 USD), while street food items can range from 2,000 to 10,000 South Korean Won (approximately $2-9 USD). Some street food options may be cheaper or more expensive depending on their ingredients and popularity. It is also possible to find inexpensive options such as gimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) for under 2,000 South Korean Won.
9. Are there any popular seafood dishes to try in this coastal city?
Yes, there are many popular seafood dishes to try in this coastal city. Some popular options include:
1. Paella: This iconic Spanish dish is a must-try when visiting the coast. It consists of saffron-infused rice cooked with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid.
2. Grilled sardines: Grilled sardines are a staple dish in this coastal city. The fresh fish is marinated in herbs and olive oil before being grilled to perfection.
3. Arroz a la Marinera: Another popular rice dish, arroz a la marinera consists of seafood mixed with vegetables and cooked in a savory broth.
4. Gambas al ajillo: These garlic shrimp are another popular tapa (appetizer) option in the region. Served sizzling hot in clay pots, they are often enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping.
5. Boquerones en vinagre: These marinated anchovies are another classic tapa in the coastal city. They are typically served cold with vinegar, garlic, parsley, and olive oil.
6. Fideuà: Similar to paella but made with thin noodles instead of rice, fideuà is a popular alternative for those looking for something different.
7. Sepia con romesco: Cuttlefish cooked in romesco sauce (made from almonds, tomatoes, red peppers, and garlic) is a delicious and unique seafood dish to try.
8. Pulpo a la gallega: This traditional Galician dish features tender octopus boiled with potatoes and seasoned with paprika and olive oil.
9. Zarzuela de marisco: Literally meaning “seafood stew,” this hearty dish combines various types of shellfish with tomatoes, onions, peppers, brandy, and other spices for a flavorful meal perfect for sharing.
10. Are foreign cuisine options available, such as Italian or Chinese food?
Yes, foreign cuisine options such as Italian and Chinese food are commonly available in many places in the world. Some restaurants may specialize in a specific type of foreign cuisine, while others may offer a variety of international dishes on their menu. It ultimately depends on the location and dining options in that area.
11. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Gyeongju? If so, what is the usual percentage to tip?
It is not customary to tip at restaurants in Gyeongju, as it is considered more of a western practice. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated.
12. Are there any must-visit cafes or dessert shops for those with a sweet tooth?
There are many cafes and dessert shops in Singapore that are worth a visit for those with a sweet tooth. Some recommendations include:
1. Patisserie G – Known for their indulgent French pastries and cakes, this charming cafe is a must-visit for any dessert lover.
2. Cat & the Fiddle – This popular dessert shop specializes in gourmet cheesecakes with unique flavors such as Durian and Milo Dinosaur.
3. The Dark Gallery – For chocolate lovers, this artisanal chocolate cafe offers a wide selection of decadent desserts and drinks made from single origin cocoa beans.
4. Hvala – This Japanese-inspired cafe offers a range of handcrafted matcha desserts, including their signature Matcha Lava Cake.
5. Sunday Folks – Famous for their soft serve ice cream, this cozy cafe also serves up a variety of delicious waffles and pastries to satisfy your sweet cravings.
6. Cake Spade – A popular spot for Instagram-worthy cakes and desserts, this dessert shop also sells their famous rainbow cake by the slice.
7. The Marmalade Pantry – With locations all over Singapore, this cozy cafe serves up delicious cakes and pastries along with a hearty menu of brunch dishes.
8. Butter Studio – This charming bakery offers an array of delightful cupcakes, tarts, and other sweet treats to satisfy any craving.
9. Wimbly Lu – Famous for their delectable chocolate truffles and other sweet treats, this cafe is loved by locals and tourists alike.
10. Antoinette – With its elegant decor and French-inspired menu of patisseries and cakes, Antoinette is the perfect spot for indulging in some sweet treats.
13. Where can I find the best bibimbap (Korean mixed rice dish) in Gyeongju?
There are several popular restaurants in Gyeongju that serve delicious bibimbap, so it may depend on personal preference. Some highly rated options include:
1. Bibim Garden – Known for their wide variety of bibimbap options and fresh ingredients, Bibim Garden is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
2. Yeonji Bibimbap – This restaurant specializes in traditional-style bibimbap with assorted vegetables and a choice of protein toppings like beef or pork.
3. Gyeongju Traditional Food Center – Located inside the Gyeongju Yangdong Folk Village, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with traditional bibimbap served in a traditional Korean house.
4. Dasarang Stone Pot Bibimbap – For a more authentic eating experience, try this restaurant that serves bibimbap cooked and served in hot stone pots for added flavor.
5. Tosokchon Samgyetang – While not exclusively a bibimbap restaurant, Tosokchon Samgyetang’s bibimbap is highly recommended for its flavorful ingredients and generous portions.
Remember to check reviews and ask for recommendations from locals to find the best bibimbap spot for you in Gyeongju!
14. Are there any recommended places for fine dining or romantic date nights?
Some options for fine dining or romantic date nights could include:
1. Canlis: A Seattle institution known for its upscale, elegant atmosphere and top-notch cuisine.
2. The Georgian: Located inside the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, this restaurant offers a luxurious and romantic setting with a focus on Pacific Northwest ingredients.
3. Six Seven Restaurant: With stunning views of the Puget Sound and creative, locally-sourced dishes, this waterfront restaurant is perfect for a special occasion.
4. The Pink Door: This charming Italian-American restaurant features live music and has a beautiful patio that overlooks Elliot Bay.
5. Altura: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an intimate and sophisticated dining experience with a menu that changes daily.
6. Mistral Kitchen: Contemporary American cuisine in a sleek and modern space, perfect for a romantic dinner out.
7. Serafina Osteria & Enoteca: With cozy seating, dim lighting, and delicious Italian dishes, this restaurant has all the makings of a perfect date night spot.
8. Aquariva: Located on the Willamette River with sweeping views of the skyline, this is an ideal spot for a special occasion or anniversary dinner.
9. Copine: Combining French techniques with local ingredients, Copine offers both elegant and approachable dishes in an intimate setting.
10. Spinasse: This award-winning Italian restaurant serves up hand-crafted pastas in a charming old-world atmosphere – perfect for a cozy date night.
15. Is kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage) served with every meal at most restaurants or can it be requested separately?
Kimchi is not served with every meal at most restaurants and can be requested separately. However, it is a popular side dish in Korean cuisine and may be included with certain meals or available as an additional option.
16. How is street food safety regulated and are there certain vendors that are known for their cleanliness and quality?
Street food safety is regulated by different government agencies depending on the country or region. In general, street food vendors are required to obtain permits and licenses from the local health department in order to operate their business. These permits are usually renewed annually and involve regular inspections to ensure compliance with hygiene and sanitation standards.
In addition, there may be specific regulations or guidelines for street food vendors that outline requirements for food handling and preparation, equipment cleanliness, waste disposal, and proper storage of ingredients. Vendors are also expected to maintain a clean and clutter-free working space.
Some countries have specialized agencies dedicated to regulating street food safety, such as the Street Food Safety Program in Thailand, which focuses on promoting safe and hygienic street food practices through training and certification programs for vendors.
While there may not be specific vendors known for their cleanliness and quality, customers can look out for signs of good hygiene practices such as clean cooking equipment, use of gloves or utensils when handling food, and proper waste disposal. Many popular street food stalls also have long queues of customers, which can indicate that they are well-regarded for their taste and quality.
17. Do you have recommendations for affordable but tasty meals for budget travelers?
For breakfast, oatmeal with fruit and nuts, eggs and toast, or a bagel with cream cheese are all affordable options.For lunch, PB&J sandwiches, grilled cheese sandwiches, and vegetable wraps are all economical and tasty choices. Instant noodles or canned soups can also be budget-friendly options for a simple meal.
For dinner, rice and beans with added vegetables and spices can make a hearty and flavorful meal. Pasta dishes like spaghetti with marinara sauce or macaroni and cheese are also affordable and satisfying options.
Snacks could include fruits, vegetable sticks with hummus, trail mix, or homemade energy balls for a low-cost yet tasty treat.
It’s also beneficial to cook your own meals using local ingredients from markets or grocery stores. This allows you to save money while experiencing the local cuisine. Additionally, street food in many countries can be both delicious and budget-friendly. Just make sure to research safe and reputable street food vendors before indulging.
18. Can you suggest some local markets where fresh produce and ingredients can be bought to cook at home?
1. Farmers’ Market at Union Square
2. Chelsea Market
3. Essex Street Market
4. Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket
5. Jackson Heights Greenmarket
6. Bronx Terminal Market
7. Smorgasburg in Williamsburg or Brooklyn Bridge Park
8. Astoria Farmers’ Market (on Saturdays)
9. Red Hook Ball Fields Food Vendors on weekends
10. Queens County Farm Museum’s weekly market (Sundays)
19. What seafood specialties should one try while visiting Gyeongju?
Some seafood specialties to try in Gyeongju include haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), mulhwe (raw fish dish), and gimbap (rice rolls) with various fillings such as crab, tuna, or shrimp. You can also try hoe-deopbap (sashimi rice bowl) or grilled clams. Don’t forget to also try sannakji (live octopus) and maeuntang (spicy fish stew).