1. What are some must-try local dishes in Pyeongchang?
Some must-try local dishes in Pyeongchang include:1. Ojingeo-tang (Spicy Squid Soup): This popular seafood dish is made with spicy broth, fresh squid, and vegetables. It is a specialty of Gangwon Province and perfect for cold winter days.
2. Dak-galbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken): Originating from the nearby city of Chuncheon, this dish consists of marinated chicken stir-fried with vegetables and a spicy sauce. It is typically served on a large, sizzling pan right at your table.
3. Hanwoo Beef: Known for its high quality and tenderness, Hanwoo beef is a must-try in Pyeongchang. It can be enjoyed in various forms such as bulgogi (marinated beef), kalbi (grilled ribs), or samgyeopsal (pork belly).
4. Makguksu (Buckwheat Noodles): This traditional noodle dish features noodles made from buckwheat flour and served cold in a tangy broth with vegetables and meat toppings.
5. Jeonbok-juk (Abalone Porridge): Abalone porridge is a hearty and nutritious dish made with rice, abalone, and other ingredients simmered together to create a thick porridge.
6. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles): This sweet and savory dish features glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and a soy sauce-based sauce.
7. Mandu (Dumplings): These dumplings can be found all over Korea but are especially popular in Pyeongchang due to its proximity to the city of Andong, known for its handmade mandu.
8. Spicy Raw Fish Stew: Made with slices of raw fish cooked in boiling broth along with vegetables and spices, this spicy stew is another favorite seafood dish in Pyeongchang.
9. Sundubu-jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew): This spicy stew features soft tofu simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and sometimes meat or seafood.
10. Chodang Soondae (Blood Sausage): Also known as “blood sausage,” this dish is made with pig intestines stuffed with steamed pork blood, glass noodles, and other ingredients. It may sound unusual, but it is a popular dish in Pyeongchang and throughout Korea.
2. Where can I find the best traditional Korean cuisine in Pyeongchang?
1. Gombawi Hanjeongsik: Located in Woljeong Village, this restaurant is known for its authentic Jeongseon cuisine, made with fresh ingredients from the mountains.
2. Sujebi Bapsang: This traditional Korean restaurant specializes in sujebi (hand-torn noodle soup) and other hearty dishes such as bibimbap and bulgogi.
3. Jumokhoegwan: Located in Daegwallyeong myeon, this restaurant offers a variety of local dishes made with potatoes grown in the nearby fields.
4. Nakji Meolli Maeul: This small village-style restaurant serves dishes made with hand-pulled noodles and freshwater clams, a local delicacy.
5. Papa’s Noodles: A popular spot for handmade noodles and mandu (dumplings), this cozy restaurant also offers a variety of traditional side dishes.
6. Pyeongchang Heungnyemun Halmae Dokgaejang: This family-owned restaurant has been serving up freshly made dokgaejang (spicy crab stew) for over 30 years.
7. Chunjinam Traditional Korean Cuisine Center: Located within the Olympic Park, this restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Korean dishes including jeon (pan-fried pancakes) and grilled meat skewers.
8. Saebyukgan Hwangtaejip: Specializing in hwangtae (dried pollack), this restaurant is known for its flavorful broths and stews that feature the dried fish as the main ingredient.
9. Yongpyongsan Banga Wangkalbi: This rustic-looking restaurant is famous for its tender barbecued beef ribs, a must-try dish when visiting Pyeongchang.
10. Ojingeo Sikdang: Serving up delicious squid-based dishes such as ojingeo jeongol (spicy squid stew) and ojingeo gukbap (squid rice soup), this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Are there any popular street food markets in Pyeongchang?
There are several popular street food markets in Pyeongchang that offer a variety of traditional Korean dishes and snacks. Some of the most well-known street food markets in Pyeongchang include:
1. Jeongseon Arirang Market – Located in Jeongseon County, this market is famous for its grilled meats, savory pancakes, and other local delicacies.
2. Hongcheon Hongdae Market – This market is known for its wide selection of seafood dishes, including grilled shellfish and raw fish.
3. Hoenggye Traditional Market – Located near the Alpensia Ski Resort, this market offers a range of street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), fried chicken, and hotteok (sweet pancakes).
4. Yongpyong Night Market – This open-air night market offers a variety of Korean street foods as well as international options like pizza and kebab.
5. Gangneung Jungang Market – One of the oldest markets in Gangneung, this market is known for its freshly caught seafood and delicious Korean stews.
Overall, these street food markets in Pyeongchang offer visitors a chance to experience authentic Korean cuisine while exploring the local culture and atmosphere.
4. Can you recommend some good restaurants that specialize in BBQ or grilled meats?
Yes, here are a few good restaurants that specialize in BBQ and grilled meats:
1. Franklin Barbecue (Austin, TX)
2. Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse (Various locations)
3. The Pit Authentic Barbecue (Raleigh, NC)
4. Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill (Various locations)
5. Pappy’s Smokehouse (St. Louis, MO)
6. Texas de Brazil Churrascaria (Various locations)
7. Memphis Championship Barbecue (Las Vegas, NV)
8. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (New York, NY and Various locations)
9. The Salt Lick BBQ (Driftwood, TX and Round Rock, TX)
10.The Smoke Daddy (Chicago, IL)
5. Is there a specific type of seafood that Pyeongchang is known for?
Pyeongchang is known for its fresh mountain trout, also known as “chadgi.” Other popular seafood dishes in the region include raw crab marinated in soy sauce (ganjang gejang), steamed crabs (jjim) and grilled eel (gui).
6. Are vegetarian and vegan dining options readily available in Pyeongchang?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan dining options readily available in Pyeongchang. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables), vegetable stir-fry, and tofu dishes. There are also specific vegetarian and vegan restaurants scattered throughout the city, offering Western and Asian cuisine options. Some accommodations, such as hotels and guesthouses, also have vegetarian or vegan meal options upon request. It is recommended to inform the restaurant or accommodation beforehand to ensure that your dietary needs can be accommodated.
7. How spicy is the food in Pyeongchang compared to other regions of Korea?
The food in Pyeongchang is generally not considered to be very spicy compared to other regions of Korea. It is known for its hearty dishes and use of locally grown ingredients, rather than being overly spicy. However, like most Korean cuisine, there are certain dishes and condiments that can be quite spicy.
8. Are there any recommended restaurants with a scenic view or unique atmosphere?
1. Aqua Shard (London, UK) – Located on the 31st floor of The Shard with panoramic views of the city.
2. El Cielo (Bogotá, Colombia) – A stunning restaurant with a unique suspended canopy and beautiful city views.
3. Sky Restaurant (Beijing, China) – Situated on the 65th floor of China World Tower, offering breathtaking views of Beijing.
4. Le Jules Verne (Paris, France) – Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, providing guests with a picturesque view of Paris.
5. Skyline Rooftop Bar and Restaurant (Bangkok, Thailand) – Offers a stunning view of Bangkok’s skyline from its rooftop location.
6. Skyline Restaurant at Luminary Hotel (Fort Myers, Florida) – Featuring waterfront dining with views of the Caloosahatchee River.
7. The Rock Restaurant (Zanzibar, Tanzania) – Built on a rock formation in the Indian Ocean, this restaurant offers a unique and romantic atmosphere with stunning ocean views.
8. SushiSamba Rio (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) – Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes while taking in breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro from its location in the famous Copacabana Palace hotel.
9. Can you suggest a good place to try makgeolli (Korean rice wine) in Pyeongchang?
Yes, you can try Pyeongchang Makgeolli Village, a popular spot for traditional Korean rice wine. This village features different stalls and restaurants that serve various types of makgeolli, along with other traditional Korean dishes. It is located in the Olympic Plaza area and is easily accessible by public transportation. You can also visit the nearby Jeonggangwon (Traditional Culture Experience Center) to learn about the history and making process of makgeolli.
10. What is the most popular local dish among residents of Pyeongchang?
The most popular local dish among residents of Pyeongchang is steamed snow crab.
11. Is there a particular type of rice or grain that is commonly used in dishes from this region?
The most commonly used rice in the Mediterranean region is long-grain white rice. However, couscous, bulgur, and quinoa are also widely used.
12. Are there any food festivals or events that take place in Pyeongchang throughout the year?
Yes, there are several food festivals and events that take place in Pyeongchang throughout the year. Some popular ones include:
1. Pyeongchang Trout Festival – Held every winter, this festival offers a variety of activities such as ice fishing, sledding, and snowmobiling along with delicious trout dishes.
2. Pyeongchang Winter Festival – This festival takes place during the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and features a wide selection of traditional Korean foods as well as international cuisine.
3. Kangwondo Traditional Folk Food Festival – Held in October, this festival showcases traditional Korean dishes from different regions of Kangwon Province.
4. Daegwallyeong Snow Crab Festival – Taking place in May, this festival celebrates the arrival of fresh snow crabs with various dishes and performances.
5. Rice Harvesting Experience and Rice Cake Making Fair – Visitors can participate in rice harvesting and make their own traditional Korean rice cakes at this event held in September.
6. Pyeongchang Hyoseok Cultural Festival- This annual festival celebrates the life and works of renowned Korean writer Lee Hyo-seok through various cultural events including food fairs featuring local specialties.
7. Gangneung Coffee Festival – Held in October, this festival showcases the coffee culture in Gangneung with coffee tasting, barista competitions, and street food vendors serving up local delicacies.
8. Nanchon Alpine Strawberry Festival – Taking place in June, visitors can enjoy picking fresh strawberries at this festival along with various strawberry-inspired dishes.
9.Dutasan Mountain Azalea Festival – This springtime festival features azaleas blooming on Dutasan Mountain alongside delicious local cuisine made with mountain-grown ingredients like wild vegetables and herbs.
10. Soyang Spring Herb Sowbread Flower Festival – Also held during springtime, this flower festival features a wide range of activities including cooking competitions using wild herbs and flowers.
13. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known restaurants that are worth checking out?
Some hidden gems in Ann Arbor include:– Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger: A University of Michigan institution, this burger joint allows you to create your own unique burger by selecting toppings from an old fashioned train car.
– Frita Batidos: A popular spot for Cuban-inspired street food, known for their delicious fritas (Cuban-style burgers) and batidos (fruit milkshakes).
– The Lunch Room: A vegan and vegetarian restaurant with creative and tasty dishes ranging from sandwiches to Korean bibimbap bowls.
– Fleetwood Diner: A 24-hour diner with a retro feel, serving up classic comfort food like omelettes, pancakes, and their infamous “hippie hash”.
– Zingerman’s Roadhouse: Part of the famous Zingerman’s family of delis, this restaurant focuses on American regional cuisine like barbecue, Cajun, and Southern favorites.
14. Can you recommend a good place to try traditional Korean tea and snacks?
There are many great places to try traditional Korean tea and snacks, but here are a few options:1. “Insadong” neighborhood in Seoul: This neighborhood is known for its traditional tea houses and snack shops, making it the perfect place to experience authentic Korean tea and snacks.
2. “Jilsiru” in Gwangjang Market, Seoul: This old-fashioned tea house serves various types of traditional teas such as barley and green tea, along with delicious Korean snacks like rice cakes and sweet rice balls.
3. “Changdeokgung Palace Tea House” in Seoul: This historic palace has a beautiful traditional tea house where you can enjoy refreshments while taking a break from touring the palace grounds.
4. “Sanchon” in Insadong, Seoul: This vegetarian restaurant offers an extensive menu of traditional Korean teas and snacks made with fresh, organic ingredients.
5. “Boseong Green Tea Plantation” in Boseong County: For a unique experience, visit one of Korea’s famous green tea plantations where you can learn about the production process and enjoy freshly brewed green tea with some local snacks.
15. How easy is it to find international cuisine options in Pyeongchang?
It may be slightly challenging to find a wide variety of international cuisine options in Pyeongchang. While there are some restaurants that offer international dishes, the majority of dining options are traditional Korean fare. Some popular international cuisines that can be found in Pyeongchang include Chinese, Japanese, and Italian. However, it may be more difficult to find less mainstream cuisines such as Mexican or Indian food. It is recommended to do some research beforehand or ask locals for recommendations for specific international restaurants in the area.
16. Are there any outdoor dining areas with views of the surrounding mountains?
Yes, there are several outdoor dining areas with views of the surrounding mountains in certain areas of the world that have mountainous terrain. Here are a few examples:
1. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Restaurant in Zermatt, Switzerland offers breathtaking views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain from its outdoor terrace.
2. The Cliff House in San Francisco, California has a spacious outdoor dining area with panoramic views of the Bay Area and surrounding mountains.
3. Banff Avenue Brewing Co in Banff, Canada has a rooftop patio where guests can enjoy their meal while taking in stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
4. Innsbrucker Alpenlounge at Seegrube Terrace in Innsbruck, Austria is situated on a spectacular mountaintop offering 360-degree views of the Alps while dining.
5. La Terrazza at Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland boasts a beautiful garden terrace with mesmerizing views of Lake Maggiore and the Swiss Alps.
These are just a few examples and many other restaurants around the world offer similar outdoor dining experiences with stunning mountain views.
17. Do you have any suggestions for budget-friendly dining options in Pyeongchang?
1. Pyeongchang Olympic Market: This market offers a variety of affordable Korean dishes that are perfect for a quick bite before or after your activities.
2. Ajumma’s Kitchen: Located near the Alpensia Ski Resort, this restaurant offers tasty traditional Korean meals at reasonable prices.
3. Anmak Sikdang: This popular local spot is known for its delicious bibimbap and other Korean dishes at budget-friendly prices.
4. Pyeongchang Food Alley: This hidden gem offers a great variety of street food options such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and more at affordable prices.
5. Yeosoo Sikdang: If you’re craving some hearty comfort food, this restaurant serves up delicious stews and soups at wallet-friendly prices.
6. Convenience Stores: Don’t underestimate the convenience stores in Pyeongchang – they offer a good selection of fresh sandwiches, snacks, and other affordable meals.
7. Cafeterias in Ski Resorts: Many of the ski resorts in Pyeongchang have cafeterias where you can find reasonably priced meals to fuel up during your day on the slopes.
8. Local Markets: Visit one of the local markets in Pyeongchang to pick up some fresh ingredients and prepare your own budget-friendly meals while staying there.
9. Sajaheom Chicken House: If you want to indulge in some Korean fried chicken without breaking the bank, this restaurant is a must-visit with its delicious and affordable dishes.
10. Street Food Vendors: Be sure to try some street food from the vendors around Pyeongchang – they offer various snacks and dishes at wallet-friendly prices.
18. Is it common for restaurants to have English menus, or should I be prepared to use translation apps?
It varies from restaurant to restaurant, but in cities and popular tourist areas, it is common for restaurants to have English menus. However, in more rural or local establishments, there may not be English menus available. It is always a good idea to have translation apps or a basic understanding of the local language when traveling to non-English speaking countries.
19. Can I expect to find fresh, locally-grown produce on restaurant menus in Pyeongchang?
Yes, you can expect to find fresh, locally-grown produce on restaurant menus in Pyeongchang. As hosts of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang has made a concerted effort to showcase traditional Korean cuisine and utilize locally-sourced ingredients in their restaurants. Many restaurants in the area pride themselves on using fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms, making for a diverse and delicious dining experience.
20. Are there any unique cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of when dining out in Pyeongchang?
1. Remove your shoes before entering a traditional Korean restaurant or private home.
2. At the table, wait for the oldest person to start eating before you begin.
3. Use chopsticks for most food items, but spoons are also provided for soups and rice dishes.
4. Avoid pointing with chopsticks or using them to pass food directly to someone else’s chopsticks.
5. Do not refill your own glass – it is customary for others at the table to refill each other’s glasses.
6. It is polite to compliment the host on each dish as it is served.
7. When finished eating, place your utensils parallel across your bowl or plate and don’t leave them sticking straight up in the food.
8. Be mindful of leaving any food on your plate – it can be seen as wasteful.
9. Use both hands when giving or receiving items from someone older or in a position of authority.
10. Be sure to try all of the different side dishes (banchan) that are offered – they are an important part of a meal in Korean culture.