1. What are the most popular traditional Korean dishes to try while visiting Pocheon?
Some popular traditional Korean dishes to try while visiting Pocheon include:
1. Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)
2. Haejangguk (Spicy Beef and Vegetable Soup)
3. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
4. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl)
5. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)
6. Galbi (Grilled Marinated Beef Short Ribs)
7. Naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles)
8. Gyeran-jjim (Steamed Egg Casserole)
9. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
10. Makgeolli (Traditional Rice Wine)
2. Are there any local markets or street food stalls that offer authentic Korean snacks in Pocheon?
Yes, there are several local markets and street food stalls in Pocheon that offer authentic Korean snacks. Some popular options include:
1. Pocheon Nari-gil Market: This market is a great place to find all kinds of authentic Korean snacks, including hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), fried squid, and more.
2. Yeonji Jangtteok Street Food Alley: Located near the Pocheon Art Valley, this street food alley is famous for its jangtteok (pan-fried rice cakes) which come in various flavors such as red bean, green tea, and cheese.
3. Souvenir Street in Pocheon Herb Island: This street features numerous street food stalls that offer delicious Korean snacks like fish-shaped waffles filled with sweet red bean paste, mandu (dumplings), honey butter bread, and more.
4. Hantan River Market: This traditional market offers a wide variety of local produce and also has many food stalls selling Korean snacks like pajeon (Korean savory pancake), bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste or other fillings), and gyeranppang (egg bread).
5. Pocheon Myeongdong Market: Similar to the famous shopping district in Seoul, this market in Pocheon also has an array of food stalls selling popular Korean street foods such as kimbap (rice rolls), odeng (fish cake skewers), sundae (blood sausage), and more.
Overall, these markets and street food stalls are great places to try out some authentic Korean snacks during your visit to Pocheon.
3. Can you recommend a good restaurant for BBQ in Pocheon?
One highly recommended BBQ restaurant in Pocheon is “Jinju Tongdakcheong,” which specializes in Korean-style grilled chicken. It is located at 389-1 Myeonmok-ri, Jenggumi-myeon and is known for its juicy and flavorful chicken dishes. They also have a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces to accompany the meal.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Pocheon?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Pocheon. Some popular options include:
1. Ssangmoolya: This restaurant specializes in Buddhist temple cuisine and offers a variety of vegetarian dishes.
2. Four Seasons Chaegeun Garden: This restaurant serves Korean-style temple food using organic vegetables and ingredients.
3. Mullaehan: Located inside the Art Valley complex, this restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options such as bibimbap and tofu dishes.
4. Vegetarina: This cozy cafe serves vegetarian meals made with locally sourced organic vegetables.
5. Naega Neofa Burger: This burger joint offers various vegetarian and vegan burger options as well as salads and wraps.
6. The Green Tree Café & Restaurant: This restaurant offers a menu with a mix of Western and Korean-inspired vegetarian dishes.
7. Loving Hut: Part of an international chain of vegan restaurants, Loving Hut in Pocheon serves a variety of plant-based meals including burgers, noodles, rice dishes, and more.
5. What is a must-try local dish that may not be well-known to tourists?
A must-try local dish that may not be well-known to tourists is “pasties de nata,” also known as Portuguese custard tarts. These delicious egg tart pastries have a flaky crust and creamy custard filling, and are a staple in Portuguese bakeries and cafes. They can be found throughout Portugal, but are most famous in Lisbon where they originated from. They make for a perfect breakfast or snack and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
6. Are there any rooftop restaurants or bars with a view of the surrounding nature in Pocheon?
Yes, there are a few rooftop restaurants and bars with a view of the surrounding nature in Pocheon. Here are some options:
1) Café Trivant: This cozy café and restaurant has a rooftop terrace that offers views of the lush greenery and mountains in Pocheon. Customers can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the picturesque scenery.
2) Scenery Makguksu: Located near Pocheon Herb Island, this restaurant specializes in makguksu (buckwheat noodles) and also has a rooftop seating area with a beautiful view of the countryside.
3) Terrace Hills: This upscale restaurant features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys in Pocheon. The menu offers a fusion of Korean and Western dishes.
4) Yumyeongsan Family Restaurant: Situated on a hilltop, this family-friendly eatery boasts an outdoor terrace with breathtaking views of Pocheon’s natural landscape. The menu includes traditional Korean dishes as well as barbecue options.
5) Forest Sky Garden: This unique café has floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air terrace overlooking the forested hills of Pocheon. Customers can enjoy coffee, desserts, and light meals while taking in the tranquil scenery.
6) Sky Lounge & Bar Jungni Kaha: Located on the 9th floor of Hotel Mate, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and lakes. Guests can sip on cocktails or dine on Korean cuisine while enjoying the scenic panorama.
7. How about places to dine near popular tourist attractions like Sanjeong Lake or Pyeonggang Land?
Some recommended dining options near Sanjeong Lake include:
1. Maehwa Sikdang – a popular restaurant offering traditional Korean dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
2. Byeolmang Sogeumgui – known for its grilled meats and seafood, this restaurant also offers scenic views of the lake.
3. Hosuguk Korean Restaurant – famous for its mushroom dishes using local ingredients from the nearby mountains.
Near Pyeonggang Land, you can try these restaurants:
1. Saengeri Hanu – specializes in charcoal-grilled hanu (Korean beef) and has outdoor seating with views of the amusement park.
2. Jjakkung Noodle Soup – offers a variety of noodle soups and other Korean dishes.
3. Audi Kitchen & Pub – a pub-style restaurant serving fusion dishes with an interesting cocktail menu.
8. Is there a famous dish or specialty specific to Pocheon that visitors should try?
One famous dish in Pocheon is “makguksu,” which is a buckwheat noodle dish served in a spicy, savory broth. It also often includes vegetables and sometimes meat or seafood. Another specialty of the region is “Ddangkalbi” (grilled marinated chicken), which is a popular comfort food among locals. These dishes can be found at traditional restaurants or street vendors throughout Pocheon.
9. Are food tours available in Pocheon, and if so, what type of cuisine do they focus on?
Yes, there are food tours available in Pocheon. The most popular food tour in Pocheon is the “Pocheon Herb Island and Korean Food Tour.” This tour allows visitors to taste traditional Korean foods such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi at local restaurants while also visiting the famous Herb Island where they can try unique herb-infused dishes. Other food tours in Pocheon focus on local specialties such as dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and makgeolli (rice wine) tastings.Some other popular food tours in Pocheon include:
1. Pocheon Ginseng Chicken Soup Tour: This tour takes visitors to a traditional ginseng chicken soup restaurant where they can taste the renowned health-boosting dish.
2. Pocheon Makgeolli Tasting Tour: Visitors will get to visit a local makgeolli brewery and learn about the traditional brewing process while also tasting different types of makgeolli paired with various Korean snacks.
3. Pocheon Strawberry Picking and Strawberry Dessert Tour: During strawberry season from December to May, visitors can enjoy a hands-on experience of picking fresh strawberries at a local farm, followed by a dessert-making session using the fresh strawberries.
4. Pocheon Traditional Market Food Experience Tour: This tour takes visitors to one of Korea’s largest traditional markets, where they can try various street foods and delicacies sold by local vendors.
Overall, food tours in Pocheon offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors to try traditional Korean cuisine, learn about local ingredients, and explore the town’s culinary culture.
10. Is it easy to find Western-style cafes or restaurants in Pocheon for travelers who may not enjoy traditional Korean food?
Yes, it is relatively easy to find Western-style cafes and restaurants in Pocheon. There are many international fast food chains like McDonald’s and KFC, as well as local cafes that offer a variety of Western dishes such as pizza, pasta, and burgers. There are also upscale restaurants that serve fusion cuisine or specialize in foreign dishes. Tourist areas may have more options for Western-style dining, but they are available throughout the city.
11. What is the seafood scene like in Pocheon? Any recommendations for fresh seafood dishes?
Pocheon is not located near the coast, so the seafood scene is limited compared to coastal cities in South Korea. However, there are still some delicious options for fresh seafood dishes in Pocheon.
One popular dish is Dakgangjeong, which is a type of fried chicken made with small freshwater fish called “manchuk” (yellowfin goby). The crispy fish is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce and served as a snack or side dish.
Another option is Ojing-eo Bokkeum (stir-fried squid), which can be found at many restaurants in Pocheon. The squid is usually cooked with vegetables and served with rice or noodles.
In addition, there are also several restaurants that specialize in freshwater eel dishes, such as grilled eel and jangjorim (a braised dish made with soy sauce and spices).
Overall, while Pocheon may not have an extensive seafood scene like coastal cities do, you can still find delicious and unique seafood dishes using freshwater ingredients.
12. Can you suggest a budget-friendly restaurant option for travelers on a tight budget in Pocheon?
If you are on a tight budget in Pocheon, I would recommend trying out local street food stalls or outdoor markets. These places offer a variety of cheap and delicious snacks such as grilled meat skewers, spicy rice cakes, and fried dumplings. Some popular options include Gwangjang Market and Seorak Market. Another budget-friendly option is to visit one of the many eomuk (fish cake) villages in Pocheon, where you can enjoy freshly made fish cakes at an affordable price. Lastly, convenience stores in Korea also offer a wide range of affordable food options such as instant noodles, kimbap (rice rolls), and fried chicken.
13. Where can we find the best kimchi stew (kimchi jjigae) in town?
The best kimchi stew can vary depending on personal preference, but popular options in town include:
1. Myung In Dumplings – This restaurant is known for its homemade kimchi and their kimchi stew is packed with flavor.
2. Kobawoo House – A traditional Korean restaurant that serves an authentic and spicy kimchi stew.
3. Cho Dang Tofu – Their signature tofu dishes are always accompanied by a complimentary bowl of delicious kimchi stew.
4. BCD Tofu House – This chain specializes in tofu dishes, but they also have a mouthwatering kimchi jjigae on their menu.
5. Soban – Serving up traditional and modern Korean dishes, Soban’s kimchi jjigae is highly recommended by locals.
Remember to try multiple locations and find the one that suits your taste buds best!
14. Are there any cooking classes or workshops available in Pocheon for those interested in learning how to make Korean dishes from scratch?
There are several cooking classes and workshops available in Pocheon for those interested in learning how to make Korean dishes from scratch. Some popular options include:1. Pocheon Herb Farm Cooking School: This school offers a variety of classes on traditional Korean cuisine using fresh ingredients from their herb garden.
2. Hanjeongsik Korean Cooking Class: This class teaches students how to make authentic Korean meals, including kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap.
3. Suhyup Academy: The academy offers a variety of hands-on cooking classes focused on different aspects of Korean cuisine, such as street food or temple food.
4. Oafarm Hands-On Experience Program: This program allows participants to visit a local farm and learn how to cook with seasonal ingredients from the local market.
5. Hantowu Korean Cooking Class: This class focuses on traditional home-cooked Korean dishes and also offers lessons on making tofu and soy milk from scratch.
It is recommended to do some research and contact these schools or programs beforehand to schedule a class and check for availability. Additionally, some hotels or guesthouses in the area may offer cooking classes for their guests upon request.
15. How does the dining experience differ between urban and rural areas of Pocheon?
The dining experience in urban and rural areas of Pocheon can differ in several ways.
1. Type of cuisine: Urban areas tend to have a diverse range of restaurants offering various types of cuisines, including international options such as Italian, Chinese, and Japanese. In rural areas, the dining options are usually limited to traditional Korean dishes.
2. Ambiance: Urban restaurants tend to have a modern and trendy atmosphere with stylish decor and music. In contrast, rural restaurants often have a more rustic and traditional feel.
3. Crowd: Urban restaurants are usually busier and attract a younger crowd compared to rural restaurants where the customers are mostly locals.
4. Price: Due to higher rent and operating costs in urban areas, the prices at restaurants tend to be higher compared to those in rural areas.
5. Availability of ingredients: Restaurants in urban areas often have access to a wider variety of fresh ingredients due to their proximity to markets and suppliers. In contrast, rural restaurants may use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients which may result in more limited menu options.
6. Service speed: With larger crowds and faster-paced city life, service at urban restaurants may be quicker compared to rural areas where dining is seen as a more leisurely activity with longer service times.
7. Scenery: Dining in urban areas may offer views of high-rise buildings or bustling streets while rural dining experiences may offer scenic views of nature such as mountains or rivers.
Overall, the dining experience between urban and rural areas can vary significantly depending on personal preferences and interests.
16. Which restaurants have the best views of the sunrise or sunset over the countryside of Pocheon?
1. Agra Bistro: Situated on top of a hill, this restaurant offers stunning views of the sunset over the rolling countryside of Pocheon.
2. Garden Restaurant Au Jardin: This open-air restaurant boasts panoramic views of the surrounding hills and fields, making it a perfect spot to catch the sunset.
3. Café La Luna: Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sunrise over Gwangneung Forest from this charming café in Pocheon.
4. Ondal Bapsang: Set atop a hill, this traditional Korean restaurant offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys at both sunrise and sunset.
5. Michu Babsang: With outdoor seating overlooking a lush green valley, this restaurant is an ideal spot to watch both sunrise and sunset while dining on classic Korean dishes.
6. Chonggak Sanjang: Located near Mt. Myeongseongsan, this rustic restaurant serves up delectable Korean cuisine with expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
7. Cafe Luidi:Sip on coffee or enjoy a casual meal while taking in spectacular views of the sunrise or sunset over the scenic Bukhangang River at this café.
8.Remous Village Restaurant: Surrounded by gardens and offering stunning sunsets over rice paddies, this restaurant is a must-visit for its picturesque atmosphere.
9. Maehyangri Restaurant: Nestled in the mountains with large windows providing incredible views, visitors can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine while taking in panoramic vistas of Pocheon’s countryside.
10.Jori Hwaeomgol Restaurant: This renowned seafood restaurant overlooks Suanbo Lake and offers unobstructed views of both sunrise and sunset over the water from its outdoor seating area.
11.Balturi Hansik Buffet Restaurant: Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, this buffet-style eatery offers unbeatable views of Pocheon’s natural landscape during both sunrise and sunset hours.
12. Samcheokgyedan Restaurant: Perched on top of Mt. Samcheoksan, this traditional restaurant offers a stunning vantage point for watching the sunrise and sunset over the lush valleys below.
13. Baegam Seongwon: This cosy restaurant boasts a large terrace with views of the Bukhangang River and surrounding mountains, perfect for catching the sunrise or sunset in all its glory.
14. Cafe Berg: Set atop a hill, this café offers panoramic views of the nearby hills and rice paddies, providing a picturesque setting for viewing both sunrise and sunset.
15. Healing Garden Café: This charming café is surrounded by gardens and offers delightful views of the rolling hills at sunset, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy some coffee or tea.
16. Jade Garden Herb Island – Hill Café: Located within a popular herb garden, visitors can enjoy stunning sunrises or sunsets while dining on delicious fusion cuisine at this unique café overlooking Pocheon’s lush countryside.
17. Are there any traditional tea houses or cafes that serve specialty teas in Pocheon?
Yes, there are several traditional tea houses and cafes in Pocheon that serve specialty teas. Some popular options include Dogok Tea House, Cheonggye Tea House, and Sual Tea House. These establishments typically offer a wide variety of traditional teas such as green tea, barley tea, buckwheat tea, and more. They also often have a cozy atmosphere and serve traditional Korean snacks to accompany the tea.
18. Where can we find delicious homemade makgeolli (traditional rice wine) made by locals?
Some places you can find delicious homemade makgeolli (traditional rice wine) made by locals include traditional markets, small local restaurants or bars, and specialized makgeolli shops. You can also join a homemade makgeolli tasting tour or visit a traditional village known for its brewing traditions. Some popular areas for homemade makgeolli include Jeonju in North Jeolla Province and Gapyeong in Gyeonggi Province.
19. What are some unique dessert options available in Pocheon?
1. Chapsal-tteok (Korean rice cakes) – Pocheon is known for its high-quality rice, which makes for delicious and chewy rice cakes.
2. Corn Ice Cream – In Pocheon, you can find corn ice cream made with fresh and locally grown corn. It’s a popular summer treat that is both sweet and savory.
3. Bing-su (shaved ice dessert) – This popular Korean dessert is served in many cafes in Pocheon, with a variety of toppings such as fruit, red beans, and condensed milk.
4. Roasted Sweet Potato – Pocheon’s climate and fertile land make it the perfect place for growing sweet potatoes. You can find vendors selling freshly roasted sweet potatoes on the streets of Pocheon.
5. Yuja-honey tea – Yuja (citron) is widely grown in Pocheon, and its rich flavor makes for a refreshing tea when mixed with honey.
6. Chestnut Cake – Chestnuts are abundant in Pocheon during autumn, making them a common ingredient in desserts such as chestnut cakes or Mont Blanc pastry.
7. Korean Pancakes (hotteok) – These pancakes are filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts and can be found at street food stalls throughout Pocheon.
8. Persimmon Syrup Yuza Juice – Made with locally grown persimmons and yuzu juice, this drink is not only refreshing but also high in vitamin C.
9. Pumpkin Pies – As pumpkins are widely cultivated in Pocheon, you can find delicious pumpkin pies at many bakeries or restaurants.
10. Dongmijang Bing (red bean shaved ice) – This traditional Korean dessert consists of shaved ice topped with red bean paste and soybean powder.
20.Are there any recommended places to try medicinal herbal cuisine, which is famous in the Pocheon region?
There are several recommended places to try medicinal herbal cuisine in the Pocheon region:
1. Cheongpyeong Dalwon Restaurant: This restaurant is located near Cheongpyeong Lake and offers a variety of medicinal herbal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
2. Herb Island: This culinary theme park features various attractions, including a medicinal herb garden, a cooking experience center, and restaurants serving traditional herbal cuisine.
3. Pocheon Myoga: This traditional Korean restaurant serves a range of dishes infused with local herbs and ingredients, as well as offering cooking classes for visitors.
4. Royal Azalea Village Food Experience Center: Located in the picturesque Seokbuk-ri village, this center specializes in preparing and serving meals made with wild mountain vegetables and herbs.
5. Suanbo Yaksamson Health Land: This wellness resort offers various spa treatments and therapeutic activities, as well as an on-site restaurant that serves healthy meals using medicinal herbs.
6. Hantan River Healing Road Cafe: This cafe offers stunning views of Hantan River and serves delicious dishes prepared using fresh herbs grown in their own garden.
7. Goguryeo Black Sesame Village Healing Center & Restaurant: Visitors can learn about the health benefits of black sesame seeds while enjoying dishes made with this nutrient-rich ingredient at this healing center and farm-to-table restaurant.