1. What are some must-try local dishes in Seoul?
Some must-try local dishes in Seoul include:1. Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish topped with seasonal vegetables, meat, and an egg, served with a spicy sauce called gochujang.
2. Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken that has been double-fried for extra crunch, served with a variety of sauces such as soy garlic or spicy.
3. Samgyeopsal: Thinly sliced pork belly grilled at the table and eaten wrapped in lettuce leaves with various toppings and sauces.
4. Jjimdak: A stew made with chicken, potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and glass noodles cooked in a savory sauce.
5. Kimchi Stew (Kimchi-jjigae): A spicy stew made with fermented cabbage kimchi and pork or tofu.
6. Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes served in a thick red sauce made from gochujang.
7. Haemul Pajeon: A seafood pancake made of green onions and a variety of fresh seafood.
8. Sundubu Jjigae: A soft tofu stew seasoned with gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) and other ingredients like clams or beef.
9. Galbi: Grilled marinated beef short ribs served with side dishes such as kimchi and rice.
10. Bingsu: Shaved ice dessert topped with sweet toppings like fruit, condensed milk, red bean paste, and more.
2. Are there any good vegetarian or vegan options for dining in Seoul?
Yes, there are many good vegetarian and vegan options for dining in Seoul. Some popular restaurants include:– Plant Cafe: This vegetarian and vegan cafe offers a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, burgers, salads, and smoothie bowls.
– Loving Hut: A global chain of vegan restaurants offering Korean-inspired dishes like bibimbap and tofu katsu.
– Ose Gye Hyang: This Buddhist temple food restaurant serves traditional vegetarian dishes made with organic ingredients.
– Balwoo Gongyang: Another Buddhist temple food restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with beautifully presented vegetarian dishes.
– Vegetable Garden: A popular buffet-style vegetarian restaurant with a wide variety of options including Korean and Western dishes.
There are also many traditional Korean side dishes (banchan) that are vegetarian or can be easily modified to be vegan. It’s always a good idea to double check with the staff about the ingredients used in dishes before ordering.
3. Which neighborhood in Seoul would you recommend for the best food experiences?
There are many neighborhoods in Seoul that offer amazing food experiences, but some top recommendations would be:
1. Insadong: This traditional neighborhood is known for its many small alleys and streets filled with traditional Korean restaurants serving classic dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and samgyetang (chicken ginseng soup). It’s also a popular spot for street food and artisanal snacks.
2. Hongdae: This trendy university area is popular among the younger crowd and offers a wide variety of international cuisine, as well as fusion restaurants. You can also find many unique cafes and dessert shops here.
3. Myeongdong: Known as one of the top shopping districts in Seoul, Myeongdong is also a must-visit for food lovers. This area offers a mix of traditional Korean dishes along with international cuisines, as well as street food stalls lining the busy streets.
4. Gangnam: As one of the more upscale areas in Seoul, Gangnam offers high-end restaurants serving authentic Korean cuisine made with high-quality ingredients. From hanjeongsik (traditional multi-course meal) to modern fusion dishes, there’s something for every taste in this neighborhood.
5. Gwangjang Market: For a truly local experience and some of the best street food in Seoul, head to Gwangjang Market. You can try classic snacks such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and gimbap (rice rolls), or sample dishes from different regions of Korea at the food stalls inside the market.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, Seoul has endless options for delicious food experiences that will satisfy any palate.
4. What is the most popular street food in Seoul?
The most popular street food in Seoul is probably tteokbokki, which are spicy rice cakes cooked in a red pepper sauce. Other popular street foods include hotteok (sweet pancakes), odeng (fish cakes), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls).
5. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul. As of 2021, there are 33 restaurants with a total of 73 Michelin stars in the city. Some notable ones include Gaon (3 stars), Jungsik (2 stars), Ryunique (2 stars), and La Yeon (3 stars).
6. How can I experience a traditional Korean BBQ meal in Seoul?
There are several ways to experience a traditional Korean BBQ meal in Seoul:
1. Visit a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant: There are many restaurants in Seoul that specialize in traditional Korean BBQ. These restaurants usually have table-top grills where you can cook your own meat.
2. Try the street food version: In some areas of Seoul, there are street vendors selling grilled meats on skewers. This is a more affordable and casual option for trying Korean BBQ.
3. Book a tour: Many guided food tours in Seoul offer stops at authentic Korean BBQ restaurants, giving you the opportunity to try different types of meat and side dishes while learning about the culture and history behind this popular dish.
4. Stay at a hanok guesthouse: Some hanok guesthouses offer traditional Korean meals, including BBQ, as part of their accommodation packages.
5. Attend a cultural event or festival: During certain times of the year, there may be cultural events or festivals where you can sample traditional Korean BBQ along with other local delicacies.
6. Visit an outdoor market: Some outdoor markets in Seoul have food stalls selling freshly grilled meats and vegetables for visitors to enjoy.
7. Try it at a temple stay program: If you are interested in experiencing traditional temple life, some temple stay programs include meals featuring vegetarian versions of Korean BBQ made with tofu and other meat substitutes.
7. Are there any food tours available in Seoul to explore the local cuisine?
Yes, there are several food tours available in Seoul that offer the opportunity to explore the local cuisine and culture. Some popular ones include:1. Seoul Food Tour – This tour takes visitors through popular markets and neighborhoods to try different Korean dishes such as bibimbap, tteokbokki, and kimchi stew.
2. Korean BBQ Night Market Tour – This tour gives visitors a taste of Korea’s famous BBQ dishes at a traditional night market.
3. Street Food Tour – This tour allows visitors to sample a variety of street food from different regions of Korea, including fried snacks, grilled meats, and desserts.
4. Traditional Korean Cuisine Cooking Class – Visitors can learn how to make traditional Korean dishes through hands-on cooking classes, followed by a meal with other participants.
5. Insadong Food Walking Tour – This tour takes visitors through the charming neighborhood of Insadong where they can explore traditional eateries and try regional delicacies.
6. Gangnam Food Tour – With this tour, visitors can experience the trendy and upscale side of Korean cuisine in the affluent Gangnam district.
7. Temple Stay Program – For a unique experience, visitors can participate in a temple stay program which includes vegetarian meals made with locally-sourced ingredients at a Buddhist temple.
Many of these tours can be booked through local travel agencies or online platforms such as Viator or Klook.
8. Is it common to tip at restaurants in Seoul?
Tipping in restaurants is not common in Seoul, as a service charge is often already included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service or want to show gratitude, leaving a small tip (usually less than 10% of the total bill) is generally appreciated. Some upscale or foreign restaurants may have a tipping culture, so it is best to check with the staff before leaving a tip.
9. Can you recommend a good traditional Korean restaurant with a budget-friendly menu?
Yes, I recommend “Jangteo Traditional Korean Cuisine” in Seoul. It offers a budget-friendly menu with traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly and welcoming. They also offer vegan and vegetarian options. Overall, it’s a great place to experience authentic Korean cuisine without breaking the bank.
10. What is the etiquette for dining out at a restaurant in Seoul?
When dining out at a restaurant in Seoul, there are a few etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:1. Make a reservation: It is recommended to make reservations before going to a popular or upscale restaurant in Seoul, especially during peak hours.
2. Greetings: Upon entering the restaurant, it is polite to greet the staff and say “annyeonghaseyo” (hello) or “anyeyo” (excuse me).
3. Table manners: Chopsticks and spoons are commonly used for eating in South Korea. When using chopsticks, do not stick them vertically into your food or leave them crossed on top of your bowl. Instead, place them on the side of your bowl or on a chopstick rest.
4. Sharing food: In Korean culture, it is common to share dishes with others at the table. Offer some of your food to others and be open to trying different dishes that others may offer you.
5. Wait for everyone before eating: Do not start eating until everyone at the table has been served their food and all have said “jal-meokgesseumnida” (let’s eat).
6. Leave some food on your plate: It is considered polite to leave some food on your plate when you are finished eating, as it signifies that you were served enough.
7. Tipping: Tipping is not expected in South Korea, but if you feel particularly satisfied with the service, leaving a small tip (around 10% of the bill) is appreciated.
8. Call for service: Unlike in Western countries where servers may check on you frequently, it is common for servers in Seoul to wait for customers to call them over for service by saying “jogiyo” (excuse me).
9. Dress code: While there is no strict dress code at most restaurants in Seoul, it is considered respectful to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
10. Paying the bill: When paying the bill, it is common for one person to pay for the entire group. It is also acceptable to split the bill, but be sure to clarify this with your dining companions beforehand. When receiving change, use both hands to accept it as a sign of appreciation.
11. Are there any famous markets or food streets that I shouldn’t miss during my trip to Seoul?
1. Gwangjang Market: This bustling traditional market is known for its street food, fresh produce, and handmade goods.
2. Myeongdong Street Food Market: Located in the heart of Seoul’s shopping district, this market offers a variety of trendy and traditional street foods.
3. Namdaemun Market: One of the largest and oldest markets in Seoul, Namdaemun offers a wide range of food stalls selling everything from fish to kimchi.
4. Insadong Ssamzigil: This cultural art alleyway features an array of traditional Korean snacks and desserts, as well as crafts and souvenirs.
5. Noryangjin Fish Market: A popular spot for seafood lovers, this indoor market has rows of vendors selling fresh seafood that can be cooked on-site.
6. Tongin Market: This historic market is known for its pre-paid lunchbox system and offers a taste of old Seoul with its variety of traditional snacks and dishes.
7. Garak Market: The largest wholesale market in Korea, Garak Market also has a section dedicated to retail customers with a wide range of fresh produce available.
8. Bukchon Hanok Village Food Street: Located within the traditional hanok village, this food street showcases both modern and traditional Korean cuisine.
9. Pojangmacha (Street vendor) Stalls: These iconic red tents line the streets at night, offering a variety of popular street foods such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and sundae (blood sausage).
10. Galbi (Grilled short rib) Alley in Gangnam-gu: As the name suggests, this alley is famous for its grilled galbi dishes but also features other Korean specialties such as bibimbap (mixed rice bowl).
11. N Seoul Tower Food Court Street: Located next to Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower, this outdoor food court offers international street foods as well as traditional Korean dishes with a view of the city.
12. Do restaurants in Seoul cater to dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or halal options?
Yes, many restaurants in Seoul cater to dietary restrictions such as gluten-free and halal options. Many restaurants have specific menus or dishes that are labeled as gluten-free or halal, while others may be able to accommodate requests for special diets upon request. There are also many vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Seoul that cater to those with dietary restrictions. It is always a good idea to ask about any dietary restrictions when making reservations or ordering at a restaurant to ensure that your needs are met.
13. Where can I find the best seafood dishes in Seoul?
Some popular places to find the best seafood dishes in Seoul include:1. Noryangjin Fish Market: This is a large and bustling market where you can choose fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site.
2. Gangseo Seafood Market: Another great market to visit for various types of fresh seafood, and you can also have it cooked on-site at one of the restaurants.
3. Jagalchi Market: Located in Busan (a short train ride from Seoul), this market is known for its fresh seafood and diverse selection of dishes.
4. Gwangjang Market: Though known more for its street food, this market also has some vendors who specialize in fresh seafood dishes like crab and octopus.
5. Hankang Seolleongtang: This restaurant specializes in one of Korea’s most famous dishes, seolleongtang (beef bone soup), which is often served with a side of braised mackerel.
6. Saemaeul Sikdang: This restaurant serves up delicious sashimi platters as well as cooked seafood dishes such as grilled octopus and stir-fried clams.
Remember, many Korean restaurants also offer seafood dishes as part of their menu options, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond just the markets!
14. Is street food safe to eat in Seoul?
Street food in Seoul is generally safe to eat as long as you buy from established vendors and take basic precautions such as choosing freshly cooked items, avoiding raw or undercooked foods, and paying attention to cleanliness and proper handling of food. It is also recommended to check for any potential allergens if you have any dietary restrictions.
15. Can I find international cuisine options, such as Italian or French, in addition to Korean food?
Yes, you can definitely find international cuisine options in addition to Korean food in Seoul. The city has a diverse and thriving culinary scene, with restaurants serving dishes from all over the world. In addition to Italian and French, you can also find Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Thai, American, and many other types of cuisine in Seoul. Some popular areas for international food include Itaewon, Gangnam, and Hongdae.
16. How do locals typically start their day with breakfast and where should I go for an authentic experience?
Locals in most countries typically start their day with a hearty breakfast, usually consisting of traditional foods and beverages that are popular in their culture.
For an authentic breakfast experience, it is best to visit local cafes or street vendors where you can find a variety of options to choose from. Here are some popular choices for breakfast in different countries:
1. Japan: Traditional Japanese breakfast often includes grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and pickled vegetables. You can find this type of breakfast in traditional restaurants or “ryokans”.
2. India: In India, breakfast varies from region to region but some popular options include dosas (savory crepes), idlis (steamed rice cakes), and parathas (stuffed flatbread). You can also find popular street food like vada pav (potato fritters inside a bun) and chai tea.
3. France: The French typically have a light breakfast consisting of croissants or pain au chocolat (chocolate-filled croissant) with coffee or hot chocolate.
4. Mexico: A classic Mexican breakfast dish is chilaquiles which consists of fried tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, and eggs.
5. Morocco: A popular traditional Moroccan breakfast is msemen, a flaky pancake served with honey and butter or stuffed with savory ingredients like cheese and meat.
6. Turkey: Turkish breakfast often includes simit (circular bread coated in sesame seeds), olives, feta cheese, tomatoes, and cucumber along with tea.
7. United Kingdom: A typical British breakfast consists of eggs, bacon or sausages, baked beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast.
8. Thailand: For a unique Thai breakfast experience try khao tom gai (rice porridge with chicken), jok moo (pork congee), or pa tong ko (Thai-style donuts).
Overall, the best way to experience an authentic breakfast is to explore local markets and street vendors for a taste of the country’s traditional flavors.
17. Are there any famous cafes or coffee shops known for their specialty drinks or desserts in Seoul?
Yes, there are several famous cafes and coffee shops in Seoul known for their specialty drinks or desserts. Some examples include:
1. C.’s Cupcake Cafe: This cafe is known for its delicious cupcakes and a variety of coffee drinks with unique flavors such as lavender latte and red velvet cappuccino.
2. Graze by 50th: This popular cafe offers a wide selection of gourmet desserts such as French toast waffles and PB&J croissants, along with specialty coffee drinks like honey cinnamon latte and rose petal latte.
3. Changdeokgung Palace Café: Located inside Changdeokgung Palace, this café offers traditional Korean teas and desserts in a tranquil setting.
4. Anthracite Coffee Roasters: Known for its high-quality coffee beans sourced from around the world, this café also serves signature drinks like charcoal lattes and honeycomb macchiatos.
5. PLANT Café & Books: This vegan-friendly café offers unique drinks such as matcha tonic and black sesame latte, along with flavorful cakes and pastries made with plant-based ingredients.
18. Is it possible to do a food tour focused on specific types of Korean cuisine, such as kimchi or bibimbap?
Yes, it is possible to do a food tour focused on specific types of Korean cuisine. There are tours available that specifically focus on traditional dishes like bibimbap and kimchi, as well as tours that explore regional specialties or modern interpretations of these classic dishes. Some companies also offer customizable food tours, allowing you to create an itinerary that includes your favorite Korean foods.
19. Where should I go for a high-end dining experience with a view of the city skyline?
One option could be the Top of the Hub restaurant in Boston, located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower. It offers panoramic views of the city skyline while serving a variety of upscale cuisine. Reservations are recommended, and a dress code is enforced for an elegant dining experience.
20.How can I try traditional royal court cuisine or temple food while visiting Seoul Special City?
1. Visit a Traditional Royal Court Cuisine Restaurant: There are several fine dining restaurants in Seoul that specialize in traditional royal court cuisine, serving authentic dishes prepared with ancient recipes and techniques. Some popular options include Jung Sik Dang, Gaon, and Jihwaja.
2. Attend a Royal Palace Tour and Meal Experience: At Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors can not only explore the magnificent royal palace but also participate in a traditional meal experience served in the style of the Joseon Dynasty. The meal is served at Geumcheongyo Jikji, a designated dining area within the palace grounds.
3. Book a Temple Food Experience: Temple food is another type of traditional cuisine deeply rooted in Buddhist practices. Visitors can book a temple food experience at various temples around Seoul, where they can learn about the preparation and significance of each dish before enjoying a vegetarian meal.
4. Join a Cooking Class: For those interested in learning how to prepare traditional royal court or temple food, there are cooking classes available in Seoul. These classes usually start with a visit to the local market to buy ingredients and end with a delicious meal cooked by the participants.
5. Watch Traditional Cooking Shows: Several cultural centers and museums in Seoul offer cooking shows as part of their cultural programs. These shows not only demonstrate how to prepare traditional dishes but also provide insights into Korean culinary culture and history.
6. Participate in Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year, Seoul hosts various cultural festivals celebrating its heritage, including food festivals featuring traditional royal court or temple food as well as other regional specialties from all over Korea.
7. Visit Traditional Marketplaces: In addition to shopping for souvenirs, many traditional marketplaces like Insadong or Namdaemun offer an array of authentic Korean dishes that have been passed down for generations, giving visitors an opportunity to taste simple yet delicious meals inspired by royal cuisine.
8. Stay at a Traditional Hanok Guesthouse: Some traditional hanok guesthouses in Seoul offer meals prepared according to royal court cuisine principles. Guests can enjoy these unique dining experiences while admiring the traditional Korean architecture and lifestyle of the past.
9. Take part in a Tea Ceremony: In Korean tradition, tea has been an integral part of royal court and temple cuisine. Visitors can participate in a tea ceremony experience, which includes savoring different types of teas alongside small snacks, providing an insight into Korea’s tea culture.
10. Attend a Food Tourism Event: Seoul actively promotes food tourism through various events like Seoul Restaurant Week or Seoul Food Festival, where visitors can explore authentic Korean dishes, including those inspired by royal court cuisine and temple food.