“Top Korean Street Food to Try in Myeongdong: A Must-Visit Guide”

Discovering the Flavors of Myeongdong: A Guide to Korean Cuisine

Myeongdong, a bustling neighborhood in Seoul, is a culinary paradise that offers a diverse array of Korean cuisine. Here are some must-visit restaurants and tips for foreign tourists:

Must-Try Restaurants

• Myeongdong Kyoja: Famous for its knife-cut noodles (kalguksu) and juicy dumplings. This Michelin-recommended restaurant is a must-visit, though be prepared for queues. Order the kalguksu and steamed dumplings for a hearty meal ►LINK ►LINK ►LINK.
• Odari Jip: Known for raw marinated soy crab (Ganjang Gejang), a trendy Korean dish. Enjoy the crab with kimchi jjigae and other side dishes ►LINK ►LINK.
• Baekje Samgyetang: Specializes in traditional Korean ginseng chicken stew (Samgyetang), rich in vitamins and nutrients ►LINK ►LINK.
• Yoogane: A popular spot for Dak Galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), which you can enjoy with rice or noodles ►LINK.

Useful Tips

• Pre-Payment: At busy restaurants like Myeongdong Kyoja, pre-payment is common to speed up the service. Order and pay quickly to avoid delays ►LINK.
• Reservations: For popular restaurants like Hamcho Ganjang Gejang, consider making a reservation to avoid long wait times ►LINK.
• Local Coupons: Use coupons like the Myeongdong Pass or Creatrip coupons to get discounts and free items at some restaurants ►LINK ►LINK.

Additional Resources

For a more detailed guide, check out ►LINK which lists 13 must-eat restaurants in Myeongdong, complete with addresses, menu recommendations, and tips for visitors.

Must-Try Restaurants in Myeongdong for Authentic Korean Dishes

For an authentic Korean dining experience in Myeongdong, Seoul, here are some must-visit restaurants:

Myeongdong Kyoja

• Location: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Specialties: Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles in chicken broth), Bibimguksu (spicy noodles), and Mandu (dumplings). This family-owned restaurant, operating since 1966, is a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient ►LINK ►LINK.
• Tips: Expect hearty portions and a simple menu. The kimchi is garlic-laden and made in-house. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours ►LINK ►LINK ►LINK.

Odari Jip

• Location: 28 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Specialties: Raw marinated soy crab (Ganjang Gejang), a trendy Korean dish. The set includes kimchi jjigae, rice with sardines, and side dishes ►LINK.
• Tips: Prices range from 30,000~40,000 KRW per portion. It's popular, so be ready for a crowd.

Baekje Samgyetang

• Location: 8-10 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Specialties: Traditional Korean chicken stew (Samgyetang) known for its nutritional benefits. The dish includes ginseng and other vitamins-rich ingredients ►LINK.
• Tips: The interior is decorated in a vintage Korean style, and the stew costs around 20,000 KRW.

Mokmyeoksanbang

• Location: Near N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong
• Specialties: Michelin-selected bibimbap restaurant with various bibimbap dishes. Prices range from 9,000 KRW to 14,500 KRW ►LINK.
• Tips: Simple and warm interior; order at the entrance and pick up your food at the counter.

These restaurants offer a genuine taste of traditional Korean cuisine, making them essential stops for any food enthusiast visiting Myeongdong. Enjoy your culinary adventure.

For a truly immersive culinary adventure in Seoul, Myeongdong stands out as a must-visit destination, particularly for those intrigued by Korean seafood and unique dining experiences.

Raw Marinated Soy Crab (Ganjang Gejang)

Two standout restaurants in Myeongdong specialize in this delicacy:

• Odari Jip: Known for its raw marinated soy crab, Odari Jip is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. The crabs, specifically A++ female crabs from Yeonpyeongdo, are marinated in a soy sauce blend with oriental medicines, fruits, and seaweed for 7 days. The restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere, with wooden tables and a bustling vibe. Be prepared to eat with your hands, and enjoy the complimentary side dishes and cut seaweed ►LINK ►LINK.

• Hamcho Ganjang Gejang: Another excellent option for raw marinated crab, Hamcho Ganjang Gejang offers exceptionally fresh and meaty crabs. The dish is served with a variety of side dishes, including kimchi and seaweed, and is known for its high quality and affordability. Using the Myeongdong Pass can even get you free raw marinated shrimp ►LINK.

Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Finding the Restaurants: Both Odari Jip and Hamcho Ganjang Gejang are located in multi-story buildings, so look for the signs and photos of raw crab outside to ensure you find them easily ►LINK ►LINK.

• Waiting Times: Be prepared for potential waiting times, especially during peak hours or weekends. Odari Jip, in particular, can have long lines, so consider visiting during less busy times ►LINK ►LINK.

• Dining Experience: Eating raw marinated crab often involves using your hands, so be ready for a hands-on and flavorful experience. Gloves are typically provided to make the process cleaner and more enjoyable ►LINK.

• Combining Meals: Consider pairing your seafood meal with other local specialties, such as the knife-cut noodles (kalguksu) and dumplings at Myeongdong Kyoja, another Michelin-recommended restaurant in the area ►LINK ►LINK.

By exploring these unique dining experiences, you can delve into the heart of Korean cuisine and enjoy some of the most celebrated dishes Myeongdong has to offer.

Korean BBQ and Other Popular Dishes in Myeongdong

Korean BBQ

Myeongdong, a bustling district in Seoul, is a paradise for Korean BBQ enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in some of the best Korean BBQ experiences:

• DOOKUPSAM Myeongdong: Known for its premium aged Hanwoo beef, including Hanwoo Aged Korean Beef Sirloin, and a variety of pork options. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike ►LINK.
• Wangbijib: This restaurant offers a range of grilled meats, including premium Korean Beef Sirloin and Beef Belly, all grilled to perfection by the waiters. It includes complimentary side dishes, a common practice in Korean BBQ ►LINK.

Hanwoo Beef

Hanwoo beef, a breed indigenous to Korea, is renowned for its high marbling and is considered one of the most rare and expensive meats globally. It offers a unique fat-to-protein ratio, making it less fatty than Wagyu but more flavorful than U.S. beef. In Myeongdong, you can experience Hanwoo beef at its best, with many restaurants serving it as a highlight of their menus ►LINK.

Samgyetang (Korean Ginseng Chicken Stew)

While not a BBQ dish, Samgyetang is a popular Korean stew that is often enjoyed in the summer months due to its energizing properties from ginseng and astragalus. This hearty soup, filled with sweet rice, Korean dates, chestnuts, and herbs, is a must-try for its medicinal and flavorful profile. Although not typically found in BBQ restaurants, it's a great option for a break from grilled meats ►LINK.

Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Reservations: Many popular Korean BBQ restaurants in Myeongdong can be quite busy, so it's advisable to make reservations in advance.
• Side Dishes: Enjoy the complimentary side dishes that come with your BBQ meal, as they are an integral part of the Korean dining experience.
• Cooking: Let the staff help with grilling the meat to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
• Local Etiquette: Use the provided lettuce and perilla leaves to wrap your meat (ssam) for the authentic Korean BBQ experience.

Myeongdong offers a rich culinary experience that blends traditional flavors with modern dining, making it an ideal destination for any food enthusiast.

Additional Culinary Gems and Tips for Dining in Myeongdong

Korean Fried Chicken

• Must-try spots include Thunder Chicken and Reggae Chicken, known for their crispy, flavorful coatings and varied sauces. Thunder Chicken's padak (spring onion fried chicken) is a standout, while Reggae Chicken offers a mix of classic and spicy options[►LINK][►LINK].

Hidden Gems

• Myeongdong Tonkatsu: A local favorite, this restaurant serves freshly breaded and fried tonkatsu with a side of rice, salad, and miso soup. It's a hidden gem away from the main street but highly recommended[►LINK].

Street Food

• Mayak Corn: Addictively sweet and savory corn on a stick, cooked with butter, soy sauce, and secret spices[►LINK].
• Yakisoba Noodles: A Japanese-Korean fusion with fried noodles, vegetables, and pork belly, perfect for a quick snack[►LINK].
• Hotteok: Traditional Korean pancakes filled with cinnamon, brown sugar, and nuts, crispy on the outside and warm inside[►LINK].

Dining Tips

• Timing: Visit in the late afternoon or early evening on weekdays to avoid crowds[►LINK].
• Cash: Many stalls still prefer cash, so have some on hand[►LINK].
• Variety: Try small portions from multiple stalls to experience a wide range of flavors[►LINK].
• Local Experience: Opt for lesser-known eateries like Myeongdong Tonkatsu for an authentic local dining experience[►LINK].

Additional Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Language: Many popular restaurants like BHC and Mexx Chicken have menus in English, Chinese, and Japanese, making it easier for tourists[►LINK].
• Myeongdong Pass: Get this pass for special food and shopping discounts, enhancing your dining and shopping experience[►LINK][►LINK].

By following these tips and exploring these culinary gems, you'll have a rich and satisfying dining experience in Myeongdong.