Must-Try Dishes in Seoul are an essential part of any trip to the city. Seoul is a culinary paradise, where every corner offers a chance to taste something extraordinary. From classic Korean BBQ to vibrant street food, the must-try dishes in Seoul promise an unforgettable journey for your taste buds. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for more, Seoul’s diverse food scene will leave you wanting more.
In this guide, we’ll explore the must-try dishes in Seoul that no traveler should miss. From savory BBQ to spicy, satisfying street snacks, we’ll show you exactly where to find these mouthwatering bites. These dishes not only fill your stomach but also bring you closer to the heart of Korean culture. Ready for a delicious adventure? Let’s dive into the top 15 must-try dishes in Seoul that will transform your food experience!
1. Bibimbap – A Beautiful Blend of Flavors and Textures
Must-try dishes in Seoul begin with the iconic Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious bowl of rice topped with a variety of sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). It’s a delicious way to get a balanced meal and experience the harmony of flavors Korean cuisine is known for.
Where to Find It: Head to Gogung Restaurant in the Insadong neighborhood for an authentic bowl of Bibimbap. Their Jeonju-style Bibimbap is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Samgyeopsal – Korean BBQ at Its Finest
One of the must-try dishes in Seoul that every meat lover dreams about is Samgyeopsal—thick, juicy slices of pork belly grilled at your table. The fun part is wrapping the grilled pork in lettuce with garlic, chili paste, and a slice of kimchi.
Where to Find It: For the best Korean BBQ experience, visit Maple Tree House in Itaewon. Their premium cuts and lively atmosphere make it a go-to spot for BBQ in Seoul.
3.Kimchi Jjigae – A Spicy Stew to Warm the Soul
One of the ultimate must-try dishes in Seoul, Kimchi Jjigae is a bold, spicy stew made with aged kimchi, tofu, pork, and vegetables. Its rich, tangy flavor and warmth make it a perfect comfort food, especially in cooler weather.
Where to Find It: Try the delicious Kimchi Jjigae at Cheong Jin Ok in Jongno-gu, a popular spot where the stew is prepared just right with tender pork and a robust, flavorful broth.
4.Galbi – Grilled Korean BBQ Ribs
Galbi, or Korean grilled ribs, is a must-try for any meat lover visiting Seoul. These beef or pork ribs are marinated in a savory-sweet soy-based sauce, giving them a smoky, caramelized flavor as they sizzle over a charcoal grill. Paired with fresh lettuce wraps and spicy sauces, each bite of Galbi is mouth-wateringly delicious.
Where to Find It: Head to Maple Tree House in Itaewon for perfectly grilled Galbi, known for its cozy atmosphere and high-quality meat cuts.
5. Jjajangmyeon – A Korean-Chinese Fusion Favorite
This savory dish of black bean noodles is one of the top must-try dishes in Seoul for those craving comfort food. Thick wheat noodles are tossed in a rich black bean sauce with pork and vegetables, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Where to Find It: Palbok Jjajang in Myeongdong serves up a great version of this Korean-Chinese classic, loved by locals for its hearty portions.
6. Gimbap – The Korean Roll That Travels Well
Often compared to sushi, Gimbap is a simple yet flavorful dish of rice and various fillings (like vegetables, eggs, and meat) rolled in seaweed. As one of the most versatile must-try dishes in Seoul, it’s perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Where to Find It: You can grab fresh Gimbap at Chungmu Gimbap in Namdaemun Market, one of the best places for this on-the-go snack.
7. Sundubu-jjigae – Silky, Spicy Tofu Stew
For a warming meal, try Sundubu-jjigae, a spicy stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and sometimes seafood or meat. It’s a dish that perfectly encapsulates the comforting aspect of Korean cuisine.
Where to Find It: Visit Bukchon Son Mandu near Bukchon Hanok Village for a steaming bowl of Sundubu-jjigae after exploring the historic neighborhood.
8. Bulgogi – Sweet and Savory Marinated Beef
Bulgogi is one of the must-try dishes in Seoul that highlights the sweetness and savory blend in Korean marinated meat. Thin slices of beef are grilled or stir-fried after being marinated in soy sauce, sugar, and garlic.
Where to Find It: Head to Jinju Bulgogi in the upscale Gangnam district to enjoy a premium Bulgogi experience that locals swear by.
9. Naengmyeon – Refreshing Cold Buckwheat Noodles
During the hot Seoul summer, nothing beats a bowl of Naengmyeon—cold buckwheat noodles served in an icy broth, sometimes topped with slices of beef or cucumber. It’s one of the most refreshing must-try dishes in Seoul, especially during the warmer months.
Where to Find It: Try Yoolmoo Naengmyeon in Dongdaemun, which is famous for its tangy broth and chewy noodles.
10.Galbitang – A Nourishing Beef Rib Soup
Galbitang, a soothing beef rib soup, is a must-try dishes in Seoul for those looking to experience Korean comfort food. Made with tender short ribs, radish, and green onions, this clear, nourishing broth is light yet satisfying.
Where to Find It: Try the iconic Galbitang at Imun Seolnongtang, a 100-year-old restaurant near Jongno that serves a deeply satisfying version of this traditional soup.
11. Dakgalbi – Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken
Another one of the must-try dishes in Seoul is Dakgalbi, a spicy stir-fry of marinated chicken, vegetables, rice cakes, and sweet potatoes. It’s cooked right at your table and packed with flavor.
Where to Find It: For the ultimate Dakgalbi experience, head to Yoogane, a famous chain in the Hongdae district, known for its fiery and flavorful version of this dish.
12. Samgyetang – Hearty Ginseng Chicken Soup
When you need a nourishing meal, try Samgyetang. This rich soup made with a whole young chicken stuffed with rice, jujubes, garlic, and ginseng is considered a health food in Korea and one of the top must-try dishes in Seoul.
Where to Find It: For the best Samgyetang, visit Tosokchon near Gyeongbokgung Palace, a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
13. Pajeon – Savory Green Onion Pancake
For something savory, Pajeon, a green onion pancake mixed with seafood or meat, is a delightful appetizer or snack. It’s crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and perfect for sharing.
Where to Find It: Gwangjang Market is a popular spot for trying Pajeon along with other traditional Korean street foods.
14.Seolleongtang – Milky Bone Broth Soup
Seolleongtang is a unique, milky-white soup made by simmering beef bones for hours, creating a rich and savory broth. With sliced beef, noodles, and green onions, this dish is subtly seasoned, letting you add salt and pepper to your taste. It’s light yet nourishing, a true staple of Korean cuisine.
Where to Find It: Visit the legendary Hadongkwan in Myeongdong, where Seolleongtang has been perfected over generations, making it a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.
15.Japchae – Stir-Fried Glass Noodles with Vegetables
Japchae is a colorful and savory dish of stir-fried glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, mixed with a variety of vegetables, mushrooms, and sometimes beef. Lightly flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil, it has a chewy texture and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect as a side or a main dish!
Where to Find It: For a taste of Japchae, head to Gwangjang Market, where you can enjoy this delightful dish freshly prepared and full of authentic flavor.
A Few Tips for Enjoying Food in Seoul
- Explore the Street Food: Don’t miss the bustling street food markets like Myeongdong and Gwangjang, where you can sample Tteokbokki, Kimbap, and more.
- Try the Local Drinks: Pair your meals with Korean rice wines like Makgeolli and Soju for a full experience.
- Dive into Traditional Dining: For an authentic meal, visit a hanjeongsik restaurant where various small side dishes, called banchan, are served alongside your main dish.
Whether you’re wandering the street markets or dining at fine restaurants, the must-try dishes in Seoul offer a deliciously diverse food scene. From the fiery flavors of Tteokbokki to the cooling relief of Naengmyeon, each dish introduces you to a different facet of Korean cuisine. As you explore Seoul, make sure to indulge in these culinary gems that reflect the heart of the city’s vibrant food culture.
Start planning your food adventure in Seoul today, and prepare to savor the unforgettable flavors of these must-try dishes in Seoul!