When it comes to exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul, Myeongdong is a must-visit destination for any traveler. This bustling shopping district is not only famous for its affordable fashion and beauty products, but it’s also a foodie’s paradise. With a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls, Myeongdong offers a diverse range of culinary delights that cater to every taste and budget.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Myeongdong’s Culinary Scene
From traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi to modern twists on international cuisine, Myeongdong’s culinary scene is a reflection of the city’s cultural diversity. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner, Myeongdong has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Myeongdong, Seoul, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls that you shouldn’t miss.
What to Expect
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top recommendations for where to eat in Myeongdong, including:
- Traditional Korean restaurants serving authentic dishes like naengmyeon and galbi
- Modern cafes offering unique coffee blends and Instagram-worthy desserts
- Street food stalls serving everything from crispy hotteok to savory tteokbokki
- International restaurants offering a range of cuisines, from Japanese to Italian
So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure in Myeongdong, Seoul, and discover the best places to eat in this vibrant shopping district!
Where to Eat in Myeongdong, Seoul: A Foodie’s Paradise
Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most popular shopping districts, is also a haven for foodies. With a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls, visitors can indulge in a wide range of Korean and international cuisine. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Myeongdong, from traditional Korean dishes to modern twists and international flavors.
Traditional Korean Cuisine
For an authentic Korean dining experience, head to these traditional eateries: (See Also: Where To Eat In Gateway)
- Jinju Hoegwan: This iconic restaurant has been serving traditional Korean dishes since 1976. Try their signature galbi (grilled short ribs) and naengmyeon (cold noodles).
- Myeongdong Kyoja: This humble eatery specializes in kalguksu (hand-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings). Don’t miss their signature jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup).
- Tosokchon Samgyetang: This popular restaurant has been featured on food shows and serves traditional Korean dishes like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and bibimbap (mixed rice bowl).
Modern Korean Twists
For a modern take on traditional Korean cuisine, visit these trendy eateries:
- Jungsik: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative Korean dishes like foie gras bibimbap and galbi tacos.
- Mingles: This modern Korean bistro serves creative dishes like kimchi risotto and bulgogi sliders.
- Bicena: This stylish restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Korean dishes like jjimdak (steamed chicken) and doenjang jjigae (fermented soybean paste stew).
International Cuisine
Craving something other than Korean food? Myeongdong has you covered:
- Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul: This French fine dining restaurant offers exquisite dishes like foie gras and lobster thermidor.
- New York Fries: This popular international chain serves crispy fries and juicy burgers.
- TGI Fridays: This American chain restaurant offers classic dishes like buffalo wings and quesadillas.
Street Food and Snacks
Myeongdong’s streets are filled with vendors selling delicious snacks and street food:
- Tteokbokki: These chewy rice cakes are cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce. Try them at Tteokbokki Alley.
- Hotteok: These sweet pancakes are filled with honey, sugar, and cinnamon. Find them at street food stalls throughout Myeongdong.
- Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken is a popular snack in Myeongdong. Try it at Kkanbu Chicken or BHC Chicken.
Cafes and Desserts
Take a break from shopping and indulge in a sweet treat:
- Cafe Béné: This cozy cafe serves delicious coffee and desserts like matcha tiramisu and churros.
- Sulbing: This popular Korean dessert cafe offers unique flavors like matcha bingsu and black sesame bingsu.
- Haagen-Dazs: This international ice cream chain offers a variety of flavors and toppings.
Food Courts and Markets
For a variety of options under one roof, visit these food courts and markets:
- Myeongdong Food Court: This underground food court offers a range of Korean and international cuisine, from bibimbap to pad thai.
- Shinsegae Food Hall: This upscale food hall features a variety of high-end restaurants and cafes, including a dim sum restaurant and a chocolate shop.
- Myeongdong Night Market: This bustling night market offers a range of street food, snacks, and souvenirs.
Recap: Where to Eat in Myeongdong, Seoul
In conclusion, Myeongdong is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of traditional Korean cuisine, modern twists, international flavors, and delicious street food and snacks. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner or a quick bite, Myeongdong has something for everyone. (See Also: Where To Eat In Margaret River)
Remember to try some of the recommended restaurants and eateries, and don’t be afraid to explore and discover new hidden gems. Happy eating in Myeongdong!
Category | Recommended Eateries |
---|---|
Traditional Korean Cuisine | Jinju Hoegwan, Myeongdong Kyoja, Tosokchon Samgyetang |
Modern Korean Twists | Jungsik, Mingles, Bicena |
International Cuisine | Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul, New York Fries, TGI Fridays |
Street Food and Snacks | Tteokbokki Alley, Hotteok vendors, Korean Fried Chicken |
Cafes and Desserts | Cafe Béné, Sulbing, Haagen-Dazs |
Food Courts and Markets | Myeongdong Food Court, Shinsegae Food Hall, Myeongdong Night Market |
This article has provided a comprehensive guide to the best places to eat in Myeongdong, Seoul. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopaholic, or just a curious traveler, Myeongdong has something to offer. So come hungry and enjoy the culinary delights of this vibrant shopping district!
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Myeongdong Seoul
What are the must-try foods in Myeongdong?
Myeongdong is known for its street food, and some must-try items include hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bungeo-ppang (fish-shaped pastry). You should also try some traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap, naengmyeon (cold noodles), and galbi (grilled short ribs).
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Myeongdong?
Yes, while Myeongdong is known for its meat-based dishes, there are some vegetarian and vegan options available. You can try some vegan cafes like Plant Cafe or Vegan Cafe, or look for restaurants that offer vegetarian options like Loving Hut or Sanchon. Additionally, many street food stalls offer vegetarian options like veggie skewers or kimchi pancakes.
What is the average cost of a meal in Myeongdong?
The average cost of a meal in Myeongdong can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the dish you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around 10,000 to 20,000 KRW (approximately $8 to $15 USD) for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. Street food is generally cheaper, with prices starting from around 1,000 to 5,000 KRW ($0.80 to $4 USD) per item. (See Also: Where To Eat In Le Marais Paris)
Are there any restaurants in Myeongdong that offer English menus?
Yes, many restaurants in Myeongdong offer English menus, especially those that cater to tourists. However, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Korean phrases like “menu, please” (menu juseyo) or “where is the restroom?” (hwanjangeui eodi isseoyo?) to help you navigate. You can also look for restaurants with picture menus or ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.
Can I use credit cards in Myeongdong restaurants?
Many restaurants in Myeongdong accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when eating at street food stalls or smaller restaurants. You can also use mobile payment apps like Naver Pay or Kakao Pay, which are widely accepted in Korea.