Korean food is gaining worldwide popularity thanks to K-dramas, K-pop, and Korean culture. If you’re planning a trip to Korea, one of the best experiences is trying authentic Korean cuisine! From sizzling BBQ to spicy street food, Korea has something for every taste. This guide covers the top 10 must-try Korean foods, the best street food spots, and vegetarian-friendly restaurants for travelers.
1. Top 10 Must-Try Korean Foods
If you visit Korea, these are the dishes you can't leave without trying!
1) Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) – Korean BBQ
- Why try it? One of Korea’s most famous dishes, grilled pork belly served with lettuce, garlic, and ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce).
- Where to eat it?
- Maple Tree House (Itaewon, Seoul)
- Baetjang (Hongdae, Seoul)
2) Bulgogi (불고기) – Marinated BBQ Beef
- Why try it? Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce, grilled or stir-fried.
- Where to eat it?
- Byeokje Galbi (Seoul) – Premium beef bulgogi
- Tosokchon (Gyeongbokgung area)
3) Bibimbap (비빔밥) – Mixed Rice with Vegetables
- Why try it? A nutritious and colorful dish made with rice, assorted vegetables, and gochujang (spicy sauce).
- Where to eat it?
- Gogung (Insadong, Seoul) – Famous for Jeonju-style bibimbap
4) Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개) – Kimchi Stew
- Why try it? A hearty, spicy stew made with aged kimchi, tofu, pork, and vegetables.
- Where to eat it?
- Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari (Dongdaemun, Seoul)
5) Chimaek (치맥) – Korean Fried Chicken & Beer
- Why try it? Korean fried chicken is extra crispy and comes in different flavors like spicy, soy garlic, and honey butter.
- Where to eat it?
- BHC, Kyochon Chicken, BBQ Chicken (Popular chains)
- Kkanbu Chicken (Gangnam, Seoul)
6) Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Spicy Rice Cakes
- Why try it? Korea’s most popular street food—chewy rice cakes in a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce.
- Where to eat it?
- Mukshidonna (Samcheongdong, Seoul)
7) Galbi (갈비) – Korean-Style Grilled Ribs
- Why try it? Korean BBQ but with succulent marinated beef ribs instead of pork.
- Where to eat it?
- Mapo Galbi (Hongdae, Seoul)
8) Naengmyeon (냉면) – Cold Noodles
- Why try it? Thin, chewy noodles in an icy cold broth, perfect for summer!
- Where to eat it?
- Wooraeok (Seoul) – Over 70 years of history
9) Hoe (회) – Korean Sashimi
- Why try it? Fresh raw fish, served with gochujang-based dipping sauce instead of soy sauce.
- Where to eat it?
- Noryangjin Fish Market (Seoul)
10) Haemul Pajeon (해물파전) – Seafood Pancake
- Why try it? A savory pancake made with seafood, green onions, and crispy batter.
- Where to eat it?
- Gwangjang Market (Seoul) – Best for authentic street-style pajeon
2. Best Street Food Spots in Korea
Korean street food is a must-try experience! If you want to eat like a local, visit these top food markets:
Myeongdong Street Food Market (Seoul)
- Tteokbokki – Spicy rice cakes
- Gyeranppang – Egg bread
- Hotteok – Sweet stuffed pancakes
Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
- Mayak Kimbap – Small seaweed rice rolls
- Yukhoe (육회) – Korean beef tartare
- Bindaetteok (빈대떡) – Mung bean pancake
Nampo-dong Market (Busan)
- Ssiat Hotteok (씨앗호떡) – Seed-filled pancakes
- Eomuk (어묵) – Fish cakes
3. Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Korea
Korean food is meat-heavy, but vegetarian options are increasing! Here are some great spots for plant-based travelers:
Plant Cafe (Itaewon, Seoul)
- Best for vegan burgers, sandwiches, and cakes.
Oh Se Gae Hyang (Insadong, Seoul)
- Traditional Korean temple-style vegan food.
Loving Hut (Gangnam, Seoul)
- A chain of affordable vegan restaurants in Korea.
Final Tips for Enjoying Korean Food
✅ Try spicy food gradually if you're not used to it.
✅ Some restaurants offer "service" (free side dishes) – enjoy!
✅ Use Korean food apps like MangoPlate for local restaurant recommendations.
✅ Learn simple Korean phrases for ordering food:
- "이거 주세요" (I’ll have this, please.)
- "덜 맵게 해주세요" (Please make it less spicy.)
- "계산서 주세요" (Check, please.)
Conclusion
Korean food is one of the biggest highlights of visiting Korea. Whether you're a BBQ lover, street food explorer, or vegetarian traveler, there's something delicious for everyone!
Which Korean dish are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!
