Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Seoul
Discover the 7 best local and traditional foods to try in Seoul. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a signature Korean dish consisting of a bowl of warm rice topped with assorted vegetables, meat (usually beef), a fried egg, and gochujang (red chili paste). It's a well-balanced meal that showcases the freshness of seasonal vegetables and the harmony of flavors.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Bibimbap symbolizes harmony in Korean cuisine, reflecting the balance of flavors and nutrition.
Where to try it
Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi Jjigae is a staple Korean stew made with fermented kimchi, tofu, and pork or tuna, simmered to perfection. This comforting dish is a favorite among locals, especially during colder weather.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Kimchi Jjigae is a beloved comfort food that highlights the importance of kimchi in Korean culture.
Where to try it
Sundubu Jjigae
Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy soft tofu stew that features uncurdled tofu, vegetables, and often seafood or meat, creating a rich and hearty dish. Served bubbling hot, it is a must-try for those seeking authentic Korean flavors.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Sundubu Jjigae is popular for its comforting nature and the way it brings people together around the table.
Where to try it
Bungeoppang
Bungeoppang is a popular street food snack that consists of fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste. Crispy on the outside and warm on the inside, it's a favorite treat during the colder months.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time
Cultural Significance
Bungeoppang is often sold by street vendors and represents the joy of casual street food culture in Korea.
Where to try it
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki are chewy rice cakes stir-fried in a spicy and slightly sweet gochujang sauce, often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs. This dish is a quintessential Korean street food that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time
Cultural Significance
Tteokbokki is a symbol of Korean street food, often enjoyed as a quick snack or late-night treat.
Where to try it
Hotteok
Hotteok is a sweet Korean pancake filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, nuts, and cinnamon. It is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making it a beloved winter street food.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time
Cultural Significance
Hotteok is a traditional winter treat that evokes nostalgia and warmth, often enjoyed during festivals.
Where to try it
Patbingsu
Patbingsu is a popular Korean dessert made with shaved ice topped with sweet red beans, fruits, and condensed milk. This refreshing treat is perfect for cooling down in the summer heat.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
Patbingsu represents the innovative spirit of Korean desserts, blending traditional and modern flavors.