Feast your way through the city with our guide to the "30 Best Korean Street Food in Seoul 2023". Discover famous dishes and hidden culinary gems.
Korea - Korean cuisine is among the most delicious and popular in the world, and Seoul's street food scene is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors, textures, and aromas. From spicy rice cakes to crispy fried treats, Seoul's street food markets offer a unique culinary experience that shouldn't be missed by any food enthusiast.
In this article, we highlight the 30 best Korean street food options in Seoul for 2023. We explore the bustling street food markets, iconic dishes, crispy and sweet snacks, noodle delights, deep-fried treats, sushi rolls and dumplings, warm and comforting options, unique flavors, sweet treats, and traditional delights. Join us as we take a journey through Seoul's street food scene and discover the best places to eat in Seoul.
Key Takeaways:
- Seoul's street food scene is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors, textures, and aromas.
- We highlight the 30 best Korean street food options in Seoul for 2023.
- Our guide explores the bustling street food markets, iconic dishes, crispy and sweet snacks, noodle delights, deep-fried treats, sushi rolls and dumplings, warm and comforting options, unique flavors, sweet treats, and traditional delights.
- Join us as we take a journey through Seoul's street food scene and discover the best places to eat in Seoul.
- Experience the rich culinary culture of Korean cuisine and indulge in the must-try Korean dishes in 2023.
Exploring Seoul's Street Food Markets
Seoul's street food markets are a food lover's paradise, offering a wide selection of authentic Korean cuisine at affordable prices. These bustling markets are the perfect place to discover new dishes and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Seoul's street food scene.
One of the most popular street food markets in Seoul is Myeongdong, where visitors can find a variety of Korean street food stalls offering cheap eats in Seoul. The market is known for its vibrant energy and diverse food options, from traditional Korean dishes to more experimental fusion cuisine.
The Gwangjang Market is another must-visit destination for street food enthusiasts. This historic market is one of the oldest and largest in Seoul and is home to over 5,000 stores and vendors. Visitors can find an array of authentic Korean street food, including bindaetteok, a savory pancake made from mung beans, and tteokbokki, a popular spicy rice cake dish.
Exploring Seoul's Street Food Markets
| Market Name | Location | Specialty Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Myeongdong Market | Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul | Gyeran-ppang, hotteok, tteokbokki, odeng |
| Gwangjang Market | Jongno-gu, Seoul | Bindaetteok, tteokbokki, mandu, mayak kimbap |
| Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market | Various locations throughout Seoul | Grilled cheese lobster tail, dakgangjeong, gimbap, mandu |
Other popular street food markets include the Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market, which is held at various locations throughout the city on weekends and offers a range of unique and indulgent Korean street food options, including the famous grilled cheese lobster tails.
No trip to Seoul is complete without exploring its street food markets and indulging in authentic Korean street food. Whether you're a foodie or simply looking for a cheap and delicious meal, Seoul's street food markets are a must-visit destination.
Iconic Korean Street Food Dishes
When it comes to Korean street food, there are certain dishes that have become iconic and are a must-try for any food enthusiast. These dishes not only showcase the unique flavors of Korean cuisine but also highlight the creativity and innovation of the street food scene in Seoul. Here are five iconic Korean street food dishes that you need to try:
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a spicy and chewy rice cake dish that is a staple of Korean street food. The rice cakes are cooked in a spicy sauce made with chili paste, sugar, and soy sauce, giving it a flavorful kick. Often paired with fish cakes and boiled eggs, tteokbokki is a hearty and satisfying dish that is a popular street food snack.
Gyeran-ppang
Gyeran-ppang is a fluffy egg bread that is a popular street food breakfast item in Korea. The egg batter is poured into a special cast iron mold that shapes the bread into a small round shape with a whole egg inside. The bread is then baked, resulting in a deliciously fluffy and cheesy egg bread that is perfect for on-the-go breakfast.
Bungeo-ppang
Bungeo-ppang is a fish-shaped pastry that is filled with sweet red bean paste. The pastry is made using a special mold that creates a fish-shaped pastry with a crispy exterior and sweet filling. The pastry is a popular street food snack that is often enjoyed during the winter months.
Gamja Hot Dogs
Gamja hot dogs are a popular Korean twist on an American classic. The hot dogs are wrapped in a crispy potato crust and deep-fried to perfection. They are then served on a stick with a side of ketchup and mustard, making them a deliciously crispy and savory street food snack.
Bindaetteok
Bindaetteok is a savory pancake made with ground mung beans and various vegetables such as green onions, kimchi, and bean sprouts. The batter is fried until crispy and served hot, making it a comforting and hearty street food option.
These iconic Korean street food dishes are just a few of the many options available in Seoul's vibrant street food scene. Each offering a unique taste and experience, they are a must-try for any food enthusiast looking to explore Korean cuisine.
Crispy and Sweet: Korean Street Food Snacks
When it comes to Korean street food, the crispy and sweet snacks are a must-try. From the crunchy and glazed dakgangjeong to the savory gilgeori toast, these snacks offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the most popular crispy and sweet Korean street food snacks:
Dakgangjeong
Dakgangjeong is a sweet and crispy fried chicken dish that is coated in a sticky, spicy glaze. It is usually served as a snack or appetizer and is perfect for sharing with friends. The dish's unique blend of spicy and sweet flavors is what makes it so addictive and popular among Korean street food lovers.
Gilgeori Toast
Gilgeori toast is a popular Korean street food that is essentially a grilled sandwich filled with a variety of ingredients. The classic filling is a combination of egg, ham, and cheese, but vendors often offer different variations, such as bacon or vegetables. The toast is crispy on the outside and soft and savory on the inside, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Dak-Kkochi
Dak-kkochi is grilled chicken skewers that are coated in a spicy chili paste marinade. The skewers are usually served with a side of rice cake and pickled radish, which helps to balance out the spiciness of the chicken. Dak-kkochi is a popular snack in Korea and can be found at almost every street food vendor.
So-Tteok So-Tteok
So-Tteok So-Tteok is a type of Korean rice cake that is shaped like a fish. The cake is filled with sweet red bean paste and is covered in a crispy batter. The snack is served hot and is a perfect street food option for those with a sweet tooth.
Eomuk or Odeng
Eomuk, also known as odeng, is a type of Korean fish cake that is served on a skewer. The fish cake is made from ground fish and starch and is fried before it is served. It is usually served with a side of spicy sauce and is a popular street food snack because of its unique flavor and affordability.
If you're a fan of crispy and sweet snacks, then Korean street food is sure to delight you. Be sure to try out these must-try snacks on your next visit to Seoul's vibrant street food scene!
Noodle Delights: Korean Street Food Ramyeon
When looking for cheap eats in Seoul, street food ramyeon dishes are a must-try. These comforting, warm noodle dishes are a staple of Korean cuisine, and are popular among locals and visitors alike. Here are some Seoul travel tips on where to find the best street food ramyeon dishes.
One of the best places to enjoy Korean street food ramyeon is at the Gwangjang Market. Here, visitors can find a variety of delicious ramyeon dishes, including the popular Kalguksu, a soup made with handmade noodles and seafood or chicken broth. Another highly recommended option is the Spicy Seafood Ramyeon, packed with fresh seafood and spicy flavor.
Another popular spot for street food ramyeon is Myeongdong. This bustling district is filled with food stalls offering a range of tasty and affordable dishes. One of the must-try options is the Cheese Ramyeon, which is topped with melted cheese for an extra indulgent treat.
Best Spots for Street Food Ramyeon in Seoul:
| Name of Restaurant/Street Vendor | Location | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Gwangjang Market | 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | Kalguksu, Spicy Seafood Ramyeon |
| Myeongdong Street Food Stalls | Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul | Cheese Ramyeon |
| Giljegiljegi | 8-4, Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul | Black Pork Ramyeon, Dumpling Ramyeon |
Overall, Korean street food ramyeon dishes offer a warm and comforting taste of Seoul's culinary culture. From the cozy noodle shops at the Gwangjang Market to the bustling food stalls at Myeongdong, there are plenty of places to indulge in this must-try dish. Make sure to add ramyeon to your list of cheap eats in Seoul and savor the rich flavors of Korean street food.
Unique and Indulgent: Grilled Cheese Lobster Tails and More
In Seoul's vibrant street food scene, there are some unique and indulgent dishes that are sure to satisfy any foodie's appetite. Here are some must-try Korean street food options for those looking to indulge:
"I couldn't resist the temptation of the grilled cheese lobster tails. They were crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, with chunks of succulent lobster meat wrapped in a warm and gooey cheese mixture. It was like nothing I had tasted before!" - A satisfied tourist
The grilled cheese lobster tails have become a sensation in Korean street food culture due to their irresistible combination of flavors. These lobster tails are sliced in half, buttered, and filled with a mixture of cheese and mayonnaise before being grilled to perfection.
Another popular indulgent street food in Seoul is the savory sundae, a Korean blood sausage filled with noodles, vegetables, and spices. The sundae is often served with a side of sticky rice and gochujang sauce for dipping.
The hweori gamja, spiral-shaped potato chips on a stick, is another unique street food that has captured the hearts of many locals and tourists alike. The crispy, golden potato spirals are served hot and seasoned with various spices and seasonings.
Grilled Cheese Lobster Tails vs. Savory Sundae vs. Hweori Gamja
| Street Food Dish | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Cheese Lobster Tails | Succulent lobster tails filled with creamy, gooey cheese mixture that is grilled to perfection | $12 |
| Savory Sundae | Korean blood sausage filled with noodles, vegetables, and spices. Served with sticky rice and gochujang sauce for dipping | $6 |
| Hweori Gamja | Spiral-shaped potato chips on a stick, seasoned with various spices and seasonings | $3 |
While the grilled cheese lobster tails may be the most expensive, they are a unique and indulgent treat that many tourists and locals alike cannot resist. The savory sundae and hweori gamja are more affordable options that provide equally delicious and unique flavors.
Deep-Fried Delights: Twigim and More
When it comes to Korean street food, no trip would be complete without trying some of the delicious deep-fried treats on offer. Twigim, a type of deep-fried batter, is a popular snack that can be found at nearly every Korean street food stall. This savory treat can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, seafood, and even meat. Some popular options include:
| Twigim | Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pajeon Twigim | Scallions, seafood, flour, egg, water, salt, pepper | A crispy pancake made with a savory scallion and seafood filling |
| Gamja Twigim | Potatoes, flour, water, salt, pepper | Fried potato fritters that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside |
| Yache Twigim | Carrots, zucchini, flour, water, salt, pepper | Crispy vegetable fritters that are perfect for a healthy snack on the go |
Along with twigim, Korean street food stalls also offer a range of other deep-fried delicacies. Seafood pancakes, called haemul pajeon, and fried chicken, known as dakgangjeong, are popular options that can be found in most Seoul street food markets. Other notable options include:
- Ddeokbokki Twigim: spicy rice cakes that are battered and fried for an extra crunch
- Hotteok Twigim: sweet stuffed pancakes that are fried to perfection
Visitors to Seoul looking for a foodie guide to the city's street food scene should definitely include deep-fried delights like twigim on their list of must-try dishes. With so many delicious options to choose from, it's easy to see why Korean street food is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Sushi Rolls and Dumplings: Gimbap and Mandu
Korean street food is renowned for its diverse and flavorsome dishes, and two of the most popular options are gimbap and mandu. Gimbap, a dish similar to sushi rolls, is made by wrapping rice in seaweed and filling it with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, and egg.
Mandu, on the other hand, are delicious dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and seafood. These dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or fried, and can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a snack.
| Dish | Description | Popular Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Gimbap | Gimbap is a type of Korean sushi roll that is filled with rice and various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, and egg. It is a popular snack item and is frequently enjoyed on the go. | Myeong-dong Gyoja, Gimbap Cheonguk |
| Mandu | Mandu is a type of Korean dumpling that is filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and seafood. It can be steamed, boiled, or fried and is often enjoyed with a spicy dipping sauce. | Wangbijib, Myeong-dong Kyoja, Gwangjang Market |
| Guwun Garaetteok | Guwun Garaetteok is a type of Korean rice cake that is made with glutinous rice flour. It is often used as a filling for mandu and is also enjoyed on its own as a snack. | Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun Market |
Both gimbap and mandu can be found at street food stalls and restaurants throughout Seoul. Some popular locations to try these dishes include Myeong-dong Gyoja and Gimbap Cheonguk for gimbap, and Wangbijib, Myeong-dong Kyoja, and Gwangjang Market for mandu.
Warm and Comforting: Tanghuru and Hotteok
When it comes to Korean street food, there's nothing quite like the warm and comforting flavors of tanghuru and hotteok. These dishes are perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick pick-me-up.
Tanghuru
Tanghuru is a popular soup with noodles and vegetables, and the broth is usually made with beef bones or other meat. This dish is typically served with a side of kimchi and pickled radish, adding a spicy and sour touch to the soup. For those who prefer a milder flavor, tanghuru can also be enjoyed with a scoop of rice.
Hotteok
Hotteok is a sweet and chewy pancake made with flour, sugar, and yeast. The dough is stuffed with cinnamon and brown sugar, then flattened and cooked until golden brown. This snack is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, and it's often sold in street food markets and stalls around Seoul. Some variations also include savory fillings such as cheese or vegetables.
| Tanghuru | Hotteok |
|---|---|
| Warm and hearty soup with noodles and vegetables | Sweet and chewy pancake stuffed with cinnamon and brown sugar |
| Can be enjoyed mild or spicy | Can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients |
| Often served with kimchi and pickled radish | Popular snack sold in street food markets |
Whether you're looking for a warm and hearty meal or a sweet snack, tanghuru and hotteok are two Korean street food dishes that you shouldn't miss. Be sure to try them out during your visit to Seoul!
Unique Flavors: Gun-Bam and Gun-Goguma
In Seoul's bustling street food markets, visitors can find a delightful array of unique and delicious Korean street food offerings, including the popular rolled rice dish, gun-bam, and the roasted sweet potatoes, gun-goguma.
Gun-bam is a savory and filling snack that features a soft rice roll wrapped around various fillings, such as kimchi, vegetables, and meat. This dish's unique texture and flavors make it a must-try for any street food enthusiast visiting Seoul.
Gun-goguma, on the other hand, offers a sweet and savory taste sensation that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These roasted sweet potatoes are coated with a sticky syrup that caramelizes over the fire, creating a crispy and delicious outer layer with a soft and fluffy interior.
If you're looking to experience these unique flavors, be sure to visit Seoul's street food markets, where vendors sell them fresh and piping hot. You can find gun-bam and gun-goguma in many different markets, including Gwangjang Market, Tongin Market, and Myeongdong Street Food.
Sweet Treats: Hodu-gwaja and Dalgona
When it comes to Korean street food, there is no shortage of sweet treats to satisfy your cravings. From traditional pastries to trendy desserts, Seoul's street food scene has it all. Here are two sweet treats that should be on your must-try list:
Hodu-gwaja
Hodu-gwaja is a popular pastry that originated in the city of Pocheon. The pastry is shaped like a walnut and is filled with sweet red bean paste. The dough is made with glutinous rice flour and has a soft and chewy texture. The name "Hodu-gwaja" means "walnut cookie" in Korean, and the pastry is often sold in small paper cups or wrapped in tissue paper.
If you're wondering where to find the best hodugwaja in Seoul, look no further than the Insadong neighborhood. Insadong is known for its traditional Korean crafts, tea houses, and street food stalls. There are several hodugwaja stalls in the area, but the most famous is Saejogae Hodugwaja. This stall has been in business since the 1950s and is known for its high-quality pastries.
Dalgona
Dalgona coffee is a trendy drink that took the internet by storm in 2020. The drink is made by whipping together instant coffee powder, sugar, and hot water until it forms a frothy consistency. The frothy mixture is then spooned over a glass of milk and ice to create a sweet and creamy coffee drink.
The origins of dalgona coffee can be traced back to South Korea, where it is known as "whipped coffee." The name "dalgona" comes from a type of Korean honeycomb toffee with a similar texture.
If you're looking to try dalgona in Seoul, head to the Gwangjang Market. This bustling market is known for its street food stalls and traditional Korean textiles. There are several vendors selling dalgona coffee, but the most popular is probably Coffee ChaChacha. This stall offers a variety of whipped coffee drinks, including dalgona with different flavors such as chocolate and matcha.
Traditional Delights: Jjinppang, Kkwabaegi, and Gukhwa-ppang
For those looking to delve into the traditional side of Korean street food, there are a few must-try options. Jjinppang, kkwabaegi, and gukhwa-ppang are just a few of the classic street foods that have been around for generations and continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
| Dish Name | Description | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Jjinppang | A steamed bun filled with red bean paste or a savory meat filling | Red bean paste, meat (pork, chicken, or beef), flour, sugar, salt |
| Kkwabaegi | A twisted, deep-fried dough pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon | Flour, sugar, cinnamon, yeast, oil |
| Gukhwa-ppang | A flower-shaped bread filled with red bean paste or sweetened chestnuts | Red bean paste, chestnuts, flour, sugar, salt, yeast |
These street foods offer a taste of authentic Korean cuisine and highlight the country's rich culinary traditions. Jjinppang is a popular snack that can be found at many street food stalls and markets across Seoul. The steamed bun is soft and fluffy and comes in both sweet and savory varieties. Kkwabaegi is a sweet pastry that is twisted into a unique shape and deep-fried until golden brown. The sugar and cinnamon coating make it a deliciously addictive street food. Gukhwa-ppang, or flower bread, is a beautifully shaped snack that is filled with either red bean paste or sweetened chestnuts. Its unique shape and filling options make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
These traditional Korean street foods are a great option for those looking to try something different yet authentic. They are affordable and easily accessible, making them a popular choice for those exploring the street food scene in Seoul.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seoul's street food scene in 2023 offers a diverse range of culinary delights that cater to all tastes and preferences. From the iconic tteokbokki to the refreshing gun-goguma, Korean street food combines flavors and textures in unique ways that are sure to impress food enthusiasts.
Planning Your Street Food Tour in Seoul
Whether you're a local or a visitor to the bustling city, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the best of Korean street food. Start your tour by exploring the bustling street food markets such as Myeongdong and Gwangjang Market, where you can find a wide variety of authentic and affordable dishes.
Be sure not to miss out on the iconic dishes of tteokbokki, gyeran-ppang, and bungeo-ppang, and indulge in the crispy and sweet snacks of dakgangjeong and gilgeori toast. Don't forget to try the traditional delights of jjinppang, kkwabaegi, and gukhwa-ppang, and satisfy your sweet tooth with the nutty hodu-gwaja and frothy dalgona.
For those seeking warm and comforting dishes, the tanghuru and hotteok are popular choices, while fans of deep-fried treats should try the twigim and seafood pancakes. Those looking for a unique flavor experience should not miss out on the rolled rice dish of gun-bam or the roasted sweet potatoes of gun-goguma.
With this guide to the 30 best Korean street food dishes in Seoul for 2023, you'll be equipped to embark on a foodie adventure through the vibrant city and experience the rich culinary culture of Korea.
