Best Places To Eat In Dongdaemun: Discover the Hidden Gems of Korean Cuisine

🇰🇷 Dongdaemun is a bustling district in South Korea that is famous for its vibrant nightlife, fashionable boutiques, and historical landmarks. But did you know that Dongdaemun is also a foodie’s paradise? From spicy stews and savory pancakes to sweet desserts and refreshing drinks, Dongdaemun has something for everyone.

Introduction

🍲 Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, colorful presentation, and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dongdaemun, in particular, is a food haven for tourists and locals alike, with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street vendors offering a wide variety of Korean dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, Dongdaemun has got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to eat in Dongdaemun and what makes them so special.

1. Gwangjang Market

🍡 Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, dating back to the early 1900s. It is a popular destination for foodies, offering a wide variety of Korean street food, snacks, and traditional dishes. Some of the must-try items at Gwangjang Market include bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (bite-sized seaweed rice rolls), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

What are mung bean pancakes?

🍽 Mung bean pancakes, also known as bindaetteok, are a popular street food in Korea made from ground mung beans, vegetables, and meat. They are pan-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. Bindaetteok is a great option for vegetarians and vegans, as it does not contain any animal products.

2. Mukja Golmok

🍖 Mukja Golmok, which translates to street of eating, is a hidden gem located in the heart of Dongdaemun. It is a narrow alley lined with small restaurants and food stalls, each offering a unique and delicious dining experience. Some of the most popular dishes at Mukja Golmok include galbi (Korean-style grilled beef ribs), dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), and naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles).

What is dakgalbi?

🍗 Dakgalbi is a spicy Korean dish made from marinated chicken, vegetables, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). It is typically cooked on a large, flat griddle and served with rice cakes, sweet potato, and shredded cabbage. Dakgalbi is a favorite among locals and is often enjoyed with a cold beer or soju (Korean rice wine).

3. Baek Jeong Korean BBQ

🥩 Baek Jeong Korean BBQ is a popular chain restaurant that specializes in Korean-style barbecue. It is known for its high-quality meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, which are grilled right at your table. The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Korean side dishes, such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and steamed egg.

What is Korean-style barbecue?

🍖 Korean-style barbecue, also known as gogi-gui, is a popular method of cooking meat in Korea. It involves grilling thinly sliced pieces of meat on a tabletop grill, often accompanied by a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces. Korean barbecue is a social dining experience that is best enjoyed with a group of friends or family.

4. Isaac Toast

🥪 Isaac Toast is a Korean fast-food chain that specializes in breakfast sandwiches. It may not sound like much, but Isaac Toast has gained a cult following among locals and tourists alike. Some of the most popular sandwiches include the Bulgalbi MVP (grilled beef with cheese and egg) and the Bacon Best (bacon, egg, and cheese).

What is a Bulgalbi MVP?

🍔 The Bulgalbi MVP is a signature sandwich at Isaac Toast, made with juicy grilled beef, melted cheese, and a fluffy egg. It is served on a toasted buttered bread and topped with a sweet and savory sauce. The sandwich is named after bulgalbi, a Korean-style grilled beef rib dish.

5. Hello Kitty Cafe

🍰 Hello Kitty Cafe is a cute and whimsical cafe that is perfect for anyone who loves Sanrio characters. The cafe offers a variety of Hello Kitty-themed desserts, such as cakes, macarons, and lattes, as well as savory dishes like sandwiches and salads. The cafe’s decor is also Instagram-worthy, with pink and pastel colors, plush Hello Kitty toys, and heart-shaped tables.

What is a macaron?

🍪 A macaron is a French pastry that is made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar. It is often filled with flavored buttercream or ganache and comes in a variety of colors and flavors. In Korea, macarons have become a popular dessert option, often decorated with cute designs and characters.

6. Kkanbu Chicken

🍗 Kkanbu Chicken is a Korean fried chicken chain that is known for its crispy and juicy chicken. The restaurant offers a variety of flavors, such as garlic, soy sauce, and sweet chili, as well as sides like pickled radish and coleslaw. Kkanbu Chicken is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

What is Korean fried chicken?

🍗 Korean fried chicken, or chikin, is a popular dish in Korea that is often served as a snack or appetizer. It is made from bite-sized pieces of chicken that are double-fried to achieve a crispy and crunchy texture. Korean fried chicken is typically seasoned with a variety of sauces, such as soy garlic, spicy, or honey butter.

7. Cheonggyecheon Stream

🍹 Cheonggyecheon Stream is not a restaurant, but it is a popular spot for street food and snacks. The stream runs through the center of Seoul and offers a scenic backdrop for enjoying some Korean street food. Some of the popular items include hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes), bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste), and odeng (fish cake on a stick).

What is hotteok?

🍪 Hotteok is a sweet Korean pancake that is filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. The pancake is made from a dough that is similar to that used for pizza or bread and is cooked on a griddle until golden brown and crispy. Hotteok is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Conclusion

🍴 Dongdaemun is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of Korean dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for street food, Korean barbecue, or something sweet, Dongdaemun has got you covered. So, why not take a culinary tour of this bustling district and discover the hidden gems of Korean cuisine?

👨‍🍳 And don’t forget, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try your hand at cooking some Korean dishes at home. With the right ingredients and a little bit of practice, you can recreate the flavors of Dongdaemun right in your own kitchen.

Disclaimer

📝 The information provided in this article is based on our research and personal experiences. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Additionally, the opinions expressed in this article are our own and do not necessarily reflect those of the establishments mentioned.