Whether you’re a hungry student, a first-time traveler, or a curious foodie, Seoul is a paradise for food lovers. From sizzling BBQ spots to cozy cafes and 24-hour convenience stores, getting food here is both an adventure and a breeze. Here’s your go-to guide to navigating the food scene in Seoul.
Eating Out: Dining Like a Local
Korean BBQ (고기집)
An absolute must! Korean BBQ restaurants are everywhere, and you’ll usually grill your own meat at the table. Popular choices: samgyeopsal (pork belly), galbi (marinated beef), and bulgogi. Don’t forget the banchan (side dishes) and ssam (lettuce wraps)!
Tip: Many BBQ spots require a minimum of 2 people. Solo diners might prefer bulgogi or stew restaurants.
Budget Meals at Kimbap Cheonguk (김밥천국)
These casual eateries serve affordable Korean comfort food like:
Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew)
Bibimbap (mixed rice with veggies and egg)
Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
Kimbap (Korean sushi rolls)
Most dishes are under 6,000 KRW, and menus often have pictures.
Late-night cravings? Hit a pojangmacha (포장마차)
These are street-side tents or stalls serving snacks and drinks until the early morning. Grab some soju and try:
Odeng (fish cake skewers)
Hotteok (sweet syrup-filled pancakes)
Twigim (deep-fried snacks)
Delivery Apps: Korea’s Favorite Way to Eat
Delivery culture in Korea is next level. You can get almost anything delivered, and fast. Here are the most popular apps:
Baemin (배달의민족)
Korea’s top food delivery app
Offers everything from McDonald’s to Michelin-rated restaurants
English support available (recently improved)
Yogiyo (요기요)
Similar to Baemin, with a slightly different range of restaurants
Great interface and delivery tracking
Offers special discounts and coupons
Tip: Payment via Korean cards or KakaoPay is easiest. Some restaurants offer "pay on delivery" too.
Convenience Stores: Your 24/7 Best Friend
You’ll find a GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven on nearly every street corner. These places are clutch for a quick bite or midnight snack.
Top Picks:
Triangle kimbap (삼각김밥)
Instant ramyeon (you can cook it there!)
Pre-packed dosirak (lunch boxes)
Coffee, ice cream, and even beer
Tip: Some locations have microwaves and seating for a quick sit-down meal.
Grocery Stores & Markets
Supermarkets: E-Mart, Homeplus, Lotte Mart
Great for bulk items, fresh produce, and international snacks.
Local Markets: Gwangjang, Mangwon, and Namdaemun
Authentic experience and great prices
Try mung bean pancakes (빈대떡), hand-cut noodles (칼국수), and more
You can often sample before buying
Final Tips 🌟
Learn these key phrases:
"이거 하나 주세요" (I’ll take one of these)
"덜 맵게 해 주세요" (Please make it less spicy)
Cash or card? Most places accept cards, but small stalls might prefer cash.
Tipping? Not necessary in Korea, it’s built into the service.
Seoul is a city that loves food, so no matter your taste, you’ll always find something satisfying. Grab your chopsticks (or spoon!) and dive in.
