10 Foods in Seoul You Must Try (Besides Korean BBQ)
When people think of Korean food, Korean BBQ is usually the first thing that comes to mind—and for good reason. But Seoul is a city with so much more to offer beyond sizzling pork belly and smoky grills. From spicy stews to street-side snacks, here are ten must-try foods that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)
Chewy rice cakes simmered in a sweet-spicy red sauce, tteokbokki is one of Seoul’s most iconic street foods. You’ll find it everywhere, from Myeongdong street stalls to Gwangjang Market. For extra flavor, try it with fish cakes, boiled eggs, or cheese.
2. Bindaetteok (빈대떡) – Mung Bean Pancake
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, bindaetteok is made by grinding soaked mung beans and pan-frying them with vegetables and pork. Best enjoyed with makgeolli (Korean rice wine) on a rainy day. Head to Gwangjang Market for the real deal.
3. Naengmyeon (냉면) – Cold Buckwheat Noodles
A refreshing summer staple, naengmyeon features thin, chewy noodles served in icy broth or mixed with spicy sauce. The perfect dish after a long day of sightseeing—or even after a round of BBQ.
4. Sundubu Jjigae (순두부찌개) – Soft Tofu Stew
This bubbling red stew is made with silky tofu, seafood or pork, and a chili-pepper broth. Served in a hot stone bowl with a raw egg cracked on top, sundubu jjigae is both comforting and fiery.
5. Kimbap (김밥)
Often called “Korean sushi rolls,” kimbap is a go-to snack or light meal. Rolled with rice, vegetables, egg, and sometimes meat or tuna, it’s perfect for picnics at the Han River or a quick grab-and-go bite while exploring the city.
6. Gopchang (곱창) – Grilled Intestines
Not for the faint of heart, but beloved by locals, gopchang is chewy, savory, and full of flavor when grilled over charcoal. It’s especially popular as anju (food that pairs with alcohol). Look for gopchang alleys near Jongno or Dongdaemun.
7. Dakgalbi (닭갈비) – Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken
Chunks of chicken marinated in a spicy red sauce, stir-fried with cabbage, sweet potatoes, and rice cakes right at your table. Don’t forget to order cheese topping and fried rice at the end for the ultimate finish.
8. Hotteok (호떡) – Sweet Pancakes
A winter favorite, hotteok is a golden, chewy pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts. You’ll smell them before you see them at Seoul’s night markets.
9. Jokbal (족발) – Braised Pig’s Trotters
Rich, tender, and glossy, jokbal is slow-cooked in soy sauce, herbs, and spices. Traditionally wrapped in lettuce with garlic and ssamjang, it’s popular as a late-night food and often enjoyed with soju.
10. Patbingsu (팥빙수) – Korean Shaved Ice Dessert
No trip to Seoul is complete without bingsu. This mountain of shaved ice comes topped with sweet red beans, fruits, condensed milk, or even whole slices of cake. Modern cafés offer trendy versions with mango, matcha, or tiramisu.
Korea’s food scene is a journey in itself — from sizzling street snacks to hearty traditional dishes. Whether you’re here for spicy tteokbokki, crispy pancakes, or sweet bingsu, every bite tells a story. So grab your chopsticks and start exploring — and when you’re in Myeongdong, don’t forget to stop by Mongvely, where you can enjoy the ultimate all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience right in the heart of Seoul.
Visit Us Now!
Mongvely Main Branch
Address: Myeongdong 8na-gil 9 3rd Floor
Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Mongvely 2nd Branch
Address: Myeongdong 3-gil 44 2nd Floor
Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Follow us on Instagram: @kbbqmongvely
