Seoul is known for having some of the best street food in the world. The vibrant city is full of tasty and affordable eats, from savory favorites like stir-fried squid, to sweet delights like honey-soaked hotteok, or even creamy and spicy ramen. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Seoul or a local, exploring the city’s numerous street food markets is a must when visiting.
Popular Seoul Street Foods
Street food in Seoul is as plentiful as it is varied. Popular foods include: - Tteokbokki: a spicy Korean dish made from chewy rice cakes, vegetables, fish cakes, and a red pepper paste. - Kimbap: a Korean version of sushi that is made with cooked vegetables, meat, and egg wrapped in sheets of seaweed and rice. - Sundae: a traditional Korean sausage, stuffed with various ingredients such as glutinous rice, vegetables, and fish cakes. - Hotteok: fluffy and chewy pancakes filled with a sweet mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. - Twigim: a deep-fried dish of tempura-like vegetables, squid, and sweet potatoes. - Ramen: a creamy and spicy broth with noodles that is perfect for cold days.
Not sure what to order? You can’t go wrong with the classic tteokbokki; it’s a traditional Korean dish that has gained immense popularity in recent years. For a sweet treat, try the hotteok or head to a market stall for some freshly made twigim.
How to Enjoy Street Food in Seoul
Street food in Seoul is typically sold at markets and stands, with many stalls offering several varieties of food. For the best street food experience, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Ask what’s popular; vendors know their customers and can recommend the most popular dishes.
- Bring cash. Most street food vendors don’t take cards, so save yourself the hassle and come prepared with cash.
- Taste before you buy. Most vendors will let you have a sample before you commit to buying something.
- Bring a friend. Exploring the markets is more fun with a partner, and it’s much easier to share the food when you’re with someone else.
Safety Tips When Enjoying Street Food
As with any type of food, it’s important to be aware of safety when eating street food in Seoul. Here are a few tips to follow when enjoying street food in Seoul:
- Check the food before buying; it should be fresh and free of any unusual odors or discoloration.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions; vendors should be able to answer questions related to their food.
- Make sure the vendor is handling food properly and using protective gloves or tongs when handling food.
- Avoid eating anything raw, such as uncooked egg or meat, as these can contain harmful bacteria.
- Take proper precautions if you’re eating anything with a high spice level, as it can cause stomach issues.
Enjoy the Experience
Eating street food in Seoul is a great way to experience the culture and explore the city. Whether you’re stopping by a stall for a quick snack or looking for an adventurous dining experience, indulging in the world-famous street food of Seoul is an experience you won’t soon forget.