Authentic Korean Foods in Myeongdong (mee-OHNG-dong)
All people love their food, and the Koreans are no exception. Whether it is traditional local specialties like Kimchi (kim-chee) or Tteokguk soup or modern Korean food such as all-you-can-eat Korean style BBQ, together with 5 star named restaurants and international brands from Burger King to Starbucks. International specialties such as Italian, French and authentic Indian foods are readily available. While for those who can't stop shopping there are street snack stalls that sell things you can carry in hand and eat while still window shopping.
Street Food
Along the many smaller streets in the area are plenty of small stalls selling street foods, either literally in the street or from window opening up from their small shops and kiosks. Try some of the local favorites including deep fried sausage and rice cakes on a stick, or French Fries and sausage coated in batter on a stick. More traditional are gyeran bbang (gye-ran-bahng) which is a type of fried egg cake or muffin which is a tasty and nutritious snack that all people can enjoy.
For those who love spicy food try dakkochi (dah-ko-chee)which is a spicy chicken skewer, cooked over coals to get a BBQ flavor but with plenty of chili heat as well.
Try also the hotteok (ho-dduk) which is a stuffed small pancake with a sweet sugary filling. Great warmers on a cold evening these are a popular snack with children and adults alike.
Experience the Night Market: For the ultimate street food adventure, visit the Myeongdong Night Market operating daily from 5 PM to 1 AM. This vibrant evening market transforms the daytime shopping district into Seoul's most accessible introduction to Korean street food culture, featuring tornado potatoes, egg bread, and dozens of other authentic Korean snacks in a tourist-friendly atmosphere.
Korean Dishes
Have some Banchans (ban-chan) or savory condiments that go with rice in Korean food. More than just sauces these are a major part of the cuisine and a good range add to the experience. A major delight is the bibimbap (bee-beem-bap) which is a type of mixed rice dish, served in a big decorative bowl it is a work of art as much as a food and much effort and pleasure goes into the arrangement of the many different ingredients into an interesting pattern.
🍜 Iconic Myeongdong Restaurants
Myeongdong Kyoja (since 1966): Seoul's most famous kalguksu (kahl-gook-soo) (hand-cut noodle) restaurant, featured in the Michelin Guide. This family-owned institution serves only four menu items but has perfected each one over nearly six decades. Address: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu. Open daily 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM.
Hadongkwan (since 1939): The oldest restaurant in Myeongdong, this Michelin-recommended establishment specializes exclusively in gomtang (gom-tahng) (beef bone soup) and suyuk (soo-yook) (boiled beef). A true Seoul culinary landmark representing 85+ years of authentic Korean comfort food tradition.
Mokmyeoksanbang: Michelin Guide-featured restaurant known for exceptional bibimbap that balances traditional and modern Korean culinary approaches. Their kimchi pancake with cheese represents creative Korean fusion done respectfully. Address: 71 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Jung-gu. Prices from ₩8,000.
🙏 Korean Dining Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Essential Dining Customs: Wait for the eldest person to begin eating before you start. Use both hands when receiving or passing dishes, and never stick your chopsticks upright in rice (reserved for ancestral ceremonies). Korean meals are typically shared family-style, so don't be surprised when dishes arrive for the table rather than individual portions.
Tipping & Payment: Tipping is not expected and can even be considered insulting in traditional establishments. Bills are typically paid at the register, not at the table. Splitting bills (더치페이, "Dutch pay") is common among Korean diners, but as a guest, you may find locals insisting on paying for the entire group.
Respectful Behavior: Keep conversations at moderate volume levels, especially in smaller establishments. It's polite to compliment the food to show appreciation. If dining with Korean colleagues or friends, the youngest person traditionally pours drinks for elders, and it's courteous to turn your head slightly away when drinking alcohol in front of elders.
Then after the main meal try patbingsoo (paht-bing-soo) which is a kind of sweet ice for dessert.
Cafe Culture
Seoul has a developed cafe culture and Myeongdong has plenty of choices including local brands Beansbins Coffee, and of course Starbucks. For visitors interested in Korean beauty culture, many cafes in the area also showcase Korean beauty products and K-beauty experiences that complement the dining experience with authentic Korean lifestyle elements.
Other cuisines
TAJ - Taste of India: Located in the YMCA building, this traditional Indian restaurant offers Muslim visitors to Seoul authentic Halal foods. Conveniently positioned close to the National Mosque of Korea, TAJ provides a welcome dining option for travelers seeking familiar flavors and dietary accommodations in the heart of Myeongdong's bustling district. For comprehensive information about Muslim-friendly dining throughout the area, see our detailed Halal Food Guide for Muslim Travelers.
🍽️ Ready to Explore Myeongdong's Food Scene?
Plan Your Culinary Adventure: Start with the famous Myeongdong Night Market (5 PM-1 AM daily) for authentic street food, then book a table at iconic Myeongdong Kyoja for their legendary hand-cut noodles. Pro tip: Visit during weekday afternoons (2-5 PM) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience. Get directions to Myeongdong now →