When visiting Myeongdong, travelers not only get to enjoy shopping but also indulge in some of the best Korean cuisines. Whether you're new to Korean food or a seasoned fan, Myeongdong offers an array of delicious dishes that cater to every taste. Here's a list of 10 must-try Korean dishes in Myeongdong, complete with simple explanations so that even beginners can understand and imagine the flavors.
1. Myeongdong Gyoja 명동교자
| Kalguksu 칼국수 | A bowl of hand-cut noodle soup served in a savory chicken or beef broth. It’s light but flavorful, often accompanied by a side of kimchi. |
| Mandu 만두 | Korean dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, steamed or boiled. Perfect for first-timers to enjoy a simple but tasty dish. |
2. Tteokbokki 떡볶이
| Tteokbokki | Spicy stir-fried rice cakes made from chewy rice flour. The dish is often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs in a slightly sweet, spicy gochujang sauce. |
| Taste | The combination of chewy texture and spicy-sweet sauce makes it addictive for those who enjoy bold flavors. |
3. Hotteok 호떡 *street food
| Hotteok | A sweet Korean pancake filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and crushed nuts. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. |
| Taste | Warm, gooey sweetness inside with a crunchy exterior—perfect as a street snack. |
4. Samgyeopsal 삼겹살 *BBQ
| Samgyeopsal | Thick slices of pork belly grilled at your table. Eaten with fresh lettuce wraps, garlic, and ssamjang (a spicy paste). |
| Taste | Smoky, savory pork paired with fresh greens and a spicy kick from ssamjang. Perfect for meat lovers! |
5. Bibimbap (비빔밥)
| Bibimbap | A mixed rice dish topped with various vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (red chili paste). Often includes beef or tofu. |
| Taste | Balanced and nutritious. The spiciness of the gochujang mixed with the freshness of the veggies creates a harmonious taste. |
6. Jjajangmyeon (짜장면)
| Jjajangmyeon | Noodles covered in a thick, savory black bean sauce with diced pork and vegetables. Often garnished with cucumber strips. |
| Taste | Salty and slightly sweet with a deep umami flavor. The sauce coats the chewy noodles perfectly. |
7. Soondae (순대) *street food
| Soondae | Korean blood sausage made from pig's intestines stuffed with a mix of rice, noodles, and pig's blood. Usually served with salt or a dipping sauce. |
| Taste | Chewy and savory, with a mild flavor that's less intimidating than it sounds. The dipping sauces often enhance its taste. |
8. Bungeoppang (붕어빵) *street food for winter time
| Bungeoppang | A fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. A common street food in Myeongdong, perfect as a quick snack or dessert. |
| Taste | Crispy on the outside, soft and warm inside with a sweet, bean-filled surprise. |
9. Dakgalbi (닭갈비)
| Dakgalbi | Stir-fried chicken marinated in a spicy red chili sauce, cooked with vegetables, and sometimes served with cheese. |
| Taste | Spicy, savory, and tender chicken, enhanced with the creaminess of melted cheese when added. A delicious and hearty meal. |
10. Hoddeok (호떡) *street food
| Hoddeok | A warm pancake filled with a gooey mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. |
| Taste | Crispy on the outside with a molten, sugary filling inside. The warm cinnamon flavor is perfect for colder months. |
Conclusion
Myeongdong offers a wide variety of food options that cater to all kinds of tastes. From the spicy and savory to the sweet and chewy, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Myeongdong’s food scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Happy eating!