Seoul’s culinary scene is exploding with innovative vegan options, moving far beyond just salads! As a global city embracing sustainable dining, you’ll find everything from temple food to vegan fried chicken. Here’s a curated list of must-visit spots:
1. Plant Cafe & Kitchen (플랜트)
📍 Location: Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu (5-min walk from Itaewon Stn Exit 3).
🌱 Why Visit: Founded by a New Yorker, this pioneer spot offers 100% plant-based comfort food. Perfect for homesick travelers!
🍔 Must-Try: “Chick’n Burger” with cashew cheese, or jackfruit tacos. Save room for peanut butter cheesecake!
💡 Foreigner-Friendly: English-speaking staff, bilingual menu, and diverse expat crowd. No reservation needed for lunch.
2. Osegyehyang (오세계향)
📍 Location: Jongno-gu (near Anguk Stn Exit 6). Hidden in a hanok (traditional house) alley.
🍲 Why Visit: Authentic Korean temple cuisine since 1983—no garlic/onion, just mindful flavors.
🥢 Must-Try: “Sansuyu Mandu” (wild berry dumplings) and seasonal set menus (12+ colorful dishes).
💡 Foreigner-Friendly: Staff explain dishes in English. Reservations recommended (via Instagram @osegyehyang).
3. The Bread Blue (더브레드블루)
📍 Location: Seongmisan-ro, Mapo-gu (10-min walk from Hongik Univ. Stn Exit 9).
🥐 Why Visit: Artisanal vegan bakery with Parisian vibes. Ideal for breakfast or coffee breaks.
🍞 Must-Try: Croissants (matcha or chocolate), “eggless” tart, and oat milk flat white.
💡 Foreigner-Friendly: Clear English labels. Grab-and-go friendly for busy sightseeing days!
4. Maru Jib (마루집)
📍 Location: Gangnam-gu (near Sinsa Stn Exit 8).
🍛 Why Visit: Modern twist on Korean classics—think vegan bulgogi and “eel” made from shiitake mushrooms.
🔥 Must-Try: “Jeyuk Bokkeum” (spicy pork substitute) with purple rice.
💡 Foreigner-Friendly: Tablet ordering with English photos. Budget-friendly (meals under ₩15,000).
✨ Pro Tips for Foreign Vegans
- Naver Maps > Google Maps: Search restaurant names in Hangul (e.g., “플랜트”) for accurate directions.
- Learn Key Phrases: “Chaesik juumoon” (채식 주문 = “vegetarian order”) helps avoid confusion.
- Vegan Apps: Download HappyCow or Vegan Seoul for real-time updates.
- Temple Food Etiquette: Finish all food—zero waste is sacred!
Seoul’s vegan revolution blends tradition with bold innovation. Whether you’re craving bibimbap or beyond meat, this city delivers compassion on a plate. 🌿🍚✈️