Gangnam isn’t just K-pop and glitter—it’s a culinary wonderland! From sizzling BBQ to hidden dessert havens, this guide maps out must-try spots tailored for foreigners. Navigate like a pro with clear area breakdowns and practical tips.
Why Gangnam?
Gangnam offers global flair meets Korean tradition. Expect:
- Diverse neighborhoods: Upscale Apgujeong, trendy Garosu-gil, bustling Sinsa-dong.
- All budgets: ₩10,000 street food to Michelin-starred splurges.
- Foreigner-friendly: English menus/common, staff often speak basic English.
🗺️ Gangnam Food Map: By Neighborhood
1. Garosu-gil (가로수길) – Trendy & Instagrammable
- Maple Tree House (메이플트리하우스): Must-try: Hanwoo (Korean beef) BBQ. English-speaking staff, elegant vibe. Tip: Reserve via KakaoMap!
- C27 Cheesecake & Coffee: 27 cheesecake flavors in a fairytale-like space. Perfect for photos.
- Myth Jokbal (미쓰족발): Braised pig trotters (surprisingly tender!). Share with beer (맥주).
2. Apgujeong (압구정) – Luxury Bites
- Jungsik (정식당): 2 Michelin stars. Modern Korean tasting menu. Book months ahead!
- Gogung (고궁): Affordable bibimbap (mixed rice) in traditional setting. Vegetarian options.
- Sushi Cho (스시초): Top-tier omakase. Counter seats for chef interactions.
3. Sinsa-dong (신사동) – Quirky & Local
- Dosan Bunsik (도산분식): Retro vibe. Try: Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) + fried seaweed rolls.
- Layered Cafe: British-Korean desserts. Scones with matcha jam! English labels.
- Gyeongui Line Book Street Cafes: Coffee with books—ideal for downtime.
4. Nonhyeon (논현) – Late-Night Eats
- Palsaik Samgyeopsal (팔색삼겹살): 8-flavored pork belly. Foreigner hack: Staff grills for you!
- Hongdae Dwaeji Gukbap (홍대돼지국밥): Hearty pork soup (open 24hrs). Cure that jet lag!
🚀 Survival Tips for Foreigners
- Navigating: Use Naver Map (English addresses). Google Maps doesn’t work well.
- Ordering: Point & smile works! Learn: “Juseyo” (Please), “Hwaesik juseyo” (Separate bill).
- Payments: Cards widely accepted. Street food = cash (₩1,000/₩5,000 bills handy).
- Etiquette:
- No tipping.
- Pour drinks for others (both hands!).
- Say “Jal meokkesseumnida” (I’ll eat well) before digging in!
🌟 Final Bite
Gangnam’s food scene is a thrilling mix of innovation and tradition. Use this map to eat like a local—without the stress. Pro tip: Wander alleyways (골목길) near main streets for hidden gems!
> “Seoul’s soul is in its stews, streets, and sizzles. Gangnam? It’s just the start.” 🥢✨
Hungry for more? Drop questions below—we’ll dish extra recs!