Navigating Seoul’s lunch rush as an office worker is an art form. From steaming bowls of comfort food to lightning-fast gourmet bites, the city caters to every craving. Here’s a curated list of wallet-friendly, efficient, and delicious lunch spots loved by locals—perfect for foreign professionals exploring Seoul’s work culture!
1. Gwangjang Market Kimbap (광장시장 김밥)
Location: Jongno-gu, near Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1).
Cuisine: Traditional Korean street food.
Must-Try: Mayak Kimbap (addictive mini seaweed rolls) + Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).
Price: ₩5,000–₩10,000 (US$4–8).
Why Workers Love It: Ultra-fast service at communal stalls. Ideal for a quick, hearty meal. Arrive before 12:15 PM to beat crowds!
2. Mapo Mandu (마포만두)
Location: Multiple branches (e.g., Gangnam Station Exit 7).
Cuisine: Korean dumplings & noodles.
Must-Try: Kimchi Mandu (spicy dumplings) + Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles).
Price: ₩8,000–₩12,000 (US$6–10).
Why Workers Love It: Steam-fresh dumplings in 10 minutes. Generous portions perfect for refueling.
3. Isaac Toast Myeongdong (이삭토스트)
Location: Myeongdong (near Euljiro 1-ga Station, Line 2).
Cuisine: Korean-style breakfast/lunch sandwiches.
Must-Try: Bulgalbi Toast (grilled beef with sweet sauce) or MVP Toast (ham, egg, cheese).
Price: ₩3,500–₩5,500 (US$3–5).
Why Workers Love It: Portable, crispy, and served in 3 minutes. Great for eating on-the-go.
4. Yeonnamjeong Kalguksu (연남칼국수)
Location: Yeouido (near Yeouido Station, Line 5/9).
Cuisine: Handmade Korean noodles.
Must-Try: Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles in broth) with Kimchi.
Price: ₩9,000–₩15,000 (US$7–12).
Why Workers Love It: Comforting, healthy, and served in Hungry for more? Drop a comment with your go-to Seoul lunch spot!