Hey hungry travelers! If you’re visiting Seoul and haven’t experienced tteokbokki (떡볶이), you’re missing Korea’s soul food. This chewy rice cake dish bathed in fiery-sweet sauce isn’t just a snack—it’s a cultural icon. Join me on a tteokbokki “holy land” tour to Seoul’s most legendary spots, perfect for spice seekers and curious foodies!
🔥 Stop 1: Mabongnim Halmae Tteokbokki (마복림할매떡볶이)
📍 Near Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Exit 13)
Why it’s legendary: A 60-year-old stall run by a fiery grandma (“halmae”). This is OG street-style tteokbokki—thick, glossy sauce with a kick that builds slowly. The secret? A deep, anchovy-based broth simmered for hours.
Must-order: Classic combo with eomuk (fish cakes) and boiled eggs. Pair with soondae (blood sausage) for balance.
Foreigner tip: Ask for “jom deopge” (less spicy) if you’re spice-shy. Open late—ideal for post-shopping cravings!
🌶️ Stop 2: Yupdduk (엽기떡볶이)
📍 Hongdae, Gangnam, Sinchon (multiple locations)
Why it’s unique: Think tteokbokki on steroids. Their “Abnormal Tteokbokki” is insanely spicy (ghost pepper-level!), but customizable. Modern, youthful vibe with neon lights and K-pop playlists.
Must-order: Set menu with ddeokbap (rice cakes + rice), fried dumplings, and cheesy toppings. Cool down with yupgi mandu (crispy dumplings).
Foreigner tip: Spice levels range from 0 to 3 (3 is fire-breathing territory!). Start with level 1.
🥣 Stop 3: Gwangjang Market Busan Tteokbokki (광장시장 부산분식)
📍 Gwangjang Market (Look for stall A-11)
Why it’s special: A taste of Busan-style tteokbokki—soupier, lighter broth with fresh seafood and veggies. Less sweet, more umami. Perfect if you’re overwhelmed by heavy sauces.
Must-order: “Haemul Tteokbokki” (seafood version) with shrimp, mussels, and squid. Share bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) on the side.
Foreigner tip: Eat like a local—stand at the stall and chat with ajummas (aunties) cooking!
🍜 Stop 4: Sinseon Seolnongtang (신선설농탕 종로점)
📍 Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 5)
Why it’s unexpected: Famous for seolleongtang (ox bone soup), but their “White Tteokbokki” is a sleeper hit! Creamy, non-spicy sauce made with beef broth—ideal for kids or spice-averse pals.
Must-order: Half-and-half bowl (spicy + white). Add gimbap rolls for dipping.
Foreigner tip: This 24-hour spot is a lifesaver for jet-lagged hunger pangs!
🌟 Pro Tips for Foreigners:
1️⃣ Ordering 101: Point at menus or say “Hana ju-se-yo” (One please). Most stalls have picture menus.
2️⃣ Spice Control: “Maepssi an doege” = less spicy / “Deowojuseyo” = spicier.
3️⃣ Pairings: Always order twigim (fried goodies) or gimbap to cut the heat. Sip sikhye (sweet rice drink) to cool your tongue.
4️⃣ Etiquette: Street stalls are casual—pay upfront, clean your own trash.
💭 Final Thoughts:
Seoul’s tteokbokki scene is a delicious chaos of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re sweating buckets at Mabongnim or slurping Busan-style broth at Gwangjang Market, each bite tells a story. So grab wet wipes (sauce stains are badges of honor!), follow the steam, and let rice cakes lead the way. Trust me—your taste buds will bow in gratitude. 🙇♀️🔥
Got a favorite tteokbokki spot? Shout it in the comments!