Myeongdong isn’t just Seoul’s shopping paradise—it’s a culinary wonderland! From sizzling street food to iconic restaurants, here are 10 food spots every foreign visitor should try (with handy English-friendly tips):
🥟 1. Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자)
Specialty: Knife-cut Noodles (Kalguksu) & Steamed Dumplings
Why Try?: Michelin-recommended since 1966! Their silky broth and garlicky dumplings are legendary.
English Support: English menu available.
Image: [Bowl of kalguksu with golden dumplings]
Address: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu
🍗 2. Twotwo Fried Chicken (둘둘치킨)
Specialty: Crispy Korean Fried Chicken (Half-spicy, half-soy garlic recommended!)
Why Try?: Juicy, crackling skin paired with cold beer—perfect after shopping.
English Support: Staff speak basic English.
Image: [Golden fried chicken with dipping sauces]
Address: Multiple stalls in Myeongdong streets
🍲 3. Yoogane (유가네)
Specialty: Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken) with Cheese
Why Try?: Watch your meal cooked live at the table! Customize spice levels.
English Support: English menu with pictures.
Image: [Sizzling pan of dakgalbi with melted cheese]
Address: 3F, 20 Myeongdong 4-gil
🍚 4. Gogung (고궁)
Specialty: Jeonju-style Bibimbap in Stone Pot
Why Try?: Iconic Korean rice dish with 20+ fresh ingredients. Mix with gochujang (spicy paste)!
English Support: English-speaking staff.
Image: [Colorful bibimbap in a hot stone bowl]
Address: 45 Myeongdong 8ga-gil
🥢 5. Myeongdong Gyoja Kalguksu (명동교자 칼국수)
Specialty: Handmade Mandu (Dumplings)
Why Try?: Generous pork-filled dumplings with kimchi—only 4 items on the menu!
English Support: Simple English ordering.
Image: [Steamed mandu on bamboo tray]
Address: 25-2 Myeongdong 10-gil
🍢 6. Halabang Devil’s Tail (할라빵)
Specialty: Lobster Tails & Matcha Soft Serve
Why Try?: Instagram-famous street snack! Sweet-savory pastries stuffed with lobster.
English Support: Point-and-order system.
Image: [Golden lobster tail pastry on paper tray]
Address: Myeongdong Night Market stalls
🍜 7. Baekje Samgyetang (백제삼계탕)
Specialty: Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)
Why Try?: Whole chicken stuffed with rice, simmered in herbal broth—Korea’s ultimate comfort food.
English Support: English menu.
Image: [Steaming pot of samgyetang with chicken]
Address: 7 Myeongdong 9-gil
🥩 8. Maple Tree House (단풍나무집)
Specialty: Premium Hanwoo (Korean Beef) BBQ
Why Try?: High-quality marbled beef grilled over charcoal. Side dish buffet included!
English Support: Fluent English staff.
Image: [Sizzling beef on charcoal grill]
Address: 26 Myeongdong 8ga-gil
🥪 9. Isaac Toast (이삭토스트)
Specialty: Korean-Style Breakfast Sandwiches
Why Try?: Buttery toast with egg, cheese, and bulgogi—under $3!
English Support: English menu boards.
Image: [Toasted sandwich with colorful fillings]
Address: 105 Toegye-ro (near Myeongdong Station)
🍨 10. Bistopping
Specialty: Customizable Ice Cream Cones
Why Try?: Over-the-top desserts with cookies, fruit, and chocolate—pure eye candy!
English Support: Easy point-and-choose.
Image: [Decadent ice cream cone with toppings]
Address: 78 Namdaemun-ro
✨ Pro Tips for Foreigners:
- Payment: Most accept credit cards, but carry ₩5,000/₩10,000 bills for street food.
- Spice Levels: Say “mae-un” (spicy) or “mae-ji anko” (not spicy) when ordering.
- T-Money Card: Use for quick payments at chain stores like Isaac Toast.
Final Bite: Myeongdong’s food scene blends tradition and trendiness—don’t leave Seoul without tasting these gems! 🥢🇰🇷
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