Seoul’s culinary scene thrives on noodles – from steaming bowls of comfort to refreshing cold delicacies. As a foreigner, navigating these gems can be overwhelming. Worry not! Here’s a curated list of iconic noodle joints, complete with ordering tips and cultural context.
🍜 1. Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자)
📍 Location: Myeongdong (near Myeongdong Station Exit 8)
🍲 Must-Order: Kalguksu (knife-cut wheat noodles in chicken broth) + Mandu (dumplings)
✨ Why Foreigners Love It:
- Lightning-fast service (ideal for hungry explorers!).
- Broth is rich yet clean, with handmade noodles.
- Kimchi and pickled radish are unlimited.
💡 Pro Tip: Cash only! Expect queues but turnover is quick.
❄️ 2. Pyeongyang Myeonok (평양면옥)
📍 Location: Jung-gu (a 10-min walk from Myeongdong Cathedral)
🍲 Must-Order: Naengmyeon (Pyongyang-style cold buckwheat noodles in icy broth)
✨ Why Foreigners Love It:
- Authentic North Korean recipe – delicate noodles and refreshing, tangy broth.
- Served with sliced pear and beef for subtle sweetness.
💡 Pro Tip: Use vinegar/mustard to adjust flavor. Perfect for hot summer days!
🥢 3. Woo Lae Oak (우래옥)
📍 Location: Euljiro (near Euljiro 3-ga Station)
🍲 Must-Order: Bibim Naengmyeon (spicy mixed cold noodles) or Mul Naengmyeon (chilled broth version)
✨ Why Foreigners Love It:
- Founded in 1946 – a taste of history!
- Chewy, artisanal buckwheat noodles.
- Modern vibe meets tradition.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair with bulgogi (grilled beef) for the ultimate feast.
🌱 4. Jinju Jip (진주집)
📍 Location: Gwanghwamun (close to Gyeongbokgung Palace)
🍲 Must-Order: Kongguksu (cold noodles in creamy soy milk broth)
✨ Why Foreigners Love It:
- Vegan-friendly (broth is 100% nutty soybean).
- Topped with cucumber and ice cubes – uniquely refreshing!
💡 Pro Tip: Best post-palace-touring. Mix in sugar or salt to taste.
🥣 5. Samcheongdong Sujebi (삼청동 수제비)
📍 Location: Samcheong-dong (near Bukchon Hanok Village)
🍲 Must-Order: Sujebi (hand-torn dough flakes in anchovy-kelp broth)
✨ Why Foreigners Love It:
- Hearty, home-style comfort food.
- Broth is umami-rich with veggies and seafood.
- Rustic charm in a hanok (traditional house) setting.
💡 Pro Tip: Add kimchi for a spicy kick!
🌟 Noodle Etiquette for Beginners
- Slurp Freely: It’s polite and enhances flavor!
- Use Scissors: For naengmyeon, servers may cut noodles for easier eating.
- Side Dishes: Kimchi or radish water kimchi (mool kimchi) often accompany meals – eat between bites to cleanse your palate.
📍 Map Hack
Download Naver Maps (works best in Korea). Type restaurant names in Korean for accurate directions.
✅ Final Takeaway
Seoul’s noodle scene is a journey through textures, temperatures, and traditions. From royal recipes (kongguksu) to humble sujebi, these spots promise unforgettable slurps. Don’t just eat – immerse in the culture one bowl at a time!
Got a favorite noodle memory? Share in the comments below! 👇