Americans’ Top 10 Favorite Korean Foods

We have noticed our customers are looking to experience all of Korea and not just the clinics. No wonder since more and more of our feeds are filled with sizzling barbecue and bubbling spicy stews.

But what exactly are the dishes leading the charge? Whether you are looking for popular Korean food to try at home or planning a trip to Korea, this guide breaks down the top 15 dishes and the best places to eat in Seoul for an authentic experience.

1. Korean Fried Chicken (Chikin)

Unlike American style, it’s double-fried to remove fat, leaving a crunchy shell that holds up perfectly under sweet and spicy glazes.

We recommend taking your chicken Jensen Huang style and enjoying it with a nice cold draft beer. We call this combination Chimaek - Chicken and Maekju (beer).

Some popular franchises for Korean fried chicken include: Kyochon, BBQ, Kkanbu, and BHC. These can be found all over Seoul and should definitely be enjoyed during your trip here.

2. Korean Barbecue (Samgyeopsal & Galbi)

K-BBQ is the ultimate social dining experience. Whether it’s thick-cut pork belly (Samgyeopsal) or marinated short ribs (Galbi), it’s all about the charcoal grill and the "ssam" (lettuce wrap).

Usually served with a variety of sides, we recommend adding both Korean steamed eggs (Kaeran-jjim) and soypaste stew (Doenjang jjigae).

One of the most popular branches in Korea is Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi. An all you can eat KBBQ restaurant. Pro tip is to try putting one of their buns on the grill and making a “mini galbi burger” if the lettuce wraps get too boring.

If you’re looking for some more local spots, you can head to Jongno 3-ga’s “Meat Alley” just off the station. I recommend checking out Jongsamyook if the weather is good.

3. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl)

The ultimate healthy "power bowl." It features five colors of vegetables representing different elements of health, topped with a fried egg and spicy gochujang.

Pro tip is to seek out different variants of Bibimbap. I personally love Dolsot bibimbap which is served in a hot stone pot so the rice gets crispy.

Remember to mix everything well before eating! Try Jeonju Yuhalmeoni Bibimbap in Central Seoul.

4. Bulgogi (Marinated Sliced Beef)

Thin, tender slices of beef marinated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. Because it uses pear juice as a natural tenderizer, it’s incredibly soft and kid-friendly.

Woo Lae Oak has been around since since 1946 and is a legendary restaurant in Seoul. If you decide to visit here, you may try their cold noodles (naengmyeon). A great choice in the hot Korean summer.

5. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)

Made from sweet potato starch, these bouncy, translucent noodles are naturally gluten-free. They are tossed with colorful veggies and toasted sesame oil.

Some restaurants serve this on the side as a banchan but it has become rare nowadays. So, I recommend trying it if you’re heading to one of the many food markets in Seoul - such as Gwangjang Market.

6. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

If you have watched any Korean drama you may have noticed this classic night food. The king of Korean street food can be found at food markets or specialized restaurants. These chewy rice cakes are simmered in a thick, fiery red sauce. Usually, you can get some deep fried foods on the side (twigim). Try dipping them in the red sauce - it’s delicious.

Dongdaemun Yupdduk is one of the leading tteokbokki chains in Seoul. The restaurant originated from the Dongdaemun area, however, it can now be enjoyed all over Seoul.

7. Gimbap (Seaweed Rice Rolls)

The perfect "on-the-go" meal. While it looks like sushi, the rice is seasoned with sesame oil rather than vinegar, and the fillings (like bulgogi or tuna) are usually cooked.

The affordable price point and variety of fillings make it an appealing dining option for families, students, or anyone who needs a quick meal on the go. A pro tip is to order either Tteokbokki or a ramen on the side to dip the gimbap into.

One of the familiar favorites in Seoul is Gimgane. While famous for their gimbap rolls made to order, they also offer a wide variety of Korean comfort foods. It is a great place to grab lunch if you’re unsure what to eat.

8. Sundubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)

Koreans love their stews piping hot, ideally served still bubbling in its bowl. Sundubu Jjigae is no exception from this. A red broth with soft tofu, and an egg (sometimes a little meat), soft tofu stew is perfect on a cold day to heat you up.

Don’t let the red colour trick you into thinking it’s a super spicy dish. Sundubu is better categorised as hearty and warm. If you come to Korea in the colder months, I recommend warming yourself at Jaedong Sundubu near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

9. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

I bet if you ask any Korean person what their favourite comfort food is, seven out of ten would say kimchi jjigae. Whether homecooked or eaten outside, it will give anyone a feeling of home. The savory aged kimchi creates a tangy broth that partners well with the chunks of pork belly.

If you haven’t had a chance to try it, you must have it. I’m sure you’ll understand why it’s a staple in many Korean households. I recommend Omori Jjigae in Jamsil. They age their kimchi for longer to give the broth a deep flavour. It might be the closest thing to homecooked.

10. Budae Jjigae (Army Stew)

Budae jjigae holds a special historical value in Korea. After the Korean war, food was scarce. Army stew or Budae jjigae originated from the surplus or discarded foods from the American army bases. It combines American staples like spam and sausages with kimchi and ramen.

Budae jjigae is often served in large skillet in the middle of the table and is meant to be shared. It is a delicious fusion of Korea and US. It can be found all over Seoul. We recommend giving Nolboo Budae Jjigae in the Sinchon university district a visit if you come by.

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