Looking for an unforgettable food experience in Seoul?
Today, we’re taking you to Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Anguk — three distinct neighborhoods, each offering a legendary spot loved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re into boiling chicken soup, rich handmade noodles, or trendy bagel cafés, this list will satisfy both your appetite and your Instagram.
Let’s dig in.
1. Grandma Jin Ok-hwa’s Original Chicken Soup (진옥화할매원조닭한마리) — Dongdaemun
Located in the heart of Dakhanmari Alley near Dongdaemun, this spot is the undisputed original of the area’s famous chicken soup scene.
“Jin Ok-hwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari” translates to “Grandma Jin Ok-hwa’s Original One-Chicken Soup,” and it’s been feeding locals for decades.
You’ll be served a whole chicken in a light, boiling broth right at your table. Customize your pot with rice cakes, garlic, and green onions — and finish it off with kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) for the perfect comfort meal.
- What makes it special: Classic Seoul-style cooking where you build your own flavor
- Atmosphere: No-frills, busy, full of locals and loyal fans
- Tips: Expect a wait during dinner hours. Bring cash or check if your card is accepted.
- Great for: Sharing with friends, local food lovers
- 📍 Google Maps – Jin Ok-hwa Original Chicken Soup
2. Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자) — Myeongdong
One of the most famous noodle restaurants in Seoul, Myeongdong Kyoja has been perfecting its kalguksu (noodle soup) and mandu (dumplings) since 1966. The rich garlic-heavy broth and paper-thin dumpling wrappers make it unforgettable.
- What makes it special: The broth. The dumplings. Oh, and the kimchi is spicy and addictive.
- Atmosphere: Fast-paced but clean and efficient. Great service.
- Tips: There’s often a line during lunch. Menu is short and sweet — everything’s worth ordering.
- Great for: Solo diners, lunch between shopping sprees
- 📍 Google Maps – Myeongdong Kyoja
3. London Bagel Museum — Anguk & Jamsil
Now for something totally different: a bagel museum.
This isn’t just a café — it’s a visual experience. From its charming European bakery vibes to its perfectly chewy bagels, London Bagel Museum is a go-to for breakfast lovers, coffee fans, and aesthetic chasers.
- What makes it special: The design is stunning and the bagel varieties are wild (in a good way).
- Atmosphere: Bright, artsy, full of vintage props.
- Tips: Come early or expect a line. 1 drink + 1 food per person is the rule.
- Great for: Instagram, brunch dates, solo coffee breaks
- 📍 Google Maps – London Bagel Museum Anguk
- 📍 Google Maps – London Bagel Museum Jamsil
Final Bite
Whether you’re here for the chicken broth, handmade dumplings, or quirky bagels, these three places capture a very different slice of Seoul’s food scene. From classic Korean soul food to global café culture, they’re all worth your stop.
Craving more? Follow our food journey across Seoul — one bite at a time.