1. Why Autumn is the Best Season for Dining in Korea
Autumn in Korea, often referred to as “the season of abundance,” is a time when many of the country's most prized ingredients are harvested. Seasonal ingredients such as mushrooms, chestnuts, persimmons, and apples become central to many dishes, and seafood like gizzard shad and crabs are at their peak flavor. The crisp air and vibrant colors of fall create a perfect backdrop for enjoying hearty, comforting meals that warm both the body and soul.
Moreover, Korean cuisine emphasizes eating seasonally, making autumn a period where many restaurants offer limited-time dishes that showcase the freshest ingredients. For both locals and travelers, this is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in the rich, diverse flavors of Korean autumn cooking, from simple street food to gourmet dishes.
2. Top Seasonal Dishes to Try During Autumn in Korea
Fall is synonymous with certain seasonal foods that are only available during this time of year. Here are some of the must-try dishes that capture the essence of Korea’s autumn flavors:
Gizzard Shad (Jeoneo): A small, oily fish that is best enjoyed grilled or served raw as sashimi. Gizzard shad is a beloved autumn delicacy, especially along the west coast of Korea. The fish is rich and flavorful during the fall, and many restaurants serve it with traditional condiments like ssamjang (fermented soybean paste) and fresh vegetables.
Soy Sauce Marinated Crab (Ganjang Gejang): While enjoyed year-round, fall is the best time to savor this dish, as crabs are at their fullest and sweetest. Ganjang gejang consists of fresh raw crabs marinated in soy sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors.
Chestnut Dishes: Chestnuts are harvested in the autumn and are commonly found in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether roasted as a street snack, added to rice dishes like bam bap, or used in traditional Korean desserts, chestnuts provide a sweet, earthy flavor that complements many autumn meals.
Persimmon Desserts: Persimmons are another iconic autumn fruit in Korea, available in both fresh and dried forms. They are used in desserts like gotgam tteok (persimmon rice cake) or eaten simply as a refreshing snack after a hearty meal.
Korean BBQ: Though available year-round, autumn’s cooler temperatures make it the perfect time to gather around a sizzling Korean BBQ grill. Fall brings an abundance of marinated meats like galbi (short ribs) and samgyeopsal (pork belly), often paired with seasonal banchan (side dishes) featuring ingredients like mushrooms and pickled vegetables.
3. Best Autumn Restaurant Experiences in Korea
Whether you’re a food lover looking for a gourmet meal or someone who enjoys simple, home-style cooking, Korea’s autumn restaurant scene has something for everyone. Here are some of the best types of restaurant experiences to try during fall:
Countryside Hanok Restaurants: For a truly authentic autumn dining experience, head to one of Korea’s hanok (traditional Korean house) restaurants located in the countryside. These restaurants often serve multi-course meals called hansik that feature seasonal ingredients. Enjoying an autumn meal in a hanok, surrounded by fall foliage, creates an unforgettable, immersive experience.
Seafood Restaurants by the Coast: Korea’s coasts are famous for their seafood, and autumn is the best time to visit seafood restaurants for freshly caught gizzard shad, crabs, and oysters. Head to regions like Incheon, Mokpo, or Busan to enjoy seasonal seafood feasts while gazing out at the sea.
Temple Food: Autumn is a reflective season, and temple food offers a serene, mindful dining experience. Buddhist temples throughout Korea serve vegetarian meals that focus on fresh, seasonal vegetables. Restaurants that specialize in temple food, like Balwoo Gongyang in Seoul, offer exquisite autumn dishes such as mushroom hot pot and lotus root salads.
Street Food Markets: For a casual and affordable dining option, visit Korea’s vibrant street food markets, where autumn street snacks are abundant. Try freshly roasted chestnuts, hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts), and warm odeng (fish cake skewers) to enjoy the flavors of fall while walking through the market stalls.
4. Must-Visit Autumn Restaurants in Korea
Now that we’ve covered the types of dining experiences available, let’s highlight some of the top restaurants you should visit in Korea during autumn:
Baedari Restaurant, Incheon: Famous for its grilled gizzard shad, this traditional restaurant located near Incheon’s coast is a must-visit for seafood lovers during the autumn season. The restaurant’s signature dish is grilled to perfection and served with various side dishes that complement the rich, oily flavor of the fish.
Tosokchon, Seoul: Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Tosokchon is known for its samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). While this dish is often associated with summer, its hearty and warming qualities make it perfect for autumn. The soup is made with a whole chicken stuffed with rice, jujubes, and ginseng, making it both nourishing and flavorful.
Jeonju Hanok Village: While Jeonju is known for its bibimbap (mixed rice dish), the autumn months also bring out the best in its street food scene. Try the region’s famous choco pie and moju, a traditional Korean liquor made from fermented grains and medicinal herbs, while wandering through the picturesque village.
Gaesong House, Gyeongju: This restaurant, located in the historical city of Gyeongju, serves traditional Korean set meals that change with the seasons. In autumn, their menu features dishes like mushroom hot pot and various types of fermented vegetables, providing a perfect balance of flavors for the cooler weather.
Gangchon Makguksu, Chuncheon: For those who enjoy noodles, visit this local favorite in Chuncheon, known for its makguksu (buckwheat noodles) and dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). The restaurant is especially popular during the autumn months, as diners can enjoy the surrounding fall foliage while feasting on these hearty dishes.
5. Autumn Dining Tips for Travelers
To make the most of your autumn dining experience in Korea, keep the following tips in mind:
Book in Advance: Popular autumn restaurants, especially those in scenic locations, can get fully booked during the peak travel season. Make reservations ahead of time to secure a spot.
Check Seasonal Menus: Many restaurants in Korea offer special autumn menus that feature seasonal ingredients. Ask your server about any seasonal specialties to ensure you’re tasting the freshest and most unique dishes of the season.
Pair Your Meal with Makgeolli: Korea’s traditional rice wine, makgeolli, pairs perfectly with autumn dishes like Korean BBQ, seafood, and savory pancakes. Some regions even offer flavored makgeolli made from seasonal fruits like persimmons and apples, which enhance the autumn dining experience.
Comments
Post a Comment