Winter in Seoul is not only a feast for the eyes with its snowy landscapes but also for the palate. As temperatures drop, Seoul’s culinary scene heats up with hearty soups, sizzling dishes, and sweet treats that offer warmth and comfort. This guide introduces 10 must-visit restaurants in Seoul where you can savor the best winter delicacies, from traditional Korean classics to modern interpretations.
1. Tosokchon Samgyetang
Warm up with a steaming bowl of samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Tosokchon. This iconic restaurant near Gyeongbokgung Palace serves a rich and flavorful broth stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, and jujubes, making it a perfect remedy for the winter chill.
2. Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari
Located in Dongdaemun, this restaurant specializes in dakhanmari (whole chicken soup). The interactive dining experience, where you cook the chicken and noodles in a communal pot, makes it ideal for a warm gathering with friends or family.
3. Ojangdong Heungnamjip
For a taste of North Korean-style cold noodles in winter, head to Ojangdong Heungnamjip. While naengmyeon is a summer favorite, the chewy noodles and savory broth offer a refreshing yet comforting option even in colder months.
4. Noryangjin Fish Market Restaurants
Seafood lovers will appreciate the freshness of winter catches at Noryangjin Fish Market. Select your fish or shellfish from the market stalls and have it cooked to perfection at the nearby restaurants. Winter specialties like snow crabs are a must-try!
5. Jinmi Pyogobap
Indulge in pyogobap, a mushroom rice dish that’s both earthy and nourishing. Jinmi Pyogobap in Jongno is famous for its simple yet satisfying flavors, offering a perfect way to recharge during your winter exploration of the city.
6. Hanwoori Jeongol
Nothing says winter comfort like a bubbling pot of jeongol (Korean hot pot). Hanwoori, located in Gangnam, serves a variety of options, including beef, seafood, and mushroom jeongol. The communal nature of this dish makes it ideal for family or group dining.
7. Gwangjang Market Food Stalls
For a casual yet authentic experience, head to Gwangjang Market. Winter favorites include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and piping hot bowls of mandu-guk (dumpling soup).
8. Sulbing Korean Dessert Cafe
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean) or a warm twist on bingsu (shaved ice) topped with seasonal ingredients like roasted chestnuts. Sulbing branches across Seoul offer a modern take on traditional winter desserts.
9. Gaeseong Mandu Koong
This restaurant in Insadong is renowned for its handcrafted mandu (dumplings). Served in soup or steamed, the plump dumplings are packed with savory fillings, offering a cozy winter meal steeped in Korean tradition.
10. Yetchon Makgeolli
Pair your winter meals with a bowl of warm makgeolli (Korean rice wine) at Yetchon Makgeolli. This charming eatery in Hongdae offers various jeon (savory pancakes) that complement the mild sweetness of the drink, perfect for a cold evening.
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