Discover Tongyeong’s Culinary Delights: A Winter Foodie Adventure in South Korea

통영, a beautiful coastal city in South Korea, is not just a scenic winter travel destination, but also a haven for food lovers. Forget the usual tourist traps; Tongyeong is where culinary experts and locals gather for authentic and unforgettable dining experiences. This blog post will guide you through some must-visit restaurants in Tongyeong, offering a taste of local favorites beyond the typical tourist fare.

Dumegol Budae Jjigae: A Taste of Local Soul Food

Our first stop is Dumegol Budae Jjigae & Dakgalbi (두메골 부대찌개 닭갈비), a restaurant that proves Tongyeong offers more than just seafood. While many associate Tongyeong with fresh oysters and seafood, locals often crave the comforting and hearty flavors of Budae Jjigae, a Korean stew with sausage, ham, kimchi, and more.

Dumegol Budae Jjigae stands out for its homemade kimchi, prepared with dedication over a week-long kimchi-making process. This dedication to quality ingredients results in a rich and flavorful stew that has been praised as a true “또간집” (togan-jip), a place you’ll want to visit again and again. The broth is described as deep and flavorful, thanks to a rich bone broth base combined with the perfectly fermented kimchi.

Must-Try Menu: Budae Jeon골 (Budae Jjigae Hot Pot) with sausage and ramen noodles, paired with Gyeranmari (rolled omelet).

Why locals love it: The homemade kimchi and deeply flavorful broth make Dumegol Budae Jjigae a comforting and satisfying meal, especially during the cold winter months. It’s a testament to Tongyeong’s diverse culinary scene, proving that local favorites extend beyond seafood.

Bapsangmadang: Exquisite Braised Cutlassfish (Galchi Jorim)

Next, we venture to Bapsangmadang (밥상마당), a restaurant specializing in Galchi Jorim (갈치조림), braised cutlassfish. While Jeju Island might be more commonly associated with Galchi Jorim, Bapsangmadang in Tongyeong offers a local interpretation that is equally, if not more, impressive.

The Galchi Jorim at Bapsangmadang is praised for its rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy sauce, perfectly complementing the tender cutlassfish. The sauce is designed to be enjoyed with rice, and the fresh, local ingredients enhance the overall dining experience. The side dishes, featuring locally sourced vegetables, including seasoned spinach and, of course, kimchi, further highlight the freshness of Tongyeong’s produce.

Must-Try Menu: Galchi Jorim (Braised Cutlassfish) – order for at least 2 people.

Why locals love it: Bapsangmadang provides a comforting and flavorful Galchi Jorim experience that rivals even the best restaurants in Jeju. The freshness of the ingredients and the perfectly balanced sauce make it a true gem in Tongyeong.

Gangbyeon Dachi: A Seafood Feast Like No Other

Finally, for an authentic Tongyeong seafood experience, we head to Gangbyeon Dachi (강변다찌), located near the Jungang Market. Dachi is a unique dining style in Tongyeong where you pay a fixed price per person and receive a table full of dishes along with alcoholic beverages. With each additional drink order, new and different dishes are continuously served, creating an endless seafood feast.

Gangbyeon Dachi is highly recommended for its incredibly fresh and diverse seafood offerings. From fresh oysters and sea squirt to various types of sashimi, boiled snails, and even grilled fish, the array of dishes is astonishing. The quality and freshness of the seafood are paramount, and Gangbyeon Dachi delivers an exceptional experience. The constant flow of new dishes with each drink ensures a dynamic and exciting dining adventure.

Must-Try Menu: Dachi Course (order for at least 2 people), enjoy with local Soju and beer.

Why locals love it: Gangbyeon Dachi offers an unparalleled seafood dining experience with incredibly fresh ingredients and a constantly evolving menu. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and enjoying the abundant seafood that Tongyeong is famous for.

Conclusion: Your Tongyeong Food Adventure Awaits

Tongyeong is truly a culinary paradise that goes beyond the usual tourist expectations. From comforting Budae Jjigae and flavorful Galchi Jorim to the extravagant seafood feast at Gangbyeon Dachi, Tongyeong promises a diverse and unforgettable foodie adventure. So, pack your bags, prepare your appetite, and get ready to explore the delicious side of Tongyeong this winter!