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Discover Jeju’s Hidden Culinary Gems: A Local’s Guide to Must-Visit Restaurants in Jeju City

Jeju Island, known for its stunning natural beauty, is also a treasure trove of delicious local cuisine. If you’re tired of tourist traps and crave authentic flavors, look no further! This blog post dives into Jeju City’s best-kept culinary secrets, inspired by the popular Korean show “또간집” (Restaurant to Revisit), where hosts explore local favorites that are worth going back to again and again.

명물식당 (Myeongmul Sikdang): Authentic Tilefish Stew Experience

Our Jeju food adventure begins at 명물식당 (Myeongmul Sikdang), a 50-year-old local gem recommended by a taxi driver – always a reliable source for the best eats! This restaurant specializes in 쥐치조림 (Tilefish Stew), a dish that might not be on every tourist’s radar, but is a true Jeju delicacy. As described in the show, the stew is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, offering a taste of authentic Jeju home-style cooking. Don’t expect fancy décor; 명물식당 is all about the food, providing a genuine local dining experience.

다담 (Dadam): Hearty Korean Set Meal at a Haenyeo’s Favorite

Next up is 다담 (Dadam), a restaurant beloved by Jeju’s “Haenyeo” (female divers) – another excellent indicator of local authenticity. 다담 is like stepping into a warm and welcoming 가정집 (family home). They are famous for their 푸짐한 (generous) Korean set meals, particularly the 연잎정식 (Lotus Leaf Set Meal). This includes 연잎밥 (Lotus Leaf Rice), fragrant and packed with healthy grains, 떡갈비 (Tteokgalbi – Grilled Short Rib Patties), juicy and flavorful, and 전복 (Abalone), fresh and cooked to perfection. The array of side dishes (반찬) is equally impressive, making it feel like a celebratory 생일상 (birthday feast). It’s a perfect place to experience a traditional and comforting Korean meal in Jeju.

신해바라기 (Shin Haebaragi): The Ultimate Local Favorite – Spicy Soft Tofu Stew

Finally, we arrive at 신해바라기 (Shin Haebaragi), the ultimate “또간집” pick in Jeju City! Despite its name, 해바라기 분식 (Haebaragi Bunsik – Sunflower Snack Bar), this place doesn’t serve typical 분식 (snacks). Their star dish is 순두부찌개 (Sundubu Jjigae – Soft Tofu Stew), but not just any Sundubu Jjigae. This is a uniquely Jeju style, featuring a rich, thick, and intensely flavored stew with firm, almost meat-like 순두부 (soft tofu). It’s described as having a “자극의 끝판왕 맛” (the ultimate stimulating taste), thanks to generous amounts of 고춧가루 (chili powder) and other spices. Locals are obsessed with its addictive flavor, often returning for an “앵콜” (encore) meal before even leaving Jeju. Don’t miss the chance to try this truly special and unforgettable 순두부찌개.

Other Mentioned Restaurants for Future Visits

While our top recommendations are 명물식당, 다담, and 신해바라기, the show also hinted at other promising local spots for future culinary explorations:

• 불닭공장 (Buldak Gongjang): For those who love spicy food, this local chain (less than 5 branches) is known for its 매운 닭날개 (spicy chicken wings), a long-time favorite of locals.
• 객주리조림 (Gaekjuri Jorim): If you’re a fan of 조림 (stew), especially 우럭조림 (Rockfish Stew), this place is highly recommended by locals and claims to be Jeju’s No. 1 쥐치조림 (Tilefish Stew) restaurant.

Location Information

All restaurants mentioned are located in Jeju City, Jeju Island, South Korea.

General Rating

Based on the “또간집” show, all these restaurants are highly recommended by locals for their authentic taste, quality, and value.

Ready to ditch the tourist traps and experience the real flavors of Jeju City? Add these must-visit restaurants to your itinerary and prepare for a delicious culinary adventure!

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