Discover Seogwipo’s Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Restaurants Recommended by Locals in Jeju

Jeju Island, a paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is also a treasure trove of culinary delights. While Jeju City offers a more urban vibe, Seogwipo truly embodies the essence of Jeju, with its breathtaking landscapes and authentic local experiences. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to Seogwipo, uncovering hidden 맛집 (delicious restaurants) that even locals swear by. Get ready to explore beyond the tourist traps and dive into the real flavors of Jeju!

희신이네 (Huisininae): A Unique Culinary Adventure with Jeju-Style Milmyeon and Chicken Gganpunggi

Our first stop is 희신이네 (Huisininae), a restaurant that redefines the meaning of culinary fusion in Jeju. Forget everything you know about typical Milmyeon – at Huisininae, you’ll experience a Jeju-style cold Milmyeon that’s unlike anything else. Developed by the chef, who has a background in Chinese cuisine, this Milmyeon boasts a refreshing and savory broth that perfectly complements the chewy noodles and tender chicken slices.

Must-Try Dishes at 희신이네

• 닭고기 냉밀면 (Chicken Cold Milmyeon): This is the star of the show! Imagine a refreshing cold noodle soup with a unique broth, topped with flavorful chicken. It’s not your typical Busan-style Milmyeon; it’s a Jeju original!
• 닭깐풍기 (Chicken Gganpunggi): Don’t miss out on their Chicken Gganpunggi, a crispy and spicy chicken dish that pairs surprisingly well with the Milmyeon. It’s so delicious, it might just rival your favorite Korean fried chicken!

What makes 희신이네 even more special is the generous Jeju hospitality. You might be greeted with complimentary 천혜향 (Cheonhyehyang, a type of tangerine) and sweet potato 맛탕 (Mattang, candied sweet potato). With its daughter’s name proudly displayed, 희신이네 is a testament to the owner’s passion and dedication to serving exceptional food. It’s no wonder 또간집 (Ddoganjip), a popular Korean food review show, crowned 희신이네 as the top restaurant in Seogwipo!

희신이네 Information:

• Location: Seogwipo, Jeju Island, South Korea
• General Rating: Highly Recommended by Locals and Food Critics
• Must-Try: 닭고기 냉밀면 (Chicken Cold Milmyeon), 닭깐풍기 (Chicken Gganpunggi)

표선칼국수 (Pyoseon Kalguksu): Soul-Warming Gomphina Kalguksu for the Perfect Jeju Meal

Next on our Seogwipo 맛집 tour is 표선칼국수 (Pyoseon Kalguksu), located a bit further out in the Pyoseon area. If you’re seeking a deeply comforting and flavorful meal, this is your destination. Their specialty is 전복보말칼국수 (Abalone and Gomphina Kalguksu), a noodle soup featuring Gomphina (보말), a type of sea snail abundant in Jeju. This isn’t your average seafood noodle soup; it’s a rich, savory, and almost medicinal broth that will revitalize your senses.

Why 표선칼국수 is a Must-Visit

• 전복보말칼국수 (Abalone and Gomphina Kalguksu): This dish is the epitome of Jeju comfort food. The broth is intensely flavorful, reminiscent of a rich bone broth, but from the sea. The Gomphina adds a unique depth that’s even better than abalone in some opinions!
• Unlimited Rice for Porridge: After enjoying the noodles, don’t forget to ask for rice to make 죽 (porridge) in the leftover broth. This is the ultimate way to savor every last drop of the incredible soup.

Locals rave about 표선칼국수, especially as a 해장 (hangover cure) meal. The owner’s generous spirit shines through in the quality of ingredients and the soul-warming taste of the Kalguksu. Prepare for a culinary experience that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Be warned, it’s so good, you might forget the Milmyeon you had just an hour before!

표선칼국수 Information:

• Location: Pyoseon, Seogwipo, Jeju Island, South Korea
• General Rating: Highly Recommended by Locals for Kalguksu
• Must-Try: 전복보말칼국수 (Abalone and Gomphina Kalguksu)

Bonus Recommendation: 표선우동가게 (Pyoseon Udong Gage)

While not featured as prominently as the other two, 표선우동가게 (Pyoseon Udong Gage) deserves a mention. Recommended by an 11-year-old local foodie, this unassuming udon restaurant surprisingly impresses with its seemingly simple dishes like 우삼겹 덮밥 (Usamgyeop Deopbap), 가케우동 (Kake Udon), and 돈가스 (Donkatsu). Don’t underestimate it – even common dishes can reach new heights of flavor in Jeju!

Seogwipo in Jeju is truly a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Venture beyond the usual tourist spots, and you’ll be rewarded with authentic flavors and heartwarming experiences at these local gems. So, on your next trip to Jeju, be sure to add 희신이네 and 표선칼국수 (and maybe 표선우동가게!) to your must-visit list. Your taste buds will thank you!