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As another year draws to a close and a new one begins, it’s time to reflect on the most memorable culinary experiences. For food enthusiasts, the question of “Where’s the best place to eat?” is always paramount. This past year, our resident food expert embarked on a delicious journey across Korea, meticulously selecting ten of the most impressive and delectable eateries. Note that high-end course meals were excluded to focus on more accessible, yet equally exceptional, dining experiences.

1. Gimcheon’s Fiery Jjamppong Specialty: Jjamppong Bokneun Jip (짬뽕 볶는 집)

Located in Gimcheon, Gyeongbuk, this renowned jjamppong restaurant is a true gem. Praised by food columnists, it’s famous for its long queues, a testament to its exceptional flavor. Beyond the standard jjamppong (7,000 KRW), their crispy Meat Fritters (Gogi Twigim, 10,000 KRW) are a must-try. The jjamppong boasts a deep, savory broth with a distinct smoky ‘bul-hyang’ (불향) that’s less spicy than it appears but full of robust flavor. A heartwarming bonus? Free rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible soup. It’s an authentic taste that will leave a lasting impression.

2. Jeonju’s 50-Year-Old Traditional Chinese Restaurant: Daebojang (대보장)

In the culinary heartland of Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, stands Daebojang, a traditional Chinese restaurant with over 50 years of history. Run by a Hokyo (overseas Chinese) family, this spot is celebrated for its Ganjjajang (dry fried black bean noodles, 7,000 KRW) and Tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork, small 18,000 KRW). The ambiance transports you back 30 years with its nostalgic decor. Their noodles are uniquely thin, allowing the savory, rich oil flavor of the jjajang sauce to cling perfectly. The Tangsuyuk features a thin, crispy coating that feels more like a “rolled dumpling” texture than typical sweet and sour pork, delivering a delightful bite.

3. Mountain Retreat for Fresh Meat: Container Box Restaurant (컨테이너박스 식당)

Tucked away in a mountainous area, this unique Container Box Restaurant, possibly near a local slaughterhouse, specializes in incredibly fresh beef dishes. While specific location details are vague, it’s known for its Somori Gukbap (Beef Head Soup, 10,000 KRW for regular, 12,000 KRW for special) and Yukssasimi (sliced raw beef, 22,000 KRW for 200g). The Yukssasimi, made from beef slaughtered the same day, offers a firm yet tender texture distinct from aged beef. The Gukbap’s broth is clean, traditional, and deeply flavorful, complemented by perfectly cooked, thinly sliced beef. A renovated interior offers a comfortable dining experience while maintaining a rustic charm.

4. Incheon’s Pyeongyang Naengmyeon Masterpiece: Pyeongyang Naengmyeon (평양냉면)

In Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, you’ll find a Pyeongyang Naengmyeon restaurant whose owner takes immense pride in their broth and noodle-making. A bowl of Pyeongyang Mul Naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles in broth) costs 10,000 KRW, with 100% buckwheat noodles (Su-myeon) at 13,000 KRW. They also offer Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake, 8,000 KRW) and Pork Pyeonyuk (sliced boiled pork, 5,000 KRW for 1 serving). The broth is a clean, profound essence of beef, lacking any artificial aftertaste, while the noodles, especially the 100% buckwheat variety, boast a surprisingly chewy texture, a result of their unique cold-kneading technique. Even the brass bowls are specially coated to prevent metallic tastes.

5. The Apex of Fermented Skate: Geummeddal Sikdang (금메달 식당)

For the adventurous palate, the Geummeddal Sikdang (Gold Medal Restaurant) offers an unparalleled Hongeo (fermented skate) experience. While the exact location isn’t provided, it’s implied to be a top-tier destination for this unique Korean delicacy. They offer various levels of fermentation, with the 7-month aged Hongeo (part of a 200,000 KRW Samhap, Jim, Tang set for 2-3 people) being an experience for connoisseurs. The intense aroma and firm, elastic texture of the skate, combined with aged kimchi and pork belly, create an unforgettable Samhap (three harmony) dish. This is not for beginners, but a must-try for those seeking the ultimate Hongeo journey.

6. Cheongju’s Unbeatable Value Chinese Cuisine: Sinjjambbong (신짬뽕)

In Yullyang-dong, Cheongju, Sinjjambbong presents an astounding “Happiness Set” for just 10,000 KRW per person (minimum 2 people). This set includes Mini Tangsuyuk, Chili Shrimp, Seafood Nurungji-tang, Jjajangmyeon or Jjamppong, and Kkotppang (steamed flower bun). The portions are generous, and the quality is exceptional for the price. The Seafood Nurungji-tang is rich and flavorful, and the Chili Shrimp features impressively large prawns. Their Jjamppong (7,000 KRW à la carte) is particularly noteworthy for its deep, spicy broth with a strong peppery kick, earning praise from our reviewer. Free rice is also available, making it an incredible value.

7. Daecheong Dam’s Nostalgic Noodle House: Old-fashioned Restaurant (옛날집)

Nestled in Munui-myeon, Chungcheongbuk-do, near the Daecheong Dam, this 54-year-old establishment (operating for 70 years in total) offers a taste of authentic Korean home cooking. Specializing in Bokkeumbap (fried rice, 7,000 KRW) and Bibim Guksu (spicy mixed noodles, 7,000 KRW), the restaurant has a retro charm reminiscent of an old schoolhouse. Their Bokkeumbap is simple, flavorful, and tastes like a homemade meal, served with delicious, well-fermented kimchi. The Bibim Guksu, made with perilla oil, is a revelation—sweet, savory, and spicy, a unique take on the popular dish. Generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry.

8. Tongyeong’s Authentic Seafood Steamed Dishes: Tongyeong Restaurant (통영 식당)

In the beautiful coastal city of Tongyeong, this restaurant (likely specializing in steamed seafood) offers a refreshing take on local cuisine. Located in a renovated traditional Korean tile-roofed house, it provides a cozy ambiance. Their signature dish, the Mun-eo Abalone Shrimp Jjim (steamed octopus, abalone, shrimp, small 40,000 KRW), is packed with fresh seafood and vibrant vegetables. The seasoning is mild, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine, eschewing the overly sweet and spicy flavors often found in tourist spots. Don’t miss their Pajeon (seafood pancake), loaded with finely chopped squid and fried to a delightful crisp. The side dishes, including a unique tomato and bean sprout salad, are also meticulously prepared and delicious.

9. Muan’s Legendary Straw-Fired Pork Belly: Duam Sikdang (두암식당)

A true institution in Mongtan-myeon, Muan-gun, Jeollanam-do, Duam Sikdang has been serving its famous Jjipbul Samgyeopsal (straw-fired pork belly) for nearly 70 years. Priced at 14,000 KRW for 200g, the pork belly is thinly sliced and imbued with an intense, authentic smoky flavor from the straw fire. The accompanying banchan (side dishes) are equally impressive, especially the “Yangpa Kimchi” (onion kimchi), which perfectly complements the rich pork. Their signature “Chilgejang” (a unique chili crab paste) and “Baengdaengi Jeot” (salted fish paste) sauces elevate the dining experience. For a complete meal, try their Gejang Bibimbap (marinated crab bibimbap, 4,000 KRW) as a delightful post-meal treat.

10. Seoul’s Historic Italian Gem: Contina (콘티나)

Located in Jongno, Euljiro, Seoul, Contina holds the prestigious title of Korea’s first Western restaurant, established in 1967. This 54-year-old establishment, once frequented by Samsung founder Lee Byung-chul, offers a step back in time. The menu features classic Italian dishes like Cantina Pasta (19,000 KRW), Cream Pasta (19,000 KRW), and Lasagna (22,000 KRW). The Onion Soup (7,000 KRW) is a rich, savory broth topped with melted cheese, offering a distinctly Korean-Western fusion feel. The Cream Pasta is robust, with a strong cheese flavor, while the Cantina Pasta, a seafood pasta, boasts a clear, light broth brimming with fresh clams. The historic ambiance, complete with original furniture and decor, adds to the unique charm.

From the fiery jjamppong of Gimcheon to the historic Italian flavors of Seoul, this culinary tour offers a diverse range of tastes and traditions. Each restaurant, with its unique story and exceptional dishes, promises a memorable experience for any food lover. So, pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through Korea’s finest eateries!