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Yeosu Foodie Adventure: Uncovering Hidden Gems & Must-Eat Local Restaurants

Welcome to Yeosu, a city brimming with romance and, more importantly for us food lovers, incredible culinary experiences! After a long 6-hour journey, even longer than a flight to Thailand, I arrived in Yeosu determined to find the most authentic and delicious local spots. And let me tell you, Yeosu did not disappoint!

Discovering True Local Flavors in Yeosu

Yeosu, known for its beautiful night sea, romantic atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, has so much to offer. From fresh seafood to unique local dishes, I was on a mission to explore the hidden gems beyond the typical tourist traps. Thanks to the helpful local at the tourist information center, I was guided to some truly remarkable restaurants that are loved by locals.

First Stop: Baekgeum Sikdang – A 40-Year-Old Local Favorite

My first stop was Baekgeum Sikdang (백금식당), a restaurant boasting a 40-year history in Yeosu. Stepping inside felt like entering a time capsule, with its classic interior reminiscent of older Korean establishments. This place is clearly a local favorite, filled with people of all ages enjoying a hearty meal.

Unbelievable 백반 (Baekban) Set Meal

I ordered the 백반 (Baekban – set meal), and I was absolutely blown away by the incredible spread for just 12,000 won. The set meal was not just any 백반; it included:

• Grilled Fish (생선구이): Featuring high-quality 참돔 (Red Sea Bream)! The fish was incredibly fresh, perfectly grilled, and seasoned. Honestly, it was far superior to any grilled fish I’ve had at specialized fish restaurants, even those famous in Jeju Island.
• Soy Sauce Crab (간장게장): Delicious 돌게장 (small crab) marinated in soy sauce. Unlike typical 돌게장 that can be overly salty, this one was savory and flavorful, with a delightful 고소한 (nutty/savory) taste. The 양념 (sauce) was so good, it was perfect to mix with rice!
• Seodae Muchim (서대회무침): A local specialty, 서대 (Seodae fish) prepared as a spicy and sweet salad. The texture was unique, almost like dried pollack, perfectly absorbing the flavorful 양념. This was a truly special dish unique to Yeosu.
• Assorted Side Dishes: Including 된장찌개 (soybean paste stew), 여수 갓김치 (Mustard Leaf Kimchi – a Yeosu specialty), and other delicious 반찬 (side dishes), creating a truly abundant and satisfying meal.

The value and quality at Baekgeum Sikdang are simply unbeatable. I was genuinely shocked to find 참돔 in a 12,000 won 백반 set. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Yeosu local cuisine at its finest.

Second Stop: Myeongdong Gejang – Crab Heaven

Next, I ventured to Myeongdong Gejang (명동 게장), located in the famous 게장 거리 (Crab Street) of Yeosu. This place is on a grand scale, almost like a corporate entity dedicated to 게장! They even have their own branded 물티슈 (wet wipes)! Myeongdong Gejang is renowned for its 게장, and after experiencing it myself, I can see why.

Unlimited Refills of Delicious 게장!

The set menu at Myeongdong Gejang is a feast for crab lovers. It included:

• Soy Sauce Crab (간장게장) & Spicy Marinated Crab (양념게장): Both 간장게장 and 양념게장 were incredibly flavorful and, most importantly, refillable up to three times! The 돌게장 was surprisingly meaty for its size, and the 양념 (sauce) on both types was simply divine – perfectly balanced 단짠단짠 (sweet and salty).
• Soy Sauce Shrimp (새우장), Cockle (꼬막), Sea Pineapple Jeotgal (멍게젓갈), & more: The set was completed with a variety of other delicious seafood and side dishes, making it an incredibly generous and satisfying meal.

The quality of the 게장, especially considering the refill option, is outstanding. It’s no wonder Myeongdong Gejang is so popular. If you are a crab enthusiast, Myeongdong Gejang in Yeosu is your ultimate destination!

Yeosu – A Foodie Destination Worth the Journey

My Yeosu food adventure, though only featuring two main restaurants in this post, was truly unforgettable. From the incredible value and quality at Baekgeum Sikdang to the crab heaven at Myeongdong Gejang, Yeosu has proven itself to be a top-tier foodie destination. The long journey was absolutely worth it, and I can’t wait to explore more culinary delights in this romantic city. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, make sure to include Yeosu on your itinerary for an authentic and delicious local food experience!

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