Best Places to Eat in Busan Korea

Discovering the Flavors of Busan: A Guide to the Best Eats

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a haven for foodies. From spicy seafood stews to crispy fried chicken, Busan offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Busan, with a focus on popular street food options.

Street Food Heaven: Bupyeong Market

Located in the heart of Busan, Bupyeong Market is a must-visit destination for street food enthusiasts. This bustling market offers a variety of stalls serving everything from classic Korean dishes to innovative fusion eats.

  • Hotteok: Sweet pancakes filled with honey, cinnamon, and sugar, hotteok is a popular winter treat in Busan. Try it at Hotteok Alley, a dedicated section within Bupyeong Market.
  • Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes in a sweet and savory sauce, tteokbokki is a Korean street food staple. Find it at various stalls throughout the market.

Seafood Galore: Jagalchi Fish Market

As one of Korea’s largest seafood markets, Jagalchi Fish Market offers an unparalleled dining experience. Savor the freshest catches of the day at one of the many restaurants or food stalls.

  • Raw Skate: A Busan specialty, raw skate is a delicacy not to be missed. Try it with a dash of sesame oil and salt at Jagalchi Raw Skate Alley.
  • Grilled Clams: Freshly grilled clams are a popular snack among locals. Enjoy them with a cold beer at one of the many food stalls.

Nighttime Eats: Seomyeon Food Street

As the sun sets, Seomyeon Food Street transforms into a vibrant night market. This bustling street is lined with eateries serving everything from Korean comfort food to international cuisine.

  • Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken is a staple in Busan’s nightlife scene. Try it at Two-Two Fried Chicken, a popular spot among locals.
  • Bungeo-ppang: A sweet, fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste, bungeo-ppang is a beloved Korean dessert. Find it at various stalls along Seomyeon Food Street.

Other Must-Try Eats

  • Busan-style Jjimdak: A flavorful, slow-cooked chicken dish served in a savory soy sauce-based broth. Try it at Jjimdak Alley, located near Busan Station.
  • Mandu: Korean dumplings filled with meat, kimchi, or tofu. Enjoy them steamed or fried at various restaurants throughout the city.

Tips and Tricks

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular street food stalls.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new foods and flavors – that’s what traveling is all about!
  • Bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit or debit cards.
  • Learn some basic Korean phrases, such as “hello” (annyeonghaseyo) and “thank you” (gamsahamnida), to show respect for the culture.

With this guide, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Busan. From spicy street food to fresh seafood, this vibrant city has something to offer every palate. Happy eating!