Discovering the Best Restaurants in Hongdae

Are you planning a trip to Hongdae and looking for the best restaurants to dine in? Look no further! Hongdae is a vibrant neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, known for its lively nightlife, shopping, and fantastic food. From trendy cafes to tasty Korean BBQ joints, Hongdae has an array of dining options for every palate and budget. In this article, we’ve scoured the neighborhood and put together a list of the best restaurants you must try during your visit to Hongdae.

The Best Korean BBQ 🍖

Nothing beats the sizzle of meat on hot coals, and Korean BBQ is a must-try when in Hongdae.

Ssamdak Korean BBQ

Ssamdak Korean BBQ is the best spot for authentic Korean BBQ in Hongdae. The restaurant offers premium beef cuts, pork belly, marinated meats, and a variety of side dishes. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Ssamdak Korean BBQ is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a special celebration.

Maple Tree House

For a fancy Korean BBQ experience, head to Maple Tree House. The restaurant boasts high-quality meats, excellent service, and a stylish setting. The menu includes various beef cuts, seafood, and vegetarian options. The prices are on the high side, but the food is well worth it.

The Best Korean Fried Chicken 🍗

Crunchy, juicy, and delicious, Korean fried chicken (KFC) is a popular dish in Hongdae. Here are two places where you can get the best KFC in town.

Two Two Chicken

Two Two Chicken serves up some of the best Korean fried chicken in Hongdae. The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the seasoning is on point. The menu also offers a variety of flavors, including soy garlic, spicy, and crispy. The restaurant has a modern and sleek decor, making it a perfect spot for a date or a group hangout.

Hanchu Fried Chicken

For an authentic KFC experience, visit Hanchu Fried Chicken. The restaurant has been around for over 20 years and is one of the most popular spots in Hongdae. The chicken is made fresh to order and is served piping hot. The menu includes various flavors, including sweet and spicy, soy garlic, and plain. Hanchu Fried Chicken is a no-frills establishment that focuses on food quality and taste.

The Best Cafe ☕️

Aside from the food, Hongdae is also home to numerous cafes that offer unique and Instagram-worthy experiences. Here are two cafes you can’t miss when in Hongdae.

Cafe Oum

Cafe Oum is a cozy and charming cafe that serves up delicious drinks and desserts. The cafe’s interior is adorned with vintage decor, making it a perfect spot for a chill afternoon. The menu includes various coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

Style Nanda Pink Cafe

If you’re looking for a fun and trendy cafe experience, head to Style Nanda Pink Cafe. The cafe is famous for its pink decor, neon lights, and photogenic backdrop. The menu includes various drinks and desserts, including a cotton candy latte and a strawberry smoothie bowl. The prices are on the high side, but the experience is worth it.

The Best Street Food 🍢

Hongdae is known for its street food scene, and you can find various street food vendors scattered throughout the neighborhood. Here are two must-try street food items you can find in Hongdae.

Egg Bread

Egg bread is a popular street food item in Hongdae. The bread is made by pouring a pancake-like batter into a mold and adding an egg inside before cooking. The result is a fluffy and savory treat that is perfect for snacking on the go. You can find egg bread vendors all over Hongdae, but the ones near the entrance of Hongik University are the most famous.

Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is a spicy rice cake dish that is a staple in Korean cuisine. You can find various tteokbokki vendors in Hongdae, and each has their own take on the dish. Some vendors add seafood or cheese to the tteokbokki, while others serve it with ramen noodles. The dish is affordable and filling, making it a perfect snack for exploring Hongdae.

The Best Korean Desserts 🍦

Last but not least, no visit to Korea is complete without trying some of their delicious desserts. Here are two places where you can indulge in some sweet treats in Hongdae.

Cafe Yeonnam-dong 223-14

Cafe Yeonnam-dong 223-14 is famous for its unique decor and delicious desserts. The cafe’s interior is designed to look like a 2D drawing, making it a perfect spot for Instagram photos. The menu includes various desserts, including a rainbow cake, a sweet potato latte, and a macaron tower. The prices are on the high side, but the experience is worth it.

Sulbing

Sulbing is a popular dessert chain in Korea that specializes in bingsu, a shaved ice dessert. The chain has various locations in Hongdae, and each offers a different flavor of bingsu. Some popular flavors include green tea, mango, and strawberry. The portions are generous, making it a perfect dessert to share with friends or family.

FAQ

1. Are the restaurants in Hongdae expensive?

It depends on the restaurant. There are various dining options in Hongdae that cater to different budgets.

2. Are the restaurants in Hongdae vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, many restaurants in Hongdae offer vegetarian or vegan options. However, it’s always best to check the menu beforehand.

3. Do I need to make a reservation at the restaurants in Hongdae?

It’s always best to make a reservation, especially during peak hours. However, some restaurants allow walk-ins.

4. Can I pay with credit card at the restaurants in Hongdae?

Most restaurants in Hongdae accept credit card payments. However, some small establishments may only accept cash.

5. Do I need to tip at the restaurants in Hongdae?

No, tipping is not a common practice in Korea.

6. What is the best time to visit Hongdae?

Hongdae is a lively neighborhood and is bustling day and night. However, if you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays or during non-peak hours.

7. Is it safe to walk around Hongdae at night?

Yes, Hongdae is generally safe at night. However, it’s always best to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Conclusion

Hongdae is a foodie’s paradise, and we’ve only scratched the surface of the delicious dining options in the neighborhood. Whether you’re craving Korean BBQ, KFC, or Korean desserts, Hongdae has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, strap on your walking shoes, and explore the culinary delights of Hongdae.

But before you go, we want to remind you to practice responsible tourism. Be respectful of the locals and their customs, and leave the restaurants and streets clean after your visit. Happy eating!