Busan, a bustling city in South Korea, is a paradise for food lovers. With its mix of traditional Korean dishes and unique seafood specialties, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re wandering through vibrant markets or dining in top-notch restaurants, the flavors of Busan are sure to impress. This guide will take you through some of the best places to eat and the must-try street foods in Busan.
Key Takeaways
- Jagalchi Market is a must-visit for fresh seafood lovers.
- Anga Sutbul-gui offers a fantastic Korean BBQ experience.
- La Bella Cita is perfect for those craving Italian cuisine in Busan.
- Dwaeji Gukbap, a pork soup with rice, is a local favorite you shouldn’t miss.
- Don’t leave Busan without trying its famous street foods like Busan-style fish cake.
Jagalchi Market
Jagalchi Market is the largest seafood market in South Korea, located in the bustling port area of Jung-Gu, Busan. Here, you can find a wide variety of seafood, including fish, squid, octopus, shrimp, shellfish, sea snails, and crab. It’s a seafood lover’s paradise!
One of the unique features of Jagalchi Market is that you can buy live seafood and have it prepared and cooked at the restaurants upstairs. This means you get to enjoy the freshest meal possible. The market is open daily, making it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists.
The seafood here is incredibly fresh, but be prepared for prices that can be a bit steep.
If you visit, don’t miss the OASE Seafood Buffet located on the 5th and 6th floors of the market building. They offer about 100 different dishes, including Japanese sushi and sashimi. It’s a family-friendly spot that’s easily accessible and perfect for a hearty meal.
Anga Sutbul-gui
Anga Sutbul-gui is a well-loved Korean barbecue restaurant in the Haeundae area of Busan. It’s famous for its delicious marinated pork that diners can grill on individual grills built into each table. The restaurant also offers a variety of other meats like beef and chicken, but the marinated pork is the star of the show.
When you visit, you can enjoy a vegetable bar and various condiments to complement your freshly grilled meat. The atmosphere is perfect for a fun and interactive dining experience. Many visitors have shared their love for this place, calling it more than perfect and a must-visit spot in Busan.
La Bella Cita
Located in the Haeundae area of Busan, La Bella Cita is an Italian restaurant known for its enchanting outdoor grottos and dining areas. The restaurant appeals to families, expats, and locals alike with its modern yet vintage design. It offers a variety of Italian classics made with fresh ingredients, including pizza, salads, and carbonara pasta. The beautiful garden setting makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Slip into any one of La Bella Cita’s three dining areas or the outdoor grotto dotted with fairy lights and you’ll quickly realize that it’s not just the excellent food that draws in the well-dressed couples, expats, and family. These spaces have been designed to feel miles from the busy stretch of bars just meters away, along the bustling Gwangan beach. The art spaces on the second floor house the most sumptuous dining areas and give lots of privacy. The creamy pasta carbonara is served perfectly al dente and margarita pizza was a standout.
The restaurant’s modern yet vintage design creates a unique atmosphere that feels both cozy and elegant.
Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup with Rice)
You can’t visit Busan without trying dwaeji gukbap, a beloved local dish. This hearty meal consists of pork soup with rice. The soup is made by boiling pork bones for a long time until it becomes white and creamy. Despite its rich texture, it doesn’t feel too heavy, making it perfect for a filling meal. When served, you get a bowl of rice to mix into the soup, allowing you to season it to your taste.
One popular spot to enjoy this dish is Geukdong Dwaeji Gukbap near Haeundae. This place is always crowded, and lines form quickly. Their version of the soup is clearer and lighter, with smaller pieces of meat, offering a different take on the traditional creamy soup.
Another great place to try is Bukwang Dwaeji Gukbap, a favorite among locals and even featured on Baek Jong-won’s Top 3 Chef King. This restaurant offers a delicious experience with various side dishes that you can mix and match to your liking.
For a unique experience, visit Dwaeji Gukbap Alley in downtown Seomyeon. Here, a cluster of curbside restaurants serves this iconic dish to lines of hungry diners. The earthy flavors and pungent condiments make it a perfect start to your day.
Milmyeon (Wheat Noodles)
Milmyeon is a refreshing cold noodle dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. This local specialty from Busan is believed to have been created during the Korean War when people from the northern provinces brought their noodle-making skills to the city. They used flour provided by the US army to make these unique noodles.
Milmyeon is a bit chewier than other noodles and comes with various toppings like boiled egg and cucumber. It’s a popular street food, and the price is just right.
There are two main types of Milmyeon:
- Mulmilmyeon: Noodles served in a cold, refreshing broth.
- Bibimmilmyeon: Noodles mixed with a spicy sauce, similar to bibimbap but with noodles instead of rice.
On a sweltering summer day, a bowl of spicy or sour Milmyeon is just the thing to cool you down.
If you ever visit Busan, don’t miss out on trying this delicious and satisfying dish!
Saengseonhoe (Sliced Raw Fish)
When you think of sliced raw fish, Japan’s sashimi might come to mind. But did you know that Korea also has its own version called saengseonhoe? In Busan, a port city, the seafood is incredibly fresh and affordable. Saengseonhoe is prepared right after you order, ensuring it’s as fresh as possible.
One of the best places to try saengseonhoe is the Millak Hoe Center, located at Gwangalli Beach. Here, you can pick your own fish, and the restaurant will prepare it for you on the spot. The dining environment might not be the most comfortable, but the freshness of the fish makes up for it.
If you’re a seafood lover, Busan’s saengseonhoe is a must-try. The experience of choosing your own fish and having it prepared immediately is something you won’t forget.
Gomjangeogui (Grilled Eel)
Gomjangeogui is a popular seafood dish in Busan. It features freshwater eel marinated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. The eel is grilled over an open flame until it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can enjoy it with just salt or a spicy sauce called yangnyeom.
Where to Try Gomjangeogui
- Gijangjonggajip Gomjangeo: Known for its delicious and fresh food, this restaurant offers salted grilled eel for 30,000 KRW per person. They also have a set that includes pork belly and yangnyeom grilled eel.
- Gyeongbuksan ggomjangeo: A cozy spot in Choryang, Busan. A small portion of eel costs 45,000 KRW. You can also try the half-half option, which includes both salted and yangnyeom flavors for 65,000 KRW. Don’t forget to order the fried rice at the end of your meal for an extra treat.
Tips for Enjoying Gomjangeogui
- Make reservations if you plan to dine at popular spots like GwangAn Dachi.
- Some restaurants may require a Korean phone number for reservations, but you can try contacting them through social media.
For the best experience, try both the salted and yangnyeom flavors. The combination of crispy and tender eel will leave you wanting more.
Dongnae Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake)
If you’re familiar with Korean food, you might know about Pajeon, a type of pancake. While kimchi pancakes and seafood pancakes are common, Dongnae Pajeon is a must-try when you’re in Busan. This green onion pancake is made from a rice flour batter mixed with green onions, fresh seafood, beef, and chives. It’s then pan-fried until crispy and flavorful. The best way to enjoy this rich pancake is with a vinegared red pepper paste.
One of the best places to try Dongnae Pajeon is Somunnan Dongnae Pajeon, located near the entrance of Geumgang Park. This spot is perfect for a meal before or after a hike. Their pajeon is known for being slightly damp but very tasty, with a strong green onion flavor. Priced at 15,000 KRW, it might seem a bit expensive, but the taste makes it worth it.
Dongnae Pajeon is especially popular on rainy days and pairs perfectly with rice wine. The pancake is loaded with green onions and various types of seafood, usually squid and shrimp, giving it a chewy texture.
If you’re in Busan, don’t miss out on trying this delicious dish!
Busan-style Fish Cake
Busan is famous for its fish cake, known for being especially chewy and savory due to the large amounts of fish used. One of the most popular ways to enjoy this treat is Eomuk, a beloved street food throughout South Korea, especially in Busan. Eomuk is typically served on a stick, making it a convenient snack.
How It’s Made
Busan-style fish cakes are made from pureed white fish mixed with egg, flour, water, and salt. This mixture is then pressed into cakes. You can find these fish cakes at numerous street vendors, often served on skewers and warmed in hot broth.
Variations
There are many variations of Busan-style fish cakes, including those wrapped around sausages, cheese, or shellfish. These different styles make it easy to find a version that suits your taste.
Where to Find
You can easily get Busan-style fish cakes at food carts by the street or at traditional markets. Some popular places to check out include:
- Goraesa Fishcake Shop – Busan’s most famous fishcake shop with endless varieties.
- Bupyeong Kkangtong Market – A bustling market with various dessert, tteokbokki, and fishcake stores.
- Samjin Eomuk – Multiple branches across the city.
For a quick snack before catching your train, try a fish cake from a street vendor. It’s a tasty and convenient option.
If you’re in Busan, don’t miss out on trying this delicious and iconic snack. Book now! – Oneway Guesthouse offers price comparison and reservations. Contact for inquiries. Located at 부산 동구 중앙대로196번길 6-3. Copyright © 2024 Oneway Guesthouse.
Shabu-ya
Shabu-ya is a fantastic spot in Busan to enjoy Shabu-Shabu, a classic Korean dish. This meal involves a pot of boiling broth, raw meat that you cook in the broth, and a variety of sides and veggies. You can even find a refrigerated bar to top up on veggies and get noodles to add to your leftover broth.
What to Expect
When you visit Shabu-ya, you can expect a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings or casual hangouts. The restaurant is spacious, with two or maybe even three floors, and the service is friendly. The lights are shiny, and the dishes look really cool.
How to Enjoy Shabu-Shabu
- Start by choosing your broth.
- Add the raw meat to the boiling broth.
- Cook the meat to your liking.
- Add veggies and sides from the refrigerated bar.
- Enjoy your meal!
- Don’t forget to add noodles to the leftover broth for a delicious finish.
Shabu-ya is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Korean Shabu-Shabu in Busan. The combination of great food and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a top choice for both locals and tourists.
Tips for Your Visit
- Go early to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.
- Try different broths to find your favorite flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or help with cooking your meal.
Conclusion
Busan is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of delicious options from street food to fine dining. Whether you’re wandering through bustling markets or sitting down in a cozy restaurant, the city’s culinary scene is sure to impress. From the savory flavors of Dwaeji Gukbap to the fresh taste of Saengseonhoe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you find yourself in Busan, make sure to bring your appetite and explore the amazing food this vibrant city has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Jagalchi Market?
The best time to visit Jagalchi Market is in the morning when the seafood is freshest. It is also less crowded, making it easier to explore.
Is Anga Sutbul-gui suitable for vegetarians?
Anga Sutbul-gui specializes in grilled meat, so it may not be the best choice for vegetarians. However, they do offer some vegetable side dishes.
What type of cuisine does La Bella Cita offer?
La Bella Cita is known for its Italian cuisine, offering a variety of pasta, pizza, and other Italian dishes.
What is Dwaeji Gukbap?
Dwaeji Gukbap is a traditional Korean dish made of pork soup with rice. It’s a hearty meal that’s very popular in Busan.
Where can I try Milmyeon in Busan?
You can find Milmyeon, which are wheat noodles, at many local restaurants and street food stalls throughout Busan.
Is Busan-style fish cake different from other fish cakes?
Yes, Busan-style fish cake is unique because it often includes a variety of seafood and has a distinct flavor that’s different from other regions.