Best Party Food in Hongdae
Hongdae, the heart of youth culture in Seoul, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, indie music scene, and, most importantly, its incredible food. Whether you're looking for traditional Korean flavors, trendy street food, or international cuisine, Hongdae has something for every foodie. Here’s a guide to the must-try eats in this bustling neighborhood.
1. Korean BBQ – The Ultimate Grilled Feast
No visit to Hongdae is complete without indulging in Korean BBQ (고기구이, Gogi Gui). The area is packed with BBQ joints offering high-quality cuts of pork and beef that you can grill right at your table.
Where to Go:
- Meat-ing – A popular all-you-can-eat KBBQ buffet.
- Mapo Galmaegi – Famous for its marinated pork skirt meat.
- Hongik Sutbul Galbi – A traditional spot with charcoal-grilled beef ribs.
2. Tteokbokki – Spicy Rice Cakes
A staple of Korean street food, tteokbokki (떡볶이) is a must-try in Hongdae. This spicy, chewy dish is often enjoyed with fish cakes and deep-fried snacks.
Where to Go:
- Mukshidonna (먹쉬돈나) – Famous for its creamy cheese-filled tteokbokki.
- Jaws Tteokbokki (죠스떡볶이) – A well-known chain offering spicy and flavorful rice cakes.
3. K-Chicken – Crispy, Juicy, and Perfect with Beer
Korean fried chicken is an absolute must in Hongdae. Known for its crispy coating and juicy meat, it pairs perfectly with a cold beer (chimaek, 치맥 – chicken + maekju/beer).
Where to Go:
- Noona Holdak (누나홀닭) – Offers unique flavors like garlic soy and spicy cheese.
- bb.q Chicken – Famous for its honey garlic and golden olive chicken.
- Kyochon Chicken – A nationwide favorite known for its crispy double-fried chicken.
4. Gimbap & Convenience Store Eats – A Quick, Tasty Fix
If you're in a hurry, grab a roll of gimbap (김밥), Korea’s version of sushi rolls, or try unique instant ramen varieties from a convenience store.
Where to Go:
- Gimbap Cheonguk (김밥천국) – A 24-hour kimbap joint serving affordable and tasty Korean dishes.
- Any GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven – Perfect for trying unique Korean snacks and instant meals.
5. Trendy Desserts & Cafés – A Sweet Escape
Hongdae is home to some of the most Instagram-worthy desserts and cafes, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Where to Go:
- Thanks Nature Café – A cozy café where you can enjoy coffee alongside adorable sheep.
- Zapangi – Known for its cute canned desserts and pink vending machine entrance.
- Aqua S – Famous for its pastel-colored soft serve ice cream.
Final Thoughts
Hongdae’s food scene is as lively and diverse as the neighborhood itself. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Korean dishes, trendy street food, or international bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Next time you're in Hongdae, make sure to come hungry and explore the flavors that make this area a food lover’s paradise!