
Lunch in Seoul: A Balanced Meal from Pyongyang Cold Noodles to Noodle Dishes
When you're unsure about what to eat for lunch, we've compiled a list of noodle restaurants in Seoul that elevate the quality of your meal. From Pyongyang cold noodles to beef bone soup, warm noodles, and buckwheat noodles, there's something for every taste and occasion. Looking at the list, you'll notice the calm atmosphere of long-established eateries, open kitchens, and seating that's perfect for solo diners, making them great points of reference for lunch. Many places prioritize the balance between broth and noodles over strong flavors, making them ideal for a light yet satisfying meal. This is a great option when you need a more organized meal than a quick lunch. Whether you're trying Pyongyang cold noodles for the first time or looking for a reliable noodle dish, this selection is easy to use as a guideline.
Restaurant List
Dongari Jeongdong Branch
04516 12-6 Jeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 21:40Break Time 13:50 ~ 17:30"The true essence of a Japanese Izakaya, 'Dongari Jeongdong Branch'" Located on Jeongdong-gil in Seoul, 'Dongari Jeongdong Branch' is a restaurant that fully embodies the charm of a Japanese izakaya. In a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, it is a place where office workers and friends gather to enjoy simple Japanese home-cooked meals and share stories. Particularly, the signature dish here, Sukiyaki, boasts a deep flavor with fresh Korean beef and a variety of vegetables. The unique experience of dipping it in a savory egg sauce adds a distinct texture, and finishing it off with the accompanying udon noodles is a special treat exclusive to this place. The variety of Japanese drinks paired with side dishes enriches the dining experience even more. 'Dongari Jeongdong Branch' is a popular dining spot where reservations are essential. The interior features an open kitchen, allowing guests to enjoy the pleasure of watching the cooking process. Whether for a special occasion or a meeting with a loved one, immerse yourself in the flavors and ambiance of Japan at this wonderful location.
Onlaeng
03968 1st Floor, Onlaeng, 33 Seongmisan-ro, Mapo-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:30 ~ 16:00"The essence of Pyongyang cold noodles at Onlaeng" Located in Seongsan-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 'Onlaeng' is a unique restaurant where you can enjoy warm beef bone soup, refreshing Pyongyang cold noodles, and perilla oil buckwheat noodles all at once. The open kitchen allows you to witness the noodle-making and cooking processes, ensuring you won't get bored while waiting for your food. The Pyongyang cold noodles at 'Onlaeng' are characterized by a rich meaty aroma and chewy noodles, complemented by thick slices of meat and fresh cucumber as toppings. Notably, if you shout, "Give me a lot!", they generously serve you a hearty portion, guaranteeing a satisfying meal. Additionally, their dumplings are said to be homemade. The light and savory North Korean-style dumplings are filled to the brim, making them easy to enjoy as a side dish. Experience delicious Pyongyang cold noodles and beef bone soup at 'Onlaeng', which is perfectly optimized for small gatherings or solo dining with its cozy bar-style seating.
Eulji Myeonok
03133 12, Samil-daero 30-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul"The current state of a traditional Pyongyang cold noodle restaurant in Seoul, Eulji Myeonok" Eulji Myeonok, which started in Yeoncheon and moved to Seoul, is known as a representative of the Uijeongbu-style cold noodles. After the demolition of the Sewoon district, it has reopened in a new building next to the Jongno Tax Office, allowing visitors to experience both the old flavors and the present ambiance. The signature dish, Pyongyang cold noodles, is notable for its subtle meat flavor and refreshing broth rather than a strong punch. The buckwheat noodles have a chewy texture, and the accompanying broth and fresh radish salad are described as delicious without being overwhelming, making them hard to resist. In addition to cold noodles, they also offer hot noodles, which showcase a different charm with a clear and light broth combined with rich meat flavors. The neatly organized interior and calm atmosphere make it a great place for those trying Pyongyang cold noodles for the first time to enjoy at a leisurely pace.
Pildong Myeonok
04624 26 Seoae-ro, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 20:30Break Time 16:00 ~ 17:00"Pyeongyang Cold Noodles, 'Pildong Myeonok' - A Taste of Tradition in Seoul" Located in Chungmuro, 'Pildong Myeonok' is an authentic restaurant where you can savor the essence of Pyeongyang cold noodles, cherished for its long history. Since its opening in 1985, it has been selected multiple times by the Michelin Guide, proving that its reputation is well-deserved. The Pyeongyang cold noodles here are characterized by a rich broth and chewy noodles. The broth is carefully brewed from beef and pork, while the noodles made from refined buckwheat boast a nutty yet soft texture. Topped with boiled pork and a boiled egg, the dish offers a hearty flavor, enhanced by the spiciness of red pepper powder that elevates the taste of the broth. The charm of Pildong Myeonok lies not only in its flavors but also in its atmosphere. The aged yet cozy interior gives a sense of being trapped in time, adding to the comfortable feeling throughout your meal. Especially during lunch hours, it’s so popular that you may have to wait in line, but the turnover is quick, so you won’t have to wait long. If you're looking for refreshing Pyeongyang cold noodles in the summer, experience the traditional flavors at Pildong Myeonok. It’s a place where you can feel the unchanging taste and dedication even after many years.
Hyojaeru
03126 18 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 21:00Break Time 15:00 ~ 17:00"A place to experience the essence of Chinese cuisine, 'Hyojaeru'" Located in Jongno 5-ga, 'Hyojaeru' is already a well-known restaurant among Chinese food enthusiasts, famous especially for its sweet and sour pork and seafood jjambbong. Formerly beloved as 'Florida Banjum' in Hapjeong, this place has been reborn in 2023 with a new name, attracting customers with its unchanged flavors. The charm of Hyojaeru lies in its authentic Chinese dishes made with fresh ingredients. The crispy sweet and sour pork boasts an exceptional texture, earning it the nickname of meat tanghulu, and thanks to its unique preparation with sauce, it maintains its crunchiness indefinitely. Particularly, the sweetness of the sauce adds a distinctive allure that sets this place apart. The seafood jjambbong captivates customers with its rich seafood and clean broth flavor. Its spiciness is mild enough for anyone to enjoy, and the noodles are perfectly cooked to provide satisfaction. Additionally, the basic menu items like jjajangmyeon and shrimp fried rice are also excellent, offering a variety of choices. Hyojaeru is so popular that waiting is essential during lunch hours; although reservations and takeout are not available, it is worth the wait. Enjoy a special meal at Hyojaeru, where you can savor authentic Chinese cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
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