
A Traditional Meal Enjoyed Slowly in the Alley of Myeongdong and Namdaemun Road
As you stroll through the alleys of Myeongdong and Namdaemun Road, you'll discover a balanced traditional Chinese meal that favors harmony over stimulation. These places, steeped in history and infused with the know-how of the Chinese diaspora, encourage you to take your time to choose and order rather than rush through a meal. With a solid selection of staples like dumplings, noodles, and stir-fried dishes, it's a great spot whether you're dining alone or with someone. Perfect for a light lunch or a dinner paired with a drink. Even if there's a wait, it's worth spending time in the alley while you wait.
Restaurant List
Myeongdong Hyangmi
04535 52-5 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:30 ~ 21:30Break Time 15:00 ~ 17:00"A hidden Chinese treasure in Myeongdong, 'Hyangmi'" Located on Namdaemun-ro in Jung-gu, Seoul, 'Hyangmi' is a place that continues the tradition of Chinese cuisine among the Chinese community, and it’s a hot spot that many people visit every day. This restaurant is particularly famous for its stir-fried clams and guotie, with each dish made from fresh ingredients and great care. The stir-fried clams feature a rich broth complemented by clams, and the combination with noodles is exquisite. It has a spicy yet savory flavor, making it perfect as a snack with drinks. The guotie is a dumpling that is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, filled with juicy meat, making it a must-try for dumpling lovers. Additionally, the interior of the restaurant is cozy, which may lead to some waiting time, but the high-quality Chinese dishes make the wait worthwhile. During lunchtime, they offer convenient set menus, providing an opportunity to enjoy a great meal at a reasonable price. 'Hyangmi' is a well-known restaurant featured in Sung Si-kyung's 'I Will Eat,' and it is loved not only by tourists visiting Myeongdong but also by locals. Experience a special Chinese dining experience where traditional flavors meet modern sensibilities!
Myeongdong Gaehwa
04535 52-5 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:30 ~ 22:30"The pride of Myeongdong, authentic Chinese cuisine at 'Gaehwa'" Located near the Chinese Embassy in Myeongdong, Seoul, 'Gaehwa' is a well-known Chinese restaurant famous for its Uni Jajang and fried meat dishes, cherished by many for its taste and quality over the years. This restaurant modernly reinterprets the charm of traditional Chinese cuisine, providing a menu that everyone can enjoy comfortably. In particular, 'Gaehwa's' Uni Jajang boasts a rich broth and savory noodles that melt in your mouth. This dish, with its harmonious blend of sourness and mildness, has consistently gained popularity among visitors. Additionally, the fried meat offers a crispy texture with juicy insides, making it an excellent choice for a drinking snack. The restaurant's interior has a cozy atmosphere, with ample seating on both the first and second floors, making it suitable for group guests or family visits. The friendly service, along with dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, makes dining here even more special. 'Gaehwa' is a wonderful place that can welcome everyone on special occasions or ordinary days. If you plan to visit Myeongdong, it comes highly recommended as a must-try dining spot.
Shandong Dumplings
04535 52-13 Namdaemun Road, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 21:00Break Time 15:30 ~ 17:00"Experience the charm of Chinese cuisine at 'Shandong Dumplings'" Located on Namdaemun Road in Jung-gu, Seoul, 'Shandong Dumplings' is a Chinese restaurant run by a Chinese immigrant with a 40-year tradition, where you can experience the essence of authentic Chinese food. The Chinese ambiance felt from the exterior creates a special anticipation for visitors. Notably, this place has gained fame through various programs such as Sung Si-kyung's 'Eating Show' and 'Wednesday Food Talk'. The biggest attraction of Shandong Dumplings lies in their signature dishes like Five-Spice Pork, Tempura, and Dumplings. The Five-Spice Pork, made with fresh ingredients, boasts a deep and rich flavor, while the Tempura, easy to enjoy, has a crispy texture that makes it perfect as a snack with drinks. Every dish is prepared with great care, allowing you to appreciate the harmony of each menu item throughout your meal. Additionally, this place is a popular dining spot where waiting is essential, but the enticing menu makes the wait worthwhile. Enjoy seasonal dishes that suit the upcoming season and share a variety of dishes with friends or family for a special Chinese dining experience.
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