The 16 Best Budae Jjigae in Seoul
For those craving a taste of authentic Korean cuisine, Seoul is the place to be. With its bustling food scene, one dish that stands out is budae jjigae, a savory stew that blends the flavors of Korea and the US military.
Whether you're a newcomer to Seoul or a seasoned resident, finding the best spot for budae jjigae can be a daunting task. To help you in your search, we've compiled a list of the 16 best places to enjoy this hearty dish in the city. From traditional eateries to modern twists on the classic recipe, you're sure to find a spot that satisfies your cravings.
- Location
- Price
- Quality of ingredients
- Atmosphere
- Menu variety
- 1. Namsan Budae-jjigae
- 2. Hannam Budaejjigae
- 3. 흥부네부대찌개
- 4. Deoksugung Budaejjigae & Soft Tofu
- 5. Nolboo Bossam Nolboo Budaejjigae(Euljiro 6-ga Branch)
- 6. Itaeri Budaejjigae Hakdong Branch
- 7. Junhone Budaejjigae SKKU
- 8. Songtan Budae-jjigae
- 9. Myeongdong Budae Jjigae
- 10. Sinuiju Budaejjigae City Hall
- 11. Myeongdong Songtan Budaejjigae
- 12. Sinuiju Budae Jjigae
- 13. nolboo
- 14. Nolboo Budaejjigae
- 15. 박가부대 명동점
- 16. Nolboo Budaejjigae
1. Namsan Budae-jjigae
Information and Reviews
Customer Reviews:
- Delicious premium and authentic army stew at a really cheap price. A must try when visiting nearby!
- The restaurant is quite spacious and the owner is very friendly and nice. Please go there before it becomes too busy.
Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual meal with a group of friends or indulge in traditional Korean cuisine, Namsan Budae-jjigae is the perfect choice. Don't miss out on this gem in Seoul's dining scene!
- Monday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
2. Hannam Budaejjigae
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews for Hannam Budaejjigae, highlighting the following key points:
- Authentic and delicious food
- Warm and friendly service
- Generous portions
Whether you're a fan of Budaejjigae or other Korean dishes, the menu at Hannam Budaejjigae has something for everyone. Come experience the flavors and hospitality for yourself at this cozy spot in Seoul!
- Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
3. 흥부네부대찌개
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.1 stars, 흥부네부대찌개 has received positive reviews from many customers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Surprised by the tasty food even after Covid, good portion size, and affordable prices with rice included
- Best Budae jjigae around with homely feels and soul-warming food
- Delicious dishes but may be a bit salty for some
Overall, customers have praised the delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service at 흥부네부대찌개. If you're a fan of Budae-jjigae, this restaurant is a must-visit in Seoul!
- Monday: 8 AM–8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–8:30 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–2:30 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–2:30 PM
4. Deoksugung Budaejjigae & Soft Tofu
Information and Reviews
With a 4.3 rating based on 58 reviews, customers rave about their dining experience at Deoksugung Budaejjigae & Soft Tofu. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- Simple restaurant with a minimum order for 2 people, ideal for those craving a satisfying meal.
- Great value for the price, generous portions, delicious flavors, and friendly staff.
- Popular spot for budaejjigae lovers, with refillable rice and noodles.
- Excellent quality and affordable prices, making it a go-to place for a satisfying meal.
If you're in Seoul and craving some comforting Korean dishes, Deoksugung Budaejjigae & Soft Tofu is a must-visit spot for a memorable dining experience.
- Monday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–12 AM
5. Nolboo Bossam Nolboo Budaejjigae(Euljiro 6-ga Branch)
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive feedback, summarizing the reviews as:
- The soup was refreshing and tasty, with attentive and friendly staff.
- Great experience with welcoming service and delicious food.
- Food quality met expectations and service was good.
With a solid rating of 4.1, Nolboo Bossam Nolboo Budaejjigae(Euljiro 6-ga Branch) stands out as a must-visit dining spot in the heart of Seoul.
- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
6. Itaeri Budaejjigae Hakdong Branch
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is known for its flavorful Budae-jjigae, which is a delicious and hearty stew perfect for those who enjoy salty and spicy flavors. Customers praise the stew for its unique taste and quality ingredients. Here are some summarized customer reviews:
- Good to visit if you like salty and spicy dishes. The food has a rich history dating back to the Korean war, providing a satisfying meal.
- Cool stew that pairs perfectly with buttered rice, creating a taste like no other.
- Delicious, generous portions of Budae-jjigae. Easy self-service options for customizing the meal to your liking. Ideal for those looking for a filling and satisfying dining experience.
- While the taste of the stew is ordinary, the restaurant offers good value for its hearty portions, making it a popular choice among locals and office workers.
Experience the delicious flavors of Budae-jjigae at Itaeri Budaejjigae Hakdong Branch and indulge in a savory meal that will leave you craving for more.
- Monday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
7. Junhone Budaejjigae SKKU
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at Junhone Budaejjigae SKKU, highlighting a few key points:
- Great food with affordable prices
- Comfortable dining atmosphere for solo diners
- Generous portions and unlimited refills of rice, beverages, and potato tarts
- Friendly and attentive staff
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Junhone Budaejjigae SKKU is a fantastic choice for authentic Korean cuisine in a casual setting.
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
8. Songtan Budae-jjigae
Information and Reviews
The specialty dish at Songtan Budae-jjigae is the spicy sausage stew, known as Budaejjigae. Customers rave about the delicious flavors and generous portions of sausage and ham in the stew. The restaurant has been serving this authentic dish for over 20 years, staying true to its original taste.
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- The special sausage stew with ramen is a must-try and too good to resist.
- The staff and owners are incredibly friendly, making customers feel like family.
- The stew is served on a table with a gas fire, allowing customers to control the temperature.
- Customers appreciate the tasty side dishes and unique rice mix served at the restaurant.
- Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
9. Myeongdong Budae Jjigae
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.0 based on 149 reviews, Myeongdong Budae Jjigae has received positive feedback from customers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Friendly staff with helpful portion sizes
- Mouth-melting amazing pork
- Exquisite and tasty local food
- Great service, especially from the owners
If you are looking for a cozy restaurant serving authentic Korean cuisine, Myeongdong Budae Jjigae is the place to visit!
- Monday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
10. Sinuiju Budaejjigae City Hall
Information and Reviews
With a solid 3.9 rating from 219 reviews, customers have shared their thoughts on their experiences at Sinuiju Budaejjigae City Hall. Here are some summarized comments:
- Staight foward all you can eat Korean pork BBQ. The place where local eats. Warm atmosphere, Great flavors.
- Not bad.
- Cool.
- Pretty good.
These reviews showcase the overall positive sentiment from customers who have visited the restaurant, highlighting the delicious food and inviting atmosphere that makes Sinuiju Budaejjigae City Hall a must-visit spot in Seoul.
- Monday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
11. Myeongdong Songtan Budaejjigae
Information and Reviews
Some of the offerings at this restaurant include Alcohol and Beer, ensuring a delightful dining experience. They accept Credit cards for payment convenience. Amenities like clean toilets are also provided for customers.
According to numerous positive customer reviews, here are the key points summarized:
- Warm and friendly service from the owners
- Delicious and authentic army stew with generous portions
- Top-notch customer service with attentive staff
- Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
12. Sinuiju Budae Jjigae
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Delicious and affordable budae jigae, with popular lunch options like duruchigi.
- Generous portions and a wide variety of side dishes, especially loved the unlimited egg fried rice.
- Strong flavors with plenty of gochujang, may be too salty for some palates.
- Good service and pleasant dining experience overall.
- Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: Closed
13. nolboo
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised nolboo for several key points:
- Great food quality
- Convenient location for office workers
- Good for lunch reservations
- Excellent service
With a rating of 3.8 and 10 reviews, nolboo strives to provide a memorable dining experience for all guests. Whether you're craving traditional Korean cuisine or looking to try something new, nolboo has something for everyone. Come dine in and experience the flavors of Seoul at nolboo!
- Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
14. Nolboo Budaejjigae
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is known for its tasty Budae-jjigae (Army Base Stew) made with quality ingredients. Reviews highlight several key points:
- Helpful staff and personalized service
- Delicious food with the perfect level of spice
- Spacious dining area, ideal for quick meals
- Typical, but satisfying Budae-jjigae experience
Overall, Nolboo Budaejjigae has received positive feedback from customers, attracting both locals and tourists alike. With its convenient location and tasty offerings, it's a must-visit spot for those craving traditional Korean comfort food.
- Monday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
15. 박가부대 명동점
Information and Reviews
Customers can enjoy Takeaway or Dine-in options, as well as indulge in alcoholic beverages like beer. The restaurant caters to both lunch and dinner crowds in a casual atmosphere, making it perfect for groups. Additionally, they offer amenities like toilets for customer convenience.
One customer described it as a "hole in the wall kind of place that seems popular with local Koreans. Menu comprises of different sausages and stews. Items are reasonably priced and portion sizes are generous." Another praised the delicious food and great service they received, stating they would definitely come back. On the other hand, a customer had a negative experience, mentioning poor service and food quality.
Overall, 박가부대 명동점 has received positive reviews for its food quality and atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to try authentic Budae-jjigae in Seoul.
- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
16. Nolboo Budaejjigae
Information and Reviews
Customers who have visited Nolboo Budaejjigae have shared their experiences, providing valuable feedback. Here are the key points summarized from their reviews:
- Delicious army stew with just the right level of spiciness
- Good portion sizes ideal for sharing
- Accessible location with elevator access
- Service with room for improvement
With a rating of 2.6 stars, Nolboo Budaejjigae continues to attract customers with its unique offerings and flavorsome dishes. Visit their website for more information or stop by during their operating hours to savor a taste of authentic Korean cuisine.
Map of Budae Jjigae in Seoul
Seoul is known for its vibrant food scene, and one dish that stands out is budae jjigae. This spicy broth-based stew is a popular comfort food that combines a variety of ingredients such as spam, sausage, instant noodles, and vegetables. To help you navigate the city's numerous budae jjigae restaurants, take a look at the map below to find the best spots to try this delicious dish.
What is Budae Jjigae?
Budae Jjigae is a popular Korean stew that originated during the Korean War when food scarcity led people to create a dish using surplus Army rations. The name translates to "army stew" in English, and it typically includes a spicy broth base with ingredients such as spam, hot dogs, instant noodles, tofu, vegetables, and kimchi. The dish has evolved over time with various additions and modifications, but it remains a comforting and hearty meal beloved by many Koreans.
Where can you Find the Best Budae Jjigae in Seoul?
When it comes to finding the best Budae Jjigae in Seoul, there are countless restaurants and eateries that offer their take on this iconic dish. Some popular spots known for their delicious Budae Jjigae include Myeongdong Kyoja, Jingogae, and Daepaedang. These establishments are frequented by locals and tourists alike, making them must-visit destinations for anyone craving a flavorful bowl of Budae Jjigae.
Is Budae Jjigae a Spicy Dish?
Budae Jjigae is typically known for its spicy and savory flavor profile, thanks to the inclusion of ingredients such as kimchi, red pepper paste, and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the restaurant and personal preference. Some establishments offer milder versions of Budae Jjigae for those who are sensitive to heat, while others crank up the spice for adventurous eaters seeking a flavorful kick.
What are Some Tips for Enjoying Budae Jjigae in Seoul?
When dining on Budae Jjigae in Seoul, there are a few tips to enhance your experience. Firstly, be sure to mix all the ingredients in the stew thoroughly to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Secondly, pair your Budae Jjigae with a side of rice or ramyeon (Korean instant noodles) to enjoy a well-rounded meal. Finally, don't forget to add extra toppings such as cheese or egg for a decadent twist on this classic dish.
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