๐ฝ๏ธ10 Best Places to Eat in Hongdae for First-Time Visitors
If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, Hongdae is one of the best neighborhoods to experience Korean food. Known for its lively streets, cafรฉs, shopping, and nightlife, it’s also home to everything from authentic Korean BBQ and comforting stews to late-night restaurants that stay busy long after the sun goes down.
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The only problem? There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from.
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A quick Google search will give you endless lists, but many recommend the same places without telling you what’s actually worth ordering or when to visit to avoid the crowds. After spending plenty of time exploring Hongdae, these are the restaurants I would confidently recommend to friends visiting Korea for the first time. They offer delicious food, good value, and a memorable dining experience that goes beyond the typical tourist spots.
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To make planning easier, I’ve included the nearest subway exit, average prices, English menu availability, and my tips for getting the best experience at each restaurant.
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Planning your first trip to Korea? Before exploring Hongdae, check out my First 24 Hours in Seoul Guide. It covers everything you need to know after landing, from airport transportation and payment methods to getting around the city with confidence.
โ๏ธ Planning Your Hongdae Trip?
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Before you start your food adventure, here are a few resources that can make your trip even easier:
๐จ Looking for a hotel? Find the best hotels in Hongdae on Agoda and stay within walking distance of restaurants, cafรฉs, and shopping.ย
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๐๏ธ Planning your itinerary? Book popular Seoul attractions, airport transfers, and day trips on Klook before they sell out.ย
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๐ Need help planning your trip? Download my FREE Korea Travel Itinerary, packed with sample itineraries, travel tips, budgeting advice, and essential resources for first-time visitors.
Quick Comparison
Restaurant | Best For | Price |
Ongdarae Jjimdak | Braised Chicken | โฉ15,000โ20,000 |
Hongdae Jokbal | Late-Night Dinner | โฉ30,000โ45,000 |
Hongdae Budae Jjigae | Korean Army Stew | โฉ10,000โ13,000 |
Dwaeji Sanghoe All You Can Eat Pork BBQ | All-You-Can-Eat BBQ | โฉ17,900โ23,900 |
Galbitang Hongdae | Beef Soup & Hot Pot | โฉ18,000โ25,000 |
Ttukdak Hongdae | Chicken Hot Pot | โฉ28,000โ35,000 |
Leegane Webfoot Octopus | Spicy Baby Octopus | โฉ13,000โ17,000 |
Pungcheon Jangeo(eel) | Premium Grilled Eel | โฉ35,000โ45,000 |
Hongwadae | Traditional Korean Grill | โฉ15,000โ25,000 |
Yuksanjang Hongdae | Camping-Themed BBQ | โฉ17,000โ30,000 |
1. Ongdarae Jjimdak (์น๋ค๋์ฐ๋ญ)
Best for: A comforting Korean meal that’s perfect for sharing
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If you’re only trying one braised chicken restaurant in Hongdae, I’d recommend Ongdarae Jjimdak.
The chicken is slow-cooked in a rich soy-based sauce with potatoes, vegetables, and chewy glass noodles that soak up all the flavor. It’s hearty without feeling too heavy, making it an excellent choice after a day of exploring Seoul.
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One tip I always recommend is to save a little sauce at the end of your meal and order the restaurant’s signature crispy rice. It’s mixed into the remaining sauce and easily became my favorite part of the meal.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station (Exit 9), 5-minute walk
๐ฐ โฉ15,000โ20,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Weekday lunch before 12:30 PM
Good to know: If you’re staying in Hongdae, this is an easy lunch stop before exploring the area’s cafรฉs, shopping streets, and street performances.
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๐จ Where to Stay Nearby
If you want to stay within walking distance of Hongdae’s restaurants, cafรฉs, and nightlife, L7 Hongdae by LOTTE is one of the most convenient hotels in the area.
2. Hongdae Jokbal (ํ๋์กฑ๋ฐ)
Best for: An authentic Korean dinner after exploring Hongdae
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If you’re looking for a traditional Korean dish that’s popular with both locals and visitors, Hongdae Jokbal is well worth adding to your itinerary.
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The restaurant specializes in jokbal, a slow-braised pork dish that’s tender, flavorful, and served with fresh vegetables, garlic, and dipping sauces. It’s designed for sharing, making it a great option for couples, families, or groups of friends.
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I also recommend adding the glass noodlesโthey absorb the rich sauce perfectly and complete the meal.
Because this restaurant is especially popular in the evening, arriving before dinner time will usually save you from a long wait.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station (Exit 8), 6-minute walk
๐ฐ โฉ30,000โ45,000 (sharing portion)
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Before 7:00 PM
๐๏ธ After dinner: If you’re visiting in the evening, consider joining a Hongdae nightlife tour or pub crawl to experience the area’s live music and bars.
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๐จ Where to Stay Nearby
Planning to enjoy Hongdae after dark? RYSE Hotel Hongdae is a great choice if you want to be close to the neighborhood’s restaurants, bars, and shopping streets
3. Hongdae Budae Jjigae (ํ๋๋ถ๋์ฐ๊ฐ)
Best for: A budget-friendly Korean comfort meal
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If you’re visiting Korea for the first time, budae jjigae (Army Stew) is one dish you shouldn’t miss, and this restaurant is one of my favorite places to try it in Hongdae.
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The bubbling stew is packed with sausage, ham, tofu, vegetables, rice cakes, and noodles in a rich, slightly spicy broth. It’s filling, affordable, and perfect if you’re traveling on a budget.
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One thing I really like here is the unlimited rice and noodle refills, so you’ll definitely leave full.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 2 (8-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ10,000โ13,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Before 1:00 PM or after 5:00 PM
Tip: If you enjoy trying traditional Korean dishes, don’t miss my guide to the best Korean street foods while you’re in Seoul.
4. Dwaeji Sanghoe All You Can Eat Pork BBQ (๊ฐ๋จ ๋ผ์ง์ํ ๋ฌดํ๋ฆฌํ ํ๋์ )
Best for: All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ
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If you’re craving Korean BBQ, this is one of the best value restaurants in Hongdae.
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For one fixed price, you can enjoy unlimited pork, side dishes, rice, and depending on the set you choose, extras like cold noodles and fried chicken. It’s a fun place to visit with friends or family, especially if you want the full Korean BBQ experience without spending a fortune.
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I’ve been here when it gets busy, so I’d recommend arriving a little before dinner time to avoid waiting for a table.
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If you’re planning to stay in Hongdae, this restaurant is an easy walk from many hotels in the area. If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, check out my guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors to find the neighborhood that best fits your travel style.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 9 (5-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ17,900โ23,900 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Before 6:30 PM
Planning more things to do in Seoul? Pair your dinner with a walk around Hongdae’s cafรฉs, shopping streets, and evening performances.
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๐จ Where to Stay Nearby
If Hongdae is your main base in Seoul, Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae puts you just a short walk from many of the area’s best restaurants and attractions.
5. Galbitang Hongdae Main Branch (๊ฐ๋นํ ํ๋๋ณธ์ )
Best for: Beef soup and spicy hot pot
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If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, this restaurant is a great choice.
Most visitors come for the spicy beef hot pot, but I actually enjoyed the galbitang even more. The clear beef broth is rich without being heavy, and the tender beef ribs make it a satisfying meal after a long day of sightseeing.
If you don’t enjoy very spicy food, I’d recommend ordering the galbitang instead of the hot pot.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 1 (2-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ18,000โ25,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Lunch or early dinner
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Still planning your Seoul itinerary?
My guide to the best areas to stay in Seoul can help you choose the right neighborhood based on your travel style.
6. Ttukdak Hongdae (๋๋ญํ๋)
Best for: A hearty meal to share
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If you’re visiting with a friend or partner, Ttukdak Hongdae is a great place to warm up with a comforting meal. Their signature whole chicken hot pot is served in a light, flavorful broth with rice cakes, vegetables, and noodles that cook right at your table.
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What I liked most was how simple yet satisfying the meal was. It doesn’t rely on heavy spices, making it a nice break if you’ve been eating a lot of Korean BBQ or spicy food during your trip.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 2 or 3 (6-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ28,000โ35,000 (serves 2)
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Before 7:00 PM
Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple, this is one of the best restaurants in Hongdae for sharing a cozy meal.
7. Leegane Webfoot Octopus (์ด๊ฐ๋ค์ญ๊พธ๋ฏธ)
Best for: Spicy seafood lovers
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If you enjoy spicy food, don’t miss Ligane Jjukkumi. The restaurant specializes in stir-fried baby octopus cooked in a rich, spicy sauce that’s full of flavor without being overwhelming.
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My favorite part wasn’t actually the octopusโit was the fried rice at the end. The staff mixes rice into the remaining sauce, creating a delicious final dish that’s worth saving room for. If you’re not used to spicy Korean food, ask for a milder spice level when ordering.
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Trying dishes like baby octopus is one of the best parts of visiting Korea. If you’re building a food bucket list, don’t miss my guide to the 11 Korean Street Foods Every Visitor Should Try before your trip.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 8 (5-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ13,000โ17,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Before 6:00 PM on weekends
Good to know: If it’s your first time trying Korean seafood, this is a fun place to start.
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๐๏ธ Looking for more food experiences?
Klook also offers guided Seoul food tours if you’d like to try even more Korean dishes during your visit. Explore here.
8. Pungcheon Jangeo(eel) Hongdae (ํ์ฒ์ฅ์ด)
Best for: A special dinner in Hongdae
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If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to try something different, Pungcheon Eel is worth considering.
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The eel is grilled over charcoal right at your table, giving it a smoky flavor that’s surprisingly light and tender. It was my first time trying grilled eel in Korea, and it ended up being one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Hongdae.
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It’s more expensive than most restaurants on this list, but the quality and experience make it worth it if you’re looking to treat yourself.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 2 (3-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ35,000โ45,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Reserve ahead for dinner
Planning more of your Seoul trip? After dinner, explore Hongdae’s lively nightlife or check out my guide to the best areas to stay in Seoul if you’re still deciding where to book your hotel.
๐๏ธ Looking for another unforgettable experience? Popular day trips like the DMZ, Nami Island, and Everland are easy to book in advance through Klook.
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๐จ Where to Stay Nearby
Looking for a comfortable stay with easy airport and subway access? Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae is a convenient option for first-time visitors exploring Seoul.
9. Hongwadae (ํ์๋)
Best for: A casual Korean dinner away from the busiest streets
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If you’d rather skip the crowded tourist areas, Hongwadae is a solid choice. It’s a simple Korean grill where the focus is on good food rather than fancy interiors. I ended up here while wandering around Hongdae, and it felt like one of those places locals return to because they know they’ll get a consistently good meal. The menu is mainly Korean, but pointing to photos or using a translation app usually does the trick.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 9 (7โ10 minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ15,000โ25,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: No
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: After 7:00 PM
Tip:ย Finding smaller restaurants in Korea is much easier with Naver Map than Google Maps. If you’re visiting for the first time, I also recommend downloading these 15 Essential Apps for Korea before your tripโthey’ll make getting around, translating menus, and ordering food much easier.
10. Yuksanjang Hongdae (์ก์ฐ์ฅ ํ๋๋ณธ์ )
Best for: Korean BBQ with a unique atmosphere
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If you’re looking for a Korean BBQ restaurant that’s a little different, I’d recommend Yuksanjang. The camping-inspired theme gives it a fun atmosphere, especially if you’re traveling with friends.
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The quality of the meat was excellent, and I liked that the staff helped with the grilling, so you can simply relax and enjoy your meal. If it’s your first Korean BBQ experience, this is an easy place to start.
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Quick Info
๐ Hongik University Station, Exit 9 (8-minute walk)
๐ฐ โฉ17,000โ30,000 per person
๐ฃ๏ธ English menu: Limited
๐ณ Card accepted: Yes
โฐ Best time to visit: Weekdays or early evening
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โ๏ธ Still planning your Korea trip?
Before you fly, check out my guide on How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul. It covers the best airport transfer options, including the AREX train, airport limousine bus, taxis, and private transfers, so you can choose the one that fits your budget and travel style.
Tips for Eating in Hongdae
Before you head out, here are a few things I found helpful:
Visit a little earlier if you don’t like waiting. Most restaurants get busy after 6:30 PM.
Bring a card. Almost every restaurant accepts international credit cards.
Bring a credit or debit card. Almost every restaurant in Hongdae accepts international cards, so you won’t need to carry much cash. If you’re wondering when you’ll actually need Korean won, my guide to Cash vs. Cards in Korea explains exactly what most travelers use.
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Share your meal. BBQ, hot pots, and some traditional dishes are usually meant for two or more people.
Use Naver Map. It’s much more reliable than Google Maps for finding restaurants in Korea.
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Some of my favorite meals in Hongdae were dishes I’d never heard of before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hongdae a good place to eat for first-time visitors?
Yes! Hongdae offers everything from Korean BBQ and traditional dishes to cafรฉs, street food, and late-night restaurants, making it one of Seoul’s best neighborhoods for food lovers.
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Do I need to tip at restaurants in Korea?
No. Tipping isn’t part of Korean culture, so the price on the menu is usually the final amount you’ll pay.
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What’s the best time to eat in Hongdae?
For fewer crowds, visit between 11:30 AMโ1:00 PM for lunch or before 6:30 PM for dinner. Popular restaurants can have long waits during weekends and evenings.
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Can I find restaurants with English menus?
Many restaurants in Hongdae offer English or picture menus, but smaller local restaurants may only have Korean menus. Using a translation app can be helpful.
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Can I pay by credit card?
Yes. Most restaurants in Hongdae accept international Visa, Mastercard, and other major credit cards, so you won’t need to carry much cash.
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Do I need a reservation?
Most casual restaurants don’t require reservations, but popular Korean BBQ restaurants and dinner spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Is Hongdae expensive for food?
Not at all. You can enjoy a satisfying meal for around โฉ10,000โ20,000, while Korean BBQ and specialty restaurants are usually a bit more.
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What’s the best restaurant in Hongdae for first-time visitors?
If I had to recommend just one, I’d choose Ongdarae Jjimdak. It’s a comforting, easy-to-enjoy Korean dish that’s perfect for sharing and a great introduction to Korean cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Hongdae is one of those neighborhoods where it’s hard to have a bad meal, but these 10 restaurants stood out to me because I’d happily go back to them myself. Whether you’re visiting Seoul for a few days or planning a longer trip, I hope this guide helps you find a meal you’ll remember.
If you’re still planning your itinerary, you might also find these guides helpful:
Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors
Your First 24 Hours in Seoul
11 Korean Street Foods Every Visitor Should Try
15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip
Cash vs. Card in Korea: What Travelers Should Know
๐ค About the Author
Hi, Iโm Richelle, the creator of Just KTravel, based in South Korea.
I share simple and practical Korea travel guides from my own experience โ including seasonal spots, transport tips, hidden places, and easy itineraries.
I started this blog after visiting Korea as a traveler myself, and now I write to help others plan their trips with less stress and more confidence.
My goal is to make Korea travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially first-time visitors.
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