Dongdaemun is packed with Korea's charms, from shopping and gourmet food to beauty treatments. While it's famous as a popular tourist spot, if you're visiting Dongdaemun, you definitely don't want to miss out on delicious Korean BBQ! There are so many famous BBQ restaurants in Dongdaemun that choosing where to go can be tough. That's why it's a good idea to check out some places in advance so you can enjoy your food trip more efficiently! Here are a few proven BBQ restaurants in Dongdaemun that are also highly rated by the locals!
1. Palsaek Samgyeopsal
If you're looking for a super popular BBQ restaurant in Dongdaemun, the city that never sleeps, Palsaek Samgyeopsal is the place to go! “Palsaek” means “eight colors,” and true to its name, this famous local spot offers pork belly marinated in eight different flavors. It's open 24 hours, so you can swing by even after a full day of shopping in Dongdaemun! No need to worry about closing time—you can enjoy BBQ whenever you like!
Their signature dish, the 8-color Samgyeopsal, lets you enjoy a variety of flavors like gochujang (Korean chili paste), herbs, curry, and more. You'll never get bored and can keep eating bite after bite! This popular Dongdaemun restaurant is always crowded, but it's definitely worth waiting in line. Be sure to try the colorful and fun 8-color Samgyeopsal!
Name: Palsaek (8-color) Samgyeopsal
Address: 2F, Mijin Building, 30 Euljiro 43-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
2. Dachaeh
When you visit Korea and indulge in BBQ, it's easy to end up lacking vegetables—but no worries! Dachaeh lets you enjoy BBQ while also getting plenty of greens. Even though it's hidden away in an alley a little off the busy streets of Dongdaemun, it's always bustling with people every day. Their classic BBQ dishes like bulgogi and samgyeopsal are hugely popular, but the secret to their fame lies in the wide variety of wrapping vegetables they offer. There's a display case inside the restaurant filled with all kinds of leafy greens you can use to wrap your meat, and you can help yourself to as much as you like.
The clean, relaxed interior makes you forget you're even in Dongdaemun. With a spacious and open atmosphere, it's a comfortable place to unwind after a long day. If you're craving fresh vegetables with your BBQ, Dachaeh is highly recommended!
Name: Dachaeh (Variety)
Address: 2F, Dongwon Plaza, 213-2 Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
3. Saemaeul Sikdang
Saemaeul Sikdang is a popular Korean BBQ chain that's well-loved in Seoul. Known as a casual place where you can easily enjoy delicious BBQ, it's also a huge hit in Dongdaemun! The relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere makes it easy to stop by and enjoy a hearty meal.
Even though it's a chain, the flavors are authentic. Their pork, grilled over hot charcoal, is juicy and full of flavor. They offer a variety of unique dishes, such as meats marinated in their original sauces or kimchi, so you'll never get bored with their menu! In the lively and vibrant setting of Dongdaemun, BBQ here tastes even better. Why not join the locals and experience the flavors of Saemaeul Sikdang for yourself?
Name: Saemaeul Sikdang
Address: Basement 1, 18-9 Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
4. Buldanun Gopchang
Korean BBQ, known for its tender and juicy meat, is a must-try, but if you're looking for something different, why not enjoy some delicious grilled offal? Buldanun Gopchang in Dongdaemun is famous for its fresh and tasty offal dishes. Their signature item is grilled gopchang (beef intestines), but they also offer rare treats like raw liver and raw tripe.
Their hearty gopchang dishes are loaded with vegetables, making them very filling! Even if you're not usually a fan of offal, you might be surprised by how delicious it can be here. The casual and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of female customers and complimentary drinks, explains why they have so many regulars. It's a little off the beaten path from Dongdaemun's center, but Buldanun Gopchang is a renowned spot that won't disappoint!
Name: Buldanun Gopchang
Address: 17 Jongno 35-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
◎Summary
Dongdaemun is a vibrant city, buzzing with energy day and night. To fully enjoy this energetic area, there's nothing better than fueling up with delicious Korean BBQ! There are so many famous BBQ spots in Dongdaemun that are also popular with the locals, so going on a food tour can be quite the adventure. Visiting a few renowned places and finding your favorite can be a fun experience! While there are plenty of great BBQ restaurants in Japan, nothing compares to tasting authentic Korean BBQ in its homeland. Be sure to savor the flavors of these famous restaurants in Korea!