“Eating Out on a Budget: Cheap Eats in Korea”
If you’re coming to live in Korea, one of your goals might be to save some money. Meals, however, can take a big portion of your budget. Don’t worry, Korea has tons of options for eating on the cheap. Here are 10 ways to eat in Korea for less than $5 USD a meal! These tips are for the budget-friendly newbie to Korea who is eating out. Hope you save a lot!
Key Takeaways
- Kimbap restaurants offer a variety of affordable meal sets and popular kimbap varieties.
- Street food in Korea is a must-try, with night markets offering a plethora of cheap and delicious options.
- Convenience stores in Korea provide budget-friendly meals and snacks, making them a great option for cheap eats.
- Supermarkets in Korea often have sushi corners where you can find fresh and affordable sushi.
- Bakeries and cafes in Korea offer a range of budget-friendly treats and hidden gems.
Discovering Kimbap Restaurants
Kimbap restaurants are essentially the Korean version of fast food joints. They offer a wide variety of dishes that are both quick and affordable. Unlike McDonald’s, these places serve everything from kimbap rolls to ramyeon noodles, bibimbap, fried dumplings, and kimchi jjigae. Most items on the menu can be enjoyed for less than 5,500 won, making it a budget-friendly option for everyone.
Popular Kimbap Varieties
Kimbap comes in many different forms, each with its own unique flavor and ingredients. Some popular varieties include:
- Classic Kimbap: Filled with vegetables, egg, and sometimes ham or crab sticks.
- Tuna Kimbap: A favorite for those who love seafood, featuring tuna mixed with mayonnaise.
- Cheese Kimbap: A modern twist with melted cheese inside.
- Kimchi Kimbap: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, this roll includes Korea’s famous fermented cabbage.
Affordable Meal Sets
Many kimbap restaurants offer meal sets that include a main dish, a side of soup, and various banchan (side dishes). These sets are not only filling but also incredibly affordable. For example, you can get a kimbap roll, a bowl of kimchi jjigae, and a few side dishes for around 6,000 won.
Finding the Best Kimbap Spots
To find the best kimbap spots, look for places that are popular among locals. Areas like traditional markets and Myeongdong in Seoul are known for their excellent kimbap restaurants. One highly recommended spot is Kimbap Cheonguk, which offers a wide variety of cheap and delicious Korean dishes. Another great option is Pomato, conveniently located near Seoul’s subway stations, known for its affordable and tasty meals.
Street Food Adventures
Exploring Korea’s street food scene is an absolute must for any food lover. The bustling markets and vibrant stalls offer a culinary experience like no other. From savory to sweet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Must-Try Street Foods
When it comes to must-try street foods, Korea has a plethora of options. Here are some you shouldn’t miss:
- Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes that are a staple in Korean street food.
- Hotteok: Sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, honey, and nuts.
- Eomuk: Fish cakes often served on skewers with a warm broth.
- Gimbap: Korean sushi rolls that are perfect for a quick bite.
Navigating Night Markets
Night markets are a great way to experience Korean street food. They usually start bustling around 3pm and go on until late at night. Some popular night markets include:
- Gwangjang Market: Known for its variety of street foods and vibrant atmosphere.
- Myeongdong Night Market: A tourist favorite with a mix of food stalls and shopping.
- Dongdaemun Night Market: Offers a blend of street food and fashion items at affordable prices.
To make life easier for yourself, come with an empty stomach if you’re planning to eat or try a lot of food. The beef is highly recommended.
Street Food Safety Tips
While enjoying street food, it’s important to keep some safety tips in mind:
- Check for cleanliness: Make sure the stall looks clean and the food is handled properly.
- Watch for fresh ingredients: Opt for stalls that use fresh ingredients and cook food on the spot.
- Stay hydrated: Street food can be spicy, so keep a bottle of water handy.
- Be cautious with seafood: Ensure that seafood is fresh and properly cooked to avoid any health issues.
Enjoying street food in Korea is a delightful experience that shouldn’t be missed. Just remember to follow these tips and you’ll have a fantastic time!
Convenience Store Cuisine
Top Convenience Store Chains
In Korea, convenience stores are a lifesaver for anyone on a budget. Most convenience stores have a wide variety of foods that you can pick and choose from. From ramyeon in countless flavors to prepackaged kimchi, sausages, and even dried squid, there’s something for everyone. Once you’ve made your purchases, you can head outside to their ‘dining room,’ which is just a bunch of folding plastic tables and chairs with shade umbrellas. It’s common to see groups of people lounging in the plastic furniture having snacks or full-fledged meals.
Best Convenience Store Meals
Don’t underestimate the quality of convenience store dishes in Korea. Freshly prepared food is commonplace in most of these stores. While it isn’t exactly restaurant quality, it will be tasty and will help keep your food costs in Korea at a low. You can find triangle kimbap for less than 1,000 won, instant ramyeon noodles for around 1,000 won, sandwiches for less than 2,000 won, and for the really hungry folks, a whole doshirak (lunch box) meal complete with rice, side dishes, and a main course.
Budget-Friendly Snacks
Convenience store food is generally cheap, ranging from ₩1,000 to ₩5,000 ($1-$4; $1 = ₩1,350). That being said, there are quite a few exemptions and some items might be pricier. However, you can always find affordable options like chips, fruit, and even hotdogs. Perfect for those in a rush or maybe even culinarily-challenged bachelors.
Don’t snub convenience store dishes. To Westerners, the concept of buying sushi from 7-Eleven might be unsettling, but in Korea, it’s a different story. Freshly prepared food is the norm, and it’s both tasty and budget-friendly.
Supermarket Sushi Steals
Where to Find Supermarket Sushi
One of the tastiest and healthiest budget options in Korea is supermarket sushi. Head over to mega supermarkets like E-Mart or Home Plus, where you’ll find sushi corners offering pieces for as low as 500 won each. Get 10 pieces for a decently healthy meal.
Choosing the Freshest Sushi
When picking sushi, look for vibrant colors and a fresh smell. Avoid anything that looks dry or has a strong fishy odor. The fresher, the better!
Sushi on a Budget
For a budget-friendly sushi experience, consider these tips:
- Visit during off-peak hours for the best selection.
- Check for daily specials or discounts.
- Mix and match different types to keep it interesting.
Supermarket sushi in Korea is a hidden gem for those looking to eat well without breaking the bank. Enjoy the adventure of discovering new flavors and combinations!
Bakeries and Cafes
Korean bakeries offer more than just bread. You can find bread fashioned into a semi-meal with slices of ham, corn, and other toppings or fillings. All these can typically be had for less than 1,000 won a piece. If you’re not into corn on bread, many bakeries like Paris Baguette or Tous les Jours have sandwiches for less than 5,000 won. Couple that up with a carton of milk for 1,000 won, and you got yourself a meal!
Great coffee! Bakery also has nice taste, but sadly, there’s no butter available. The interior is well-decorated and well-organized, giving cozy and warm feeling suitable for a morning coffee time. Adorable coffee place just outside Times Square mall, The baristas are all great and the coffee is worth the visit, it was a pity that the bakery was already pretty much sold out! Deff worth visiting. Good Smart drip filter.
Decent cafes over there. The bread was 5 stars, definitely worth a visit if you’re after a decent cuppa. The interior seating area was really cool! The layout is a bit confusing at first, but has a cool concept. Time for bread to come out Times may vary slightly. 08:30 2 types of scones (plain, chocolate), blueberry pie, croissant sandwich.
Traditional Korean Dishes
Cheap and Tasty Mandu
Mandu, or Korean dumplings, are a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy traditional Korean cuisine on a budget. These delicious dumplings come in various fillings, including pork, beef, and vegetables. You can find them steamed, boiled, or fried, making them a versatile and satisfying option. Mandu is often served with a side of kimchi, adding a spicy kick to the meal.
Affordable Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a popular Korean dish that offers a balanced meal at an affordable price. This dish typically includes rice, assorted vegetables, a fried egg, and a choice of meat, all mixed together with gochujang (Korean chili paste). The combination of flavors and textures makes bibimbap a favorite among locals and tourists alike. For an even more budget-friendly option, try ordering bibimbap without meat.
Satisfying Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon is a Korean-Chinese fusion dish that features noodles topped with a rich, savory black bean sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also very affordable, making it a popular choice for those dining on a budget. You can find jjajangmyeon at many Korean restaurants and even at some street food stalls. The hearty portion sizes ensure you’ll leave feeling full and satisfied.
Exploring traditional Korean dishes is a fantastic way to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage without breaking the bank. From cheap and tasty mandu to satisfying jjajangmyeon, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Buffet Bargains
Buffets in Korea can be a bit pricier compared to single-serving meals, but they offer a fantastic way to sample a variety of dishes all at once. Generally, buffet prices range from 15,000₩ to 30,000₩ ($13 – $26), depending on the selection and quality. While this might seem steep, it’s a great way to indulge in multiple flavors without breaking the bank.
Finding Budget Buffets
There are several types of buffets to explore, from those focusing on Western cuisine to sushi and traditional Korean foods. Some barbecue buffets even offer unlimited pork belly for just 10-12,000₩ ($8.75 – $10.50). Keep in mind that the higher the price, the more variety and better quality you can expect. However, it’s possible to find cheaper options, though the quality can vary widely.
What to Expect at Korean Buffets
Buffets often come with a time limit, usually around 2 hours, so make sure to pace yourself. Even chain buffet restaurants like Ashley can have different prices and offerings depending on the location. It’s always a good idea to check reviews or ask locals for recommendations to find the best spots.
Tips for Maximizing Your Buffet Experience
- Arrive Hungry: Make the most of your money by coming with an empty stomach.
- Sample Everything: Try a little bit of everything before going back for seconds.
- Avoid Fillers: Skip the bread and rice to save room for more expensive items.
- Time Management: Be aware of the time limit and plan your eating accordingly.
Buffets are a great way to experience a wide range of Korean cuisine without having to commit to a single dish. Just be sure to choose wisely and enjoy the variety!
Conclusion
So there you have it! Eating out on a budget in Korea is not only possible but also delicious and fun. From kimbap restaurants to convenience store meals, there are plenty of options to keep your wallet happy and your stomach full. Whether you’re a newbie to Korea or a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you enjoy the local cuisine without breaking the bank. Happy eating and saving!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to eat out in Korea for less than $5 USD per meal?
Yes, there are many options in Korea where you can enjoy a meal for less than $5 USD. From kimbap restaurants to street food and convenience store meals, you can find budget-friendly dining options throughout the country.
What are some popular budget-friendly meals in Korea?
Popular budget-friendly meals include kimbap, mandu (dumplings), bibimbap, and jjajangmyeon. Street foods like tteokbokki and hotteok are also affordable and delicious.
Are convenience store meals in Korea good?
Yes, convenience store meals in Korea are quite popular and offer a variety of tasty and affordable options. You can find everything from sushi and sandwiches to ramen and ready-to-eat meals.
How can I find the best kimbap spots in Korea?
You can find great kimbap spots by asking locals for recommendations, checking online reviews, or exploring areas with a high concentration of eateries. Many kimbap restaurants offer affordable and delicious meal sets.
Is street food safe to eat in Korea?
Street food in Korea is generally safe to eat. However, it’s always a good idea to choose vendors with clean and well-maintained stalls, and to observe the food preparation process to ensure hygiene standards are met.
What are some tips for eating at Korean buffets on a budget?
To maximize your buffet experience on a budget, look for promotions or discounts, visit during lunch hours when prices are usually lower, and try a variety of dishes to get the most value for your money.
