If you're planning a trip to Korea, there are two street foods you absolutely can't miss: tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and kimbap (Korean rice rolls). These aren’t just quick bites—they're nostalgic comfort foods for Koreans and an exciting culinary adventure for foreigners.
This guide introduces the most famous and beloved tteokbokki and kimbap spots in Seoul and across Korea. With detailed store info, local vibes, and must-order menus, you'll be ready to explore Korea’s snack culture like a pro!
Legendary Tteokbokki Spots in Seoul
Apple House: Classic Instant Tteokbokki
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Address: 138-4 Sadang-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-3474-8766
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Hours: 10:30–21:00 (Closed on Sundays)
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Must-try: Instant tteokbokki, ramyeon noodles, fried snacks, kimbap
Loved for over 30 years, Apple House is always packed with locals and students. Their thick gochujang-based sauce and chewy wheat rice cakes are iconic. Don’t forget to add ramyeon and crispy fried snacks for the full experience!
Apgujeong Byeon Gang-soe Tteokbokki
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Address: 105-4 Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-544-1239
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Hours: 11:30–24:00 (Closed on Sundays; break time applies)
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Must-try: Rice cake tteokbokki, fried snacks, fish cakes
Their sweet and spicy sauce with chewy rice cakes makes this place dangerously addictive. Locals often say, "If this place was near my house, I’d go every day!"
Sinsa Market Tteokbokki
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Address: 454 Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-544-5552
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Hours: 10:00–17:00 (Closed on Sundays)
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Must-try: Soupy tteokbokki, fried snacks, soondae (blood sausage)
Enjoy authentic tteokbokki in a traditional market setting. Less spicy and more comforting, this dish is great even for sensitive taste buds.
Horangi Bunsik (Tiger Snacks)
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Address: 300-63 Seongsu-dong 2-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-469-8881
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Hours: 11:30–21:00 (Closed on Sundays; break time applies)
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Must-try: Soupy tteokbokki in a hot stone pot, fried snacks, kimbap
Topped with a halved boiled egg, their spicy broth served in a sizzling stone pot makes for an unforgettable experience.
Jinmi Tteokbokki (Shindang-dong)
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Address: 52-33 Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-2232-8502
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Hours: 11:00–21:00 (Closed 2nd & 4th Wednesdays)
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Must-try: Instant tteokbokki, boiled egg, fried snacks
With over 50 years of history, this spot is a landmark for fans of classic Shin-dang-dong-style tteokbokki.
Famous Regional Tteokbokki Outside Seoul
Grandma Yoon Ok-yeon Tteokbokki (Daegu)
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Address: 158-1 Dongin-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Daegu
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Phone: 053-424-9489
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Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Closed on Sundays)
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Must-try: Traditional tteokbokki, fried snacks, fish cakes
One of Daegu's "Top 3 Tteokbokki" joints, this place features a peppery kick and chewy rice cakes soaked in deep-flavored sauce.
Busan Eomuk Tteokbokki
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Address: 1206-1 Choryang-dong, Dong-gu, Busan
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Phone: 051-464-1234
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Hours: 09:00–21:00
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Must-try: Fish cake tteokbokki, fish cake skewers
Busan-style tteokbokki shines with rich fish broth and spicy rice cakes. A unique harmony of flavors that reflects the city's coastal charm.
Top Kimbap Places in Seoul
Sikmulwon Kimbap
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Address: 1066-1 Hawangsimni-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-2298-2113
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Hours: 08:00–20:00
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Must-try: Pollack roe egg kimbap, veggie kimbap
Using fresh mountain herbs, fish roe, and premium ingredients, this place delivers clean, healthy flavor in every bite.
Geu Jip Kimbap
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Address: 1F, 61 Sangam-ro, Amsa-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul
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Phone: 02-488-2282
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Hours: 08:00–20:00
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Must-try: Bulgogi crumb kimbap, tuna kimbap
Loaded with stir-fried bulgogi, this kimbap is a hearty and flavorful favorite among all ages.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
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Check opening hours: Many shops close one day a week or take afternoon breaks.
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Bring cash: Some small eateries don’t accept cards.
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Adjust the spice level: Say “an maep-gae hae juseyo” (make it less spicy) if you’re sensitive to heat.
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Takeout-friendly: Almost all bunsik shops offer takeaway options.
Best Ways to Enjoy Tteokbokki & Kimbap Like a Local
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Dip fried snacks or kimbap in the tteokbokki sauce.
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Order different items and share with friends.
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Visit traditional markets for the most authentic experience.
Final Thoughts: Dive Into Korea's Comfort Food Culture
Tteokbokki and kimbap are more than snacks—they’re part of Korea’s soul. Whether you're sitting in a bustling market or enjoying a quiet shop in Seoul, these dishes offer a taste of Korean warmth and community. Don’t miss out on this truly local experience!
Learn more:
Korea Tourism Organization
Visit Korea Official Site
