Must-Try Foods In Busan (South Korea) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Busan, South Korea

Busan, a vibrant coastal city in South Korea, boasts a rich culinary history influenced by its geographical location and the abundance of seafood from its surrounding waters. As a major port city, Busan has historically been a melting pot of cultures, leading to a diverse food scene with influences from Japan, China, and Russia. The city's access to fresh fish and seafood has shaped its cuisine, with traditional Korean flavors marrying perfectly with the ocean's bounty. The local palate is known for its boldness, often featuring strong and spicy flavors that enliven the fresh seafood staples.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Busan - Veg & Non-Veg

1. Dwaeji Gukbap - Non-Veg

   A traditional pork rice soup that is rich, hearty, and flavorsome, often regarded as Busan's soul food.

2. Haemul Pajeon - Non-Veg

   A savory pancake loaded with a variety of seafood; perfect for enjoying with a side of Makgeolli (rice wine).

3. Choryang Milmyeon - Non-Veg

   Cold wheat noodles served with a chilled broth and slices of beef, a refreshing dish especially in summer.

4. Ssiat Hotteok - Veg

   Stuffed sweet pancakes that are a popular street food snack, filled with seeds, brown sugar, and nuts.

5. Grilled Eel - Non-Veg

   Eel grilled to perfection, typically seasoned with a savory sauce; an energy-boosting delicacy.

6. Odeng Guk - Non-Veg

   Fishcake soup that's often enjoyed as a comforting street food, served on skewers with a side of broth.

7. Bibim Dangmyeon - Veg

   A spicy and tangy glass noodle dish mixed with vegetables and a gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) based sauce.

8. Jagalchi Sashimi - Non-Veg

   Fresh and expertly sliced raw fish served with dipping sauces, straight from Busan's famous Jagalchi Fish Market.

9. Korean Barbecue - Non-Veg

   While avoiding beef, enjoy other meats such as pork belly or duck at a Korean BBQ, grilled right at your table.

10. Hoe Deopbap - Non-Veg

    A generous bowl of rice topped with assorted vegetables and raw fish, drizzled with a spicy and sweet sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Busan

1. Gaegeum Samgyetang

   Address: 3 Jungang-daero 214beon-gil, Gaegeum-dong, Busanjin-gu, Busan

   Famous for: Samgyetang (Non-Veg) - A rejuvenating ginseng chicken soup.

2. Jagalchi Fish Market

   Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan

   Famous for: Various fresh seafood dishes (Non-Veg) - From sashimi to grilled seafood.

3. Taejongdae Halmae Jjukkumi

   Address: 29 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan

   Famous for: Jjukkumi (Non-Veg) - Spicy stir-fried baby octopus.

4. Ops Bakery

   Address: 6-1 Jungang-daero 196beonga-gil, Bujeon-dong, Busanjin-gu, Busan

   Famous for: Freshly baked pastries and bread (Veg) - A great variety for vegetarians.

5. Jejuga

   Address: 217 Gwangbok-ro, Gwangbok-dong, Jung-gu, Busan

   Famous for: Haemul Jeongol (Non-Veg) - A hearty and spicy seafood hot pot.