When we think of Korean food, a few dishes come to mind – kimchi and Korean barbecue, just to name a few. But, if you’re searching for a more authentic experience without any flairs, head down to the South Korea’s southwest province of Jeollanam-do for a gastronomic experience of a lifetime.
Located along the coastline, Jeollanam-do is known for its fresh seafood and natural produce, which can be savoured in their unique cuisine. Follow us on our food quest to find the best spots for an invigorating and unforgettable meal in Jeollanam-do.
Gwanga Duck
Walking into Gwanga, its vintage and cosy interior catches the eye. With its wood elements and natural features like the skylight, there’s a sense of warmth and you’ll feel at ease immediately.
Ordering the signature menu, the Duck Soup (Ori-tang), you’ll be surprised at the large portion that arrives. Filled to the brim with crisp leafy greens, a duck broth rich in flavour and ingredients can be seen bubbling away below. Both comforting and hearty, this is perfect to warm you right up in Korea’s cold weather. Other than the Duck Soup, you can try all the other different variations of duck dishes the restaurant offers.
Gwanga Duck
18, Uijae-ro 96beon-gil, Dong-gu, Gwangju
Haeoreum
Did you know you’re not supposed to talk during a traditional Hanjeongsik meal? Nowadays, this fancy meal does away with its customs and has become a rather common meal. Located in Mokpo Pyeonghwa Plaza, a simple and classic restaurant that serves this famous Korean table d’hote is Haeoreum.
As the courses in a typical Hanjeongsik meal depends on the ingredients of the area you’re in, you’ll be able to taste a variety of dishes featuring Mokpo’s fresh seafood. From the bite-sized Flying Fish Roe Salad to the different types of Fish Sashimi, this is definitely worth a try.
Haeoreum
94, Pyeonghwa-ro, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do
Luxury Abalone Palace
Try an umami flavour bomb with the Abalone Sashimi from Luxury Abalone Palace in Wando! As the name suggests, this restaurant features all kinds of dishes with abalone as the main ingredient. From Abalone Bulgogi to its signature Abalone Porridge (Abalone Hansang), you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Indulge in an abalone feast like never before as you sample this premium protein served in unique cooking styles. For all things abalone, this is the place to go!
Luxury Abalone Palace
34-10, Gaepo-ro, Wando-eup, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do
Myeongdong Gaejang
From the coast surrounding Jeollanam-do, taste locally caught braised cutlassfish and marinated crab from Myeongdong Gaejang. Spotting the crowded wall of celebrity photographs, this is definitely a certified celebrity hotspot!
Served in a piping hot stew, the tender Braised Cutlassfish is the star of the dish. Pop one of the Marinated Crabs in your mouth and you can expect an explosion of favour. Get a taste of the sea from these succulent dishes!
Myeongdong Gaejang
23-26, Bongsannam 4-gil, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do
Yeosu Nangman Pocha
Want a romantic getaway? Look no further than Yeosu’s Nangman Pocha, which literally represents Romantic Street. With many different types of restaurants or cart bars to choose from, this street offers a variety of delicious food.
If you ask us, we would recommend the Stone Octopus Samhap. Just looking at the picture above can make your stomach growl! Overflowing with fresh seafood and quality meats, this hotpot-esque dish is a sight to behold. Overlooking the sea, enjoy a seafood feast as you take in the sweet ocean view. Day or night, be treated to a great view and even greater food in Yeosu!
Yeosu Nangman Pocha
No. 1 Jonghwa-dong, 10 Yeosusimin-ro, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do
Nanuulteo
Apart from its vast selection of hearty and rich seafood dishes, Jeollanam-do is also known for being the greenest province. Cleanse your palette with the healthier options at Nanuulteo, an acorn restaurant in Yeonhyang-dong. With acorn as its signature ingredient, all of their menu items contain a nutty and earthy flavour. Savour home cooked style meals with its homemade acorn dishes, like Acorn Sokjeon and Acorn Mook Bimbimbap. After eating their fare, you’re guaranteed to be refreshed for the rest of your vacation!
Nanuulteo
4, Palma 1-gil, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
Namgajeong
Another stand out from the majority of seafood in Jeollanam-do is the array of meat specialists. Something unique is the dishes in Namgajeong. How to be sure of their quality? Be sure to catch a glimpse of the numerous awards and certificates indicating the quality of their food.
One of our favourites is the Grilled Pork Rib Patties, which is chock full of ‘wok hey’, a charred smoky flavour. When you order it, the meat is presented on a grill that keeps it warm and toasty for the entire meal. Paired with their spread of side dishes, this is a must-try in the area!
Namgajeong
137-7, Jiho-ro, Dong-gu, Gwangju
Haneulcheon Charcoal Ribs
A trip to Korea is never complete without Korean BBQ! Even in Jeollanam-do, a local favourite is the BBQ at Haneulcheon Charcoal Ribs. Satisfy your cravings from an assortment of meats and popular Korean cuisine. Whether it’s chicken, pork, beef or more, cooking with a charcoal grill infuses the meat with the signature barbecue flavour. It’s a local Korean experience you’ll never forget!
Haneulcheon Charcoal Ribs
584 Jorye-dong, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
Add Jeollanam-do to your vacation bucket list for fresh and natural ingredients you won’t get anywhere else. What are you waiting for? Jet off to the food capital of Korea now!
