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Let your taste buds explore versatility of soy at Baegi Handmade Tofu
Take yourself to a hidden gem in the capital specializing in cuisine made from homemade tofu Many think of tofu as a popular ingredient alternative to meat ora go-to for weight loss, as it’s an easy way to incorporate healthy protein into a balanced diet. But tofu, made from coagulated soy milk, can also be seen as a humble shape-shifter and a blank canvas of flavor. With its soft, adaptable texture, tofu can be reshaped into various dishes using different seasonings and cooking methods. So why
Feb. 1, 2025 -
Yongsan: Melting pot of coffee culture
The central district of Yongsan has become a rising star in Seoul’s coffee scene. A melting pot of cultures due to the large expat population in the Itaewon neighborhood and the U.S. military base that existed in the area for decades, Yongsan has a diverse coffee scene, with international coffee chains and independent cafes offering a range of styles from around the world. Here’s a guide to The Korea Herald’s pick of cafes in Yongsan. Dotori 25-6 Hangang-daero 52-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Open dail
Jan. 27, 2025 -
Busan Agu, traditional seafood gem in heart of Sinsa-dong
Neighborhood staple since 1980 Nestled in the trendy, bustling neighborhood of Sinsa-dong in Seoul, Busan Agu has been a staple of seafood lovers for more than 45 years. Known for its signature dish, agwi jjim,or braised monkfish with bean sprouts and slathered in spicy seasoning, the restaurant has garnered a loyal following despite the neighborhood's transformation into a hub of modern and often experimental dining. Busan Agu stands out for its ordinary interior, which contrasts sharply with t
Jan. 22, 2025 -
Edward Lee reflects on his culinary journey from Netflix show to reconnecting with Korea
Star chef of 'Culinary Class Wars' embraces his busiest moment yet For Korean-American chef Edward Lee, being the runner-up on Netflix’s hit cooking competition show “Culinary Class Wars” was yet another defining moment in his illustrious career. Now, he says, he’s living his long-harbored dream of exploring Korea more deeply, rediscovering himself and reconnecting with his Korean heritage in recent months. Based in Washington, D.C., Lee now travels to Korea almost every month. His visits are pa
Jan. 20, 2025 -
Taste of home in Seochon
In quiet area west of Gyeongbokgung, Ainogarden Kitchen offers taste of Korean homecooking At the heart of bustling Seoul lies Seochon -- a tranquil neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung, the main Joseon-era palace in Jongno-gu. A good 10-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung Station on Subway Line No. 3 will lead you to Seochon Alley, lined with coffee shops and small eateries. While strolling down, a white, two-story house will instantly grab your attention. When it does, don't hesitate to step inside.
Jan. 18, 2025 -
Warm up with hearty Korean beef stews in Seoul
As temperatures in Seoul have dropped below freezing this week, the need for a hearty, warming dish has never been greater. One comforting option that locals swear by during the cold months is suyuk jeongol, a boiled beef hot pot that is both satisfying and perfect for braving the chill. If you're planning to indulge in this traditional Korean dish this weekend, here are two must-visit restaurants that offer their own delicious takes on suyuk jeongol. Neungdong Minari For anyone craving a classi
Jan. 12, 2025 -
From 'Culinary Class Wars' chef's burger to persimmon ice cream: New fast-food highlights
Lotteria to launch new burger with ‘Culinary Class Wars’ winner on Thursday As the new year begins, fast-food chains in Korea are introducing fresh flavors and menu items to delight customers' palates. Fast-food chain Lotteria is teaming up with Kwon Sung-joon -- better known as "Napoli Matfia," the winner of Netflix's "Culinary Class Wars," to unveil a new burger on Thursday. Known for his Neapolitan-inspired creations, Kwon is expected to bring an Italian twist to the collaboration project. Wh
Jan. 10, 2025 -
'Culinary Class Wars' chefs cater to masses
Pop-up event at Starfield Suwon to be held through March 31 Fans of Netflix megahit "Culinary Class Wars" and gourmands who had trouble reserving a table at restaurants run by the chefs on the cooking reality show can now sample their dishes outside of their dining establishments. Riding high on the show's fame, Starfield Suwon in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, just an hour from Seoul, is running a special food and beverage pop-up event dubbed "Bites Place Season 4" on the first floor of the shopping
Jan. 8, 2025 -
Meet Japan's best dining through Catch Table
Reservations can be made for some 500 restaurants in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hokkaido through Korean app Looking to reserve a table at a popular restaurant in Japan? Now, reservations for some of the Japan's most sought-after dining experiences can be made through a Korean app. Wad, the developer of South Korean restaurant reservation platform Catch Table, said Tuesday it has partnered with GMO Omakase, a leading restaurant reservation service in Japan, to help Korean visitors explore the neighb
Jan. 7, 2025 -
Taste of North Korean-style dumpling soup at Seosulla-gil
Tranquil stone-walled path in heart of Seoul lined with gamut of restaurants, bars and cafes Head to Seosulla-gil, a serene and idyllic stone-walled route in Jongno-gu in the heart of Seoul, where old meets new and you will see restaurants, bars and cafes next to jewelers and their workshops. While wandering around the path surrounded by lush greenery, stop by at Kaesung for a bowl of piping hot North Korean dumpling soup. As the name suggests, the restaurant serves food in the style of Kaesong
Jan. 4, 2025 -
Mom’s Touch to feature new items from star chef Edward Lee
Celebrity chef to blend Korean, Western flavors on chain's menu Starting in the first quarter of next year, local fast-food chain Mom's Touch will launch burgers crafted by celebrity chef Edward Lee, known for his appearance on the Netflix competition “Culinary Class Wars.” According to Lee, his menu items for Mom's Touch includes signature recipes from his restaurant in the US. "I’m thrilled to bring the flavors of burgers and chicken, which I love, to the Korean audience through this partnersh
Dec. 30, 2024 -
Irori-grilled premium wagyu at Fujiyama in Eulji-ro
Seoul's Eulji-ro is renowned for its nostalgic, old-timey charm. Those visiting Fujiyama, however, head to the neighborhood for a unique dining experience that transports them right to Japan. With decor inspired by the mountain it's named after -- Fujiyama means Mount Fuji in Japanese -- this restaurant serves premium Japanese Wagyu beef prepared using the traditional “irori" grilling technique. Whether you're a fan of fine meats or simply seeking a cozy, atmospheric dining experience, Fujiyama
Dec. 29, 2024 -
From chestnut tiramisu to Dubai chocolate: Edible treats went viral this year
The year 2024 was a big year for food aficionados here, as new flavors and ingredients came into the spotlight to keep menus exciting. Among them was chestnut tiramisu, a dessert made from convenience store ingredients by black spoon chef Napoli Matfia, the eventual winner, on the eighth episode of Netflix's megahit cooking competition "Culinary Class War." Convenience store chain CU started stocking its shelves with the tiramisu dessert on Oct. 24. Even before its official release, the item bec
Dec. 25, 2024 -
4. Japchae (potato starch noodles stir-fried with vegetables)
If you’re a fan of glass noodles, japchae is a must-try. This dish showcases chewy glass noodles mingled with tender strips of beef and a vibrant medley of vegetables, including carrots, spinach, onions and mushrooms. Often a staple at birthday celebrations and traditional holidays like Seollal and Chuseok, japchae holds a special place in the hearts of many. While many might mistakenly consider japchae a main dish, it is traditionally served as a banchan, or side dish, in Korea, meant to be enj
Dec. 20, 2024 -
5. Patbingsu (shaved iced with red beans)
Searching for a summer dessert? Korea‘s traditional go-to is patbingsu, a shaved ice treat perfect for cooling you down. The finely shaved ice serves as the foundation, and it traditionally comes topped with sweetened red beans. You can customize this dessert with an array of other toppings, including chewy rice cakes, colorful jellies, and fresh fruit. A drizzle of condensed milk adds an extra layer of sweetness, and in recent years, many places have begun crafting the shaved ice from milk for
Dec. 20, 2024