The Very Best Korean Food
with Anica Kim
April 30 – May 6, 2024
At A Glance
Regions and cities explored: Seoul, South Korea
Length: 7 days
Date: April 30th to May 6th, 2024
Availability: Limited to 12 guests
Korea is well known for K-pop (think BTS, Black Pink) and dramas (Squid Games), however, Korea also has a diverse food scene to rival any international city around the world.
Korean BBQ, Kimchi, hearty soups, and cold noodles. The culinary delights of Korea are never-ending.
With Anica Kim and The Hungry Tourist’s Korea tour, participants will be able to enjoy the very best of what Seoul has to offer. From street food in the market to Michelin 3 Star fine dining, Seoul is truly a culinary destination to be discovered.
The tour includes hard-to-book restaurants and specially curated experiences for all foodies. Join Anica to experience the very best of Korean food in the busy metropolitan of Seoul, Korea.
Anica Kim
Anica (@kimanica) is an avid traveler and foodie. Having grown up in New York to Korean parents, she developed a love for different cuisines at a young age. Having lived in New York, Kyoto, London, Doha, Shanghai, and Seoul, Anica’s love for different cultures has continued to grow as she travels the world in search of delicious food.
Anica is extremely enthusiastic when it comes to sharing Korean food and is always making arrangements for international chefs and foodies visiting Korea.
She has traveled to all continents in search of culinary experiences and expanded her network internationally. She has contributed to Travel+Leisure and Silkroad (Cathay Dragon’s inflight magazine).
In her free time, she loves to write, roam art galleries and visit neighborhood cafes.
From street food to casual local haunts, to some of the best restaurants in the world, Anica guided us through the dazzling maze of Korean flavours and opened our eyes to some of the best ingredients and cooking in the world.
No doubt Seoul will be one of the top, if not the top, destinations in the future!
The mix of street food, gourmand bibs, Michelin-starred restaurants, and bars, all worked in the right sequence and was properly paced. We would not have been able to fit and try everything in one trip on our own, in the short span of time that we did!
We highly recommend the experience, and will be joining David on another THT tour soon!
Eatanic Garden – 1 Michelin star
Eatanic Garden in Seoul, a Michelin-starred haven of gastronomic artistry, is masterfully helmed by Chef Son Jong-won. Situated in the Josun Palace Hotel, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach to Korean cuisine, focusing on fermented and aged flavors.
Its unique setting, reminiscent of a lush urban garden, complements the creatively twisted traditional Korean dishes. Chef Son’s expertise and the restaurant’s ambiance combine to offer a distinctive, high-quality dining experience that awakens all the senses
Day 2 – Wednesday, May 1
Gwangjang Market Tour
A tour of Gwangjang Market in Seoul is a feast for the senses, especially when it comes to sampling the local cuisine.
We’ll indulge in delicious traditional Korean dishes like noodles and dumplings, similar to those featured on Netflix. Raw octopus and yukhoe, a Korean beef tartare, are also popular and must-try items.
The market offers a lively and colorful atmosphere, with bustling stalls selling everything from clothing to handicrafts. A Gwangjang Market tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse food culture of Seoul and taste some of the city’s most iconic dishes.
7th Door – 1 Michelin star
7th Door is a one Michelin star restaurant in Seoul that offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Chef Dan Kim’s modern Korean preparations embody the culinary direction he wishes to pursue. The menu showcases his skillful use of fermentation and aging, which are essential attributes of Korean gastronomy. Diners can enjoy different ingredients and condiments that were prepared before the restaurant even opened its doors.
Chef Kim’s attention to detail and expertise in preparing ingredients is evident in every dish. The 7th Door symbolizes a gastronomic entrance to “the seven tastes of food,” which includes the five basic tastes, the taste of fermentation and aging, and the chef’s culinary sensibility.
The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere and exceptional service make for a truly special dining experience that is sure to impress any food enthusiast.
Day 3 – Thursday, May 2
Woojeong 우정 – for offal soup
A visit to Woojeong for a bowl of their famous beef soup is a must-have experience. The restaurant name comes from Woo (Cow) and Jeong (Proper/fitting), to “properly showcase different ways to enjoy the entire cow.”
The word “woojeong” is also the pronunciation of the Korean word for friendship. Beef is used in various ways to create warm and welcoming flavors. Enjoy the hearty and flavorful stew that features beef tongue, offal and vegetables such as shitake mushrooms and spring onion, cooked in a savory broth. Woojeong also offers a spicy soup for diners who can handle the heat! Food is served ‘family style’ everyone is welcome to dig in and savor traditional Korean dishes with friends and family!
Mosu (모수) – 3 Michelin stars
Mosu is a renowned dining destination that has been awarded three Michelin stars and the best restaurant in Korea by Asia 50 Best Restaurants 2023.
Chef Anh Sung, first opened in San Francisco, a little more than a year after its opening Chef decided to move back to Korea and opened Mosu in Itaewon, Seoul.
The restaurant is known for its innovative and sophisticated cuisine, which fuses traditional Korean flavors with modern culinary techniques.
Taking inspiration from everyday dishes, Chef Sung refines ingredients to create dishes that are not only visually stunning, but also highlight the natural flavors and textures of local Korean ingredients.
The dining experience at Mosu is characterized by impeccable service and an elegant atmosphere, making it an unforgettable gastronomic journey for foodies and fine-dining enthusiasts alike.
Day 4 – Friday, May 3
Doo-uh Mari 두어마리 – charcoal-grilled saltwater eel
At Doo-uh Mari a charcoal-grilled saltwater eel lunch is a must-try dish. The eel is grilled to perfection over charcoal, resulting in a crispy and smoky exterior and a tender and flavorful interior.
The eel is served with a side of rice and a variety of banchan (side dishes), such as pickled vegetables and kimchi. The raw eel can be wrapped in seaweed and perilla and the eel stew is a spicy and hearty broth made with the bones of the eel. The restaurant’s cozy and traditional atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience, making it a popular spot among locals.
Mingles – 2 Michelin stars
Mingles, the elegant Korean restaurant in Seoul’s Cheongdam-dong district, boasts two Michelin stars thanks to Chef Mingoo Kang’s seasonally-driven and innovative cuisine.
Kang’s dishes showcase his deep respect for Korean culinary traditions while incorporating inspiration from his experiences overseas. The tasting menu includes signature main courses enhanced by traditional Korean fermented sauces and vinegars.
Mingles offers both wine and traditional Korean alcohol pairings to enjoy along with the perfectly prepared dishes.
Day 5 – Saturday, May 4
Chicken & Beer (Hyodo Chicken 효도 치킨)
Fried chicken and beer is a popular combination and a beloved staple for Koreans of all ages. Also known as “chimaek” (‘Chi’ from Chicken and ‘Maek’ from the Korean for beer ‘Maekju’) has been made popular by being featured in Korean dramas and TV shows.
There are restaurants dedicated to different types of fried chicken flavored with soy sauce, garlic, cheese, garlic and much more. Hyodo Chicken was developed by Chef Mingoo Kang of Mingles and Chef Chang Ho Shin of Joo Ok, offering fried chicken and beer with Korean ingredients and flavors.
Although very casual, enjoying fried beer with and ice cold beer is a great authentic and casual dining experience.
Jueun
Jueun by Chef Park Ju-eun, offers a unique culinary experience that blends traditional Korean flavors with modern cooking techniques.
Chef Park’s innovative approach to Korean cuisine. results in a menu that features a variety of dishes, including classic Korean barbecue, kimchi-infused creations, and seafood specialties, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
Chef Park’s dedication to authenticity and quality is evident in every dish, making Jueun a must-visit destination for people like us.
Day 6 – Sunday, May 5
Mugyodong Bugeokukjib 무교동 북어국집
This super local and cozy restaurant serves up ‘Bugeokuk” a.k.a dried pollack soup, a Korean popular soup that is often thought to be helpful for hangovers. It used to be one of the restaurants that I would go to with my grandfather when I visited Seoul as a child. Hand in hand we would walk in and my late grandfather would tell them the number of people (no need to order as they only have one thing on the menu!).
The dried fish used in this soup is Alaska Pollack caught in the oceans surrounding the Korean peninsula. The process of drying is usually done in the cold winter months and involves freezing and drying the fish which produces a more intense flavor and dark yellow color.
The owner wants people from all walks of life to leave warm and full so additional portions (refills) of soup are available to all. The hearty soup is warming and will always be one of my comfort foods!
Anica
Gold pig – Pork belly BBQ
A dinner of pork belly BBQ at Gold Pig in Seoul, is a unique and delicious culinary experience. Gold Pig is known for its high-quality meat which comes from Jeju Island, south of the Korean peninsula.
Pork belly is grilled to perfection and is enjoyed with different sauces made from Korean condiments. Diners can enjoy ‘ssam’ which is meat wrapped in different vegetables and sauces. Meat is accompanied by various side dishes, including pickled vegetables and rice, to complement the rich taste of the meat.
Gold Pig’s famed Kimchi stew (kimchi jiggae) is also a must to try after the grilled meat. The lively atmosphere and attentive service make for a memorable dining experience that is sure to satisfy any BBQ lover’s cravings.
Cocktails at Alice or Le Chamber
Enjoying cocktails at Alice or Le Chamber bars in Seoul, South Korea is a delightful experience that will tantalize the senses. Both bars offer a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
The mixologists at these bars are skilled at creating unique and innovative cocktails, using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu features a wide range of classic and modern cocktails, as well as seasonal and limited-time specials.
Guests can enjoy their drinks in a cozy and intimate setting, often accompanied by live music or other entertainment. Overall, a visit to Alice or Le Chamber bars is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable and refined drinking experience in Seoul.
Day 7 – Monday, May 6
Hanwoo Extravaganza send-off brunch at Born and Bred
Born and Bred is a restaurant, butcher shop, and meat supplier, all rolled into one. Founded by Sang-won Jung, it is located in the Majang Meat Market and offers three different dining concepts: a casual eatery, private dining BBQ and a multi-course beef experience in its Speakeasy.
The basement is where the specialty beef course can be found. Diners are offered various cuts of the very best Hanwoo, served in different wawys. The stylish and modern restaurant is the brainchild of Sang, whose obsession with top-quality Korean beef started young, thanks to his beef purveyor father, hence the name of the restaurant “Born & Bred” indicating that Sang grew up in the very place the restaurant is located.
Born and Bred is known for serving the best cuts of Hanwoo, a Korean breed of cow. The restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience, with generous portions of top-quality beef and an engaging and personable chef.
FOUR SEASONS SEOUL
STYLISH ELEGANCE IN THE VERY HEART OF SEOUL
Ringed by verdant mountains and dotted with grand, historic palaces and modern, glass-and-steel structures, Seoul is a dynamic capital city that is both deeply traditional and forward-thinking. Simply look outside your room’s floor-to-ceiling windows, and you’ll see what we mean.
The contemporary Gwanghwamun Hotel brings the Four Seasons experience to Korea for the first time, inviting you to indulge in complete serenity at our urban Spa, take a dip in our year-round pool or savour Cantonese cuisine at Yu Yuan, before toasting Asia’s city that never sleeps over drinks at Charles H. or our new contemporary bar, OUL.
The Essentials
Check-in: Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Check-out: Monday, May 6, 2024
First meal: Dinner on Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Last meal: lunch on Monday,May 6, 2024
Full timetable of meals and activities will be emailed to participants ahead of the tour.
A Note on Set Menus
The menus offered during the tour are selected by The Hungry Tourist with the help of our local partners. We believe they represent the best culinary fare that Seoul has to offer. Guests may order outside of these menus at their own expense.
Tour Fees
Per person, shared room: USD 7350
Single occupancy supplement: USD 1750
Price includes all food, beverages, taxes, service charges, and 5 nights of accommodation.
Price does not include airfare, transportation in Seoul, or any travel or medical insurance.
Extra nights before or after the tour can be booked in advance at a special rate.
Payment
A non-refundable deposit of US $1,500 per person will be charged upon reservation.
The balance must be paid no later than 60 days prior to the first day of the tour.
Payments are preferred by bank transfer. Payments with Credit Cards will incur a 4% supplement.
Cancellation Policy and Penalties
If cancellation is received up to 30 days before the first day of the tour, the deposit will be forfeited.
If cancellation is received up to 10 days before the first day of the tour, a penalty fee of 50% of the remaining balance will be charged. If a cancellation notice is received within 10 days of the first day of the tour or the guest is a no-show, the entirety of the remaining balance will be charged.
Apply to Join The Tour
Testimonials
A trip to Seoul was an unexpected idea that I received from Dudi, and I was very intrigued. The previous time we were in Korea was 19 years ago, and I didn’t have any memorable gastronomic memories then. I persuaded my wife (my faithful companion in search of new gastronomic adventures) and eldest son (yet a young but very curious foodie) to join.
This time, Seoul stunned me – the artistry of chefs, the width of the flavor palette, the quality of the ingredients.
Just a few short conclusions:
Korean cuisine is immensely multidimensional.
It is far beyond the standard stereotypes. It’s not just kimchi, though you will have a chance to try endless types of kimchi. Say, eel. Here you go: Korean-style sushi with raw eel and sea urchin in a fresh wasabi leaf to the charcoal grilled eel to the rich and thick eel bouillabaisse.
Seoul is a meat-lovers paradise.
Local beef and pork are of outstanding quality. Hanwoo beef is arguably better than Wagyu. We haven’t tried lamb, and I beg you not to tell Koreans about the existence of lamb, lest we find ourselves in a culinary dilemma between Turkish and Korean lamb in a couple of years.
There are no passing places in Anica’s program.
What may look like a quick lunch place to simply fill a spot in the program will end up being the place with the most delicious offal soup and beef hotpot in town. Anica’s expertise in curating these experiences ensured that we didn’t make the mistake of skipping any places from the program.
Above all, Dudi and Anica aren’t just connoisseurs of gastronomy; they are passionate about connecting people and cultures through food.
Anica’s warm and caring nature, coupled with her deep knowledge of the local food scene and extensive network among the city’s leading chefs, made us feel like we were welcomed not just into restaurants but into the hearts of Seoul’s culinary community.
Abandon Doubts All Ye Who Enter Here.
Seoul is now undeniably one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations.
I have been on several tours in the past (Tokyo, Turkey, San Sebastián), all of which have been thoroughly amazing. So when David decided to put together this inaugural Seoul tour with Anica, I just had to join!
Korean food is often stereotyped as the cliche kimchi, barbecue, and fried chicken. But there is actually so much more and Anica really did the most fantastic job in showing us just what Seoul has to offer!
From street food to casual local haunts, to some of the best restaurants in the world, Anica guided us through the dazzling maze of Korean flavors and opened our eyes to some of the best ingredients and cooking in the world (yes, Hanwoo is better than Wagyu!).
We also benefitted infinitely from the great rapport she has with all the chefs and restaurant owners. All in all, led expertly by Anica and accompanied by the most affable group of fellow tourists, this inaugural Seoul tour was a resounding success!
No doubt Seoul will be one of the top, if not the top, destinations in the future!
It’s our 2nd time to join David’s THT; both times were awesome experiences.
This maiden tour of Seoul is the most recent eye-opener. Even though we’ve been to Seoul, and were familiar with Korean cuisine, Anica still opened our minds and palates to a whole new level of Korean flavors!
The mix of street food, gourmand bibs, Michelin-starred restaurants, and bars, all worked in the right sequence and was properly paced. We would not have been able to fit and try everything in one trip on our own, in the short span of time that we did!
What made this trip even more enjoyable, was sharing these experiences with a group of individuals having the same passion and appreciation for food and exploration. We highly recommend the experience, and will be joining David on another THT tour soon!