Top 3 Places to Eat in Andong

Scenic view of Andong city park with iconic 'I Love Andong' sign.
Naufal Shidqi, Pexels

Andong's culinary landscape is deeply rooted in traditional Korean flavors, offering visitors an authentic taste of the region's historical and cultural heritage.

1. Shinsegae Jjimdak (Andong Jjimdak Alley)

Cuisine: Andong Jjimdak (Braised Chicken)

Located within the lively Andong Old Market, this is where to experience Andong Jjimdak, the city's signature braised chicken dish. The chicken is tender, cooked with glass noodles and a variety of vegetables in a savory soy-based sauce. The portions are generous, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. While often served with a hint of chili, you can typically request adjustments to the spiciness level to suit your preference.

Price: Approximately ₩10,000 - ₩15,000 per person (USD 7-11), as a shared dish.

Getting There: Situated in Andong Jjimdak Alley, which is part of the Andong Old Market. It is about a 20-minute bus ride from Andong Station or Andong Bus Terminal to the market area.

2. Mat 50-nyeon Heotjesabap (맛50년헛제사밥)

Cuisine: Heotjesabap (Ancestral Rite Bibimbap)

This restaurant specializes in Heotjesabap, a unique form of bibimbap historically prepared for ancestral rites. The dish features rice topped with various seasoned vegetables (namul) and is traditionally served with soy sauce (ganjang) instead of spicy gochujang. It provides a taste of Korea's scholarly traditions, offering a lighter, more subtle flavor profile. The ambiance typically reflects a traditional setting.

Price: Approximately ₩15,000 - ₩25,000 per person (USD 11-18) for a set meal.

Getting There: Found on Seokju-ro, the restaurant is conveniently located near the iconic Woryeonggyo Bridge and Andong Folk Village. From downtown Andong, a local bus or taxi can reach this area.

3. Andong Gangodeungeo Jigyeong Restaurant (안동간고등어직영식당)

Cuisine: Andong Salted Mackerel (Gan Godeungeo)

Here, one can savor Andong's famous salted mackerel, a dish born from the region's inland location and historical preservation methods. The mackerel is expertly salted and often grilled to perfection, resulting in a flaky, flavorful fish with a pleasant salty taste that pairs wonderfully with rice and accompanying side dishes. It offers a taste of Andong's unique culinary heritage.

Price: Grilled Salted Mackerel: ₩10,000 (USD 7); Grilled Salted Mackerel Set Menu: ₩13,000 (USD 9).

Getting There: Also located on Seokju-ro, this restaurant is a short distance from Woryeonggyo Bridge. It can be reached by local bus or taxi from central Andong, often in conjunction with a visit to the bridge or folk village.