Top 5 Places to Eat in Gyeongju

Written by Andrew Turner, Min-jun Park
21/08/2025
Serene landscape of ancient burial mounds in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Paul Bill, Pexels

Gyeongju's dining scene offers a unique blend of traditional Korean culinary heritage and modern tastes, catering to diverse visitors with options ranging from historic Hanok-style eateries to vibrant casual spots in areas like Hwangridan-gil.

1. Yoseokgung (요석궁)

Cuisine: Traditional Korean Royal Court Cuisine (Hanjeongsik)

Stepping into Yoseokgung feels like a journey back in time, as it is housed within a nobleman's house from the Silla Dynasty. The atmosphere is undeniably historic and refined, offering an elegant setting for a high-end traditional Korean full-course meal. Visitors can expect a meticulously prepared array of dishes, reflecting the culinary traditions of Gyeongju's Choi Clan and the Silla Kingdom. The experience here is about savoring each dish in a truly grand environment.

Price: ₩50,000 - ₩100,000+ per person

Getting There: Located within the Gyochon Traditional Village, it is approximately a 10-minute walk from the Daereungwon Tomb Complex.

2. Maetdol Sundubu (맷돌순두부)

Cuisine: Soft Tofu Stew (Sundubu-jjigae)

For a comforting and authentic local meal, Maetdol Sundubu is a reliable choice. This restaurant specializes in soft tofu stew, where the tofu is freshly ground, resulting in a silky texture within a spicy broth. It is a local favorite, and the popularity often means a short wait, but the hearty and satisfying meal, which can include options like seafood and green onion pancake, makes it worthwhile.

Price: ₩10,000 - ₩20,000 per dish

Getting There: Situated at the entrance of the Bomun Tourism Complex, it is about a 10-minute drive from Bulguksa Temple. Bus numbers 10, 18, and 700 connect the city center (near Daereungwon) to the Bomun Lake area. A taxi from the city center to Bomun Lake would cost approximately ₩15,000 - ₩18,000, taking about 11 minutes.

3. Hamyangjip (함양집)

Cuisine: Korean Beef Tartare with Cold Broth (Yukhoe Mulhoe)

Hamyangjip is celebrated among locals for its distinctive Yukhoe Mulhoe, a dish of raw beef tartare served in a refreshing, subtly sweet, and tangy cold broth. It's a unique and highly recommended experience, especially on warmer days, with the beef complemented by Korean pear and cucumber. The dish is typically enjoyed by mixing in provided noodles first, followed by rice. Expect this popular spot to be busy, and arriving early can help avoid long queues.

Price: ₩10,000 - ₩20,000 per person

Getting There: The restaurant is located at 10-1 Bukgun 1-gil, Gyeongju-si. It is in the city center and generally accessible by foot or a short taxi ride from nearby attractions.

4. Dosol Maeul (도솔마을)

Cuisine: Traditional Korean Set Meal (Hanjeongsik)

Dosol Maeul offers an authentic traditional Korean dining experience within a charming hanok setting. This highly recommended spot provides a generous 'Surisan Hanjeongshik' set meal, featuring over 10 traditional side dishes. The food is both delicious and affordable, making it a favorite among locals. The popularity means there can be significant wait times during peak hours, but the immersive atmosphere and quality of the meal make it a worthwhile visit.

Price: ₩10,000 - ₩20,000 per person

Getting There: Located in the heart of Gyeongju's traditional neighborhood, it is typically within walking distance of many central historical sites.

5. Hyanghwajeong (향화정)

Cuisine: Korean (Cockle Bibimbap, Korean Classics)

Situated in the bustling Hwangridan-gil area, Hyanghwajeong is a trendy restaurant known for its signature cockle bibimbap. This flavorful dish, ideal for sharing, combines seasoned cockles, fresh vegetables, seaweed, and rice, all served on a large, inviting plate. The vibrant atmosphere of Hwangridan-gil, with its array of shops and cafes, adds to the dining experience.

Price: ₩15,000 - ₩25,000 per dish

Getting There: Found at 17, Sajeong-ro 57beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, within the popular Hwangridan-gil district. This area is easily explored on foot and well-connected by local buses.

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