Top 5 Places to Eat in Jeju Island

A breathtaking view of Jeju's volcanic cliffs with turquoise waters and dramatic scenery.
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Jeju Island's dining scene is a vibrant fusion of fresh local seafood and unique indigenous produce, offering diverse culinary experiences for every palate.

1. Boreum Sup (보름숲)

Cuisine: Jeju Black Pork BBQ

Boreum Sup offers an exceptional black pork BBQ experience in a casual yet modern and clean setting, with pleasant garden views. The restaurant is renowned for its aged and pre-smoked Jeju black pork, which is expertly grilled at your table to achieve the best taste and texture. Signature dipping sauces, including a reduced fermented anchovy sauce (myeolchi jeot), complement the rich flavors. Expect a high-quality, authentic Korean BBQ meal. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, particularly as they have a specific online reservation system and can be open for dinner only, with possible lunch openings seasonally.

Price: Approximately ₩20,000 - ₩40,000 per person (~$15 - $30 USD) for black pork cuts.

Getting There: Located in Jeju City. It is advisable to use a taxi or rental car to reach this venue as public transport options may be limited, particularly for a smooth evening experience.

2. Myeongjin Jeonbok Abalone Restaurant (명진전복)

Cuisine: Abalone Specialties

Myeongjin Jeonbok is a highly popular and well-regarded establishment on Jeju, known for its focus on fresh abalone dishes. The menu is concise, highlighting signature items such as abalone stone pot rice (Jeonbok Dolsotbab), grilled abalone (Jeonbok Gu-i), abalone porridge (Jeonbok Juk), and raw abalone sashimi (Jeonbok Hoe). The restaurant's coastal location in Gujwa allows diners to enjoy sea views while savoring their meal. It often experiences long queues, a testament to its exceptional culinary offerings.

Price: Abalone dishes range from ₩12,000 for porridge to ₩30,000 for grilled abalone or sashimi (~$9 - $22 USD).

Getting There: Situated in Gujwa-eup, it's best accessed by taxi or rental car. Allow for travel time, especially if coming from Jeju City or Seogwipo.

3. Ollae Guksu (올래국수)

Cuisine: Pork Noodles (Gogi Guksu)

Ollae Guksu is a quintessential Jeju cheap eat, celebrated for its hearty and comforting Gogi Guksu, a pork noodle soup. This local favorite features tender pork slices served over noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. Portions are generous, making it a satisfying and affordable meal. The atmosphere is bustling and casual, attracting both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Jeju's noodle culture. Service is known to be prompt, making it suitable for a quick and delicious stop.

Price: Approximately ₩8,000 - ₩10,000 per bowl (~$6 - $7.50 USD).

Getting There: Located conveniently in Jeju City, often within walking distance or a short taxi ride from central areas. Check a map for its precise location as it's a popular local spot.

4. Galchiwang Seongsamjeom (갈치왕 성산점)

Cuisine: Jeju Seafood (Hairtail Fish)

For an immersive Jeju seafood experience, Galchiwang Seongsamjeom near Seongsan Ilchulbong offers comprehensive set menus primarily featuring Galchi (hairtail fish), a local delicacy. Guests can choose from steamed or grilled hairtail seafood sets, which often include a variety of other fresh catches like octopus, abalone, and shellfish. The portions are substantial, making it an excellent choice for groups looking to sample a wide array of Jeju's marine bounty. Individual ordering is also available. Expect fresh, well-prepared seafood in a setting popular with those visiting the Sunrise Peak area.

Price: Set menus range from approximately ₩65,000 to ₩200,000 depending on size and inclusions (~$48 - $148 USD), typically serving 2 or more people.

Getting There: Located in Seongsan-eup, close to Seongsan Ilchulbong. It is accessible by taxi or a local bus service if you are staying in the eastern part of the island. A rental car offers the most flexibility.

5. Yong Fu (at Jeju Shinhwa World)

Cuisine: Michelin-starred Chinese Fine Dining

Yong Fu brings a refined, Michelin-starred Chinese dining experience to Jeju Shinhwa World. Originating from Shanghai, this restaurant showcases the essence of Chinese fine dining by integrating classic regional dishes from Beijing, Sichuan, and Guangdong, while also incorporating the finest locally sourced Jeju ingredients. Signature dishes include braised abalone in Ningbo-style sauce, spicy Jeju black pork stir-fry, and chilled marinated crab. The opulent setting and meticulously crafted dishes offer a luxurious and memorable culinary journey, suitable for those seeking an elevated dining experience.

Price: Lunch set menu: ₩48,000 per person (~$35 USD). Dinner set menu: ₩78,000 per person (~$57 USD). A la carte options are also available.

Getting There: Located within Jeju Shinhwa World, Seogwipo. It is best reached by taxi, resort shuttle, or rental car. Allow sufficient travel time as it is in the southwestern part of the island.