Welcome to Jeju Island, South Korea’s beloved paradise, where you can immerse yourself not only in crystal-clear waters, dramatic volcanic landscapes, fresh ocean breeze, and one of the best places to eat some of the most famous Korean food.
Beyond its natural beauty, Jeju Island truly offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, full of surprises you won’t find elsewhere. The island’s iconic food will give you a profound experience of the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
So, if you’re an enthusiastic foodie searching for authentic flavors, Jeju’s traditional dishes are an absolute must-try. Let’s dive into the best famous food that are unique to Jeju Island — ones you simply cannot find anywhere else in Korea or the world.
Best 5 Famous Food You Can ONLY Find on Jeju Island
1. Malgogi Course (Horse Meat Full Course Meal)
You’ve heard of beef and pork, but have you ever tried horse meat? This is an iconic Korean food to eat that’s extremely famous in Jeju Island.
On Jeju Island, a full-course horse meat meal, known as the Malgogi Course, is a renowned culinary tradition like no other. Served in multiple styles — from tender tartare and delicate sushi to smoky grilled cuts and comforting shabu-shabu — horse meat here is lean, flavorful, and surprisingly refined.
Historically, Jeju’s wide plains were ideal for breeding horses, making this dish deeply tied to the island’s heritage.
Where to Try
Jungwoo Horse Garden
- Address: 505-5 연동 Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 64 747 6525
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 10 PM (every day)
2. Kkwong Memil Kalguksu (Pheasant Buckwheat Noodles)
In the heart of Jeju’s misty middle-mountain region, wild pheasants roam freely, and buckwheat fields bloom under the island’s cool climate. Together, these local ingredients create the iconic Kkwong Memil Kalguksu — knife-cut buckwheat noodles served in a light, flavorful pheasant broth.
Unlike chicken or beef broth, pheasant broth has a distinct richness that feels both hearty and refreshing. Locals swear by it as the perfect comfort food to eat in Jeju Island.
Where to Try
Find this dish in traditional restaurants near Dongmun Market or rural villages where Jeju’s culinary roots run deep.
Bijarim Kkwong Memil Kalguksu
- Address: 28 Jeongdeun-ro 3-gil, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 64 783 3888
- Opening Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM (every day)
- Website: Naver, Modoo.
Golmok Sikdang
- Address: 1347-1 이도1동 Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 64 757 4890
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM (every day)
- Website: Kakao Map
3. Seongge Miyeokguk (Sea Urchin Seaweed Soup)
Nothing says coastal Jeju like a steaming bowl of Seongge Miyeokguk, a sea urchin seaweed soup that captures the island’s ocean essence. The vibrant purple sea urchins, known as bora seongge, are hand-harvested by Jeju’s legendary haenyeo, or female divers.
Paired with nutrient-rich seaweed, this dish is served with rice and kimchi, making for a nourishing meal with a fresh-from-the-sea flavor. It’s a local delicacy often enjoyed as a celebratory dish on special occasions.
Where to Try
Coastal restaurants, especially in Seogwipo, serve the freshest versions, particularly during sea urchin season.
4. Dombegogi (Boiled Black Pork on a Cutting Board)
Jeju’s famous black pigs are a breed of their own, known for their tender meat and rich flavor. While black pork BBQ is a popular choice, true locals will point you toward Dombegogi.
This traditional dish features thick-sliced black pork, boiled to perfection, then served on a wooden cutting board called a dombe. The simplicity of the dish lets the natural taste of the pork shine, especially when dipped in meljeot (fermented shrimp sauce). It’s a communal experience that brings people together.
Where to Try
Most local restaurants in Jeju offer Dombegogi, often as part of a wrap set with fresh vegetables and sauces. But one of the most famous restaurants serving the best Dombegogi in Jeju Island is Cheonjitgol.
Cheonjitgol Sikdang
- Address: 4 Jungang-ro 41beon-gil, 특별자치도, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 64 763 0399
- Opening Hours: 5.10 to 9.30 PM (every day)
5. Udo Peanut Ice Cream
Craving something sweet? A quick ferry ride to Udo Island, just off Jeju’s coast, will reward you with a treat like no other — Udo Peanut Ice Cream.
Udo’s volcanic soil produces small, aromatic peanuts that are naturally sweet and nutty. Blended into creamy, dreamy ice cream, this dessert is the perfect indulgence on a sunny Jeju afternoon. The peanut flavor is delightfully intense, a true taste of Udo’s pride.
Where to Try
Jimmy’s Natural Ice Cream
- Address: 1132 Udohaean-gil, Udo-myeon, 특별자치도, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 10 9868 8633
- Opening Hours: 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM (every day)
Taste the True Essence of Jeju Island
Jeju Island’s cuisine is more than just delicious — it’s a reflection of its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural landscape. Every dish tells a story, from the legacy of horse breeding to the resilience of haenyeo divers.
So, the next time you’re wondering what to eat in Jeju, skip the typical tourist fare and seek out these authentic local flavors. They will definitely give you a true taste of what makes Jeju so special.
Your culinary adventure on this stunning island awaits — and believe us, your taste buds will thank you.
So, are you ready to explore more about Jeju Island? Check out our guides on hidden beaches, scenic hikes, and must-visit attractions for the ultimate Jeju experience.
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