Incheon Food Guide: 10 Local Favourite Restaurants

Incheon is a brilliant culinary destination just outside Seoul, blending historic eateries with trendy new town vibes. As the birthplace of Korean jajangmyeon, the city offers an incredible food scene ranging from traditional pork galbi to modern Italian dining.

Top 10 Local Food Spots in Incheon

1. Buam Galbi (Ganseok-dong)

Operating for over 40 years, this legendary spot is famous for its raw pork galbi. Staff grill the meat for you, and the recommended way to eat it is with salt, followed by mustard greens, and then chilli pickles. Do not miss the salted seafood fried rice served in a stone pot at the end.

2. Sinseung Banjum (Chinatown)

Continuing the history of Gonghwachun, this Chinatown restaurant is renowned for its fried black bean noodles. Their signature fried black bean noodles feature finely minced meat and vegetables topped with a fried egg cooked sunny-side up. Expect queues on weekends, so pick up a ticket or use the electronic queuing system before exploring the area.

3. Hwanghae Haemul Kalguksu (Yeongjongdo)

A must-visit after a drive in Yeongjongdo, this noodle house serves kalguksu loaded with an enormous mountain of clams. The broth is deep and milky, based on dried pollack broth, and pairs wonderfully with the fresh fresh kimchi and radish kimchi provided.

4. Wonjo Sinpo Dakgangjeong (Sinpo Market)

Recognised as one of the top three fried chicken spots in the country, Sinpo International Market's famous stall serves dakgangjeong packed with maltose for a crunchier, chewier texture. Spicy green chillies cut through the richness, making it a brilliant match with beer.

5. Yonghwa Banjum (Bupyeong / Juan)

A pilgrimage site for fried rice and spicy jjamppong enthusiasts, this restaurant serves fried rice where every single grain is coated in oil with a strong wok hei flavour, topped with a crispy fried egg.

6. Impasto (Songdo)

Located in Songdo International City, this cosy handmade pasta specialist is perfect for dates. Their signature roasted gnocchi boasts a crispy exterior and chewy interior with a rich, thick cream sauce.

7. Onsen (Songdo)

Famous for its tendon, this restaurant serves crispy fried dishes with a savoury tare sauce. Enjoy by dipping the seaweed tempura first, breaking the soft-boiled egg into the rice, and eating the remaining tempura as side dishes.

8. Myeongwol-jib (Jung-gu)

An old-school neighbourhood diner serving a single set meal where the kimchi stew is refillable. It features over 10 home-style side dishes served buffet-style in a comfortable, casual setting.

9. Songdo Galmegi (Yeonsu-gu)

A top choice for family gatherings, this restaurant in Okryeon-dong serves marinated skirt meat grilled over charcoal on a copper pan, accompanied by stir-fried aged kimchi.

10. Cheongsil Hongsil (Sinpo Main Branch)

Operating since 1979, this traditional eatery is famous for thin-skinned meat dumplings and cold buckwheat noodles. Dip the dumplings into the cold broth filled with grated radish and spring onions for a classic combination.