A recent wave of veganism has taken over the hip food culture scene in Seoul. Be it for health reasons, environmental concerns or love of animals, many people are choosing veganism as a life-style choice. I have been involved in this movement since early 2016, as my quest for Halal food had lead me to this whole new culinary world. Vegan food dishes are made using vegetables only, which means no animal products which include milk, butter, eggs or honey are used in making them.

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Halal food can be difficult to find in Korea, and whatever options that do exist are sometimes out of reach. Halal being elusive and expensive, I decided I would have to look for more alternatives. When it comes to vegan food, we know that no animal products are used in the making of them. Personally, I feel so relaxed and relieved whenever I am eating vegan, I felt I should share this experience. Today’s write up features some of the best vegan cafes in Seoul. Check them out!

Disclaimer: The cafes listed in this article are not halal certified. As such, we advise that you dine at your own discretion.

1. Dalyang Café

I began my journey into the world of veganism with a visit to Dalyang Café. Not only does the name which means “Sweet Kitten” appeal to me (I love cats!), but the owners of the café Soy and Kelly’s hospitality was very heart-warming.

Cozy Interior

Their food is delicious; some of their best dishes are pesto spaghetti and vegan mac and cheese.  I love the soy milk ice-cream they have. If you are close to Korea University, this is the best place to go!

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Soy Meat Bulgogi

Credit: @lezbvegan on Instagram

Address: 45-183 Jongam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours: 11AM-10PM (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Contact: 02 -6010-9033| Website | Facebook
Directions: Get out of Exit 1 or Exit 2 of Korea University Station and keep walking straight, you will pass by the GS Gas Station. As you keep on walking you will walk passed by Sung Rae High School on your left. Keep note that as you walk, you will see SK Energy gas station, McDonalds and the Korea post office on your right side. As you reach the intersection with the GS25 grocery shop, turn left and keep walking straight until the road ends, take a right turn and Dalyang Café will be on your right. It’s quite a long walk from the station, say about 15-20 minutes.

2. Changbi Book Café

This book café is actually part of a publishing house called Changbi Publishers. The ambience of the café is just like a library, but of course much more relaxed. There are shelves filled with books in all directions and sitting arrangements especially for studying. The café also has a basement floor with study tables for students and comfy sofas for magazine reading.

This café has a huge variety of delicious baked goods to choose from, along with your coffee, which are 100% vegan.

Tofu Pizza Roll

The prices are also quite reasonable. Although it’s quite far from my place, I do make time to go there to spend some time studying and eating their amazing tofu pizza rolls.

Bean breads of different flavors

Schedule of the arrival of the freshly made baked goods

If you are close to Hongdae/Hapjeong, it’s just one station away from Hapjeong located in Mangwon. Take some books with you and spend some quality time in this amazing vegan café.

Address: Mapo-gu, Worldcup-ro, 12 Gil 7, 1^st Floor
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 8AM-11PM, Holidays: 9AM-11PM
Contact: 02-322-8626
Directions: Alight at Magwon Station Exit 1, walk towards your left, until the first intersection. Turn left and the first building you will see is Changbi Publishers. The café is on the first floor.

3. The Bread Blue

Located in Sinchon, The Bread Blue is a similar bakery to Changbi, but it’s not a book café. It is also popular for its vegan baked goods, especially because they are made without using milk, egg or butter.

Credit: The Bread Blue on Facebook

So with no milk, egg and butter used, these baked goods are very healthy and great options for those trying to control their diet.

The Bread Blue Bakery and Cafe

Credit: The Bread Blue on Facebook

Address: -dong, 239-24 Seongsan 1(il)-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours: Mon-Sat : 10 AM to 10 PM, Sun:  8AM-9PM
Contact: 070-4405-0723 | Website | Facebook
Directions: Take exit 8 from Sinchon station, walk straight ahead until you see the Holly’s Coffee shop. Turn left, walk straight past two blocks. Turn right, you will see The Bread Blue at the end of the alley.

BONUS: Taco Amigo (Mexican Restaurant in Itaewon)

Itaewon is the place for restaurants serving international cuisine in Seoul. But some of them are special; like Taco Amigo.

This Mexican restaurant has options for almost all kinds of dietary needs; including Halal and Vegan. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to explore new cuisine, and also to those who love Mexican food.

Note: Taco Amigos is not halal certified, however, they do serve halal meat upon request and have vegetarian/vegan options. The cafe also serves non halal meat and alcohol, so we advise that you dine at your own discretion.

Address: 130-34 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Mon; 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Tue-Sat; 11:30 am – 10:00 pm, Sun; 11:30 am – 9:30 am
Contact: 02-749-5253 | Website | Facebook
Directions: Itaewon Station, Line 6. Exit 4. Upon exiting, turn around and walk towards IBK bank and Gecko’s bar. Tacos Amigo is a few buildings past the bank. You should be able to see a sign at the top of the building, from the intersection.

The vegan/vegetarian eatery scene is still growing in Korea and there are many places to explore aside from these cafes. I chose to write about them because of their relatively easy to find locations and good food at affordable prices. With all the good spirit that comes with vegan food, I hope you will be inspired to try out these places on your next visit to Seoul!

Answer these questions and you’ll find out!

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Move over Seoul, it’s time for Pyeongchang to shine! This vastly underrated county is the name on everyone’s lips, ever since it was announced as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2018 Winter Paralympics

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Aside from being the go-to destination for all things winter sports, Pyeongchang is bursting with rich culture, fun local festivals and of course, towering mountains with the most amazing views Think of it as the more laid-back, less congested cousin of Seoul If you’re looking for more reasons to visit this great county, read on!

Travelling from Seoul 

Pyeongchang is a 2-3 hour drive (depending on the traffic) away from Seoul, but the great news is that there’ll be a new KTX line opening in June, connecting the two places! Instead, the journey will take only 1.5 hours.

1. Learn the art of traditional Korean cooking

Fans of traditional Korean cuisine definitely shouldn’t give this a miss! Enroll yourself in one of the many cooking classes held at Jeonggangwon and whip up traditional dishes like tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), bibimbap (Korean mixed rice), kimchi and more!

Otherwise known as the Korea Traditional Food Culture Experience Centre, you’ll be in the trusty hands of experienced ahjummas who’ll be guiding you every step of the way. They’ll definitely make an amateur chef out of you

Note: Ensure that you request for the vegetarian versions of the dishes you’d like to prepare. Do note that these dishes are not halal-certified so we advise that you consume at your own discretion.

2. Experience the winter of a lifetime❄️

With temperatures dropping to as low as -12 °C in the winter, you can certainly expect fluffy, white blankets of snow covering every single inch of land in Pyeongchang. Winter sports are also a cult favourite amongst locals and tourists alike and the county meets the demands of its people with a multitude of fully equipped ski resorts.

Credit: @felixongkf on Instagram

Have a snowballing good time skiing and snowboarding down high slopes, build your own little snowman or simply have a good old fashioned snowball fight with your loved ones!

Credit: @iammiyeon on Instagram

#HHWT Tip: One of Pyeongchang’s most famous resorts, Alpensia Ski Resort, has a prayer room at the lobby for Muslim guests to fulfill their prayers

3. Be a part of history at the 2018 Winter Olympics & Paralympics

And of course, we just had to mention the upcoming 2018 Winter Olympics & Paralympics! The first winter games to ever be held in South Korea, Pyeongchang previously lost the bid to both Canada and Russia before clinching the coveted slot in 2011.

Even though the games will take place from 9-25 Feb 2018, the county is already warming up for the onslaught of rabid sports fans, building huge multi-million stadiums and renovating existing ski centers to accommodate the massive crowds interested in witnessing history in the making.

The winter events are divided into 3; snow, ice and sliding sports. Sports include alpine skiing, curling, ice hockey and bobsleigh!

Tickets for the games are on sale, for those residing in Korea. No word on when the tickets will be released for sale in Asia but you can check out the official website for more information

4. Festivals galore!

Festivals are all the rage in Pyeongchang and we’re not talking about Coachella Festivals like the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and Hyoseok Cultural Festival aim to celebrate the rich culture and history the county has to offer

Credit: @rosie.nyc on Instagram

Straight out of an episode of Survivors, you’ll have the chance to catch live trout! The whole lake freezes over in winter so you’ll have to carve out small holes in the ice and strategically place your lures. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, why not try bare-handed fishing? Though, we can’t guarantee that your fingers will stay intact after submerging it in icy cold water

Credit: @hyangsun.g on Instagram

Seafood doesn’t get any fresher than this! Once you caught your trout, visit a nearby restaurant and ask them to prepare a simple but hearty meal for you Nothing’s more rewarding than (literally) eating the fruits of your labour

Credit: @ipsaeko on Instagram

For the more artsy souls, the Hyoseok Cultural Festival commemorates modern Korean writer Lee Hyo-seok and his popular novel “When Buckwheat Flowers Bloom”. Take part in their National Hyo-seok Essay Competition or Lee Hyo-seok Literature Night whilst admiring the gorgeous surrounding landscape

#HHWT Tip: Check out major festivals like the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival and 2018 PyeongChang K-Pop Festival!

5. Have a zenful stay at Woljeongsa Temple

We all need a break from the hustle and bustle of city-life and there’s really no better place to collect your thoughts than Woljeongsa Temple! This Buddhist temple located on Odaesan Mountain offers temple stay programmes for those tired souls in need of rejuvenation.

Depending on how much time you’re willing to spend there, you can opt for a half day temple life experience or a 2 day 1 night stay.

One of the things that you’ll get to do is to make a wooden beaded necklace, similar to the ones you’ll see on monks. However, as per Buddhist practices, after stringing each individual bead, you’ll have to take a bow. There are 100 beads in total, so be warned, you’re in for a bit of a work out

If you’re on a tight schedule and can’t afford a temple stay, be rest assured that even a short walk on the peaceful and serene temple grounds would be enough to soothe any troubled heart

6.  A refuge for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers

With 84% of Pyeongchang’s territory comprising of mountains, it’s the perfect retreat for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike! Inhale the crisp, sweet mountain air whilst taking in the beauty of the world that our Lord has created

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Gyebangsan Mountain and Mount Seoraksan are the top hiking destinations in Pyeongchang, especially in autumn, when the leaves change color and transforms the terrain into a kaleidoscopic nature wonderland

Credit: @uhm_m on Instagram

#HHWT Tip: Remember to wear proper hiking shoes as the terrains can get a little slippery!

Credit: @rasibenazir on Instagram

7. Have a splashing good time at Yongpyong Water Park

Winter sports are great and all, but not everyone can handle the bitter cold⛄️ Nestled within Peak Island, Yongpyong Water Park offers a much warmer experience that’s perfect for the whole family!

Credit: Yongpyong Resort on Facebook 

Facilities include a beach and kids’ pool, sweat chamber, fun slides, saunas and more! Oh, and if you end up missing the sight of  fluttering snowflakes, there’s even a waterfall ice cave

Credit: @sungeun82 on Instagram

BONUS: Day Trip To Gangneung

Just an hour away from Pyeongchang, lies the sleepy, simple city of Gangneung. If you’re around the area in spring, get ready to chase the most exquisite cherry blossoms at the Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival

Oh, and don’t forget to stop by Jumunjing Fish Market for the freshest seafood this side of Korea! Try your hand at haggling prices with the slightly intimidating but seasoned stall vendors and snag the best seafood deals

Once you’ve gotten your bag of spoils, approach any nearby vendor and ask them to whip up a simple meal for you. Piping hot seafood barbecue right off the grill? Yes please

I had such a blast exploring Pyeongchang and other cities like Gangneung, thanks again to KTO Singapore for inviting us on this media trip Oh, and you can bet that I’m definitely going back for more! Have I convinced you to visit Pyeongchang? Let us know in the comments below

Sometimes, in the midst of our travelling plans, we just want to kick back, spend a night in and whip some good ol’ home-cooked food instead of spending the day out searching for food. Good thing is, when you’re in Korea, this is more than possible with the many halal grocery marts you can find around! From halal meats to fragrant spices, you’re sure to find all your grocery needs at these 9 Muslim-owned marts!

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P.S. Planning for your trip to Seoul? Find the best halal eateries, top attractions and nearby prayer spaces all in one space – the HHWT website! With this, your travel plans will be fuss-free

Seoul

1. Foreign Food Mart

Foreign Food Mart in downtown Itaewon is the one-stop grocery spot that will fulfill all your grocery needs! Specialising in importing halal food, you can find almost anything here from seafood, halal meat, spices, dry groceries, nuts and snacks.

Credit: Muslim Korea Travel Tips on Facebook

The mart also offers a taste of home with familiar instant noodle flavors such as Soto Ayam! A shopping trip along the aisles at this mart will definitely drive your homesickness away. For a more exhaustive list of their available products, click here!

Credit: HyeJoon Michelle Kim on Facebook

Address: #137-8, Itaewon-dong, Jungeun Building, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 10am to 12am
Contact: 02-797-0055 | Website | Facebook

2. National Foods Mart

Here’s another gem in Itaewon, Seoul! National Foods Mart will draw you in with its racks upon racks of groceries! National Foods, being one of the most renowned brands in Pakistan, opened this mart here solely to cater to the growing Muslim traveler market. Get ready to be spoiled for choice with their variety of teas, masala spices, lentils, curry pastes and vegetables which remind you of home.

Credit: Smile Morning Tour, Korea on Facebook

Other than Indian or Pakistani imports, this store also offers a wide variety of goods from other Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia and even Vietnam! Items such as fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, green or yellow curry pastes and ready-made marinades are easily available here.

Credit: HyeJoon Michelle Kim on Facebook

You’ll also be pleasantly surprised to find ready-made Singapore mixes such as the Singapore Laksa paste too!

Address: 39, Usadan-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Contact: 02-790-6547

[P.S. Heading to Seoul for the first time ever? Check out the only Seoul travel cheat list every Muslim traveller needs!]

3. Zaffran Mart

At Zaffran Mart you’ll find no lack of fresh fruits and vegetables! Packed neatly in rows, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce such as green leafy vegetables, cucumbers, okra, cabbages, chili, garlic, onions and much more! Tropical fruits such as pineapples and watermelons are also readily available.

Credit: Zaffran Mart on Facebook

Typical dry groceries such as rice, flour, lentils and condiments can also be found here too. Plus points for the bright lights and neat organization of the store, which makes finding your way around a breeze!

Credit: Zaffran Mart on Facebook

Address: 732-21 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Contact: +82-2-3785-3570 | Facebook

4. Al-Baraka Halal Meat and Poultry

A halal meat butchery! Right in Seoul! Yes! In a country where Muslims are the minority, a whole store dedicated to halal meat is indeed a rare find. Al-Baraka stocks a wide range of fresh halal beef, lamb and chicken in various cuts.

Credit: bnbhero

Located in Itaewon, Al-Baraka is along the way to the Seoul Central Mosque. Look for its sign board on the main street signaling the alley it’s located at.

Credit: AL BARAKA FR on Facebook

Address: 137-22 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea
Contact: 02-6404-7775

[P.S. In Seoul and on a tight budget? Check out these 10 affordable accommodations in Seoul (near halal food)!]

5. Halal Meat Shop

Along the same street towards the Seoul Central Mosque, you’ll find another halal meat shop aptly named the Halal Meat Shop! Similarly, this butchery sells fresh beef, mutton and chicken. A small portion of the store is also dedicated to dry groceries.

Credit: tradekorea

This butcher is also located right next to the mosque on Itaewon street, known as the ‘halal street’ in Seoul!

Address: 34, Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Contact: +82-2-698-8611

P.S. Heading to Seoul? Find the best halal eateries, top attractions and nearby prayer spaces all in one space – the HHWT website! You’re in for a completely fuss-free trip

Busan

6. New World Mart, World Spice View

This mart in Busan stocks a lot of dry goods and groceries such as dates, dried fruit, sauces, condiments and instant foods! If you’re looking for essential groceries such as rice and spices to cook up a simple meal, a trip to New World Mart would meet all your needs! The prices here are known to be quite pocket-friendly as well.

Credit: Newworld Mart on Facebook

Do note that wet groceries are not readily available at this mart. Not to worry! Other halal food marts in the Sasang area are just a block away and within walking distance.

Credit: Newworld Mart on Facebook

Address: #532-1 Gwaebeop-dong, Sasang-gu, Busan, Korea
Contact: 051-326-8968

6. Asia Mart

Mr. Ali Malik and his wife own Asia Mart, the original and most well-stocked Asian mart in Sasang! Known for his friendly and helpful nature, a trip to the store could easily be one of the highlights of your day in Busan. Mr. Malik also speaks perfect English so language barriers aren’t an issue! Similar to the other marts, the usual fare of Indian, Pakistani, Indonesian and Middle Eastern groceries are sold here, but with an even larger selection.

Credit: soul-in-a-fishbowl

The prices here as also known to be really affordable, especially the meats! The meats sold here are also available in many cuts from boneless, rib eyes, to ground meat. At Asia Mart, you can also find products in a variety of sizes from travel-friendly to wholesale-sized jumbo packs!

Credit: soul-in-a-fishbowl

Directions: To get here, take the subway to Sasang #227 and exit towards the Sobu Bus Terminal at Exit 3. Walk directly towards the river and EMart/HomePlus and turn right at the first street. You’ll find Asia Mart on your left.
Opening hours: 10.30am to 11.30pm daily
Contact: 051-322-6080

[P.S. Looking for yummy eateries in Busan? Check out our list of 10 Muslim-friendly restaurants in Busan you have to try!]

Incheon

7. Halalco Foodmart

True to its name, everything sold at this food mart is 100% halal! Established in 2014, Halalco’s aimis to provide halal, hygienic and healthy foods, for fellow Muslim travellers and locals.  The store specializes in halal meat as well as Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Middle Eastern groceries so you’ll definitely find a fair share of spice mixes available here!

Credit: Halalco FOOD MART on Facebook

You name it, they have it! Pick from a large variety of choices from pickles, sauces, dairy products, meats, baked goods, and even frozen instant foods!

Credit: Halalco FOOD MART on Facebook

Address: 187, Neungheodae-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon
Opening hours: 9.00am to 11.00pm
Contact: 032-834-5152 | Website

Daejeon

8. Global Food Mart, Daejeon

Located in front of the Islamic Center in Daejeon, you’ll find the Global Food Mart, a wonderful little mart selling all kinds of halal goodies! Specialising in mostly dried foods, you’ll find a wide variety of canned and packaged goodies here.

Credit: Global Food Mart on Facebook

Some of the best finds here include Indonesian flavoured crackers flavours  like onion and garlic (keropok udang and bawang), condiments (hello garlic chilli sauce!), and canned sardines.

Credit: Global Food Mart on Facebook

With the sheer variety of goods here, you’ll have to head down with a shopping list in hand to avoid overspending!

Address: 04-15, Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea
Opening hours: 4.00pm to 10pm (Monday to Thursday), 10.00am to 10.00pm (Friday to Sunday)
Contact: 010-5895-0786

Ansan, Gyeonggi

9. Batavia Indonesian Mart

Here’s a store that’s stocked full of Indonesian food! Batavia Indonesian mart is a minimart located on level two of the Batavia Indonesian Restaurant which sells amazing Indonesian-style dishes such as Mie Ayam Bakso, Nasi Rawon, Tahu Isu and more! Batavia Indonesian Mart sells mostly dry snacks and instant foods imported from Indonesia. Here you can find a large selection of instant noodles, crackers, sauces, chili pastes and more!

Credit: babikelayapan

Credit: babikelayapan

Getting here is relatively easy too! Stopping at Ansan Train Station Exit 1 brings you directly to the immigrant district where you’ll easily spot this mart!

Address: 798-14, Wongok-dong, Danwon-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 10.00am to 11.00pm

Excited to start cooking a storm yet? With this list handy, you’re more than ready to start! Oh, and if you’re heading to Seoul,  find the best halal eateries, top attractions and nearby prayer spaces all in one space – the HHWT website! Your travel plans have never been easier If you’ve been to Seoul, do leave us a review on our website and help other Muslim travellers out too!

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If there’s one thing that Muslim travellers have to try while in South Korea, it’s definitely the delicious halal food! With the 2nd installment of Korea’s Halal Restaurant Week, Muslims heading to Korea from now till 31 Oct 2017 will be treated to lots of delicious discounts/freebies at selected eateries 🤗

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Don’t know where to start your gastronomic adventure? Here’s 9 of the mouthwatering halal Korean dishes you absolutely have to try

P.S. Get awesome discounts off over 100 Muslim-friendly eateries and attractions during Halal Restaurant Week Korea! Sign up on the official website to download your FREE coupon booklet, or redeem it from any KTO branch office, Incheon Airport Information Center or Itaewon Tourist Information Center. Present or flash your coupon on your mobile to enjoy these great offers

Enjoy awesome discounts during Halal Restaurant Week Korea!

Sign up on the official website to download your FREE coupon booklet! From now till 31 Oct 2017, flash your coupon on your mobile to enjoy these great offers

FIND OUT MORE HERE!

1. Bulgogi

If there’s one dish you can’t leave Korea without trying, it’ll definitely have to be bulgogi! Bulgogi is made of marinated, thinly sliced meat that’s grilled on a barbecue or stove-top griddle, which gives it a smoky, delectable flavour

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Add in some caramelised onions and just the right amount of seasoning, and you have yourself one delicious classic Korean dish!

Where To Eat: Savour halal, authentic bulgogi in Korea at Muree Muslim Food, Makan Restaurant, or Nimat and enjoy amazing discounts using the Halal Restaurant Week coupon book 

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

All you have to do is present a coupon and you’ll get a 10% discount on all Nimat menu items PLUS a free portion of kimchi/dried seaweed  🤗

2. Bibimbap

The Korean version of mixed rice, bibimbap is a symphony of savoury and sweet flavours. Beloved by both locals and tourists alike, you can have endless combinations of fresh vegetables (sautéed and seasoned to perfection!) with your warm scoop of rice.

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

A huge dollop of gochujang (spicy chilli pepper paste), soy sauce and/or doenjang (a fermented soybean paste) completes this humble dish. To top it all off, a fried or raw egg is added for protein  

Where To Eat: Dig into halal bibimbap at Makan Restaurant or Hajj in Seoul and you can even redeem a 5% or 10% discount respectively!

3. Samgyetang

If you’re travelling to Korea during the colder months, this next dish is sure to warm you up! Samgyetang or ginseng chicken soup is a nutritious dish that’s often eaten in the summer to boost stamina.  A whole chicken is filled with garlic, rice, Korean dates and ginseng before being left to simmer in a light, flavourful broth.

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Not only is the meat super tender and peels right off the bone, this dish is said to promote good health and ward off illnesses!

Where To Eat: You can fuel up on this delicious dish at Makan Restaurant, Hajj and Muree.

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Present the Halal Restaurant Week coupon and get a 5% or 10% discount off your meal (depending on which eatery you dine at)!

4. Nakji-bokkeum

Despite being recently introduced in 1965, nakji-bokkeum has since become one of Korea’s national dishes, and for good reason This stir-fried octopus dish is made using a gochujang marinade, which gives it a fiery-red colour and spicy kick! A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds is added for that extra crunch

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Pair your meal with banchan or Korean side dishes for an elevated flavour explosion!

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Where To Eat: Usually made with white cooking wine, you can find the halal version of this dish at Makan Restaurant and Hajj! Don’t forget to redeem your 5% and 10%  discount using the Halal Restaurant Week coupon when you dine there

5. Dakdoritang

Korea’s all about its spices, with gochujang and gochutgaru (chilli powder) being used in almost every dish! Dakdoritang, or spicy braised chicken stew is, of course, no exception to that! Huge chunks of chicken are boiled with vegetables and even more spicy ingredients like dried red chilli peppers, green and red chillis. As you can tell by the vibrant red broth, this dish is sure to pack a punch!

Credit: Makan Halal Korean Restaurant on Facebook

So, why not swing by Makan Restaurant and test just how high your spice tolerance actually is Even if you can’t take the heat, the 5% discount you can redeem will make the whole experience worthwhile

6. Gimbap

Just like how Japan has its various combinations of fresh sushi, Korea is stepping up its food game with gimbap! A popular choice for take-out, gimbap is made from cooked rice that’s rolled in gim (dried seaweed) and traditionally stuffed with pickled vegetables. Other unique fillings include crab meat, kimchi, canned tuna and even bulgogi!

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Where To Eat: Eager for a taste of halal gimbap? Head on over to Nimat the moment you touch down at Incheon Airport for your first taste of authentic local cuisine

#HHWT Tip: Save up on your meal and get 10% off all Nimat food items when you use the Halal Restaurant week coupon!

7. Bindae-tteok

Craving pancakes while in Korea? Bindae-tteok is the next best thing  Made from a simple batter of grinding soaked mung beans, vegetables and/or meat, it’s pan-fried till the edges are super crispy

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Where To Eat: This savoury Korean pancake makes for a perfect snack, and one of the best places to get it is Hajj! Plus, you can redeem a 10% discount, which makes your snack even more affordable

8. Tteokgalbi

Any major meat lover will drool over this next dish! Originally part of the Korean royal court cuisine, tteokgalbi or grilled short rib patties is now enjoyed by locals all over the country.

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Also known as cake ribs, what makes this dish unique is how the meat is kneaded and shaped, a process like that of making a rice cake. This makes the minced meat especially soft and tender, so it melts immediately in your mouth

Where To Eat: Makan Restaurant is one of the few halal/Muslim-owned eateries in Korea to serve this mouthwatering dish. Enjoy 5% off with the Halal Restaurant Week coupon!

9. Jajangmyeon

This Korean-Chinese fusion dish dates all the way back to 1905, and remains one of the most popular dishes in the country! Thick, hand-made noodles are drenched in a tangy, slight salty black bean sauce dressing, and mixed with bite-sized, diced meat. The sweetness of the thinly sliced cucumbers (which are added as a topping) balances out the flavours and gives the dish more texture.

Credit: Makan Halal Korean Restaurant on Facebook

Where To Eat: Of course, you can easily get a halal version of this dish at eateries like Makan Restaurant! Slurp down this hearty bowl and don’t forget to use your coupon for 5% off! 

Redeem amazing discounts during Halal Restaurant Week Korea!

Sign up on the official website to download your FREE coupon booklet! From now till 31 Oct 2017, flash your coupon on your mobile to enjoy these great offers

FIND OUT MORE HERE!

Korean cuisine is so delicious, you have to try them all! What makes the whole dining experience even more worthwhile for you is, of course, the free discounts you can redeem during Halal Restaurant Week! Plus, the booklet even comes with exclusive event coupons which you can use to get 3,000 or 10,000 won off your bill at any participating eatery

All you have to do is SIGN UP on the event website! So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to Korea from now till 31 October 2017 for your gastronomic food adventure ✈️

This article was brought to you by Korea Tourism Organisation (Singapore). Follow them on Facebook for the latest updates on Korea!

Bulgogi, japchae and tteokbokki – all things Korean are all the things we love  Heading to Seoul isn’t merely a trip to the sky-high N Seoul Tower or hunting down the best bargains in Myeong-dong streets. You want to walk the talk from the way you speak, dress and even eat! At Halal Kitchen, the first Halal Korean restaurant in Buckhon/Insadong, you’ll get to eat true Korean dishes as well as take a stroll down Gyeongbokgung Palace just five minutes away!

Credit: Giphy 

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LET'S GO!

Be immersed in the Korean culture as you walk down Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most stunning and largest of all five palaces! Travel back in time to the Joseon Dynasty when it was first built. After all that exploring, head down to Halal Kitchen to indulge in the vast array of traditional Korean cuisines!

Pick up your chopsticks and try the japchae (glass noodles), seasoned with soy sauce. Accompany your meal with slices of beef and strips of veggies for the perfect appetizer

Craving for something with a little more tanginess? Then you got to try the tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), dipped in spicy sauce seasoning with small eggs at the side.

Of course, you’ll need something to cool off, so how about washing it down with some omija tea (sweet-sour tea with magnolia fruit)? This traditional tea made from dried magnolia berries is a classic!

It’s time to get to the real highlight – the bulgogi, yanggalbi and dakgalbi. Enjoy your beef bulgogi, thinly marinated slices of meat, barbecued to perfection  Have it with rice  to satisfy your growling tummy.

Indulge in the yanggalbi-jim (braised short rib lamb) with either the spicy or soy sauce, depending on your tastebuds. Either way, the meat will certainly melt in your mouth

Shown here is the braised short ribs(lamb) with soy sauce

Are your pants bursting at the seams yet? If you’ve got more room to fill, your meal won’t be complete without trying the dakgalbi-deopbab (stir-fried chicken with rice). Such a common dish in the Korean household, it’s a loss if you don’t try this here! Be warned, this is yet another zesty meal. Deliciously spicy, it’s a favourite choice for friends to share, making it the perfect food to end your night

Have you had enough? After tucking in to the mouth-watering spread, it’s time to lay down your chopsticks and simply sit back and enjoy the amazing view this place has to offer. Craving for a hearty dinner or just back from sightseeing? Then this is the perfect stop for you.

#HHWT Tip: The restaurant provides a prayer space, so fret not, you can eat to your heart’s content without having to rush to a mosque!

Eat your fill at Halal Kitchen and get 10% off your total bill when you sign up on our website!

Claim your special deal now!

Address: 86-4 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: 11:00AM – 9:00PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
How to get there: Gyeongbokgung Palace is your landmark. Find Samcheong police office and an e-mart convenient store. After 100m, you’ll see ‘Boy London’ fashion store. Take a right turn and you’ll see the ‘Halal Kitchen’ sign.

Visiting Seoul soon?

If you're planning a trip to Seoul, find the best halal local food, exciting attractions, nearby prayer spaces and more on the HHWT website!

LET'S GO!

Bring your food buddies or Korean-loving pals for an authentic dining time next time you’re in Seoul and the only words you’ll hear are Saranghaeyo ❤️ You know what they say, when in Korea, eat as the Koreans do

So you’re coming to Korea, or you’re already here and you’re not sure what’s halal and what’s not. What can you eat and what can’t you eat? I’ll be frank, I felt a little disheartened when I first moved here. There are traces of meat or animal fat in things you wouldn’t expect there to be!

Now that I’ve been in Korea for 7 months and I know my way around, I can finally enjoy the convenience of… well… convenience stores! 

[P.S For 10 yummy street food in Seoul, find them all here!] 

Credit: Giphy

The main convenience stores you’ll find dotted around South Korea will be CU, 7 Eleven and GS 25. There are definitely more, but I’ll stick to the ones that are easy to find.

Plan your Seoul trip with HHWT!

Find the best halal local food, exciting attractions, nearby prayer spaces and more on the HHWT website!

LET'S GO TO KOREA!

1. Samgak Kimbap

This small triangular wonder is a super tasty and filling Muslim-friendly snack. “Samgak” translates to three sides (or you know, a triangle!) They’re rice balls with various fillings packaged in a way that the seaweed on the outside stays crispy.

Credit: Giphy

The tuna mayonnaise flavor is a safe bet and you can find it in most convenience stores, but the kimchi and tuna flavours are a hit and miss. If you can’t read Korean, you’re going to want to be a little careful – the blue packs with fish are usually fine, but the purple and pink ones have some sort of meat added to them.

Just to be sure, here’s the label you’re looking for:

An Emart24 opened up opposite my apartment and look at these beauties! What is Emart24 you ask? Emart is a large supermarket group and they’ve recently started opening 24 hour convenience stores just like CU, GS25 and 7 Eleven. And if you happen to find one, you’ll see that they have a larger variety to offer.

Here’s a few other samgak kimbap options you can consider the next time you pop by a Korean convenience store!

[P.S If you’re planning to cook your own meals, stock up on halal groceries at these 9 food marts!] 

Tuna Mayonnaise, standard

Tuna mayonnaise with some veggies, pickled radish, and as if by some miracle, NO HAM!

Tuna Mayonnaise with vegetables

Don’t underestimate this triangular snack: it may look small, but just a few of these will be enough to fill your tummy on the go!

Spicy wasabi tuna

2. Banana milk

Oh yes! This stuff is addictive. I remember having it during my first week in Korea, and my friends and I were immediately hooked! There’s something different about drinking it through the tiny Korean straws, or maybe it’s just me  There are lots of types of banana milk but this particular type by Binggrae are the ones you NEED to try!

Although my friend already confirmed the halal status for me beforehand, I did a little research and discovered that Binggrae has received Halal certification, so chug away to your heart’s content ☺

Credit: Korea Curated on Facebook 

3. Melon ice cream

This one goes hand in hand with the banana milk; you absolutely have to try this! I ended up buying a bigger pack from Home Plus and stocking it in my freezer There are also a bunch of ice lollies that are suitable for vegetarians! 

If all else fails, convenience stores usually have a small selection of ready-to-eat boiled eggs. You also have a range of bottled and canned juices and coffees to keep you going ☕️

Just peel and go! It’s an easy little protein pick me up 

4. Crispy seaweed snacks

Koreans are crazy about it, and my students love eating it with rice at school and asking the lunch ladies for more. I’ve been told that it’s also good for your hair which is definitely a plus!

Credit: Derek David Chua‎ on Facebook 

What’s more, the plain salted ones are vegan-friendly! Since most of the halal snacks in Korea are sweet, it’s a nice change and relatively healthy compared to the other greasier snacks on offer.

Credit: Jaime Mass Nutritionals LLC on Facebook

5. Chips/crisps

Chips are a practical must-have snack no matter what part of the world you’re in, and Korea’s definitely no exception to the rule ☺ My Korean friend helped me read the packaging and we managed to find these two that don’t have any traces of meat!

This particular brand is called 아 그칩.  The two flavours here are cheese volcano (right) and ranch (left)! They’re a little sweet and are super light, so you could probably eat a bag on your own 

#HHWT Tip: When you check the ingredients, the quickest way to check if it has meat is to check the allergens. You’ll be surprised to find that some cheese-flavoured chips will have beef or some type of meat in them (don’t worry, there are still a handful that are Muslim friendly!)

[P.S While shopping for snacks, check out these 8 best shopping hotspots with Muslim-friendly food nearby!]

Look for the word 고기. If you see it, steer clear!

Credit: 미니스톱 (Ministop Korea) on Facebook

6. Pepero

A classic all-time favourite snack among Koreans and foreigners alike, Pepero is a lovely snack to keep in your bag. There’s even a special day dedicated to giving Pepero to your loved ones on November 11^th because when written numerically it’s 11/11 (four Peperos all lined up, yum!) 

Credit: YumKorea on Facebook

The ones I know that have been halal-certified are the Almond and Peanut flavours. There are also flavours which are free for Muslim consumption but haven’t been certified by the KMF (Korean Muslim Federation):

Nude Pepero

Nude Green Tea Pepero

Vanilla Black Cookie Pepero

Coconut Chocolate Pepero

White Cookie Pepero.

7. Dried fruits and veggies

This one’s going to be a hit and miss. I first found out about these from my co-teacher. You can find chestnuts, sweet potato, dried strawberries, pears, and the list goes on. Sweet potatoes are usually the easiest to find in most stores. Here’s what they look like:

You can also find dried fruit at Olive Young’s little food section, so remember to stock up on those the next time you drop by Olive Young for your cosmetics needs!

If you’re not a fan of dried fruits, you can find readily-packaged fruits in most Korean convenience stores. Ahh, the luxury! It’s still somewhat cheap considering you’re buying a ready-packed fruit at a convenience store!

8. Dr. You cereal bar

You can find this at almost all of the convenience stores. They’re usually by the cashier or around the front of the store. A yummy grab-and-go snack indeed ☺

It’s chewy and super nutty so it makes for a nice mid morning pick me up.

You can have the original flavor (pictured above) or the light bar (honey and oat.) I prefer the original but my friend opts for the light version. Besides, no one ever said you can’t just get both if you can’t decide ☺

9. Yakgwa cookies

A lot of cookies in Korea unfortunately have animal shortening or the shortening isn’t specified, making it questionable. These cookies are definitely more traditional than the colourful alternatives and they have a lot less ingredients! “In Korean, “yak” is pharmacy, and since these little cookies are traditionally sweetened with honey, they were given the name “yakwa”.

This snack is usually eaten during special occasions, perhaps because they’re quite dense. It’s not that popular among the younger generation but you’ll definitely come across it if you live or work in Korea. The taste is simple and buttery and they’re small and incredibly compact! Think deep fried dough, but tastier than what it sounds  Have them with a nice cup of tea (or coffee, if that’s more your thing!).

Credit: Templestay Korea on Facebook

10. Instant drinks (ice or hot)

If you’re in Korea between May and September, chances are you’ll need to cool down and grab a cold drink. Every convenience store I’ve been into has a little freezer with cups of ice. Nearby, you’ll find large sachets of coffee, chocolate drinks, ice teas and ades (think lemonade) 

[P.S For more sweet treats, check out these 12 cafes that are so, Seoul cool!] 

#HHWT Tip: You’ve got to try Chilsung Cider! I know what you’re thinking: CIDER?! Worry not my friends, this is just lemonade! ☺

[P.S Complete your Seoul trip with these top 4 Muslim-friendly eateries!] 

Plan your Seoul trip with HHWT!

Find the best halal local food, exciting attractions, nearby prayer spaces and more on the HHWT website!

LET'S GO TO KOREA!

I hope this list will help you find some halal snacks to enjoy while you’re exploring Korea! Next time you find yourself feeling hungry, head to a convenience store and look out for these little treats. Since most of them are open till late and easily available everywhere, you won’t find yourself with nothing to eat!

Happy snacking!

You’re probably able to relate to the times you’re missing home.. food  Comfort food, wherever you are in this world, is a language that speaks to everyone. For Malaysians, nasi lemak is probably one dish that’s reminiscent of home. Piping hot coconut rice, fragrant pandan leaves, fried peanuts, crispy anchovies and irresistibly spicy sambal, now doesn’t that make your hearts flutter and tummies rumble? 

Credit: Giphy

The mastermind behind this ingenious idea is Duzy Noramzamnas, a 29-year old Sabahan Malaysian, who initially had problems finding halal food during a visit to Seoul. Now, he runs his own nasi lemak delivery business and it’s so popular not only among Malaysians studying or working in Seoul, it’s also gaining buzz among patrons from other countries like Netherlands, Japan, China, Indonesia and France. Talk about food bringing people from different cultures together 

Credit: Ben Duzy on Facebook 

What started off as an online delivery service expanded into a humble-looking stall, ‘Nasi Lemak Berlauk Panas’ at the rooftop of Itaewon Guesthouse. For RM19, patrons get to savour the  popular nasi lemak dish, which the South Koreans likened to their bibimbap! Add on the squid, mussels, chicken or egg if you don’t mind paying a little more 

If you’re wondering how he stocks up on ingredients like anchovies, chillies and mussels, they’re found easily in wet markets like Noryangjin Market, while ingredients like belacan (shrimp paste), tamarind paste and coconut milk are bought in the foreigners’ district of Itaewon (think Chinatown).

Credit: Ben Duzy on Facebook

Packed in a microwaveable container, his nasi lemak is so convenient to heat up and tuck into each time you’re craving for a true meal from home. From packing 40 packets a day to having his own rooftop stall with his business partner, this Malaysian is serving up some home pride  As you savour a delicious plate of the famous nasi lemak, admire the skyline from the rooftop and feel your troubles ease away.

Credit: Ben Duzy on Facebook 

This 29-year old fell in love with the Korean culture, so much so, he’s now even offering Malaysian tourists a tour of Seoul – with amazing activities and of course, halal food! Next time you’re missing home, who knows you may be able to have your favourite chicken rice or laksa and be reminded that home isn’t that far away after all 

So you’re in Seoul and you’re looking for some cheap Muslim-friendly eats that wont break the bank. Here are a bunch of my personal picks that come in under $10 and allow you to eat a sit down meal that’ll keep your belly satisfied!

Credit: giphy

P.S. Check out more tips on how to explore Seoul on a budget!

Plan your Seoul adventure with HHWT!

Find the best halal local food, exciting attractions, nearby prayer spaces and more on the HHWT Website!

BRING ME TO SEOUL!

1. Guksu at The Noodle Tree (Guksu Namu)

This was the first place my co teacher took me to for food when I arrived in Korea! They only have a handful of options that are Muslim friendly but if you’re looking for something cheap, yummy and popular among Koreans, you’ll be a fan

Credit: @guksunamu_jeungsan on Instagram

There’s also no need to worry about eating alone if you’re a solo traveller! I’ve seen plenty of people sitting and eating alone here.

I would recommend the saengmyeong guksu, this warm bowl of soup uses an anchovy/seaweed broth, kimchi and tofu with heaps of noodles. Every dish comes with unlimited kimchi and danmuji (sweet pickled radish) so feel free to help yourself to them!

Credit: @guksunamu_jeungsan on Instagram

At 4,000KRW it’s an absolute gem and you’ll find them dotted across Seoul!

#HHWT Tip: Most of these stores have a menu with English names for dishes so look out for Muslim friendly options and check with the staff before you order. But you should learn these key questions in Korean, just in case: “gogi isseo yo?” (is this meat/does this have meat) and “gogi mot mogo yo”  (I can’t eat meat). It’ll help to make your dietary preferences clearer for the staff.

Price: Around 4,000KRW/$3.60
Address: Various locations (use Chrome to translate the page if you aren’t confident in Korean!)
Opening Hours: Usual opening hours are from 11am – 9pm (Mon to Sat), all stores are closed on Sunday – do check the exact opening hours before heading down.

2. Korean BBQ at Yang Good

If you’re travelling with a friend or in a group, Korean BBQ would be an excellent option.  Yang Good in Yeoksam, Gangnam is currently the only restaurant offering the Halal Korean BBQ experience!

Credit: @chad.abapix on Instagram

The lamb here is Halal certified so you can eat to your heart’s content! While you’re enjoying your meal, you might notice that this place is incredibly popular among the locals too! That’s definitely a sign that you’re in the right place

Credit: @ashrafhissan on Instagram

With unlimited banchan (side dishes), an order of marinated lamb (18,000KRW) and two bowls of rice (each 1,000KRW) the total works out to be 20,000KRW for two people! That’s just over $9 each.

Credit: @hanimhanii on Instagram

Note: Although this is a certified Halal BBQ restaurant, in order to cater to locals, this restaurant does serve alcohol.

Price: Around 10,000KRW/$9.20 each
Address: 15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Yeoksam 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 4pm-12am

3. Juk at Bonjuk

During the cold season, you’d crave a bowl of something hot and Juk (rice porridge) is simply perfect When I was looking to try Juk, this was the only chain that I found which does not use meat stock – meaning that there are plenty of Muslim friendly options available!

I would recommend the shrimp (saewoo) juk and the octopus kimchi (nakji kimchi) juk as they are my personal favourites.

Credit: @mariyah.eats on Instagram

 There’s definitely more on the menu including vegetable, mushroom and oyster, tuna and vegetable and more so you need not worry about running out of options to choose from. And if you’re craving a sweeter option, there are options like red bean and sweet pumpkin!

As with all Korean mains, you’ll get banchan. One includes meat which you could ask them to leave out. (“Gogi baego jusseyo”). Both the shrimp juk and the octopus kimchi juk are 8,000KRW each, which is pretty affordable if you ask me!

#HHWT Tip: Bonjuk sells their porridge in supermarkets but unfortunately they’re not Muslim friendly so be aware! Freshly cooked food probably tastes better anyway

Price:  Around 8,000KRW/$7.40
Address: Various locations
Opening Hours: Opening hours vary per branch (my local one is closed at the strangest hours) but central locations such as Myeongdong are open from 9pm – 10pm

Here’s the Myeongdong location:

4. The Halal Guys (Gangnam/Itaewon)

The Halal Guys started off as a humble food cart in New York where they grew enormously in popularity amongst both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Since then, they have successfully opened stores across the globe, with 2 being in Seoul! The Halal Guys has done incredibly well in Seoul and my mouth is salivating just talking about it🤤 If you’re visiting the eatery, I would recommend heading to the Gangnam location as it’s far more spacious and new.

The most popular dish on the menu is undoubtedly their platter! Let me tell you – their white sauce is EVERYTHING.

Credit: @thehalalguyskorea on Instagram

You also have to try the beef gyro (and sometimes the chicken) which contains of a few crispy bits of green pepper and lots of greens.

Credit: @thehalalguyskorea on Instagram

The food might not be the cheapest but here’s my tip: get their special fries!

Credit: @kto_malaysia on Instagram

Price: Around 6,500KRW/$6
Address: 8 Gangnam-daero 69-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul or 187 Itaewon-ro, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: 11:00am-10:00pm (Sun to Thurs), 11:00am- 4:00am (Fri to Sat)

Itaewon outlet:

Gangnam outlet: 

5. Makan Halal Korean Restaurant (Itaewon)

Authentic Halal Korean food doesn’t get any better than this.  This is a Muslim-owned restaurant conveniently located close to the Seoul Central Mosque so it’s perfect for those who are looking for authentic Korean food near the masjid.

Credit: @najlakhairiyyah on Instagram

Bulgogi is traditionally a dish made with beef in a sweet sauce but this eatery puts an interesting spin on it – using squid (ojingeo) and rice cakes (Tteok) instead! What’s even better is that it comes out sizzling on a hot pan (yes, it’s worth that insta story).

I would DEFINITELY order this again.

Credit: @marcel.alexander.6474 on Instagram

Price: Around 10,000KRW/$9.20 per dish
Address: 52 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11:30am-9:00pm daily

6. Bibimbap at Osegyehyang (Insadong)

Conveniently located in Insadong, we have Osegyehyang! Treat yourself to a tasty and nutritious bowl of bibimbap which literally translates to mixed rice.

Credit: @jessicarandazza on Instagram

This is a healthy way of getting some veggies into your diet (something I know I forget about when I’m travelling). The bowl consists of rice topped with assorted veggies, which always include beansprouts and greens. This particular restaurant is a vegan restaurant hence it offers a lot of other dishes completely free of animal products (incuding a very tasty jajjangmyun-black bean noodle!).

Credit: @onelifelefttolive on Instagram

The best part is the setting of the restaurant as it offers a traditional floor sitting, allowing you to enjoy a truly authentic Korean experience🤗

Credit: @sheilalily on Instagram

#HHWT Tip: They also sell Muslim-friendly ramyun by the cash register, if you want to grab some for when you’re hungry!

Price: Around 9,000KRW/$8.28
Address: 4-5, Insadong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03146, South Korea
Opening hours: 11:30am-9:00pm daily

7. Tteokbokki

Chewy, spicy and sweet! Tteokbokki is a dish made with chewy rice cakes smothered in a spicy and sweet red sauce. The texture should be soft but still chewy. It’s perfect to share among friends and it’s probably the most well known Korean street food!

You can find this at most (if not all) street food markets. They’re usually served with fish cakes (yum) but are occasionally mixed in with cheese and meats (I would always ask about the presence of meat if there’s any doubt: “Gogi isseo yo?”)

Credit: @lillea0912 on Instagram

Although you can buy this just about anywhere, if you’re visiting Seoul, I would recommend getting it in Myeongdong. There are plenty of food stalls with assorted food here so you can eat to your heart’s content. Plus, some even clearly indicate that they are Halal but I would personally always ask to double check.

(P.S. If you’re looking for more Muslim-friendly street food in Seoul, this article would be just the thing you need!)

Credit: Kim Evangeline A. Okoi on Facebook

Price: Less than 5,000KRW/$4.60

8. Pajeon (Hoegi)

a.k.a. Pajeon Street! This place is known as the place to go to for all sorts of jeon (Korean savoury pancakes)

Credit: @ho___j93 on Instagram

With multiple restaurants in the area, you will be stuck for choice. There are plenty of seafood options to explore when it comes to Jeon so just head to Hoegi station, exit 9!

Price: 7,000KRW+/$6.44+

Plan your Seoul adventure with HHWT!

Find the best halal local food, exciting attractions, nearby prayer spaces and more on the HHWT Website!

BRING ME TO SEOUL!

And there you have it! Eating a delicious Muslim-friendly meal in Seoul need not be expensive or boring. I hope something here has tickled your fancy! Happy eating🤗

We were invited by Jeju Tourism Organization for a media trip to Jeju last week and needless to say, it was such an amazing experience! Jeju is known for its gorgeous natural beauty and seafood but finding halal food could be a challenge. Lucky for us muslim travellers, the island’s tourism board has compiled a list of muslim-friendly restaurants so we’ll never have to go hungry when we’re there☺️

When our guide told us we were having halal shabu-shabu in Jeju, I was personally in disbelief. “Halal shabu-shabu in Korea?” Wow, I didn’t think I’d be able to experience that! But there we were at Cheonhaecheon, a muslim-friendly shabu-shabu buffet restaurant and I couldn’t contain my excitement any longer

Credit: giphy

Cheonhaecheon only serves halal meat and it’s received a muslim-friendly certificate from the Jeju Islamic Cultural Centre. However, alcohol is still served in the eatery so do dine at your own discretion! At 34,000KRW per person, we personally felt the price was quite steep but for a halal shabu-shabu feast in Korea, why not splurge a little?

The main highlight would of course be its thin-sliced beef  All the beef portions were stocked up in a section of the restaurant and there were signs to indicate that it’s halal so you can eat to your heart’s content without any worries!

Cheonhaecheon isn’t just a meat lover’s haven, it’s also a seafood lover’s dream come true! If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll love their wide selection of prawns, crayfish, crabs and ABALONE. Jeju is known for its fresh abalone, so if you’re here to make your money’s worth, you should definitely take all the abalone you can Though we didn’t try any abalone at this eatery, the ones that we tried at other restaurants were really fresh and yummy!

There were 2 soup bases prepared for us – original and kimchi. We preferred the kimchi base as it had a bit more kick than the original, and we added in all the seafood and vegetables first to let the taste sink in.

Credit: Cheonhaecheon on Facebook

Then, we dipped the beef slices and watched it cook in seconds! The beef was so succulent and it soaked up all the taste of the kimchi broth🤤

#HHWT Tip: We highly recommend adding in some ramen to your broth and enjoy it when it’s rich in beef and seafood flavours!

And it isn’t just shabu-shabu you should try at Cheonhaecheon. They have a section of cooked food which we loved as well, especially the Korean fried chicken! They have the original and yangnyeom flavours and both were done right We also tried their tteokbokki and it was just as amazing.

Overall, it was really comforting to have shabu-shabu especially after a long day of being out and about. Not to mention that the service at the restaurant was impeccable too, the owner made sure we were comfortable and he even gave us free Jeju magnets as souvenirs We’d give Cheonhaecheon a big thumbs up and if you’re heading to Jeju, this is one restaurant you shouldn’t miss. After all, it’s not easy to find a halal shabu-shabu eatery like this in South Korea!

Here’s how we’d rate our experience at Cheonhaecheon:

Food: 8/10
Ambience: 7/10
Service: 8/10
Price: 6/10

Address: 25, Halladaehak-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 11am-10.50pm
Contact: +82-64-742-1101
Price: 34,000KRW per person
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