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Best Restaurants in Changwon

Best Restaurants in Changwon

Changwon Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Must-Try Local Dishes

Agujjim Spicy Braised Monkfish

A defining dish of the Masan region within Changwon, Agujjim features tender monkfish braised in a fiery, garlic-laden, and bean sprout-rich sauce.

Often served with side orders (banchan) and grains of rice, it offers a robust and unforgettable flavor experience. It's a true local specialty.

Regional Soups & Stews

  • Maeuntang (Spicy Fish Stew): A hearty, spicy stew with various fish and vegetables.
  • Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup with Rice): A comforting and flavorful pork broth soup.
  • Jjigae (Various Stews): Kimchi Jjigae or Sundubu Jjigae (soft tofu stew) are popular.
  • Haemultang (Spicy Seafood Stew): A grand stew packed with fresh seafood.

Street Food Favorites

Tteokbokki

Chewy rice cakes coated in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce, a beloved snack available widely.

Eomuk Fish Cakes

Skewered fish cakes served in a savory broth, notably comforting on cooler days.

Hotteok Sweet Pancakes

Sweet, chewy pancakes filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, often enjoyed in colder weather.

Seafood Specialties

  • Grilled Shellfish: Fresh clams, scallops, and other shellfish grilled right at your table.
  • Raw Fish (Hoe): Slices of fresh, raw fish, often dipped in gochujang or soy sauce.
  • Sannakji (Live Octopus): A daring local delicacy, typically served seasoned.
  • Ganjang Gejang (Soy Marinated Crab): Raw crab marinated in a flavorful soy sauce.

Dining Experiences

Popular Restaurants

Masan Agujjim Alley

A district with numerous restaurants specializing in the famous Agujjim. Each offers its unique take.

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during dinner hours.

Korean BBQ Joints

Found throughout Changwon, these spots are ideal for social dining. Grill various cuts of meat at your table.

A communal and interactive meal experience for groups.

Bibimbap & Noodle Shops

Casual eateries serving classics like Bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables) and various noodle dishes.

Quick, delicious, and often vegetarian-friendly options available.

Traditional Markets

  • Masan Fish Market: A market where fresh seafood is sold and prepared.
  • Buy fresh produce, meat, and local snacks.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere and local bargaining.
  • Numerous street food stalls offer quick and tasty bites.

Cafes & Dessert

Specialty Coffee Shops

Changwon boasts a thriving coffee scene, with cafes offering unique brews and cozy atmospheres for relaxation.

Dessert Cafes

Enjoy Korean-style desserts like Bingsu (shaved ice) or traditional pastries with your beverage.

Food & Culture

Korean BBQ

A celebrated Korean dining practice where various meats, like pork belly (samgyeopsal) or beef, are grilled at the table.

  • Wrap grilled meat with lettuce, kimchi, and garlic.
  • Pair with soju or beer for the full experience.
  • Explore different cuts and marinades.

Traditional Tea Houses

Discover serene tea houses where it's possible to savor traditional Korean teas and confections in a tranquil setting.

  • Taste various herbal teas.
  • Enjoy traditional Korean snacks.
  • A peaceful escape from urban activity.

Makgeolli Bars

Experience Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) in dedicated bars, often matched with savory pancakes (jeon) and other traditional appetizers.

  • Sample different regional Makgeolli.
  • Enjoy hearty and flavorful Korean pancakes.
  • A popular spot for casual gatherings.

Cooking Classes

Learn Local Flavors

Join a cooking class to master the art of Korean cuisine. Learn to prepare classic dishes from fresh, local ingredients.

Discover the secrets behind kimchi, bulgogi, and other beloved Korean foods.

Hands-On Experience

Interactive classes offer a appreciation for Korean culinary traditions and techniques. Enjoy your creations afterward.

Many classes cater to various skill levels and dietary preferences. Book through GetYourGuide.

Food Festivals

Changwon K-Food Festival

Seasonal, featuring a variety of Korean dishes.

Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival Food Stalls

Autumn festival having dishes alongside flower displays.

Local Harvest Fairs

Showing fresh farm products from the region.

Makgeolli & Jeon Festival

A celebration of rice wine and Korean pancakes.

Dietary Needs

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

  • Buddhist Temple Cuisine: Often vegetarian and delicious.
  • Bibimbap without meat: Ask for 'gogi-ppae-go' (meat removed).
  • Specialty vegetarian restaurants might be in larger areas.
  • Many accompaniments (banchan) are plant-based.

Allergy Awareness

Common Allergens

Soy, sesame, seafood, and peanuts are common in Korean cuisine. Clearly communicate any dietary restrictions.

Carry a translated card detailing your allergies.

Useful Phrases

"Gogi a meogeoyo" (I don't eat meat) or "Allereugi isseoyo" (I hold an allergy).

Show a picture of what it's not possible to eat if language is a barrier.

Halal / Kosher Friendly

Finding Options
Limited certified halal/kosher eateries.
Look for vegetarian or seafood options.
Some international hotels may offer specific menus.
Grocery stores carry suitable snacks.
Specialty shops in larger cities.
Request in hot weatherel booking.
Gluten-Free Tips

Korean cuisine often uses soy sauce (containing wheat) and other gluten-containing ingredients. Seek out specific restaurants or communicate carefully.

  • Rice-based dishes are generally safer.
  • Grilled meats without marinades can be an option.
  • Inform the kitchen beforehand.
Vegan/Vegetarian Apps

Use applications like Happycow to find to find vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants and stores in Changwon and nearby areas.

Download and explore before your visit for convenience.

Culinary Tours

Street Food Tours
Seafood Experience
  • Visit Masan Seafood Market with a guide.
  • Enjoy freshly prepared seafood.
Private Dining
  • Arrange a bespoke dining experience.
  • Tailored to your preferences.

Dining Etiquette

General Practices

Chopstick Use

Avoid sticking chopsticks vertically into rice. This resembles ancestral rites and is considered bad luck.

Do not point with chopsticks. | Use for picking up food.
Sharing Dishes

Many Korean meals are served family-style, with shared dishes in the heart of the table. Enjoy the communal experience.

Serve elders first.
Seating Arrangements

The oldest person or guest of honor typically sits in the most comfortable seat, often furthest from the door.

Wait to be seated.

Tipping & Service

  • Tipping is not customary in South Korea.
  • Service charges are usually included in the bill.
  • Excellent service is part of the culture.
  • A simple "Gamsahamnida" (thank you) is sufficient.

Ordering & Payment

How to Order

Many restaurants have call buttons on the table. Otherwise, a simple "Jeogiyo!" (Excuse me!) calls the staff.

Menus often include pictures or English translations.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Cash is also always an option.

Payment is usually at the counter after the meal.

Language Tips for Dining

Ordering

"Igeojuseyo" (Please give me this) while pointing. "Menu juseyo" (Please give me the menu).

Asking Questions

"Meokgo gayo?" (For here?) or "Pojang haejuseyo?" (Takeaway, please?).

Compliments

"Masisseoyo!" (It's delicious!) or "Jal meogeosseumnida" (I ate well, after finishing).

General Dining Advice

Exploring Changwon's food scene brings immense joy. Embrace new flavors and dining customs for a truly memorable culinary adventure.

  • Try local specialties in their authentic setting.
  • Be open to eating together experiences.
  • Utilize translation apps for menus if needed.
  • Keep an eye out for seasonal ingredients.
  • Stay hydrated, especially with spicy dishes.