Sanchon (Insadong)
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About
Founded by a former Buddhist monk, Sanchon offers a deeply spiritual and sensory journey into Korean temple cuisine. The restaurant is hidden at the end of a narrow Insadong alley, featuring a lush interior filled with Buddhist art, plants, and the scent of traditional incense. The meal consists of about 20 small dishes featuring wild mountain herbs, roots, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared without meat, garlic, or onions. Every evening, guests are treated to a traditional Korean dance performance. Experts recommend trying the 'Deodeok' (mountain root) dishes for their unique texture and earthy flavor. Practical pro tip: This is a fixed-price set menu; come hungry, as the sheer variety of small plates is overwhelming, and the atmosphere is very communal.
Highlights
- Buddhist mountain vegetables
- Traditional Hanok dining
- Evening cultural performances
- Wild herb specialty dishes
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
O'ngo Food Communications Korean Cooking Class
The premier hands-on Korean cooking school in Seoul teaches small groups to master the fundamentals of Korean cuisine over three-hour sessions in a professional kitchen located in the historic Insadong cultural district, covering dishes like bibimbap, japchae glass noodles, pajeon seafood pancakes, and the art of making kimchi from scratch. Chef Cho Eun-hee and her team source seasonal ingredients from nearby Gwangjang Market each morning and guide participants through the cultural context and history of each dish alongside the cooking techniques. The class culminates in a communal meal of everything prepared, paired with Korean makgeolli rice wine, after which participants receive a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home.
Insadong Street
Insadong is the cultural heart of Seoul, where the city’s past and present converge through antique shops, traditional paper (hanji) stores, and hidden teahouses. Historically a place for artists and scholars, it remains the best place to find authentic Korean crafts and calligraphy. Ssamzigil, a spiral-shaped shopping courtyard, offers a modern twist with local designer boutiques. The area smells of roasted corn tea and traditional incense. Experts recommend ducking into the small side alleys to find the most authentic 'Pajeon' (green onion pancake) restaurants. Pro tip: Visit on weekends when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, and look for the 'Sool Gallery' to learn about and taste traditional Korean liquors.
Imun Seolnongtang
Founded in 1904, Imun Seolnongtang is officially the oldest restaurant in Korea. It specializes in 'Seolnongtang,' a milky-white ox bone soup that is simmered for over 17 hours until the collagen and marrow are fully extracted. The broth is served unseasoned, allowing the diner to add salt, scallions, and pepper to their own taste. The interior is modest and filled with history, serving as a living record of Seoul’s culinary development. Experts recommend the 'Special' bowl which includes extra slices of brisket and ox knee. Practical pro tip: This is a breakfast and lunch favorite; the flavor is very light and clean, making it the perfect 'hangover cure' or a gentle start to a day of sightseeing in the Jongno area.
Balwoo Gongyang
Managed by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, Balwoo Gongyang is the only Michelin-starred temple food restaurant in the world. It serves traditional vegan recipes that have been passed down through monasteries for centuries, emphasizing the 'Five Colors and Five Flavors.' The dining experience is serene and educational, with each course explained in the context of Buddhist philosophy. The sensory experience is subtle, highlighting the pure taste of fermented soy and seasonal mountain greens. Experts recommend the 'Maeum' (Mind) course for a balanced introduction to monastic dining. Practical pro tip: Located directly across from Jogyesa Temple, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet lunch after visiting the temple; reservations are highly recommended for the private dining rooms.
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