10 Must-Try Korean Restaurants Near Suwon Fortress

Your Local Expert’s Guide to Authentic Haenggung-dong Eats (Plus Suwon Station)

Hello, fellow food adventurers! It’s your resident Korean culture aficionado and local expert here, ready to guide your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

You loved my previous guides, “Suwon Hwaseong Fortress: Your Perfect 2-Day Getaway from Seoul!” and my curated list of Haenggung-dong cafes, right? Well, today, we’re diving into the real heart of Korean culture: the food!

Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress area (especially the quaint Hangung-dong neighborhood) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but it’s also a vibrant hub of authentic, decades-old Korean restaurants. I’ve personally selected 10 legendary spots—the kind locals swear by—to ensure your Suwon trip is as delicious as it is historic. I even threw in a few near Suwon Station since that’s often your gateway!

✨ A Little Heads-Up from Your Expert: These are beloved, traditional local spots. When you walk in, you might find staff a little surprised to see a non-local, and there might not be an English menu. Don’t panic! Just bookmark this guide and point to the dish descriptions below. Trust me, the incredible food is worth a little adventure! Fighting! 😉

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Savor the History: 10 Local Korean Gems

Suwon Station Area Dining (Convenient for Arrivals)

1. Neolbeunddeul Hanjeongsik (넓은뜰 한정식)

Korean Full Course Meal (Hanjeongsik)

When you want to feel like a Korean royal, you go for Hanjeongsik, a lavish traditional full-course meal. Neolbeunddeul is a place that elevates this experience. As someone with both Korean cooking and baking certificates, I can tell you that the true measure of a great Hanjeongsik spot is in the side dishes (Banchan), and this place is top-notch.

• The Main Event: While they offer various Hanjeongsik sets, try the Bori Gulbi (Dried Yellow Corvina served with cold 녹차/Green Tea water rice) or Ganjang Gejang (Raw Crab marinated in Soy Sauce). The Bori Gulbi is subtly savory and chewy, best enjoyed by pouring the cold green tea water over your rice and placing a piece of the fish on top—it’s surprisingly refreshing!
• The Experience: You get a table absolutely covered in meticulously prepared, fresh Banchan. It’s a stunning, hearty feast perfect for a special meal. Keep an eye out for their Weekday Lunch Special for a more budget-friendly taste of the full spread!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Gwonseon-gu, Sehwaro 104
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FXwG5auQ

2. Daseon Kalguksu (다선칼국수)

Hand-Pulled Noodle Soup & Healthy Seafood

This decades-old restaurant near Suwon Station is famous for its clean, deep broth and wonderfully chewy noodles. It’s the perfect place for a soul-soothing meal on a chilly day.

• The Main Event: You must try the Kallakji (칼낙지), a spicy, clear noodle soup featuring whole, tender octopus! (Note: Requires a minimum of 2 people.) This dish is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrients—Koreans call it a great “body tonic” (Bosinjuyang). The moment the vibrant red broth hits your tongue, followed by the perfectly cooked octopus, you’ll feel invigorated.
• Must-Try Extras: Locals also rave about their Bibim Kalguksu (Spicy Mixed Noodles), Haemul Pajeon (Savory Seafood and Green Onion Pancake), and the perfectly steamed Suyuk Bossam (Boiled Pork Slices). They even give you a complimentary little bowl of barley rice (Boribap) before the main course! How cute is that?
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Hyanggyo-ro 48 1F
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xGIPaZwX

3. Adami Sikdang (아다미 식당)

Traditional Korean Soondae Gukbap & Pork Slices

Tucked away in a slightly hidden Soondae (Korean Sausage) alley near Suwon Station is this beloved Nopo (old establishment). This is for the traveler who wants a truly authentic, slightly rustic experience!

• The Main Event: Their Suyuk (Boiled Pork Slices) is the star. You can choose different cuts like Meori Suyuk (Pork Head Meat), Naejang Suyuk (Intestines), or Modeum Suyuk (Assorted). The meat is incredibly soft yet chewy, bursting with rich, savory pork flavor—it practically melts in your mouth!
• Other Goodies: For a full meal, try the Soondae Gukbap (Pork Blood Sausage Soup) or Ttaro Gukbap (Soup and Rice served separately). The milky broth is hearty, savory, and perfect for warming you up. Add some spicy chili paste and fermented shrimp to customize your bowl!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Maesan-ro 1-8
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xMjK7c6o

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Haenggung-dong & Hwaseong Fortress Area (Steps from History)

4. Cheongsan Sigol Ssambap (청산시골쌈밥)

Korean Rice Wrap Meal & Fermented Soybean Stew

Located right in Hangung-dong, this spot is perfect for enjoying a classic, healthy, and wonderfully flavorful Korean meal. Ssambap means “rice wrap,” and it’s a delightful, hands-on way to eat.

• The Main Event: The Spicy Pork Bulgogi (Jeyuk Bokkeum) and Cheonggukjang (Fermented Soybean Paste Stew) combo is a classic for a reason! The Jeyuk Bokkeum features tender pork marinated in a fiery-sweet sauce. You take a piece of fresh, crisp lettuce (or another seasonal wrap vegetable), place some rice on it, a slice of the savory pork, and a dollop of Ssamjang (savory dipping paste), then wrap it up and pop it into your mouth!
• The Sidekick: The Cheonggukjang stew is deep, pungent, and savory—it gives the meal an earthy, traditional finish. If you want to eat like a truly health-conscious local, this is your place!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Sinpung-ro 74 1F
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FafW8pCe

5. Boyeong Mandu North Gate Main Branch (보영만두 북문본점)

Legendary Dumplings & Spicy Cold Noodles (Jjolmyeon)

Since 1977, this Bunsik (Korean snack food) joint has been a Suwon fixture. It’s the ultimate comfort food spot where locals grab a quick, delicious fix.

• The Main Event: Dumplings (Mandu) & Jjolmyeon. The pork Gogi Mandu (Meat Dumplings) are a masterclass: thin, smooth skin that yields to a juicy, savory filling. They are perfectly paired with their signature Jjolmyeon (Spicy Cold Chewy Noodles). The noodles are wonderfully springy, and the sauce is a bright, addictive blend of sweet, sour, and spicy. You can even choose your spice level!
• My Pro-Tip: Order a plate of the hot, savory dumplings and a bowl of the cold, spicy Jjolmyeon. Take a bite of the spicy noodles, then cool your palate with a warm, juicy dumpling. It’s the perfect harmony!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Jangan-gu, Paldal-ro 271
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FUhsz976

6. Yeonpo Galbi (연포갈비)

Traditional Korean Beef Ribs & Hearty Soup

Suwon is historically famous for its Galbi (Marinated Beef Ribs), and Yeonpo Galbi carries on this proud tradition near the fortress. This is where you go for premium Korean beef.

• The Main Event: While they serve top-tier Hanwoo Saeng Deungsim (Korean Beef Sirloin) and Hanwoo Yukhoe (Korean Beef Tartare), the dish you absolutely have to try is the Galbitang (Beef Short Rib Soup). The broth is incredibly deep, savory, and simmered for hours, resulting in a clean, milky-white elixir. It’s packed with generous portions of tender, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs.
• The Experience: This is a satisfying, healing bowl of food. The sheer amount of meat and the rich flavor make it worth every won. Plus, it’s famous among locals for chasing away hangovers!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Jeongjo-ro906beon-gil 56-1
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xgNSMKf5

7. Jinmi Tongdak (진미통닭)

The Original Suwon Fried Chicken Legend (Since 1981)

Welcome to Suwon’s famous Chicken Street! Among all the historic shops, Jinmi Tongdak stands out. Since 1981, they’ve been frying chicken the old-school way—in a giant, bubbling cauldron (Gamasot).

• The Main Event: Order the Half-and-Half to get both the classic Fried Chicken (Huraideu) and the signature Spicy Marinated Chicken (Yangnyeom). The Huraideu is unbelievably crisp and juicy inside. The Yangnyeom is coated in a sticky, sweet-and-spicy red sauce that is truly addictive.
• The Cute Freebie: Every order comes with a side of crispy, deep-fried Chicken Gizzards (Dak Ddong Jip)! It’s an unusual but beloved Korean snack that’s crunchy and chewy—don’t be shy, just try it!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Jeongjo-ro800beon-gil 21
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5MVzlI8a

8. Dae Won Ok (대원옥)

60-Year-Old Pyeongyang Naengmyeon Restaurant

This Nopo has a 60-year legacy of serving Pyeongyang Naengmyeon (North Korean-style Cold Buckwheat Noodles). This dish is often a “love-it-or-hate-it” experience for first-timers, but once you get it, you really get it!

• The Main Event:
  • Pyeongyang Naengmyeon (Mul Naengmyeon): The clear, subtle broth is made from deep beef stock and is incredibly savory yet unsalty (Koreans call this Seum-seum). The buckwheat noodles are slightly coarse and chewy. It’s a very clean, pure flavor that grows on you!
  • Bibim Naengmyeon (Spicy Cold Noodles): Unlike typical fiery Bibim noodles, this version uses a subtle, unique soy-sauce-based seasoning with a hint of chili powder. It offers a distinctly different, savory, and less intensely spicy experience.
• The Tip: Taste the soup first! Many locals debate whether to add vinegar or mustard—do whatever brings you the most joy!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Jeongjo-ro800beon-gil 6-3
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GBF7fY1X

9. North Gate Yoochi Hoegwan (유치회관)

The Ultimate Korean Hangover Soup (Haejangguk)

With over 30 years of history, Yoochi Hoegwan is the place in Suwon for Haejangguk (Hangover Soup). Don’t let the name fool you—it’s delicious whether you had a long night or not!

• The Main Event: Haejangguk here is made with a rich, dark, and savory broth, packed with tender beef, bean sprouts, cabbage, and large chunks of Seonji (coagulated beef blood).
• The Perk: The Seonji is often a key ingredient, offering a deep, earthy flavor and iron-rich texture. Here, the Seonji is unlimited refill! That’s right, you can ask for more of that flavorful, healthy goodness. For those who want to take a piece of the magic home, their to-go portions are also famously generous!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Jangan-gu, Suseong-ro 340beongil 59
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/IgJGzzha

10. Ipju Jip (입주집)

Korean Beef Intestine BBQ (Gopchang, Makchang, Daechang)

Ready for a culinary adventure? If you’ve enjoyed regular Korean BBQ, it’s time to level up to Gopchang (grilled beef intestines). Ipju Jip is a legendary Suwon restaurant specializing in this wonderfully rich, textural, and satisfying BBQ.

• The Main Event: Try the Modeum Hanpan (Assorted Platter) which lets you sample Gopchang (small intestine), Makchang (abomasum), and Daechang (large intestine). When grilled, the Daecheong becomes buttery and melts in your mouth, while the Gopchang is chewy and has a lovely, rich interior. Dip the pieces into their special sauce and sesame oil mixture—perfection!
• The Finish: Don’t forget the Bokkeumbap (Fried Rice)! They usually cook it on the same grill, mixing rice, kimchi, and leftover drippings—it’s the crunchy, savory finale you deserve. Plus, grill the fresh chives (Buchu) on the side with the intestines; it cuts the richness perfectly!
• Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Paldal-gu, Paldalmun-ro3beon-gil 37
• Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5BcjO3ST

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Wrapping Up Your Suwon Food Tour

Suwon is truly a hidden gem, offering history, beautiful scenery, and a culinary scene rooted in tradition. I hope this list, curated by your local Korean expert, helps you find the most authentic and delicious meals during your visit.

Remember, eating at a local Nopo is part of the cultural experience! Be brave, be kind, and enjoy every flavorful bite.

Which of these legendary Suwon spots will you try first: the chewy Kalguksu or the crispy Tongdak? Let me know!