Myeongdong Kyoja – Iconic Korean Noodles & Dumplings in Seoul

한국어 | English

An unforgettable stop for authentic 'kalguksu' (knife-cut noodle soup) and 'mandu' (dumplings) in the heart of Seoul’s Myeongdong.

If you’re visiting Seoul and craving authentic Korean comfort food, Myeongdong Kyoja should be high on your list. This legendary eatery has been serving hearty bowls of noodle soup and plump dumplings for decades, earning a solid reputation among both locals and tourists.

Myeongdong Kyoja ㅡMenu

Famous for its signature kalguksu (hand-cut noodles in broth) and mandu (steamed dumplings), Myeongdong Kyoja offers a warm welcome and a true taste of tradition. With a long history and consistently delicious menu, it has become an icon of Korean cuisine — a place where you can savor Seoul’s culinary heritage in every bite.

---

 For Foreign Visitors

First time in Seoul? Don’t worry — Myeongdong Kyoja is very visitor-friendly.
Here’s what you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience

 

• Ordering is easy. Just say “Kalguksu” (noodle soup) or “Mandu” (dumplings). You can simply hold up fingers to show how many servings you want.
• Menu translations are available in English, Japanese, and Chinese. You’ll also find clear dish photos to help you decide.
• Solo diners are welcome. Many locals eat here alone, and there are often separate lines for solo guests to help seat you faster.
• Payment is made before your meal. Order at the table or counter, then pay right away. No tipping needed. Credit cards are accepted.
• Spice warning. The house kimchi is very strong — garlicky, spicy, and bold. Try a little first if you're sensitive to strong flavors.
• Best time to visit: To avoid lines, try going just after lunch (1:30–3:00 PM) or before dinner rush (around 5:00 PM). Peak hours usually have a short but fast-moving queue.
• tip: Combine kalguksu, dumplings, and a bit of kimchi in each bite — that’s the true Myeongdong Kyoja experience locals love.

---

Myeongdong Kyoja Restaurant Overview

Myeongdong Kyoja is a family run restaurant that first opened in 1966. Over the decades, it has become one of Seoul’s most beloved dining spots, known for doing just a few dishes exceptionally well. Its consistent quality even earned it a Michelin Bib Gourmand award, recognizing great food at a good value.

Myeongdong Kyoja

Despite its fame, the restaurant keeps things simple and efficient. With around 50 seats, mostly small tables, it’s a cozy place where even solo diners feel at ease. The atmosphere is lively, with a quick turnover and the steady sound of noodles being slurped.

There’s often a line during peak hours, but service is fast and the wait moves quickly. This isn’t a place for long, leisurely meals — it’s about enjoying a delicious, no-frills dish in the heart of Myeongdong’s busy streets.

---

Myeongdong Kyoja Menu & Price

Myeongdong Kyoja is known for its small but perfected menu. With just four main dishes, each one has been refined over decades of experience.

Kalguksu (Knife-cut noodle soup) - 11,000

Myeongdong Kyoja ㅡ Kalguksu

Their signature dish — soft, hand-cut noodles served in a rich chicken broth with minced meat, vegetables, and a few dumplings. The soup is deeply flavorful yet clean, and pairs beautifully with the restaurant’s strong garlic kimchi. Comforting and satisfying in every spoonful.

Mandu (Steamed dumplings) - 13,000

Plump dumplings filled with ground pork and finely chopped vegetables like cabbage and leeks. These are juicy, well seasoned, and larger than typical dumplings. Best enjoyed with soy sauce or a bite of their bold kimchi.
 
Bibimguksu (Spicy mixed noodles) 11,000

Cold wheat noodles tossed in a sweet and spicy red pepper sauce. Refreshing and flavorful, it’s a great alternative for spice lovers or those visiting in warmer months.

Kongguksu (Soybean noodles – summer only) - 13,000

A seasonal cold noodle dish served in a creamy soybean broth. Light, nutty, and cooling — perfect for hot days. The green-hued noodles add a unique visual and textural twist.

And don’t forget the kimchi.
Every table is served a generous portion of house-made kimchi, famous for its bold garlic and chili punch. It’s intense on its own, but when combined with noodles or dumplings, it completes the flavor experience. Many diners love it so much, they ask for a refill — and yes, refills are usually free.

---

 location & Business Information 

---

Address:

29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

 

Subway:
Take Line 4 to Myeongdong Station

From Exit 8, walk 3 minutes into the shopping street, turn onto Myeongdong 10-gil, and look for the “명동교자” sign or a line of people.

 

Business Information 

• Hours: 10:30 AM – 900 PM
• Last Order: 8:30 PM
• Break Time: None
• Closed: Lunar New Year’s Day & Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day)
  
  Myeongdong Kyoja's main branch is open daily without a break time, making it convenient for both lunch and dinner. Just avoid visiting on major Korean holidays, when the restaurant is closed for the day.

---

Myeongdong Kyoja  Final Thoughts

 

After experiencing Myeongdong Kyoja, it’s easy to see why this place has remained so beloved over the years. The combination of deep, flavorful chicken broth, soft knife cut noodles, savory dumplings, and fiery garlic kimchi creates a perfect harmony of flavors — the essence of Korean comfort food. It’s a simple meal, yet one that feels special and deeply satisfying.

The restaurant’s long history and continued success speak volumes about its quality. They’ve focused on what they do best and have consistently delivered, much to everyone’s delight.

 

Sure, the strong garlic kick might not be for everyone, and yes, you may have to wait in line or squeeze into a busy dining room. But if you embrace the experience, chances are you’ll find yourself craving these noodles and dumplings long after your visit.

Whether you're a food lover hunting down Seoul’s must eats or just looking for a hearty meal between shopping sprees, Myeongdong Kyoja won’t disappoint. It’s iconic for a reason — delicious food, affordable prices (around ₩11,000 for a generous bowl), and an atmosphere that offers a genuine slice of local life.

In the end, dining at Myeongdong Kyoja is more than just a meal — it’s a taste of Seoul’s culinary tradition. Many visitors leave full and happy, often saying it was the best meal of their trip. So when you’re in Seoul, just follow the aroma of garlic and broth through the streets of Myeongdong — and treat yourself to a true Korean classic.

Final verdict: Highly recommended. Don’t be surprised if one bowl of kalguksu and a plate of mandu become the most memorable part of your trip.

---

 

Michelin-Starred Samgyeopsal? Geumdwaeji Sikdang Proves It's Possible.

 

Anam, Seoul: Michelin's Pick for a Special Twist on Korean Gukbap