I have been in Korea for about one week so far. There have been many fascinating things to learn and see in Seoul. I could discuss how difficult it has been navigating a city without access to google, or the difficulties of not being able to read and understand the Korean alphabet. I could discuss the genuine helpfulness of most everybody we have encountered, or the cleanliness of a city without a trash can to be found. However, what I’m choosing to share today is about the food!
The food and restaurants have been a learning experience just as much as the language. I had really only tried Kimchi once before visiting, so most everything I have tried has been new. It has all been delicious! I have the mentality that I should try everything once, and so far the only thing I have not liked has been the anchovies. I’ll pass on those.
Every restaurant I have visited will immediately bring a couple of bowls of kimchi (fermented vegetables) to the table as a sort of appetizer as well as some type of brothy soup. The silverware is typically found in a box on or under the table and consists of metal chopsticks and a spoon. The metal chopsticks have been a challenge for me to master.
My favorite dishes so far have been bulgogi (thin marinated slices of beef), galbi (grilled rib meat), and bibimbap (rice dish served with an assortment of vegetables and egg). No matter what place we go, the waiters and staff have been very helpful with us when we don’t know what or how to order. Eventually we figure it out, and always leave full and happy.
Let’s not forget about the dessert. By far, my favorite dessert has been “bingsu” (shaved ice with a sweet red bean topping). Who knew red beans could be so yummy! Syrup and ice cream topped the shaved ice, which helped sweeten it. We have also visited several cafes for afternoon dessert such as a delicious strawberry souffle pancake or oreo tiramisu.
Despite there being a coffee shop or two on every corner here in Seoul, it seems that none of them really open until late morning or lunch time, baffling us Americans who need our morning caffeine rush. Never fear though, the local convenience shops GS25 or 7/11 provide all the coffee I need to start my morning.
Overall the food here has exceeded my expectations. I can’t wait to keep exploring and learning about the culture and different customs. Hopefully soon I’ll be able to successfully order a meal in Korean!
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