Eat and Drink Like a Local at a Pojangmacha, Street Food Tent in Seoul

What to Eat at a Pojangmacha in Seoul – A Local’s Street Food Guide

Steaming pots, sizzling skewers, and the clink of soju glasses under a tent’s warm glow—are you ready for an authentic Korean street food experience? If so, head out to eat and drink like a local at a Pojangmacha, a street food tent. It is a vibrant nighttime experience for locals, travelers, and night owls alike. Pojangmacha offers an insight into Korea’s unique nightlife that transcends beyond drinking, partying, and getting high. Join us as we dive into everything there is to this street food tent in this IVK guide.

⛺ What Is A Pojangmacha?

Experience Korea’s covered wagon, Pojangmacha.

Pojangmacha refers to street tents or outdoor carts specializing in street food and drinks. It’s basically a vendor or a stall that serves Korean comfort food or market food. These are where locals hang out after a long day at work with friends, coworkers, and family. If you want a late-night snack or drink, you can stop by these street food stalls and buy some. You can enjoy your food while standing, sitting on a cheap chair, or ordering a takeaway.

The origin of the Pojangmacha dates back to the 1950s after the end of Japanese rule in 1945. The original mobile food carts were covered with orange tarps and provided simple dishes and basic seating. They were a means to earn money among locals. Later, carts changed into simple tented stalls with diverse menus and comfortable seating arrangements. At present, Pojangmacha is more than a food stall; it is a social hub where locals share stories over hot stew and soju. It has become an impeccable part of Korean street food tradition.

🌃 How Is The Atmosphere?

Expect a casual and informal atmosphere in a Pojangmacha.

Pojangmacha is where Korean cities come alive at night. The vibe is informal and relaxed, where everyone can be casual, unwind, and share stories without the pressure of a formal setting. The addition of sharing food and drinks makes the atmosphere more open and lively. For many Koreans, these street food tents evoke a sense of nostalgia. Hence, you might see many elders hanging out in a Pojangmacha. Expect:

  • Intimate Setting: Cozy plastic tables, red/orange tent fabric, small spaces
  • Friendly Owners: Quriky ajumma or ajusshi owners
  • Late-night Crowd: Middle-aged salarymen unwinding after work, young students on budget-friendly hangouts, and tourists trying a Pojangmacha for the first time.

🧐 Where Can You Find Pojangmacha?

Jongno 3-ga

Head to Jongno 3-ga for an authentic Pojangmacha experience.
  • 📌 종로3가 Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
  • 💸 ₩3,000 to ₩20,000

Your Seoul nightlife experience will be incomplete without visiting a Pojangmacha. Let’s start with the infamous Pojangmacha area, Jongno 3-ga. This well-known spot lies between exits 5 and 6 of Jongno 3-ga Station. It is a top spot to try authentic Korean street food and drinks, ranging from spicy tteokbokki and Korean-style twigim to refreshing soju and milky makgeolli. The best part? They are super affordable and won’t drain your wallet.

How To Get There?

  • Take Line 1, 3, or 5 to Jongno 3-ga Station.
  • Use Exit 3, 4, 6, 7, or 8.
  • The Pojangmacha street is near these exits.

Namdaemun Market

  • 📌 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
  • 🕛 9 AM – 5 PM
  • 🌐 http://www.namdaemunmarket.co.kr/
  • ☎️ +82 2-753-2805

If you are looking for an outdoor expedition or a late-night dining experience, Namdaemun Market is your destination in Seoul. It is known for its vibrant Pojangmacha scene, featuring street food tents selling Korean classics like sundae and tteokbokki. You can also purchase various goods, clothing, kitchenware, and souvenirs.

How To Get There?

  • Take Line 4 from Seoul Station to Hoehyeon Station.
  • Use Exit 5 or 6.
  • The market will be right in front of you.
History of Seoul with Insadong Antique Shop Street, Namdaemun Market, and Palaces Day Tour
History of Seoul with Insadong Antique Shop Street, Namdaemun Market, and Palaces Day Tour
$53.95
Korean Palace and Market Tour in Seoul Including Insadong and Gyeongbokgung Palace
Korean Palace and Market Tour in Seoul Including Insadong and Gyeongbokgung Palace
$100.00
Seoul: Full-Day Royal Palace and Shopping Tour
Seoul: Full-Day Royal Palace and Shopping Tour
$166,303.00

Gwangjang Market

  • 📌 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
  • 🕛 9 AM – 10:30 PM
  • 🌐 http://www.kwangjangmarket.co.kr/
  • ☎️ +82 2-2267-0291

Your Pojangmacha experience will be incomplete without visiting Seoul’s oldest traditional market, Gwangjang Market. It features many covered food stalls selling Korean street food classics like mayak kimbap, tteokbokki, and bindaetteok. Expect to savor your meal in a casual setting surrounded by locals and tourists. Don’t shy away from trying something unfamiliar at the market.

How To Get There?

  • Take Line 1 to Jongno 5-ga Station, then enjoy a short walk to the market.
  • Alternative: Take Line 2 or 5 to Euljiro 4-ga Station and walk to the market.
Seoul Evening Tour:Gwangjang Market&Naksan Park&Eungbongsan
Getyourguide.com
$71.00
Seoul Evening Tour:Gwangjang Market&Naksan Park&Eungbongsan
Seoul Gwangjang Market Foody Walking Tour
Getyourguide.com
$50.00
Seoul Gwangjang Market Foody Walking Tour
Unique Authentic Food Adventure in Gwangjang Market
Getyourguide.com
$76.00
Unique Authentic Food Adventure in Gwangjang Market
Vegan & Vegetarian Korean Market Adventure Gwangjang Market
Viator.com
$98.73
Vegan & Vegetarian Korean Market Adventure Gwangjang Market
Seoul Nightlife Tours : K-Drama, K-Pop, Gwangjang Market
Viator.com
$245.00
Seoul Nightlife Tours : K-Drama, K-Pop, Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang market Netflix Food Walking Tour with Insadong
Viator.com
$54.00
Gwangjang market Netflix Food Walking Tour with Insadong

Dongdaemun

  • 📌 동대문구 Seoul, South Korea

Travel to Dongdaemun to experience its vibrant Pojangmacha scene. This district is known for its shopping, food, and entertainment options. Foodies will find many tented street food stalls in the neighborhood’s alleys near clothing stores and traditional markets. You can also simply look for outdoor seating or signs of tents. Head out in the evening and stay out till late, enjoying Korean snacks.

How To Get There?

  • Take Line 1 or 4 to Dongdaemun Station.
  • Look for signs of tents or outdoor seating.

✨ Also Read: Dongdaemun Fashion Street & DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) 동대문디자인플라자

Seomyeon Pojangmacha Street

Korean Pojangmacha in Busan
Try the Korean delicacies of Seomyeon Pojangmacha Street.
  • 📌 41 Seomyeon-ro 68beon-gil, Busanjin District, Busan, South Korea
  • 💸 ₩20,000–30,000 per person

Let’s explore Pojangmacha stalls outside Seoul. How about heading to Seomyeon Pojangmacha Street in Busan? This street is famous for its diverse selection of Korean street food and drinks, as well as its vibrant atmosphere. Thanks to its proximity to the coast, seafood is a staple here. You will find everything from shellfish to squid and sea squirts. It is also a top photo spot, where you can get many Instagrammable shots.

Korea Pojangmacha Food

How To Get There?

  • Take the Line 1 or 2 from Busan Subway to Seomyeon Station.
  • Exit the station and walk towards Seomyeon 1beon-ga.
  • You will soon find many Pojangmacha stalls.

🥟 What To Eat In A Pojangmacha?

Korea Pojangmacha Food

If you are looking for late-night snacks or Korean street specialties, a Pojangmacha is your destination. From spicy rice cakes to grilled seafood, these food stalls are a heaven for foodies. Here are some must-eats in a Pojangmacha:

Eomuk Tang 어묵탕

Odeng/Eomuk Tang 어묵탕_Korean food
Enjoy Odeng in a savory broth.
  • Price: ₩10,000 – ₩15,000
  • Ideal For: Diners who enjoy fish and soup

On a slightly chilly evening in Seoul, there’s nothing quite like cozying up at a pojangmacha—one of those vibrant street food tents where locals wind down after a long day. Start with a steaming odeng-tang to warm your body and soul. These comforting dishes aren’t just about flavor—they’re a ritual. And of course, no pojangmacha experience is complete without a bottle of soju, the iconic Korean spirit that pairs perfectly with the bold, savory flavors. It’s the kind of night that makes you feel like a true local.

Modum-kkochi (assorted skewers) 모둠꼬치

Modum-kkochi (assorted skewers) 모둠꼬치_Korean food
Grilled skewers with a hint of smoke and an ice-cold beer
  • Price: ₩10,000 – ₩15,000
  • Ideal For: Looking for a quick and tasty late-night bite with friends or a partner.

If you’re craving something simple yet satisfying, modum-kkochi (assorted skewers) is a perfect choice—especially when paired with a cold beer. It’s a favorite among locals looking for a light but flavorful bite at a pojangmacha. A typical platter includes juicy chicken skewers, bacon-wrapped pork belly, nutty ginkgo skewers, and seasonal favorites like mushroom or eggplant. Grilled over open flames and brushed with savory sauces, each skewer offers a smoky, satisfying taste of Korean street food culture.

jjukkumi bokkeum 쭈꾸미 볶음

 jjukkumi bokkeum 쭈꾸미 볶음_Korean food
Spicy, sizzling jjukkumi that bites back—just the way locals love it
  • Price: ₩12,000–18,000 per serving / +₩2,000–3,000 for noodles or fried rice add-on
  • Ideal For: Spice lovers, adventurous eaters, and travelers looking for a uniquely Korean seafood dish with a kick.

If you love bold flavors and a bit of heat, jjukkumi bokkeum (spicy stir-fried baby octopus) is a must-try at any pojangmacha. The chewy octopus is stir-fried in a fiery gochujang-based sauce with vegetables, delivering a punch of spice that pairs beautifully with soju or beer. It’s the kind of dish that wakes up your palate and keeps you coming back for more. Pro tip: Don’t leave without adding noodles (myeon-sari) or making fried rice (bokkeumbap) in the same pan to soak up all that spicy-sweet goodness at the end!

Spam & gyeran-mari 스팸&계란말이

Spam & gyeran-mari 스팸&계란말이_Korean food
A classic combo that never fails—fluffy eggs, salty Spam
  • Price: ₩9,000 to ₩15,000
  • Ideal For: Korean food lovers seeking comfort food, travelers craving a mild, filling meal.

Simple, nostalgic, and satisfying—Spam & gyeran-mari (rolled omelet) is a comfort dish that feels like home for many Koreans. The fluffy egg roll is often sliced into bite-sized pieces and paired with savory pan-fried Spam, creating a perfect balance of soft and salty. It’s the kind of meal that hits the spot when you just need rice with your food—a must-have for locals who can’t imagine dinner without it.

Haemul kalguksu 해물칼국수

Haemul kalguksu 해물칼국수 _Korean food
Hot, hearty, and full of ocean flavor—seafood kalguksu is Korea’s rainy-day comfort food.
  • Price: ₩9,000–13,000 per bowl (depending on the amount and variety of seafood)
  • Ideal For: Travelers looking for a warm, non-spicy meal, seafood lovers.

A steaming bowl of haemul kalguksu (seafood knife-cut noodle soup) is pure comfort, especially on a chilly or rainy day. Made with hand-cut wheat noodles and a rich broth simmered with clams, mussels, shrimp, and sometimes squid, it delivers deep umami flavor in every spoonful. The fresh seafood adds briny sweetness, while the chewy noodles soak up the hearty soup. It’s a dish that warms both body and soul—and if you’re lucky, some pojangmacha even serve it with a spicy kimchi on the side for the perfect contrast.

Golbaengi somyeon 골뱅이소면

Golbaengi somyeon 골뱅이소면_Korean food
Chewy sea snails, spicy noodles, and a cold beer&soju
  • Price: ₩13,000–20,000 per platter (large enough to share with 2–3 people)
  • Ideal For: Groups of friends sharing drinks, adventurous eaters wanting a classic Korean anju (drinking snack).

A true Korean drinking food favorite, golbaengi somyeon combines chewy sea snails with thin wheat noodles tossed in a spicy, tangy gochujang-based sauce. Crisp cucumbers, onions, and carrots are usually mixed in, giving each bite a refreshing crunch alongside the heat. The balance of sweet, spicy, and sour flavors makes it a perfect companion for ice-cold beer or soju. Locals love this dish not only for its bold taste but also for how easily it can be shared at the table—a classic pojangmacha crowd-pleaser.

Haemul samhap 해물삼합

 Haemul samhap 해물삼합_Korean food
Seafood, beef, and kimchi—three bold flavors in one unforgettable bite.
  • Price: ₩30,000–40,000 per platter (serves 2–3 people, often enjoyed as an anju with soju or makgeolli)
  • Ideal For: Foodies who love bold flavor combinations, and eager to try Korea’s unique communal dining culture

If you’re looking for a dish that feels festive and indulgent, haemul samhap with chadolbagi (seafood trio with thinly sliced beef brisket) is a must-try. This dish brings together fresh seafood—like squid, oysters, or abalone—paired with the smoky richness of beef brisket and the sharp kick of fermented kimchi. Grilled or stir-fried together, the flavors melt into a perfect harmony: the sea’s brininess, the beef’s savory depth, and kimchi’s tangy spice. Wrap them in lettuce or perilla leaves for the ultimate bite. It’s a dish best enjoyed slowly, with drinks and good company.

Ramyeon 라면

라면 Ramyeon—the final bite that completes every Korean night out.
Ramyeon—the final bite that completes every Korean night out.
  • Price: ₩4,000–6,000 per pot (extra toppings like egg or cheese usually ₩500 – ₩1,000 each)
  • Ideal For: Budget travelers, students, late-night snack seekers.

Sometimes the simplest choice is the most comforting—ramyeon (Korean instant noodles) is a pojangmacha staple that never disappoints. Served bubbling hot in a small pot, the springy noodles soak up a spicy, savory broth often enriched with green onions, egg, or even slices of cheese. It’s quick, satisfying, and the perfect late-night cure whether you’ve had a few drinks or just need something warm and filling. In Korea, there’s even an unspoken rule: a night of drinking isn’t truly over until you finish it with ramyeon. For locals, the last slurp of noodles marks the real end of the gathering.

Donkatsu, Korean-style Pork Cutlet 돈까스

Donkatsu, Korean-style Pork Cutlet 돈까스_Korean food
Crispy outside, tender inside—Korean donkatsu with its signature sweet-savory sauce.
  • Price: ₩10,000 ₩12,000 per serving (often includes rice, salad, and small side dishes)
  • Ideal For: Travelers who prefer a non-spicy, filling meal; families with kids

A hearty favorite that feels both familiar and uniquely Korean, donkatsu is a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet served golden and crispy on the outside while tender inside. Unlike Japanese tonkatsu, the Korean version is often smothered in a sweet-savory brown sauce and comes with a side of rice, shredded cabbage, and sometimes even a fried egg. It’s a satisfying, filling choice that stands out among pojangmacha menus usually centered on lighter drinking snacks. For many locals, donkatsu is pure nostalgia—comfort food that reminds them of childhood meals or late-night cravings.

Spicy Tofu Stew 두부찌개

Spicy Tofu Stew 두부찌개_traditional Korean food
Warm your stomach with a spicy stew.
  • Price: ₩10,000 to ₩18,000 (usually served with rice)
  • Ideal For: Bubbling spicy tofu stew—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for vegetarians too.

If you are traveling to Korea in winter, you should try the country’s seasonal specials like Spicy Tofu Stew. It is a must-have dish in a Pojangmacha during cold days. For those who love a fiery kick, spicy tofu stew (maeun dubu-jjigae) is a soul-warming Korean classic that brings the heat. This bubbling red stew features soft tofu, onions, scallions, and sometimes mushrooms or vegetables, all simmered in a rich, spicy broth made with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and garlic. The tofu absorbs the bold flavors perfectly, making every spoonful deeply satisfying. It’s especially comforting on a chilly evening—and when made without meat or seafood, it becomes a delicious and hearty option for vegetarians too. Just pair it with a warm bowl of rice for the full local experience.

Tteokbokki 떡볶이

  • Price: ₩3,000 to ₩6,000 per serving
  • Ideal For: Spice lovers, foodies who enjoy savory dishes

There is no Pojangmacha where you won’t find Tteokbokki. This infamous Korean street food is popular among foodies, particularly those who have a high spice tolerance. It features chewy rice cakes (tteok) cooked in a rich gochujang sauce. The taste is heavenly—a mix of chewy, sweet, spicy, savory, and filling. Tteokbokki is also a healthy food option and is rich in energy-providing carbohydrates. Pair this dish with soju.

Sundae 순대

Sundae_Korean street food
Do you dare to try Sundae, Korean blood sausage?
  • Price: ₩6,000 to ₩13,000
  • Ideal For: Sausage lovers, people looking for unique dishes

If you love sausages, you will enjoy having Sundae (Soondae). This Korean-style blood sausage is made of cow or pig intestines. They are steamed or boiled, then filled with various ingredients like pig’s blood, sweet rice, vegetables, glass noodles, and seasonings. The result is a bite-sized savory and slightly nutty sausage with a chewy casing. Soondae comes with a dipping sauce or is part of stir-fries. It also goes well with tteokbokki and fish cake soup.

Nogari 노가리

Nogari 노가리_Korea’s classic beer companion food.
Smoky, chewy nogari—Korea’s classic beer companion.
  • Price: ₩2,000–3,000 per piece (often ordered in multiples, making it one of the cheapest and most popular bar snacks in Korea)
  • Ideal For: Beer lovers, travelers wanting to try authentic Korean drinking culture

One of the most beloved and affordable pojangmacha snacks is nogari—dried young pollack, grilled until slightly crispy on the outside yet tender inside. It’s typically served with a dab of mayonnaise and a bit of gochujang for dipping, creating a simple but addictive flavor combination. The chewy, smoky texture makes it the perfect companion for an ice-cold beer, and locals love it as a light snack that keeps the conversation (and drinking) going without feeling too heavy. Nogari nights are almost a cultural ritual in Korea’s drinking scene.

Jeon 전

모둠 전 _Golden, crispy jeon with a glass of makgeolli
Golden, crispy jeon with a glass of makgeolli
  • Price: ₩10,000–15,000 per plate (depending on type and portion size, usually good for 2–3 people to share)
  • Ideal For: Travelers looking for a sharable dish, vegetarians who want non-meat Korean food options

Jeon is a must-try when visiting a pojangmacha, especially if you want to experience the comforting side of Korean food. These savory pancakes are made by lightly pan-frying a variety of ingredients—such as green onions (pajeon), kimchi (kimchi-jeon), seafood (haemul-pajeon), or even mung beans (bindaetteok)—in a simple flour and egg batter. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, jeon pairs perfectly with a dipping sauce of soy, vinegar, and chili. For locals, jeon is more than just food—it’s tradition. Rainy days or late-night drinks often call for a plate of jeon, usually washed down with a glass of makgeolli (Korean rice wine).

Haemul-tang 해물탕

해물탕_Korea’s ultimate seafood feast in a pot.
Korea’s ultimate seafood feast in a pot.
  • Price: ₩25,000–40,000 per pot (serves 2–3 people, often enjoyed with soju or makgeolli)
  • Ideal For: Seafood lovers, groups of friends who want to share a hearty meal

If you want a dish that truly showcases the depth of Korean seafood cuisine, haemul-tang (spicy seafood stew) is the ultimate choice. This bubbling hotpot comes brimming with clams, mussels, crab, shrimp, squid, and sometimes even octopus, all simmered together in a spicy, aromatic broth flavored with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), garlic, and fresh vegetables. The result is a rich, layered flavor—spicy, savory, and slightly sweet from the seafood itself. It’s a communal dish made for sharing, and the perfect way to warm up on a chilly night at a pojangmacha.

Dubu kimchi 두부김치

두부김치_Spicy stir-fried kimchi meets soft tofu_Traditional Korean 
food
Spicy stir-fried kimchi meets soft tofu—the ultimate soju pairing.
  • Price: ₩10,000–15,000 per plate (large enough to share with 2–3 people)
  • Ideal For: Soju drinkers, vegetarians (when made without pork)

A true pojangmacha classic, dubu kimchi is the perfect mix of bold and mild. Spicy, tangy kimchi is stir-fried with pork slices (sometimes optional) and served alongside soft, steamed tofu. The contrast is irresistible—the fiery, flavorful kimchi balances beautifully with the mellow, silky tofu. It’s one of those dishes locals always come back to when drinking soju, because it feels both hearty and comforting. For vegetarians, it can also be made without pork, keeping it just as delicious.

🍶 Experience Nightlife: Top Drinks To Try In A Pojangmacha

Did we mention that Pojangmacha is a top spot for drinking? Many even associate these food tents with a spot for late-night drinks with close ones. From fermented rice wines to Korean beers, here are the top drinks to pair with your meal in a Pojangmacha:

Soju

Soju bottles
Enjoy the infamous Korean drink, Soju.
  • Price: 1,800 – 1,900 Won per bottle
  • Ideal For: Group drinking, celebrations
  • Food Pairings: Korean BBQ, tteokbokki, kimchi jjigae, buldak, somuk

K-pop or K-drama fans are likely familiar with the infamous Soju. This clear, colorless alcohol is a go-to drink for many K-pop idols and K-drama actors and actresses alike. It is a staple at Pojangmacha stalls, where it is a go-to pairing for a variety of Korean dishes. The best thing about Soju is that it goes well with spicy and savory dishes, which are prominent in street food stalls. Expect a clean, crisp, soft tang and slightly sweet taste. The ones with fruity flavors like peach, blueberry, or grapefruit might be sweeter. Also, Soju only has 20% ABV, a lower alcohol content than vodka or whiskey.

Seoul Night "Private Tour"(Korean BBQ, N-Tower, Seoul Fortress, Local Market)
Seoul Night "Private Tour"(Korean BBQ, N-Tower, Seoul Fortress, Local Market)
$74.00
Drinking and Eating through the Alleys of Seoul
Drinking and Eating through the Alleys of Seoul
$85.00

Maekju (Beer)

Maekju
Pair Maekju with fried Korean snacks.
  • Price: 2,800 Won for a 500ml bottle
  • Ideal For: Social drinking, casual gatherings
  • Food Pairings: Chimaek, seafood, fried food

Have you ever heard of Chimaek? It is a popular food combination among Koreans, which includes Maekju (beer) and fried chicken. Beer lovers will enjoy pairing Maekju with dishes found in a Pojangmacha. It goes exceptionally well with fried snacks such as Korean Fried Chicken. If you want any recommendation, Hite and Cass are renowned for their light lagers and crisp, refreshing taste. Terra is another popular crisp Korean lager to try. Option: Mix Maekju with soju to create “Somaek,” a popular Korean cocktail.

Makgeolli

Enjoy homemade Makgeolli in Korea.
  • Price: 2,000 to 2,500 Won for a 750ml
  • Ideal For: Family gatherings, casual outings, celebrations
  • Food Pairings: Pajeon (green onion pancake), samgyeopsal, spicy dishes

If you are searching for a budget-friendly drink in a Pojangmacha, Makgeolli is your option. This traditional rice wine has a milky, white, and sparkling appearance and is slightly sweet. It evokes a sense of nostalgia among many, since people used to create it at home back in the days. Many families even have their own unique Makgeolli recipes. In addition to enhancing your dining experience, this alcoholic drink can help lower cholesterol and improve the immune system. It also has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

✨ Also Read: Best MAKGEOLLI Bars in Seoul: Traditional Korean Alcoholic Drinks

Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli) Tasting Tour in Insadong
Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli) Tasting Tour in Insadong
$99.70
Insadong Makgeolli Taster Tour
Insadong Makgeolli Taster Tour
$120.00

💰 How To Order Like A Local In A Street Food Tent?

Have you tried ordering from a Korean Street Food Tent?

Pojangmacha warmly welcomes locals and tourists. It is a top nightlife hub to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t worry if it’s your first time or you don’t know any Korean; ordering snacks in these street food tents won’t be challenging. Here’s how you can enjoy a Pojangmacha like a local:

  • Greet owners warmly: Begin with a polite greeting like Hi or Annyeonghaseyo (hello in Korean).
  • Order from the menu: Choose the items you want to order from the menu.
  • Point out the items: If there is no printed menu, just point out the dish, smile, and nod your head.
  • Use common Korean words or phrases: Ask for the food saying, “Igeo juseyo,” meaning please give me this.
  • Share Dishes: Pojangmacha is all about sharing food and moments with others.
  • Start Small: Begin with a few dishes before ordering more.
  • No Rushing: Pojangmacha is open till late at night, so take your time to eat and enjoy the night.

💭Insider Tips For First-Timers

Insider Tips For Pojangmacha
Experience the atmosphere in a Pojangmacha.

Attention first-timers! Here are some insider tips to make the most of your time in a Pojangmacha:

1. Go with a Group

You can dine alone in a Pojangmacha; however, these street food tents are meant for a social experience. Visit with your friends or family to liven up the atmosphere. It will be more fun to enjoy in a group, as you can order more dishes and share them with some juicy stories.

2. Cash is King

Cards are acceptable in most establishments in Seoul. Still, when it comes to Pojangmacha, carrying ample cash is essential. Not all stalls accept cards, and some are cash-only. Better to be safe than sorry.

3. Don’t be Shy

Go all out if you are eating out in a Pojangmacha. Don’t hesitate to chat with owners or locals—most are happy to communicate. Socializing is part of the overall experience.

4. Don’t be Afraid to Experiment

Foodies will enjoy trying diverse Korean street food offerings in a Pojangmacha. Even if you are not a food enthusiast, don’t feel shy in trying new Korean snacks. Try the local favorites, seasonal delicacies, and unique dishes.

5. Explore Different Locations

As mentioned earlier, you will find Pojangmacha stalls in various areas of Seoul and beyond the city. In addition to visiting popular areas like Jongno 3-ga, Myeongdong, Namdaemun, Euljiro 3-ga, and Changdong, explore the hidden Pojangmacha gems.

6. Be Mindful of Prices

Korean tented street food stalls are generally affordable, with local dishes often costing between 1,000 and 4,000 KRW. Drinks are also budget-friendly, costing around 3,000 KRW. That said, some food stalls might not display prices, or prices might be based on weight. If you’re confused, ask stall owners.

Finally, you are all set to eat and drink like a local at a Pojangmacha. We can go about this authentic street food hub for hours, but it’s best to experience the tent’s magic firsthand. Imagine you sitting under a glowing orange tent, laughing over skewers and soju, and surrounded by lively noise. The Pojangmacha spirit awaits in Korea!

"This page may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link!"