Title: Culinary Adventures in Seoul: An Exploration of Fusion Cuisine
SEOUL — Seoul’s food scene offers a unique blend of local twists on international favorites, providing a flavor journey that reflects the city’s dynamic culture.
A popular destination that has garnered attention on social media is the London Bagel Museum near Anguk Station. Known for its UK-themed decor and bagels with a soft, doughy texture, one standout item is the Potato Cheese bagel. Patrons can expect long waits to sample their offering of flavored cream cheeses, including Earl Grey jam and truffle pesto. The cafe opens at 8 a.m. and also has branches in Jamsil and Dosan.
Another interesting fusion item is the Jeonju Bibim Rice Burger from Lotteria, the largest fast-food chain in South Korea. This burger, costing ₩8800 (around $6.59), combines the elements of a traditional bibimbap bowl into a burger format, complete with rice buns and vegetables.
Roll and Lol, located near Sogang University, offers a unique take on kimbap with its Philly Cheesesteak roll. Owner Jihoon Song’s creation features beef, cheddar cheese, and homemade cheesewhip wrapped in a spring roll wrap and tortilla, deviating from traditional kimbap components.
For vegans, The Slunch Factory in Yeonnam serves a fusion dish of mac and cheese mixed with mashed potatoes, presented in a fine dining style. While the restaurant has a full vegan menu, this particular dish stands out for its comfort-food appeal.
Lastly, the injeolmi gorgonzola pizza at Yangsikguok, made with a squid ink crust and topped with sweet glutinous rice and honey, is a notable deviation from traditional Italian and American pizzas. This dish exemplifies the extent to which Seoul’s food culture reinterprets global dishes with local ingredients.
Seoul’s evolving food scene, marked by these inventive fusion dishes, continues to attract both locals and tourists seeking novel culinary experiences.