Lived in Busan my whole life, here are where to go and what to eat in Busan, Korea

Hello, a little bit about me, I've lived in Busan for most of my life. From last year, many of my friends have told me they’d love to visit, but often feel unsure about where to go or what to eat. So, I’ve put together a list of my personal recommendations – these places you simply must visit and foods you have to try. I hope this guide helps make your trip to Busan truly unforgettable.

If you’re in Busan, these three dishes are an absolute must: Milmyeon (wheat cold noodles), Galbi (grilled pork ribs), and Gukbap (pork and rice soup). Each dish was born from Korea's tragic history of Korean war so read this post if you want to learn about the history of Gukbab where people were starving and had no food to eat. It originated from sad history of Busan but it is now the most famous dish in Busan.

I’ll also be sharing my favourite hidden gems – local spots that many tourists miss, but which offer some of the best flavours and experiences the city has to offer.

Follow my recommendations, and get ready to fall in love with Busan – just like I have!

Busan food map

1. Youngdo & Nampo - fisk cake, street food

: Bupyeong night market (부평 깡통시장) - Youngdo(영도) - Huinnyeoul Culture Village (흰여울마을)

Yeongdo is home to some of Busan’s most well-known local fishcake factories, making it a must-visit for anyone keen to try authentic flavours. Just across the bridge, the Nampo area is packed with vibrant street food stalls, charming cafés, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Don’t miss the night market – it’s a lively spot where you can enjoy delicious snacks and soak up the local atmosphere well into the evening.

✅ Recommended food places

Choryang Milmyeon - always order dumplings

Namhae jib - pork galbi, it claims that they first invented porkgalbi

Milyang Sundae Gukbap - Busan pork soup

2. Guanganli & Haeundae (Beach area):

   
   

Must go to Guanganli sashime centre, , a place beloved by locals. Here, you can choose your own fresh seafood directly from the market stalls on the ground floor, and then head upstairs where restaurants will prepare it for you on the spot. It’s a fun and authentic experience that seafood lovers shouldn't miss! Just a tip – don’t be swayed too easily by the persuasive older ladies at the entrance. Take your time, explore the stalls, and pick the freshest seafood for yourself. They are persuasive but don't worry about price scam, Korean government has adopted fixed price by law so you will be paying same price with local.

If you go to Haeundai, I would highly recommend Mipo Blue line square where you can have a slow tour of coastal side of the city. It's quite popular among locals too, so I would highl recommending booking your sky capsule train in advance. You can book it via the link here

If you want a nice walk near Haeundai then try Taejoing dae.

If you're a shopping person, Haeundai is a rich neighbourhood full of shopping malls and outlet, even lotteworld (Amusement park) with far less people than the one in Seoul.

✅ Recommended restaurants:

Guanganli sashimi centre 

Guanganli k-bbq (꿀꿀뒷고기)

3. Ahopsan Forest (아홉산숲) - Hanwu, K-bbq

One of my personal favourites is a beautiful bamboo forest that has been a famous filming location for many K-dramas. Although it’s privately owned, visitors can enter for a small admission fee – and trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. The atmosphere is serene and cinematic, perfect for a peaceful stroll or photo opportunity.

Even better, the area is surrounded by Korean BBQ restaurants, many of which serve Hanwoo – Korea’s premium beef. It's incredibly tender and flavourful, and possibly the most delicious meat you’ll ever try. Make sure to treat yourself after your forest walk!

✅ Recommended nearby Hanwu restaurant here.

If you have any questions or want to know more about Busan, leave comments! Happy to help