Korea is globally acclaimed for its vibrant culture, history, and entertainment. Yet, there’s an often overlooked gem: the delightful foods at its highway rest stops, known as 휴게소 (rest areas). Not just places for a restroom break, these stops are culinary hubs showcasing regional specialties. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best rest areas in Korea and spotlight the Top 10 must-try foods.
Top 10 Must-Try Foods at Korean Rest Stops:
- 알감자구이 (Roasted Baby Potatoes): Bite-sized potatoes roasted in butter and sprinkled with salt, creating a savory and delightful taste.
- 떡볶이 (Tteokbokki): Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a favorite street food known for its chewy texture and rich flavor.
- 오뎅탕 (Odengtang): Fish cake soup served on skewers, accompanied by a warm, savory broth.
- 호두과자 (Hodugwaja): A pancake-like pastry, shaped round, filled with sweet red bean paste and walnuts – a sweet treat not to be missed.
- 김밥 (Gimbap): Korean rice rolls filled with ingredients such as vegetables, tuna, or beef, wrapped in seaweed – a must-have quick snack.
- 튀김 (Twigim): Various deep-fried items, including vegetables, squid, and shrimp, offering a crunchy delight.
- 핫도그 (Hotdog): A unique breaded and deep-fried sausage, occasionally filled with gooey mozzarella for a pleasant surprise.
- 순대 (Sundae): Korean blood sausage that combines the flavors of glass noodles and pork.
- 라면 (Ramen): Instant noodles with diverse flavors, providing a quick and filling meal option for travelers.
- 치즈돈까스 (Cheese Tonkatsu): A crispy deep-fried pork cutlet filled with creamy, melting cheese.
Best Rest Areas for Food in Korea:
- 정읍 휴게소 (Jeongeup Rest Area): A haven for seafood enthusiasts. Its 정읍 나루터 조개구이 (Jeongeup Naruter Grilled Shellfish) is savored by countless travelers.
- 왕버들 휴게소 (Wangbeodeul Rest Area): Here, the 왕버들 소떡소떡 (Wangbeodeul Sausage & Rice Cake) is an irresistible treat for those with a sweet tooth.
- 목천 휴게소 (Mokcheon Rest Area): During summer, the refreshing 복숭아 빙수 (Peach Bingsu) and ice cream make for an unbeatable combination.
- 황간 휴게소 (Hwanggan Rest Area): This stop offers 황간 도토리묵 (Hwanggan Acorn Jelly), a representation of Korea’s natural flavors.
- 서울대곡 휴게소 (Seouldaegok Rest Area): With its 모듬전 (Assorted Pancakes) and sweet 호떡 (Sweet Pancake), you’re in for a culinary delight.
- 양산 휴게소 (Yangsan Rest Area): Carnivores rejoice at the taste of 양산불고기 (Yangsan Grilled Beef).
- 옥산 휴게소 (Oksan Rest Area): The savory 옥산오리백숙 (Oksan Duck Soup) promises a heartwarming experience.
- 천안 휴게소 (Cheonan Rest Area): A fusion of 천안 오징어 순대 (Cheonan Squid Sausage) and 천안문주 provides a burst of flavors.
- 안성 휴게소 (Anseong Rest Area): The famed 안성모개떡 (Anseong Rice Cake) is a testimony to the sweet side of Korean cuisine.
- 판암 휴게소 (Panam Rest Area): 판암두부김밥 (Panam Tofu Rice Roll) is a delightful light snack many adore.
- 황전 휴게소 (Hwangjeon Rest Area): Round off with 황전팥빙수 (Hwangjeon Red Bean Shaved Ice), a dessert that’s both refreshing and sweet.
In essence, Korea’s highway rest stops offer not just convenience but a gateway to the country’s vast culinary landscape. On your next road journey through Korea, don’t miss out on these gastronomic wonders. Bon appétit and happy travels!
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