Sindang, Seoul
Sindang is a historic neighborhood with a culinary heritage
It’s been changing since artists and designers began to move into the area
It’s known for both traditional markets and eateries, as wels as for hip cafes
You’re probably looking for an area in Seoul to explore that’s a layer or two deeper than Myeongdong, Hongdae, and the others that typical Western tourists talk about. Along with neighborhoods like Seongsu or Mullae, another one that combines new and old in a perfect balance is Sindang.
I’ve been to Sindang a couple of times now, and I’ll share my experiences in the area and introduce my recommendations.
How to get there
The closest station is Sindang Station, and it’s accessible on Seoul Subway Lines 2 and 6.
About Sindang
Sindang is just about the opposite from more modern, upscale areas like Gangnam. One could say it’s more authentic and has more culture, depending on how you define those terms.
The neighborhood has a retro feel to it and is said to resemble Seoul in the 1970s. It’s hard to disagree because while most of us never experienced the city during that time, the lack of obvious tourists in the area makes it feel a bit like you’re immersed in Seoul before it became a destination so many wanted to visit.
My experience in Sindang has been a combination of local markets, industrial supply shops and delicious eats.
In the first part of this video, I visit Sindang. Check it out:
Seoul Central Market
Also known as Seoul Jungang Sijang, Seoul Central Market is a fairly large market with shops selling vegetables and seafood, along with many other items. The market came to be in the years after the Korean War, and became a hub for rice, with 70% of the city’s rice being traded there.
Today, it’s a bustling market where locals go to pick up fresh ingredients to cook at home or in their eatery. For tourists, it’s a way to immerse yourself in everyday Seoul life while you head to eat somewhere, perhaps at one of the spots below.
Where to eat
Kafe Apothecary
Tucked in a street corner in Sindang is this cafe gem. It’s unexpected as the neighborhood looks dated and industrial, but that’s the charm of Sindang.
Kafe Apothecary is a few blocks away from Seoul Central Market, and features a relaxing atmosphere with good music. Their menu isn’t extensive, but we got their croffle (croissant waffle) with ice cream, and their croffle angbutter (azuki red bean paste and butter). Both were amazing.
The interior is spacious, making it a great place to spend your time however you like, whether it’s having a chat, reading or getting some work done.
Gohyangson Kalgugsu
Roughly translating to “Hometown Handmade Noodles”, this small shop lives up to its name. A small shop that locals hop into for a bite, Gohyangson Kalguksu serves delicious kalguksu, which is like udon.
Their noodles are handcut and served in a broth that resembles soba-yu, which is the hot water that is used to cook soba noodles in Japan. With its mild taste, it can be eaten as-is for a soothing meal or you can add in peppers and kimchi that are served with meals.
Delicious find and like the area itself, it felt like an authentic, local meal.
Keep in touch:
Euljiro’s neighborhoods feature pojangmacha street food stalls, hip drinking spots, local markets and a stream for scenic strolls.