Myeongdong Kyoja: The Best Michelin Kalguksu & Dumplings in Seoul (2026 Guide)

If there’s one restaurant that defines the flavors of Myeongdong, it’s undoubtedly this one!🍜

Welcome to "Myeongdong Kyoja," a legendary establishment that has held its Michelin Bib Gourmand status for years. Known for its rich chicken-based knife-cut noodles (Kalguksu) and juicy dumplings, it’s a must-visit destination for every traveler in Seoul.

Today, I’ll share everything you need to know to enjoy this local soul food, including the latest 2026 prices and how to skip the long lines.

🌟 Quick Overview: Myeongdong Kyoja (Main Branch)

• Specialty: Kalguksu (Knife-cut noodles) & Mandu (Dumplings)
• Awards: Michelin Bib Gourmand Seoul (Consecutive Years)
• Signature Flavor: Garlicky, spicy Kimchi that you'll either love or crave!
• Best For: A hearty, affordable Michelin meal in the heart of shopping district.

1. How to Get There (Location & Transport) 📍

SUBWAY (Line 4) Myeongdong Station (Exit 8). Turn left into the main shopping street (Myeongdong 10-gil) and walk straight for about 150m. The restaurant will be on your right.

SUBWAY (Line 2) Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Exit 6). Walk toward Myeongdong Cathedral; it takes about 10 minutes.

🚕 SHOW THIS TO THE TAXI DRIVER:

명동교자 본점 (주소: 서울 중구 명동10길 29)으로 가주세요.

2. Opening Hours, Menu & Waiting 🕒

🕙 Operating Hours

• Everyday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Note: They are very efficient, so even with a line, you'll likely be seated within 15-20 minutes.

🍴 Signature Menu & Price (January 2026 Update)

• Kalguksu (Noodle Soup): 11,000 KRW
• Mandu (10 Dumplings): 12,000 KRW
• Bibim Guksu (Spicy Mixed Noodles): 11,000 KRW
• Kongguksu (Cold Bean Noodles): 12,000 KRW (Seasonal: Apr - Oct)

🎟️ How to Wait & Order

Myeongdong Kyoja uses a very fast-paced system. Here is the drill:

• The Queue: There are often two separate lines—one for 1-2 people and another for 3+ people. Make sure you stand in the right one.
• Payment: You must pay immediately after ordering at your table (Pre-paid system).

3. ✨ Real User Reviews: The Good & The Bad

👍 PROS

• Free Refills: You can get extra noodles and soup for free if you order one main dish per person!
• Incredibly fast service—food usually arrives within 5 minutes.
• Consistent Michelin-quality taste at a very reasonable price.

👎 CONS

• The Kimchi is extremely garlicky and spicy (might be too strong for some).
• The atmosphere is very busy and can feel a bit rushed.

4. 💡 Essential Tips for the Full Experience

• Hidden Freebie: If you are still hungry after the noodles, you can ask for a small bowl of rice (unlimited) to mix with the remaining soup. It's a local favorite way to finish.
• No More Chewing Gum: Please note that Myeongdong Kyoja no longer provides the free piece of mint chewing gum that they were famous for. Since the kimchi is very garlicky, you might want to carry your own mints or gum for after the meal.
• Main vs. Branch: There are two locations in Myeongdong (Main & Branch). If the main one is too packed, the branch is just 2 minutes away and tastes identical.

A Lively Melting Pot:
This place is so famous that you’ll encounter people from all over the world here. You’ll also see local office workers and Koreans out for a shopping spree. And who knows? You might even run into me there!

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Shopping in Myeongdong?
Don't forget to recharge with a bowl of Kalguksu! Let me know in the comments if you loved the garlic kimchi! 🇰🇷✨