Seoul is revamping its 'Taste of Seoul' map by identifying neighborhood restaurants that have been in business for over 30 years. The initiative aims to promote the rich flavors and stories of these establishments as tourism content.
On June 8, the city announced that it will accept nominations for the '2026 Long-Standing Restaurants Candidate Event' until June 28. The focus is on eateries in Gwangjin, Dongdaemun, Seongdong, and Jungnang districts that have been operating for over three decades.
The 'Long-Standing Restaurants' initiative seeks to discover and nurture establishments that have preserved local culture and ambiance over time as unique assets of Seoul. Since 2017, the city has been selecting long-standing businesses in the fields of lifestyle culture, traditional crafts, and food, with a total of 140 establishments currently designated and operating.
Nominations are open for restaurants that residents believe should be highlighted, including those that are 'must-visit spots for anyone coming to Seoul,' 'long-standing establishments with deep culinary expertise,' and 'places with a special charm that keeps patrons returning over the years.'
This initiative aligns with the recent tourism trend shifting from 'Instagrammable' locations to experiences that capture the unique atmosphere and stories of local areas. There is growing interest among foreign tourists in local restaurants and long-standing establishments that have maintained their charm over franchises.
The essence of Seoul's cuisine lies more in its comforting familiarity than in extravagant gastronomy. Whether it's a bowl of cold noodle broth perfected over decades, a hearty meal from a diner that has fed early morning market vendors, or a classic Chinese restaurant known for its consistent flavor, Seoul's food is often celebrated for the craftsmanship and memories shaped over time.
Long-standing restaurants are valued not just for their food but as spaces where local residents' memories and lives have accumulated, making them significant tourism assets.
Following citizen nominations, the city plans to conduct on-site verifications and expert evaluations to finalize this year's long-standing restaurants. Selected establishments will be integrated into Seoul's tourism content. The city will also expand programs and promotions for the 'Long-Standing Restaurants Week,' which received a positive response last year, allowing citizens and domestic and international tourists to experience the charm of Seoul's long-standing establishments firsthand.
Kim Myung-joo, Director of the Seoul Tourism and Sports Bureau, stated, "Recent travel trends are shifting towards experiencing local stories and atmospheres rather than visiting famous tourist spots. We hope that long-standing restaurants, which have preserved the taste and ambiance of Seoul for many years, can establish themselves as attractive tourism content with the support and participation of citizens."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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