Guide to North Korean Cuisine: Pyongyang Cold Noodles, Kaesong Bronze Bowl Rice, Kimchi, and Dining at Foreigner-Friendly Restaurants
Food Guide
2026-10-03
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Group meals are primarily served at foreigner-friendly restaurants: Pyongyang cold noodles, Kaesong bronze bowl rice, ginseng chicken soup, and kimchi take center stage. This article introduces representative dishes, dining etiquette, and foreign currency payment methods.
Representative Dishes
- Pyongyang Cold Noodles: Buckwheat noodles served in a chilled beef broth with a tangy-sweet flavor, eaten with scissors and chopsticks. This is North Korea’s most iconic dish, typically costing around 3–5 USD per serving at restaurants that cater to international visitors.
- Kaesong Bronze Bowl Rice: Dozens of small bronze bowls containing side dishes, soup, rice, and pancakes. This is a traditional banquet originating from the ancient Goryeo capital, often served as lunch on Panmunjom day trips.
- Ginseng Chicken Soup: A whole chicken stuffed with sticky rice and Korean ginseng, then slowly simmered to create a clear broth. Considered a nourishing specialty, it is priced per chicken.
- Kimchi and Soybean Paste Soup: A staple spicy soup made with pickled cabbage and soybean paste, typically served with meals. It is usually milder than versions found in other countries.
- Mung Bean Pancakes and Rice Cakes: Common side dishes and snacks, often available at buffets in restaurants that serve international guests.
Dining Scenarios and Payment
- Group meals are almost always held at restaurants designated for international visitors or at your accommodation. The tour operator selects the dishes, with limited options for individual choices. You may inform your travel agency in advance of any dietary requirements.
- Additional meals and late-night snacks can be bought at the hotel restaurant using foreign cash (US dollars, euros, and Chinese yuan). International credit cards and mobile payment methods are generally not accepted.
- At restaurants that cater to international guests, you can purchase Taedonggang beer and ginseng wine to accompany your meal. Prices are clearly displayed—be sure to keep your receipts.
Price Reference
| Item | Reference Price | Description |
|---|
| Group Meals | Included in tour fee | Usually consists of four dishes, one soup, and rice |
| Pyongyang Cold Noodles (single order) | About 3–5 USD | Served at restaurants that cater to international visitors |
| Ginseng Chicken Soup | About 20–40 USD | Priced per chicken, advance booking required |
| Taedonggang Beer | About 1–2 USD | Available at hotels and restaurants that cater to international visitors |
Reminders
- Food availability may vary by season. Do not bring excess food into the country; all incoming and outgoing items are inspected.
- Avoid wasting food or making negative comments during meals. Please follow the rules set by restaurants.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, bring your own common medications, as local medical resources may be limited.