Jeju Island is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse array of dishes that reflect its unique coastal environment and agricultural heritage. From fresh seafood to locally sourced specialties, the island’s cuisine is a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Korean flavors.

**Seafood Delicacies** Being surrounded by the ocean, Jeju is renowned for its seafood. A standout dish is **hoe (raw fish)**, prepared with the day’s freshest catch, such as abalone, octopus, or cuttlefish. **Grilled abalone**, often served with butter or soy sauce, is another favorite, showcasing the chewy texture and rich flavor of this prized mollusk. For a heartier option, try **haemul ttukbaegi**, a seafood hot pot brimming with shrimp, clams, squid, and mussels in a savory broth.

**Black Pork** Jeju’s famous **black pork (heuk-dwaeji)** is a delicacy you can’t miss. Raised exclusively on the island, this pork is known for its tender texture and rich flavor. Many restaurants specialize in **samgyeopsal** (grilled pork belly), where diners cook the meat themselves over a tabletop grill, often accompanied by garlic, ssamjang (spicy paste), and fresh lettuce wraps.

**Jeonbokjuk (Abalone Porridge)** A staple of Jeju’s traditional cuisine, **jeonbokjuk** is a creamy porridge made with locally harvested abalone. This dish, both nutritious and comforting, is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a restorative meal, offering a taste of Jeju’s connection to the sea.

**Seaweed Soup and Dishes** The nutrient-rich waters surrounding Jeju provide an abundance of seaweed, which features prominently in the local diet. **Seaweed soup** is a simple yet flavorful dish often served with rice, while **myeonggye bibimbap**, a mixed rice dish featuring sea squirt and seaweed, delivers a burst of oceanic flavors.

**Seasonal Fruits** Jeju is famed for its **hallabong tangerines**, a sweet and juicy citrus fruit grown exclusively on the island. During harvest season, stalls across Jeju are filled with these vibrant fruits, along with other local specialties like yellow kiwis and green plums. Jeju’s fruits are not only refreshing but also make for excellent souvenirs.

**Makgeolli and Desserts** To complement your meals, try Jeju’s traditional **hallasan makgeolli**, a fermented rice wine with a slightly tangy and creamy flavor. For dessert, enjoy **green tea-flavored treats** like ice cream or cakes made from Jeju’s renowned tea fields. **Tangerine chocolates** are another popular sweet, combining Jeju’s iconic citrus with indulgent cocoa.

Jeju’s culinary offerings reflect the island’s harmonious relationship with nature. Each dish tells a story of the island’s land, sea, and culture, providing a delicious journey that enhances the Jeju experience.