The “Subway” of Korean Cuisine: A Customizable Korean Bowl in Seongsu
When I lived in London, I used to eat at Subway all the time because my housemate worked there! Even after having it so often, I never got tired of it. I’ve always been a huge fan of that fresh, customizable vibe.
Recently, I discovered a spot in Seongsu-dong that captures that exact “Subway energy” but with a delicious Korean twist—a Korean-style Poke bowl restaurant!
I previously mentioned having lunch at a Shabu-shabu place with a friend who was on a diet. Well, even if you’re not with that same friend, I would highly recommend this place if you’re hanging out with someone who is watching their calories or follows a vegan lifestyle.
Not Just Another Salad: Diet-friendly Meal in Seongsu-dong
I’m sure many of you visiting Korea are looking for vegan options or just want to enjoy a clean, healthy Korean meal. But let’s be honest—you didn’t fly all the way to Korea just to eat the same old, generic salad you can find anywhere else in the world, right?!
That’s what makes this place so special. In a way, it feels like a traditional Korean home-cooked meal. It’s that comforting combination of rice, various seasoned vegetables (Namul), and a warm bowl of soup—reimagined in a modern, fresh way.
If you want to experience the true essence of healthy Korean flavors without it being a typical tourist cliché, this is a fantastic choice for you! ;)
plant-based option or a macro-friendly meal for your fitness journey
When you step into Epikore, the ordering process will feel very familiar—it’s just like Subway! You have two great options:
- The Custom Bowl: Pick and choose every single ingredient to match your exact cravings.
- The Seasonal Curated Bowl: If you’re feeling indecisive, go for the pre-designed bowl featuring the freshest ingredients of the season.
Even if you’re worried about the language barrier, don’t let that stop you! Each ingredient at the bar has its name clearly written in English on the glass.
It’s so easy to just point and pick your favorites as you build your own perfect bowl. You’ll have zero trouble creating a delicious, customized meal even if you don’t speak a word of Korean! ;)
After placing my order, I realized something amazing: every single ingredient here is 100% vegan! Instead of actual meat, they use savory mushrooms to recreate classic Korean flavors like Bulgogi and Jeyuk–bokkeum (spicy stir-fried “pork”).
I customized my bowl with a generous helping of Minari (water dropwort), which I absolutely adore for its fresh scent, and added a couple of scoops of creamy hummus. It was a massive, satisfying meal, but I felt zero guilt because every bite was so clean and healthy!
The Star Side Dish: Bugak (K-Vegetable Chips)
I opted for the set menu, which comes with sparkling water and Bugak. For those who aren’t familiar, Bugak is a traditional Korean snack made by coating seaweed or vegetables (like lotus root or perilla leaves) in a thin layer of glutinous rice paste and deep-frying them until they are incredibly crispy.
Think of it as the ultimate Korean-style appetizer! It’s savory, light, and crunchy. You can eat it as a snack or even as a side dish with rice. To get that perfect, airy crunch, it’s best eaten when it’s freshly made, and the Bugak here was spot on. I haven’t had it this delicious in a long time!
Timing is Everything! (Healthy Pleasure Trend)
If you arrive after 12:00 PM, which is the peak lunch hour for local office workers, be prepared for a bit of a wait! Lately, there’s a huge trend among Koreans in their 20s and 30s called “Healthy Pleasure.” It’s all about enjoying the process of staying healthy—eating well and exercising consistently. Because of this, Epicure quickly fills up with young locals looking for a nutritious meal.
To beat the crowd, I highly recommend getting there by 11:30 AM or visiting after 1:00 PM for a much more relaxed dining experience!
A Perfect Set: Healthy Food and a Stroll Through Seoul Forest
Since Seoul Forest is located just a short walk away(10 min), why not pair your healthy meal with a refreshing stroll? It’s the ultimate “Healthy Pleasure” combo!
As I’m writing this in April, we are right in the middle of cherry blossom season. The sight of the delicate pink petals dancing in the wind is something you absolutely cannot miss. Be sure to soak in all that spring beauty before you leave!
Your Healthy & Healing Day in Seongsu
I hope my little guide helps you discover a whole new side of Seoul’s vibrant food culture. Whether you’re a strict vegan or just someone looking to feel light and energized, Epikore is a place where you can truly enjoy the “Pleasure” of being “Healthy.”
Don’t forget to take a slow, deep breath under the cherry blossoms at Seoul Forest afterward. Those falling petals are like nature’s own confetti celebrating your beautiful journey here!
Have you ever tried a Korean-style poke bowl? Or do you have a favorite spot in Seoul Forest? Share your stories with me in the comments!
Until next time, stay healthy and happy!
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