Eat Like a Local: Grilled Mackerel in Jagalchi Fish Market

When all is said and done, mackerel is best grilled and the mackerel alley in Korea’s biggest fish market is the best place for it. Four signs at the entrance of the mackerel table d’hote alley in Jagalchi Market welcome visitors.

Jagalchi mackerel table d’hote combines a basic spread of side dishes with the main course of browned mackerel. All mackerel eateries in the alley serve this meal in a similar fashion: with clear siraegi soup, flavorful grilled mackerel and side dishes.

For 4,000 won, under $5, it’s a solid table of food. A hefty chunk of properly-salted mackerel meat is incomparable alongside a bowl of fluffy white rice. It’s a good breakfast for the hard workers who usually open the fish market at 3 a.m., not to mention a satisfying meal for famished market merchants at any time during the day.

Address: 6, Jagalchi-ro 23 beon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan. Get off at Jagalchi Station (Metro line 1) and go out exit 6. Turn right and walk straight about 50 meters.
Hours: 3 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Information: 051-247-5736