Korean temple food is gaining global attention as a new form of K-food, spearheading the global trend in wellness and sustainable cuisine. Prepared with eco-friendly ingredients, temple cuisine not only prioritizes health and the environment but also boasts exceptional flavor—more than enough to win over gourmets around the world. Recognized for its cultural and historical value, temple food, which has been passed down by Buddhist practitioners for centuries, is currently under review for designation as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Discover the charm of Korean temple food that has captivated world-renowned star chef Eric Ripert, the head of Le Cordon Bleu’s Cuisine Department, and Korea’s only Michelin 3-star chef Kang Min-goo—and find out how you can taste it for yourself.

1. What is Korean temple food?

Temple food is a culinary tradition handed down through Buddhist temples, embodying the spirit of Buddhism. In keeping with the Buddhist precept of non-violence, it excludes animal-based ingredients (except dairy) and avoids the five pungent vegetables—known as “oshinchae” (green onions, garlic, chives, wild chives, and Chinese squill)—-as they are believed to interfere with spiritual practice. Another notable feature is that it is both healthy and gentle on the body, as it is seasoned not with artificial additives but with natural ingredients such as mushrooms, kelp, and perilla seeds. Although temple cuisine varies across Buddhist cultural spheres, Korean temple food is particularly distinctive for its use of fermented ingredients and locally sourced produce.

2. Where and how can you try temple food?

Once reserved primarily for monks as part of their spiritual practice, temple food was not easily accessible to the general public. However, as temple cuisine has continued to earn public interest and recognition as a distinct culinary tradition, a variety of ways and places to experience its charm have emerged in recent years.

1) Visit a Temple Food Restaurant

│Balwoo Gongyang, Seoul

Balwoo Gongyang is a temple cuisine restaurant operated by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the largest Buddhist denomination in Korea. With temple cuisine master Venerable Dae An having served as its head, the restaurant is known for offering deeply authentic temple food. The four signature courses—Seon (Meditation), Won (Vow), Maeum (Mind), and Hee (Joy)—are inspired by the path to enlightenment and feature an abundant variety of clean, healthy dishes that highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient. A standout dish is assorted mushroom gangjeong—crispy glazed mushrooms that combine a crunchy batter, tender texture, and an appetite-boosting savory sauce. With a Michelin star to its name and celebrity visitors like Richard Gere, the restaurant’s excellence in both taste and service is well recognized, making it the perfect place to begin your journey into temple cuisine.

■ Balwoo Gongyang

• Address: 5F Templestay Information Center, 56 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 56 템플스테이 통합정보센터 5층)

• Operating hours: 11:30-21:00 (Break time 15:00-18:00) * Closed on Sundays

• Inquiries: +82-2-733-2081

• Website

A temple worth visiting nearby: Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple is the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located in Jongno, the heart of Seoul. Tucked quietly among towering office buildings, the temple exudes a serenity that allows visitors to relax and find peace even amid the city’s hustle and bustle. Take a stroll through the temple grounds to admire the grand Daeungjeon Hall—comparable in scale to Geunjeongjeon Hall at Gyeongbokgung Palace—as well as cultural treasures like the Painting of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Wooden Seated Buddha, both designated Tangible Cultural Heritages. Just a short walk away are other attractions rich in Korean charm, such as Insa-dong Cultural Street, Ikseon-dong Hanok Street, and Bukchon Hanok Village, making it easy to explore them all in one visit.

■ Jogyesa Temple

• Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 55)

• Operating hours: Open all year round

• Inquiries: +82-2-768-86003

• Website

│Yeonhwa Baru, Gyeongju

Nestled in the city of Gyeongju, Yeonhwa Baru is a long-standing temple food restaurant respected by both local residents and visiting monks. The clean, natural ingredients used in each dish show that a delicious meal can be enjoyed without meat. The signature set, Baru Teukjeongsik (Baru Special Meal), offers a variety of vegetarian dishes in one meal—such as tangsui (deep-fried mushrooms tossed in a sweet sauce), dotorimuk (acorn jelly) served with seasonal namul (wild greens), and sanchae bibimbap (fresh vegetable bibmbap) made with six types of wild vegetables. Located near Gyeongju’s major attractions including Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Hwangnidan Street, Yeonhwa Baru is the perfect stop for a mindful meal before exploring the past and present of this city with over a thousand years of history.

■ Yeonhwa Baru

• Address: 4827 Daegyeong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 경주시 대경로 4827)

• Operating hours: 12:00-21:00 * Closed on Mondays

• Inquiries: +82-54-774-5378

A temple worth visiting nearby: Bulguksa Temple

Bulguksa Temple is one of Korea’s most celebrated temples and a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. A marvel of meticulous design that was almost unimaginable for its time, the temple reveals the refined beauty of Buddhist architecture at every turn. National Treasures abound throughout the grounds, including Yeonhwagyo and Chilbogyo Bridges and Dabotap Pagoda. Seokguram Grotto, which houses the Rock-carved Seated Buddha Statue often hailed as the greatest masterpiece of Eastern Buddhist art, is a must-see for anyone visiting Bulguksa Temple. In front of Geungnakjeon Hall stands a statue of a lucky pig said to grant wishes—be sure to give it a gentle pat and make a wish for happiness in the coming year.

■ Bulguksa Temple

• Address: 385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 경주시 불국로 385)

• Operating hours: 09:00-18:00 (Final exit by 19:00, open year-round)

• Inquiries: +82-54-746-9913

• Website

2) Experiencing a Templestay

Temple cuisine is not only nourishment for monastics, but also a form of spiritual practice in itself. To truly savor its essence, experiencing a monk’s way of life firsthand can be a meaningful approach. Several temples open their doors to the public and offer Templestay programs, allowing visitors to engage with Korean Buddhist culture in an immersive way. Templestays are typically offered in three forms: experiential stays that provide hands-on participation in various aspects of Buddhist culture; restful stays that involve minimal activities and allow for quite, personal reflection; and one-day programs that offer a brief introduction to temple life in about three hours.

■ Templestay

• Main programs: meditation, 108 prostrations, balwoo gongyang, early morning chanting, tea time with monks, and more

• Templestay website

• List of temples offering specialized Templestay programs for foreigners

│Baegyangsa Temple, Jangseong

Baegyangsa Temple, nestled within Naejangsan National Park, is famed for its breathtaking beauty and was historically regarded as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Joseon. Especially striking is the picturesque harmony of Ssanggyeru Pavilion at the entrance, a gently flowing pond, and dramatic cliffs rising behind like a folding screen—a scene reminiscent of a classical East Asian painting. Though beautiful in every season, the temple is particularly breathtaking in autumn, when the slopes of Baekamsan Mountain are transformed into a vibrant canvas of crimson, gold, and amber. Renowned as a center for temple cuisine, Baegyangsa Temple is also a popular destination for Templestay programs throughout the year.

Templestay Programs

① Let go and Love yourself through Meditation (Experiential) A program rooted in the philosophy of finding your True Self—guiding you to awaken the Buddha within through Zen meditation and inner reflection. Take time for meditation, then stroll along the serene torreya forest trails nearby to restore balance to both body and mind.

② Experience Temple Food and Culture with Ven. Jeong Kwan (Experiential) A program where you can hear Venerable Jeong Kwan’s teachings while savoring exquisitely prepared temple cuisine. Venerable Jeong Kwan of Baegyangsa Temple is a master of Korean temple cuisine who won the James Beard Award—considered the Academy Award of the culinary world—and starred in the Netflix documentary series “Chef’s Table (2017).” As visitors from around the world travel here to experience her cuisine, be sure to book well in advance.

③ As it is (Restful) A program where you can unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of the temple, surrounded by nature. With all activities optional, this program is recommended for those looking to escape the demands of daily life and find peace in a serene natural setting.

■ Baegyangsa Temple

• Address: 1239 Baegyang-ro, Bukha-myeon, Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 장성군 북하면 백양로 1239)

• Operating hours: Open year round

• Inquiries: Temple administration office +82-61-392-0100 / Templestay +82-61-392-0434

• Website

• Book a Templestay now

│ Donghwasa Temple, Daegu

Donghwasa Temple is one of the most historic temples in the Yeongnam area and the largest in Daegu. Renowned for its spiritual energy, the temple is always bustling with visitors who come to pray or seek blessings, alongside nearby sites like Gatbawi Rock and Sowonbawi Rock in Palgongsan Mountain. Named one of East Asia’s top 10 tourist destinations, it is home to many cultural treasures. Among them, the 33-meter-tall Bhaisajyaguru Buddha Statue stands as its most iconic symbol. With convenient access from downtown Daegu via public transportation, the temple is also a popular destination for Templestay experiences and is celebrated for its exquisite temple cuisine.

Templestay Programs

① Making 108 Prayer Beads (Experiential) A mindfulness program where you practice humility through 108 prostrations fill the heart with new intentions. Threading a bead with each bow and wish for the happiness of yourself and those around you.

② Making and Tasting Healthy Temple Food (Experiential) A healing experience where you prepare and savor temple food. After nourishing with fresh and wholesome temple food, take a stroll through the phytoncide-rich forest to refresh and replenish both body and mind.

③ Stay in Buddhist Temple 1N2D (Restful) A restorative retreat that helps you regain balance by letting your body and mind flow with nature. Release the fatigue of daily life, and take time for recharging and reconnecting with yourself.

■ Donghwasa Temple

• Address: 1 Donghwasa 1-gil, Dong-gu, Daegu (대구광역시 동구 동화사1길 1)

• Operating hours: Open all year around

• Inquiries: +82-53-980-7900

• Website

• Book Templestay now

TIP. A Beginner’s Guide to Templestay

- What to bring: toiletries, towel, cotton T-shirts, socks, sneakers, water bottle, basic medications, phone charger, and other personal items

- Temple etiquette

● No outside food or smoking is allowed.

● Refrain from entering restricted areas or speaking loudly.

● When entering the main hall (Buddha Hall), use the side doors, not the central one in front of the Buddha statue.

● If some is meditating or chanting sutras, do not pass in front of them; walk around behind instead.

● For photography or other special requests, consult the temple staff in advance and follow their guidance.

3) Joining a Temple Food Cooking Class

Once perceived as rigid and authoritative, Buddhist culture is now emerging as a lifestyle trend beyond religious boundaries, especially resonating with the millennials and Gen Z, thanks to trendy merchandise and hip events. In line with this shift, temple food has gained popularity on social media as a popular plant-based choice among younger audiences, leading to a growing number of cooking classes that offer firsthand experiences of this mindful cuisine.

│Korean Temple Food Center

Located in the heart of Seoul, this cultural complex offers a rare glimpse into 1,700 years of temple food heritage. It features a variety of exhibitions and hands-on experiences themed around temple food, and also offers cooking classes where visitors can learn how to prepare authentic temple dishes. In addition to monthly courses, on-demand classes are also available, allowing you to choose sessions that best fit your schedule or culinary interests. If you’re looking for a healthier, eco-friendly diet, why not discover the hidden treasures of temple cuisine here?

■ Korean Temple Food Center

• Address: 2F, Anguk Building, 39, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 39 안국빌딩 신관 2층)

• Operating hours: 09:00-18:00* Closed on Mondays

• Inquiries: +82-2-733-4650

• Website

✅ TIP. Want to experience more of Korean Buddhist culture?

[The International Seon (Zen) Meditation Regional Festival] This festival is held at temples across the country to promote Buddhist culture and popularize Seon (Zen) meditation. Experience a variety of programs focused on Seon meditation to cultivate peace and balance in both body and mind.

- Schedule: May to September (varies by venue, details to be announced) - Locations: Major temples nationwide - Website

[Temple Food Grand Festival] A special festival featuring master chefs of temple cuisine is about to unfold. Under the theme “Life in a Bowl: Temple Food Shining as Intangible Cultural Heritage,” the event offers exhibitions and experiences celebrating respect for life and harmony with nature.

[Temple Food Grand Festival] A special festival featuring master chefs of temple cuisine is about to unfold. Under the theme “Life in a Bowl: Temple Food Shining as Intangible Cultural Heritage,” the event offers exhibitions and experiences celebrating respect for life and harmony with nature. - Location: Yangjae aT Center, 27 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul - Website: templefoodfestival.com

[Jingwansa Temple Gukhaeng Suryukjae] Suryukjae is a Buddhist ritual offering prayers and food to guide lost souls and hungry ghosts wandering in both land and water. Among them, the Gukhaeng Suryukjae held at Jingwansa Temple has been designated a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and offers a rare chance to witness a deeply rooted Buddhist tradition in Korea.

- Dates: Scheduled for September-October - Location: Jingwansa Temple, 73 Jingwan-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul - Instagram: @jinkwansa

* This column was last updated in May 2025, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.

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