Let’s get into something that’s near and dear to me...FOOD! I’m a foodie at heart and even though I’ve been a pescetarian for 12 years now, I’d like to think of myself as an adventurous eater. Living in Busan presents me with the opportunity to be as daring as I want to be when it comes to food. It’s a port city, so there’s no shortage of fish, seafood, and Korean delicacies, but to be honest, sometimes I just want some quality french toast. Take a look at my top picks for western-style food in Busan below.

Coco Plato: Gwangan, Busan

Finding Mac’ & Cheese in Busan is nearly impossible and if you’re able to make baked Mac’ & Cheese, good luck with finding affordable cheese. For whatever reason, real, quality cheese costs a whole kidney to purchase here.

I stumbled upon the restaurant Coco Plato on Busan Planet’s Instagram page. I spotted what looked like Mac’ & Cheese and I was sold. Coco Plato is situated right on Gwangalli Beach, giving customers the opportunity to be spoiled with dinner and a beautiful view. After being seated, I immediately ordered my food and once it arrived, I was drooling. Check out my recommended dishes below:

American Cheese Penne & Raw Potato Chips* - 18,000 KRW

Do yourself a favor and try this. It will not disappoint.

Shrimp Quesadilla - 18,000 KRW

Cuttlefish Ink Arancini (5pcs) - 12,000KRW

Truffle Fries - 8,000 KRW

Home Bistro and Cafe: Haeundae, Busan

For my vegans (or anyone really) visiting or living in Busan, Home Bistro and Cafe is your place. This cozy restaurant lives up to its name; it feels like home. It’s a bit away from the Haeundae Beach crowd and tucked in a side street, but once you walk into this dimly-lit cafe, you’ll get all the feels. The seating is a bit personal in terms of space, but it’s a great way to meet locals, tourists, and ex-pats alike. Once seated and ready to order, I recommend you try any of the dishes below:

Basil Pesto Sandwich* - 11,000KRW

Vegan Coconut Ramen - 7,000KRW

Home Plate* -11,000KRW

Homemade Tomato Chilli (seasonal) - I wish I knew the price. Either way, buy it!

While digging in, enjoy live music from local bands (that is if it’s a Saturday night), which is a nice treat and adds to the overall experience. If none of this has sold you as yet, there’s a resident doggo who greets you at the door and seats you. Don’t feed him, but do give him all the snuggles :)

La Bella Citta: Cheongsapo, Busan

Now this place was a pleasant surprise. Unlike the rest of the eats on my list, I didn’t seek this restaurant out. It just so happens to be located right next door to my favorite cafe in Cheongsapo. Like a fairy, I was drawn to the outdoor string lights and the restaurant’s industrial/rustic feel. Completely disregarding the name of this place, once inside I realized that it was an Italian restaurant haha. Not only is it a restaurant, but it also has a section just for cafe visitors. I highly recommend the entrées below:

Seafood Tomato Sauce Pasta - 15,000krw

Salmon & Cheese Bruschetta* - 13,000krw

Lobster Tail Abalone Pasta* - 34,000krw

Meat Ragu Linguine - 19,000krw

Grapefruit Ade - 7,000krw

Tiramisu - 7,000krw

Mocha Brownies - 3,500krw

Whether you visit for the meals or just for the cafe, it’s up to you. Just make sure you visit because this spot won’t let you down.

FYI - If you don’t want to travel all the way to Cheongsapo, there is a cozy La Bella Citta location in Gwangan.

Stone Street: Jungang, Busan

I’m going to be real with you, you will find yourself waiting outside this restaurant for at least 20-30 minutes as there is ALWAYS a queue. But believe me when I say it’s worth the wait. Stone Street is a popular brick-oven pizza spot located a stone’s throw (hehe no pun intended) away from Nampo. There’s always a queue because 1. The restaurant is small and 2. The food is so dang good. Check out my faves below:

Grape Salad*: Whole - 14,500krw, Half - 9,800krw

I’m not exaggerating when I say I see this salad on everyone’s table each time I visit this place.

Fried Calamari - 9,800krw

Pizza (all of them...seriously) - 13,000 - 14,400krw

Visit Stone Street for the grape salad if nothing else. You’re welcome.

별장(Byeoljang) Star Lounge Brunch Cafe: Cheongsapo, Busan

I saved the best for last y’all. This is HANDS DOWN my favorite cafe/place in Busan, mainly because it’s a hidden gem and has a romantic feel. Star Lounge Brunch Cafe offers the ultimate cafe experience: stunning decor, amazing food, and excellent service. They serve western-style brunch dishes like:

Pancake Brunch - 12,000krw

French Toast - 13,000krw

Cheese Panini* - 10,000krw

Garden Salad w/ Ricotta - 6,500krw

I highly recommend that you try them all as they’re delicious and affordably priced. Once you’re finished eating, grab a drink and head outside to take a pic for the gram in front of their floral wall or grab a seat under the many string lights while you take in the fresh air and scenery. This place is absolutely unforgettable.

Honorable Mention: Vivid 13: Gwangan, Busan

I know I said I saved the best for last, but this one is an honorable mention. Vivid 13 is a fairly new western-style brunch spot that opened up in Gwangan (2019). I first ate here with my coworkers for lunch. I haven’t tried everything on the menu as yet, but I ate there twice in one week and I think that speaks for itself. My meal recommendation:

Ricotta Brunch - 12,000krw

A ricotta salad served with what tastes like caramelized french toast (baguette used) topped with mixed nuts & seeds may sound like a lot, but it really is the perfect combination. I’ll definitely be back here to stuff my face.

If you ever find yourself needing a break from Korean food, head to the spots above. I promise they won’t disappoint.

Yours,

Kenny

#DoAllTheThings

*= My favorites