Eating Away Homesickness

Even though it’s my second time living abroad—specifically in South Korea—that doesn’t make me immune to homesickness. Honestly, it sneaks up on you in the most unexpected ways. Sometimes, it’s a certain smell drifting past on a cold morning, or the sudden memory of a family dinner back home. It really does happen to the best of us, no matter how adventurous or seasoned we think we are.

As much as I love Korean food (and believe me, I do), there are moments when I find myself desperately missing familiar flavors of home. There’s only so many bags of chips so shockingly sweet that one American can take before you start dreaming of salty, greasy snacks. And don’t get me started on the snacks that look like something you’d find in a U.S. grocery store—same branding, same colors—but somehow taste strange and unrelated. Sometimes they hit the spot. Most times, they’re just...not quite right.

Over time, I’ve come to realize that while you can’t always recreate the exact flavors of home, you can find some pretty amazing stand-ins if you know where to look. So after plenty of taste-testing and some trial and error, I’ve put together this little guide. If you're currently, or planning to, live study or visit in South Korea, these are the places I recommend when you're in need of a good old-fashioned comfort food fix—American style.

Travel Maker (Seoul, Mapo-gu, Yanghwa-ro 21-gil, 43 2F)

If you're longing for a hearty American breakfast, Travel Maker in Yeonnam is the place to try. This cozy diner-style café serves classic breakfast staples that hit all the right note. From sweet, fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to perfectly cooked hashbrowns, the menu is a comforting homage to American morning favorite.

The ambiance is equally inviting, with American-themed décor that adds to the nostalgic experience. Located near Hongik University Station, it's a convenient stop for students. The area is bustling with shops and restaurants and makes for the perfect place to spend a day.

Lime Sushi Restaurant (Seoul, Seodaemun-gu, Yonsei-ro 4-gil, 41)

For those craving sushi that reminds them of their favorite spots back home, Lime Sushi in Sinchon offers a delightful familiar vibe. While Korean sushi tends to be more traditional, leaning more towards shashimi or nigiri, Lime Sushi serves the familar U.S. style of sushi rolls. From spicy tuna rolls to dragon rolls, there's something to satisfy everybody.

The restaurant boasts a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for casual dining and sharing rolls with friends or a relaxed solo meal. It’s location in the Sinchon area means you're just steps away from campus, making it a perfect quick bite to eat.

Jimmy John’s (Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Gangnam-daero, 358 Tower)

Yes—it’s THE Jimmy John’s! The American sandwich chain has made its way to Gangnam, and it’s everything you’d be missing.

They’ve brought over their signature bread, plus delicious deli meats and fresh, crunchy vegetables. Whether you're grabbing lunch or need something easy and comforting, it's a little taste of Midwestern fast-casual heaven in the middle of Seoul.

오늘그대와 “Oneul Geudaewa” (Seoul, Jongno-gu, Supyo-ro 28-gil 21-11)

This cozy pasta restaurant tucked inside the maze-like hanok village of Ikseon-dong is all kinds of romantic and comforting. 오늘그대와 blends Italian dining with a soft, dreamy Korean café vibe—low lighting, vintage décor, and with jazz softly playing in the background.

Their pasta is all delicious, whether you go for a creamy carbonara, a hearty beef ragu, or their take on seafood risotto, the sauces are rich, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the portions are generous. It’s an ideal spot for a comforting solo meal, a low-key date night, or meal sharing with some friends when you're missing the slow indulgence of Italian cuisine back home.

El Carnitas (Seoul, Jongno-gu, Supyo-ro 28-gil 17-13)

Also located in Ikseon-dong, El Carnitas brings the taste of Mexican flavor to the city with its bold, satisfying dishes. It’s a small, vibrant spot with colorful tilework and a build-your-own-vibe thanks to their self-serve salsa and condiment bar.

Their carnitas tacos are tender and juicy, wrapped in fresh tortillas and topped with classic cilantro and onion. They also serve generously stuffed burritos, quesadillas with soft melted cheese, and crispy nachos with salsa or queso. Pair your meal with a cold Jarritos (my favorite has always been the grapefruit flavor) or a beer, and it’s almost like I’m back in a taqueria in my home state of Texas.

Baskin Robbin’s (all over Seoul)

If you’re looking for some dessert, look no further than your neighborhood Baskin Robbin’s. The ice cream chain services all across Seoul. The hand scooped flavors mostly mirror what is available in the U.S. with some additions that match local palates.

Most stores have a spot to sit in, which makes for a great meeting spot with friends, or you can take out which is totally the vibe with summer coming up. A walk through the streets of Seoul with a nice cold cup of ice cream is in my near future and I can’t wait.

Whether it’s breakfast comfort, sushi cravings, deli sandwiches, pasta indulgence, or a taco night—Seoul has you covered if you know where to look. These spots have personally brought me slices of home in ways I never expected, and I hope they do the same for you.