Samgyetang (Ginseng chicken soup)

If you have just finished your marathon-like shopping spree and want to be reinvigorated so you can do more shopping, then Samgyetang can help you with that.

Ironically, a piping hot bowl of this ginseng chicken soup is popular during the sweltering hot summer in Seoul. Not only it is comforting and healthy, but it also helps you regain your stamina, thanks to the ginseng infused in this recipe. Some restaurants even use more medicinal herbs, making it more nourishing and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

It may remind you of porridge but it has more broth and is done in a different way. Samgyetang consists of a whole young garlic-and-rice-stuffed chicken, scallions, spices and Korean ginseng. Soothing, reenergizing and downright slurpy-good.

Here’s where to get the best Samgyetang in Seoul.

• TOSOKCHON SAMGYETANG | Jongno-gu
  For legendary Samgyetang that is known to be the best in Korea
  What to order: Samgyetang, Rotisserie chicken, Cabbage kimchi, Seafood and green onion pancake
  Price range: 15,000 to 40,000 won ($13.10 to $34.94)
  When: 10:00 - 22:00 daily
  Where: 5, Jahamun-to, 5-Gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• KOREA SAMGYETANG | Jung-gu
  For a wonderful satiation of one's Samgyetang cravings in the oldest and first Samgyetang restaurant in the world
  What to order: Samgyetang, Chicken broth with abalone, Black bone chicken broth with Korean ginseng, Five-flavored pork hock
  Price range: 15,000 won to 30,000 won ($13.10 to $26.20)
  When: 10:00 - 21:00 daily
  Where: No. 1 Seosomun-ro, 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
• HWANGHU MYEONGGA| Jongo-gu
  For Samgyetang that is very healthy from the 19 special medicinal herbs mixed with the broth
  What to order: Samgyetang, Korean dishes, Duck dishes
  Price range: 14,000 won to 40,000 won ($12.23 to $34.94)
  When: 11:00 - 21:00 daily, closed on holidays
  Where: 6, Jahamun-ro, 6-gil, Jongo-gu, Seoul