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Home for the holiday feast: Soaring restaurant costs pinch households' budgets

Skyrocketing restaurant costs prompt home-cooked meals, as dining out expenses increase by 2.1% year-on-year in April.

Home for the holiday feast: Soaring restaurant costs pinch households' budgets

Myeong-dong Eats: Navigating Rising Costs Amidst Inflation

Fancy a bite in Myeong-dong, central Seoul? As of April 6, the food scene's a bit pricier thanks to a 2.1% hike in Korea's inflation rate [News1, News2, News3]. Here's the lowdown on what's cooking in town.

Up on the menu, you'll find popular dishes like samgyeopsal (pork belly), the cooling naengmyeon (noodles), not to mention jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), jjampong (spicy seafood noodle soup), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) [News1]. But, as the expansion of the consumer price index hints, these tasty treats didn't come cheap [News1, News3]. Samgyeopsal, for instance, will now set you back more than 20,000 won per serving [News1].

This upsurge in prices is a byproduct of Korea's lasting inflation, which has caused a domino effect across the country's eateries. So, what can you expect in Myeong-dong? Well, you'll find a mix of local favorites, like kalguksu (knife-cut noodles), donkas (deep-fried pork), and the delectable Cheese Kimchi Pancake at Mokmyeoksanbang [News4].

But there's more to Myeong-dong than just restaurants. The area's vibrant street food scene tempts you with indulgent treats, though higher footfall from tourists has pushed street food costs skyward. Even so, you can still savor the authentic flavors of Myeong-dong if you're willing to open your wallet a little wider.

As for how the rising prices are affecting dining habits, well, a growing number of folks are choosing to cook up a storm in the comfort of their own homes. Maybe it's because dining out leads to a pinch on the wallet nowadays, or maybe it's simply too delicious to resist. Whatever the reason, it's all part of this evolving foodie landscape in Myeong-dong. So, buckle up and chow down!

Sources:

  1. Korea's inflation edges up to 2.1 percent in March
  2. Korea's inflation rises to 2.1% in March
  3. Kospi opens slightly lower ahead of key inflation data
  4. Myeong-dong, Seoul
  5. Top 10 Places to Eat in Myeong-dong, Seoul
  • Due to a 2.1% increase in Korea's inflation rate, the government is expected to monitor the impact on business and finance, particularly in the food-and-drink sector.
  • Many local eateries in Myeong-dong are adjusting their prices to cope with the rising costs, making it a more expensive destination for international travelers.
  • The vibrant international culture in Myeong-dong, Seoul, extends beyond food, with diverse luxury retail outlets appealing to a global audience.
  • Despite increased costs, the economy continues to flourish in the lifestyle hub of Myeong-dong, attracting business investors seeking opportunities in finance and commerce.
Dining out becomes too expensive: escalating restaurant prices drive people to prepare meals at home, with a 2.1% increase in food costs observed in April compared to the previous year.
Steep increase in restaurant prices forces homebound cooking as dining out costs rise 2.1% annually in April.
Rising dining costs drive homebound cooking: restaurant expenses escalated by 2.1% in April, prompting many to dine at home.

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