Ippo Fish Cake is a popular spot in Seoul Central Market, known for its oversized handmade fish cakes and relaxed izakaya vibe.
Made without flour, the fish cakes have a firmer bite and a deeper flavor than usual. What starts as a quick snack often turns into a round of drinks.
Prices are reasonable, portions are generous, and the atmosphere captures the everyday charm of a traditional Korean market.
Why Seoul Central Market is Trending
Seoul Central Market has recently gained attention as an alternative to Gwangjang Market, which has become known for overpriced tourist spots.
While many visitors associate Sindang with ‘Tteokbokki Town’ or trendy bars ‘Ju Sindang’, Seoul Central Market offers something different.
During the day, it operates as a traditional local market selling groceries and side dishes. At night, the space transforms into a lively street filled with small food stalls and casual drinking spots.
This contrast between day and night, combined with affordable pricing, makes it one of the most interesting areas to explore in Seoul.
| Before you start exploring Seoul Central Market, don’t miss these local favorites nearby. • Hani Kalguksu – A comforting noodle spot known for its rich broth → Read the full review • Okgyeongine Grilled Dried Fish – One of the most talked-about seafood spots in the market → Read the full review |
What to Eat at Ippo Fish Cake
1.Handmade Fish Cakes (Must Try)
The highlight here is the handmade fish cakes made from 100% ground fish paste without flour.
You can choose from a variety of options:
– Spicy fish cake
– Cheese-filled fish cake
– Shrimp fish cake
– Crab-flavored fish cake
– Flying fish roe fish cake
– Plain Fish Cake
Each piece is thick and chewy, with a noticeably rich texture compared to regular fish cakes.
The size is also larger than expected,
making each piece more satisfying.
Even two pieces are filling enough for a light meal.
2. Chicken Skewers (Highly Recommended)
If you want something more flavorful alongside the fish cakes, the grilled chicken skewers are a great choice.
They are made with boneless chicken and green onions, coated in teriyaki sauce and grilled over charcoal.
The taste is slightly sweet with a mild spicy kick, making it very easy to enjoy with drinks.
3. Other Izakaya-Style Dishes
In addition to fish cakes, the menu includes:
- Charcoal grilled skewers
- Grilled fish
- Dried pollock snacks
- Grilled whole potatoes
The grilled dishes stand out, especially the skewers and fish, which have a strong smoky flavor.
The fish cake soup is also a great option, especially if you’re visiting as a second round. It’s warm, comforting, and generous in portion.
4. Drinks That Pair Well
Ippo Fish Cake serves a wide range of drinks:
- Korean soju
- Beer and draft beer
- Highballs
- Makgeolli
- Sake
Warm fish cakes pair particularly well with sake or soju,
while skewers go well with highballs.
My Order Experience
I ordered three types of fish cakes: spicy, plain, and cheese (15,000 KRW total).
The texture was noticeably firm and rich because there is
no flour added. The size was also larger than expected,
and the filling inside each piece made it more
interesting to eat.
The cheese fish cake had visible chunks of cheese inside, adding both flavor and texture.
If you’ve tried fish cakes in Busan, the quality here is very similar. It’s easily one of the best places in Seoul to try authentic handmade fish cakes.
One of the standout options is the Ganbare Otousan sake, which is available here at a very reasonable price compared to other places.
They also provide complimentary snacks such as shrimp chips and a small salad, making the overall experience even better.
| Still hungry after fish cakes? One of the most popular late-night food spots near Seoul Central Market is Tae Tae Samgyeop, a rooftop barbecue restaurant known for its outdoor seating and lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for something to drink afterward, Pyoju Sindang specializes in traditional Korean alcohol and seasonal small plates. • Tae Tae Samgyeop – A rooftop BBQ → Read the full review • Pyoju Sindang – Hidden Korean Traditional Liquor Bar → Read the full review |
Ippo Fish Cake Location,
Hours & Tips
📌25 Toegye-ro 85-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
🚶3 minutes from Sindang Station Exit 2
⏱️13:00 – 24:00
There are two branches within Seoul Central Market:
– 1st branch: Ippo Fish Cake (이포어묵)
– 2nd branch :山田 (산전 / next door)
Both serve the same menu, so you can simply choose the one with available seating.
Nopo-Style Atmosphere in Seoul Central Market
The atmosphere is a mix of izakaya and traditional Korean “nopo” style.
Wooden interiors create a warm izakaya feeling, while the tightly arranged seating reflects the charm of a local market.
Unlike more crowded tourist markets, this area feels more relaxed and easier to explore without pressure.
Nearby Places to Visit
1. Hwanghak-dong Flea Market
Open Wednesday to Sunday,
this market is known for antiques, vintage items,
and collectibles. It’s a place where someone’s
old belongings can become someone else’s treasure.
2. Dongmyo Flea Market
A well-known destination for vintage shopping.
You can find affordable fashion items, accessories, LP records, film cameras, and second-hand books.
Bargaining is common, and cash is recommended
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Seoul Central Market,
Ippo Fish Cake is a must-visit spot.
It offers a unique combination of handmade food, affordable drinks, and a local atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a casual place to drink, this is one of the most satisfying stops in the area.
