A review of hamburgers restaurants on Jeju, South Korea

August 23, 2008 by David Holmes
Filed under: Places to Eat

THE JOINT: La Vie

A small foreigner haunt serving wholesome western food, La Vie provides both good food and atmosphere at very affordable prices.

THE DIRECTIONS: From the Jeju Grand Hotel in Shin Jeju, head east on that same street (towards Gu Jeju). After passing the Sing and Sing bar on your left, turn left and then take your next right (across from the Show Noraebang) and La Vie is a few doors up on the right hand side.

THE FIRST BITE IMPRESSION: Any better and it would be a foodgasm. This burger is decadent, delicious and devilishly delectable.

THE LOW DOWN: A pork beef blend on a fresh bun, served with a side order of nacho chips and salsa dip for 6000 won.

THE POST CRUMB PONDERINGS: Hands down, this burger is fantastic and well worth the wait on busy nights. Best burger on Jeju - bar none.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Request cheese and jalapenos to enhance the taste sensation.

THE JOINT: Gecko’s

The south side culinary equivalent of Shangri-la, Geckos provides a plethora of western bar food amidst a familiar and friendly atmosphere.

THE DIRECTIONS: See here

THE FIRST BITE IMPRESSION: Fresh and piping hot with good flavor.

THE LOW DOWN: A beef flame broiled patty served on a fresh bun with an order of fries and a cola for 9500 won.

THE POST CRUMB PONDERINGS: Well worth the drive to Jungmun, a very solid rendition of an American classic.

THE JOINT: Goldenhill Herb Farm (Herb Burger)

THE RECOMMENDATION: For guaranteed consistency, request a well done burger. A herb farm with an adjacent cottage style restaurant. The location offers a cozy atmosphere with excellent food.

THE DIRECTIONS: From Gosan Village head east away from the Village. It is approximately a 40 minute walk or 7 minute drive.

THE FIRST BITE IMPRESSION: Different, but delicious.

THE LOW DOWN: A pizza sized pork patty seasoned with garden fresh herbs on a freshly baked bun for 15,000 won.

THE POST CRUMB PONDERINGS: An interesting twist to the hamburger blueprint - all things considered, a very satisfying meal.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Be hungry and bring company. Look for the secret ingredient. Hint: rhymes with snapple.

THE JOINT: McDonald’s

This great American fast food classic certainly needs no introduction. Though one could question their culinary interpretation of a burger, on an island as small as Jeju, beggars can’t be choosers.

THE DIRECTIONS: The two main locations can be found at Tap Dong or beside E-Mart in Shin Jeju.

THE FIRST BITE IMPRESSION: Tastes like every other McDonald’s burger.

THE LOW DOWN: A Big Mac meal, complete with fries and a pop, retails for 4800 won.

THE POST CRUMB PONDERINGS: Same old same old, not different.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Consider this as a second to last resort for your burger needs.

THE JOINT: Lotteria