Quick answer
For an unforgettable overall experience combining fresh, diverse seafood and a vibrant atmosphere, Jagalchi Ajumma Hoe Center in Jagalchi Market is our top recommendation.
- Best overall
- Jagalchi Ajumma Hoe Center (Jagalchi Market)
- Best budget
- Millak Hoe Town (Sajangnim Hoekjib)
- Best experience
- Cheongsapo Suyoung Hoejip
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Busan's best raw fish restaurants was curated by consulting local food experts, analyzing hundreds of traveler reviews across multiple platforms, and identifying venues consistently praised for their freshness, unique atmosphere, and authentic Busan 'hoe' experience. We focused on a diverse range of options, from bustling market stalls to scenic coastal establishments, ensuring a pick for every preference and budget.
Jagalchi Ajumma Hoe Center (Jagalchi Market)
Located within the iconic Jagalchi Fish Market, this center offers an authentic, bustling experience. You pick your live fish downstairs, and it's prepared fresh upstairs at one of the many restaurants. The atmosphere is lively, and the seafood doesn't get any fresher, making it perfect for a true Busan dining adventure.
🍽️ What to order
Morwui (assorted sashimi platter) with fresh local whitefish like flatfish (광어) or rockfish (우럭)
💡 Insider tip
Don't be afraid to haggle a bit for your fish downstairs. Once upstairs, most restaurants offer a standard 'sashimi set' price that includes side dishes (banchan) and maeuntang (spicy fish stew) at the end.
"Jagalchi Ajumma Hoe Center is wild in the best way. Picked out a massive flatfish, they prepped it in minutes, and the spicy fish stew afterwards was pure comfort. A must-do in Busan!"— r/busan user
Millak Hoe Town (Sajangnim Hoekjib)
Millak Hoe Town is a multi-story building packed with raw fish restaurants directly facing Gwangalli Beach. Sajangnim Hoekjib is a popular choice known for its generous portions and stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge. It offers a classic Busan hoe experience with diverse side dishes and excellent service, making it ideal for groups.
🍽️ What to order
Hoe jeongsik (sashimi set meal) featuring a variety of seasonal fish, followed by a savory maeuntang.
💡 Insider tip
Try to get a window seat, especially in the evening, for breathtaking views of the Gwangan Bridge light show while you dine. It's a fantastic backdrop for a 'hoesik'.
"Every time I'm in Busan, Millak Hoe Town is my first stop. Sajangnim Hoekjib never disappoints with their fresh fish and that Gwangan Bridge view is unbeatable. So good!"— r/travel user
Cheongsapo Suyoung Hoejip
Nestled in the charming Cheongsapo fishing village, Suyoung Hoejip offers a more refined raw fish experience with stunning ocean views. Known for its fresh, high-quality catches and elegant presentation, this restaurant is perfect for a special occasion or a relaxing meal away from the city's hustle. They often feature unique seasonal fish.
🍽️ What to order
Seasonal premium assorted sashimi (제철 모듬회) and their grilled eel (장어구이) is also highly recommended.
💡 Insider tip
Make a reservation, especially if you want a window seat overlooking the ocean and the iconic Cheongsapo lighthouses. It's a picturesque spot, great for sunset dining.
"Cheongsapo Suyoung Hoejip was a splurge but totally worth it. The quality of the fish was incredible, and the view of the lighthouses was just magical. Felt very luxurious."— r/food user
Mipo Port Hoe Center (Mipo Ending Hoetjip)
Located at the end of Haeundae Beach near Mipo Port, this center offers a more relaxed market-style raw fish experience compared to Jagalchi, but with equally fresh catches. Mipo Ending Hoetjip is a popular choice within the complex, known for its friendly service and expertly cut sashimi. It's a great spot after exploring Haeundae.
🍽️ What to order
A custom assortment of whatever fish looks freshest that day, often including sea bream (도미) and octopus (낙지).
💡 Insider tip
Combine your visit with a walk along the Haeundae Coastal Trail or take the Haeundae Blue Line Park Sky Capsule for a scenic route to or from Mipo Port.
"Mipo Ending Hoetjip at Mipo Port was a pleasant surprise. Super fresh fish, not as chaotic as Jagalchi, and the staff were really helpful even with my limited Korean. Great spot!"— r/koreatravel user
Haeundae Geoga Daege & Hoe (거가대게횟집)
While famous for its king crab (daege), Geoga Daege & Hoe also offers exceptional raw fish platters that are a cut above. This upscale restaurant provides a spacious and comfortable dining environment, perfect for a business hoesik or a family celebration. The quality of their seafood, both cooked and raw, is consistently high.
🍽️ What to order
A combination set featuring king crab and a premium assorted sashimi platter, ensuring you get the best of both worlds.
💡 Insider tip
This place can get pricey, but the quality matches. It's a great option if you want to experience both high-end raw fish and the famous Busan king crab in one sitting.
"We went to Geoga Daege & Hoe for a special occasion. The king crab was divine, but their sashimi platter was surprisingly excellent too. Everything was so fresh and beautifully presented. Definitely a splurge but worth it."— r/food user
Gijang Crab Market Hoe (Gijang Hoetjip)
Gijang Market, primarily known for its crabs, also houses numerous smaller, authentic raw fish restaurants like Gijang Hoetjip that offer incredibly fresh local catches at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is less touristy and more genuinely local, providing a glimpse into everyday Busan life. It's perfect for a casual, no-frills seafood feast.
🍽️ What to order
Any seasonal whitefish sashimi (e.g., flounder, rockfish) or a simple 'hoe-deopbap' (raw fish rice bowl) for a quick, delicious meal.
💡 Insider tip
After your meal, explore the market for fresh produce and other seafood. Gijang is also home to several scenic cafes and temples, making it a great half-day trip destination.
"If you want really fresh, no-nonsense raw fish without the tourist crowds, hit up Gijang Market. Gijang Hoetjip was super humble but served some of the best hoe I had in Busan, and it was so affordable."— r/busan user
Oryukdo Hoetjip (오륙도횟집)
Located near the beautiful Oryukdo Skywalk, Oryukdo Hoetjip offers fantastic views of the famous Oryukdo Islets while you enjoy your meal. This restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced raw fish and traditional Korean side dishes. It's an excellent choice for combining sightseeing with a delicious, authentic Busan seafood experience.
🍽️ What to order
Oryukdo Special Assorted Sashimi (오륙도 특선 모듬회) which often includes unique local catches.
💡 Insider tip
Visit the Oryukdo Skywalk before or after your meal for breathtaking coastal views. The restaurant can get busy during peak tourist times, so consider a slightly off-peak hour.
"The hoe at Oryukdo Hoetjip was so fresh, and eating it with the view of the Oryukdo islands was just perfect. It felt like a truly local experience away from the city buzz."— r/korea user
Donga Hoetjip (동아횟집)
Another gem in the Gijang area, Donga Hoetjip is a long-standing establishment cherished by locals for its consistent quality and hearty portions. It’s less about fancy decor and more about the superb freshness of the fish, served in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Great for those seeking a genuine local dining spot.
🍽️ What to order
Their signature 'mulhoe' (cold spicy raw fish soup) in summer, or a classic assorted sashimi platter year-round.
💡 Insider tip
This restaurant is a bit further out from central Busan, so consider combining your visit with other Gijang attractions like the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple or Lotte World Busan.
"Donga Hoetjip in Gijang is an old-school favorite. My Busan relatives always take me there. The fish is always ridiculously fresh, and their maeuntang at the end is legendary. So comforting."— r/busanfood user
Gomsoeul Hoetjip (곰소횟집)
Gomsoeul Hoetjip is a well-established and popular raw fish restaurant near Gwangalli Beach, known for its consistent quality and lively ambiance. It's a go-to spot for many locals and visitors alike, offering a wide array of fresh fish and substantial side dishes. It embodies the energetic spirit of Busan's seafood dining.
🍽️ What to order
The 'Gomsoeul Special Assorted Sashimi' (곰소 스페셜 모듬회) for a generous spread of seasonal fish.
💡 Insider tip
Expect a bit of a wait during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends. Arriving slightly earlier or later than the main rush can help secure a table faster.
"Gomsoeul Hoetjip is always packed for a reason. The fish is always top-notch, and the atmosphere is just what you want for a lively hoesik. Highly recommend their maeuntang too!"— r/koreafood user
Donghae Hoetjip (동해횟집)
Situated right on the coast in Gijang, Donghae Hoetjip offers a picturesque setting with views of the open sea. This restaurant prides itself on serving extremely fresh fish, often caught locally, prepared simply to highlight its natural flavors. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with family or friends while enjoying the sea breeze.
🍽️ What to order
Their seasonal whitefish sashimi (도미회, 광어회) and don't miss the fresh abalone (전복) if available.
💡 Insider tip
After your meal, take a stroll along the nearby coastline. There are often small cafes nearby where you can grab a coffee with a view.
"Donghae Hoetjip in Gijang was amazing. Eating super fresh hoe with the sound of waves in the background felt incredibly peaceful. A hidden gem if you ask me!"— r/busantravel user
Geumgangsan Hoetjip (금강산횟집)
Located in the bustling downtown area of Seomyeon, Geumgangsan Hoetjip offers a more urban and modern take on the raw fish experience. It's known for its clean environment, diverse menu that includes various types of sashimi, and convenient location, making it a popular choice for office workers and city dwellers looking for quality hoe.
🍽️ What to order
Their special assorted platter (특선 모듬회) which often includes a wider variety of less common fish alongside the classics.
💡 Insider tip
This is a great option if you're staying in Seomyeon and don't want to travel to the coast for fresh fish. It's also perfect for a 'hoesik' due to its central location and spacious seating.
"Didn't expect to find such fresh hoe right in Seomyeon, but Geumgangsan Hoetjip totally delivered. The fish was buttery, and the location was super convenient after a day of shopping."— r/travel user
Suyeong Raw Fish Market (Gwangalli Sutbul Hoetjip)
While Millak Hoe Town gets all the attention, the Suyeong Raw Fish Market (also known as Minam-dong Raw Fish Market) offers a slightly less touristy but equally vibrant experience. Gwangalli Sutbul Hoetjip is a recommended vendor known for its fresh fish and excellent grilled items. It's another great spot to pick your fish live and have it prepared instantly.
🍽️ What to order
A classic assorted sashimi platter and consider adding some grilled shellfish (조개구이) for a varied experience.
💡 Insider tip
This market is usually less crowded than Jagalchi or Millak Hoe Town, offering a more relaxed yet still authentic market dining experience. It's a short walk from Minam Station.
"We stumbled into Suyeong Raw Fish Market and picked Gwangalli Sutbul Hoetjip. Best decision ever. The hoe was fantastic, and their grilled scallops were out of this world. Super authentic vibe."— r/food user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Hoesik' in the context of raw fish restaurants?
'Hoesik' (회식) literally translates to 'dinner gathering' or 'company dinner' in Korean, and it often involves a meal shared among colleagues or a large group. When referring to raw fish restaurants, it signifies a celebratory or communal dining experience centered around large platters of sashimi, often accompanied by drinks and lively conversation. Many Busan raw fish restaurants are well-equipped to host such gatherings with spacious seating and generous set menus.
How do I order raw fish at a market-style restaurant in Busan?
At market-style venues like Jagalchi or Millak Hoe Town, you typically start on the ground floor where tanks display live fish. You choose your desired fish (and sometimes shellfish), agree on a price, and it's weighed. Then, you'll be directed upstairs to a designated restaurant (or you choose one) where they will prepare your selected seafood for a 'preparation fee' per person, which usually includes side dishes and the spicy fish stew (maeuntang).
What's the difference between 'hoe' and 'sashimi'?
While often used interchangeably, 'hoe' (회) is the general Korean term for raw fish dishes, encompassing various preparations beyond just thinly sliced raw fish. 'Sashimi' is the Japanese term for thinly sliced raw fish or seafood. Korean 'hoe' is typically served with a broader array of side dishes (banchan), often with ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce), gochujang (chili paste), garlic, and lettuce wraps, offering a more interactive dining experience than traditional Japanese sashimi.
Is it safe to eat raw fish in Busan?
Yes, it is generally very safe to eat raw fish in Busan. The city has a strong culture of consuming fresh seafood, and restaurants, especially those specializing in hoe, adhere to strict hygiene standards. Fish is often sourced directly from local waters and kept alive until preparation, ensuring maximum freshness. Always choose reputable establishments with high turnover for the best experience.
What should I drink with raw fish in Busan?
The most common and traditional drink pairing with raw fish in Busan is soju (소주), a clear Korean distilled spirit. Many locals also enjoy it with 'maekju' (맥주, beer) or a mix of both (so-maek). For non-alcoholic options, local rice drinks like 'sikhye' (식혜) or chilled water are popular. Some upscale restaurants may offer white wine, but it's less common in traditional hoe spots.
What is 'Maeuntang' and how is it related to a raw fish meal?
'Maeuntang' (매운탕) is a spicy fish stew, and it's a traditional and essential part of a Korean raw fish meal. After you finish your raw fish, the remaining fish bones and head (along with other seafood scraps from your order) are used to make this flavorful, spicy, and often hearty stew, usually with vegetables and tofu. It's typically served with rice and is considered the comforting conclusion to your hoe feast.
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