Chorizo tacos from Crispy Pork Town, a taqueria in Seoul, South Korea. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)
Tucked in Seoul’s hyper-busy international neighborhood, Itaewon, Crispy Pork Town brings the traditional feeling of a taqueria to the Korean Peninsula.
None of this taqueria’s standout creations will disappoint.
The birria quesadilla, a flour tortilla that is crispy on the outside, filled with tender beef on the inside and supported by delicious, melted cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a satisfying crunch. The cost of this one is 15,000 won, or about $11.
There is also a chorizo version; both are a marvel to taste, made with simple ingredients that go beyond the sum of their parts.
Next came the chorizo tacos, packed with spicy and juicy chorizo, fresh cilantro, onions and the perfect amount of avocado with a slice of lime on the side for extra acidity. These go for two for 10,000 won.
Birria quesadilla from Crispy Pork Town, a taqueria in Seoul, South Korea. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)
Once again, the combination of these ingredients provides a flavorful harmony in every bite that is elevated by the base of every taco: the corn tortilla.
Handmade corn tortillas enhance the experience all the way, right up to the crispy pork tacos; the star of this taqueria. These are two for 12,000 won. Filled with tender pork, crisped just right, topped with onions, fresh cilantro and pickled red onions, the crispy pork tacos justify their marquee status at Crispy Pork Town.
The restaurant has a solid drink menu to match. Jarritos and other Mexican soft drinks are available, along with a variety of alcoholic beverages, including Mexican beers.
With bold flavors and a welcoming vibe, Crispy Pork Town offers a taste of Mexico in Seoul that’s hard to beat.
You won't be disappointed by any of the creations at Crispy Pork Town, a taqueria in Seoul, South Korea. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)
Crispy Pork Town
Location: 47 Noksapyeong-daero 40-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open noon to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. for dinner. Closed Tuesdays.
Prices: Most items run between 9,300 won and 19,000 won.
Dress: Casual
Directions: A 10-minute walk from Dragon Hill Lodge walk-in gate at Yongsan Garrison.
Information: Phone: 050-71483-2849; Online: instagram.com/crispyporktown
