Overview
This Immersive Korea; London Mini Study Tour offers TUCO members the opportunity to explore how Korean food is evolving within London’s diverse food scene. Through guided visits, tastings and discussions, delegates will experience authentic flavours, modern interpretations and the business models behind some of the capital’s most exciting Korean food concepts.
The tour is designed to help members understand how Korean cuisine can translate into university and contract catering environments — from street food-style offers and grab-and-go concepts to menu innovation and flavour inspiration. By experiencing the trend first-hand alongside industry peers, delegates will gain practical insight into how Korean flavours, ingredients and formats can inspire new menu development and enhance student engagement.
Who is this for?
Chefs, amateur cooks, menu planners / creators and anyone interested in experiencing this global trend from street food to restaurant offerings. This can also add value to delegates who are attending the Rebecca Ghim Korean class on the 17th of March.
Why should I take part?
As well as spending time with like minded colleagues from the industry, you will explore several emerging trends shaping the popularity of Korean cuisine:
Korean Street Food
London’s street food markets and casual dining venues have embraced Korean street food culture, with dishes such as tteokbokki, loaded fries, and Korean fried chicken becoming increasingly popular with younger diners.
Fermentation and bold flavours
Ingredients such as kimchi, gochujang and doenjang highlight Korea’s long tradition of fermentation, delivering complex umami flavours that are increasingly influencing modern menu development.
Interactive dining experiences
Korean BBQ concepts offer a highly social and engaging dining format, with guests cooking food at the table. This experiential style of dining is gaining popularity and offers inspiration for themed events and experiential catering.
Global fusion concepts
Korean flavours are now appearing across global menus, from Korean tacos and burgers to fusion rice bowls and grab-and-go offers, demonstrating how the cuisine can be adapted for modern catering environments.
How will it help me?
During the event, you will...
- Explore a major global food trend – Korean cuisine has seen significant growth in the UK, driven by street food culture, Korean BBQ, fried chicken concepts and the global popularity of Korean entertainment and culture.
- Gain inspiration for student dining – discover flavour profiles, formats and dishes that resonate strongly with younger audiences and student populations.
- Experience authentic and modern interpretations – visit a range of London venues showcasing traditional Korean dishes alongside contemporary adaptations.
- Understand operational concepts – see how successful Korean operators design menus, service styles and dining experiences that could translate into university catering environments.
- Network with peers – share ideas and insights with fellow TUCO members while exploring one of London’s most exciting food scenes.
- Engage with like-minded colleagues - and immerse yourself in the food trend being taught the next day at Made in Hackney (if you are joining us there).
What’s included?
- All food and drink during the tour with the TUCO representative
- Travel during the tour
- Overnight stay in London
What’s not included?
- Travel to and from the study tour or the development day
Itinerary:
28th October
12-13:00 Group to arrive at London Holiday Inn Kensington
13:00 Mini tour
19:00 Korean BBQ
Overnight in London
Travel to the Cooking class at MIH if you are joining the session
