Hello again! As a local who basically lives for long weekends in Jeonju, I’m back with a “part two” of my Jeonju guide. This time, I’m basing it on my actual photo gallery from my last trip—places where I sat, ate, and soaked in the festival vibes.
If you’re coming for the Jeonju International Film Festival (JEONJU IFF) 2026 (running from April 29 to May 8, 2026), you’re in for a treat. Forget the tourist traps; these are the spots that locals and “film people” actually frequent.
1. Nomadic Brewing Co. (노매딕 브루잉)
The Best Craft Beer Vibe in Jeonju
If you saw my photos of that cozy, wood-accented interior with the “BALANCED LIFE” sign, that’s Nomadic Brewing. It’s a craft brewery run by an American expat who has perfectly blended American brewing styles with Korean local ingredients.
- The Vibe: It feels like a secret club for movie directors and indie artists. The interior is rustic with exposed beams, vintage posters, and even a “Kennedy” portrait that adds to its quirky charm.
- What to Drink: They have a range of levels. I personally loved the “Glamping” (Cream Ale) for something light, but if you want something bold, try the “Dark Horse” (Imperial Oat Meal Stout).
- Must-try Snack: Their Buffalo Wings and Fries are the real deal. In a city of traditional food, sometimes you just need that crispy, spicy wing to pair with a cold IPA.
- Location: Near Jeolla Gamyeong and the Hanok Village.
2. Notrick Coffee (노트릭)
Post-Movie Reflection in a Modern Hanok
After sitting in a dark theater for two hours, you need some sunlight and caffeine. Notrick is a stunning Hanok-style cafe that has been beautifully renovated with glass walls.
- The Vibe: Peaceful and airy. It has a lovely outdoor brick terrace where you can sit under the trees and talk about the films you just watched.
- The Order: Get their Hand-drip coffee and a slice of their famous Basque Cheesecake. The cheesecake is incredibly creamy with that perfect burnt top—it honestly melts in your mouth.
- Local Tip: It’s tucked away in a small alley in the Gaeksa (Movie Street) area, making it the perfect hideout from the festival crowds.
3. 300zip Jeonju(삼백집 전주본점)
The Legendary “Hangover” Cure
You haven’t truly experienced Jeonju until you’ve had a bowl of Kongnamul-gukbap (Bean Sprout Soup) for breakfast. Waeng-i is a legendary “No-Boil” style place, meaning the soup is served at a drinkable temperature to preserve the crunch of the sprouts.
- The Experience: Look at the photo with the small bowl of poached eggs (sooran). You’re supposed to pour a few spoonfuls of the hot soup into the egg, add some torn seaweed, and eat it before starting your soup.
- Why here? It’s a “Baeknyeon Gage” (100-year shop candidate) with 40 years of history. It’s simple, cheap, and deeply satisfying.
4. Dasan Pork and Octopus (다산 낙지와 돼지)
Spicy Nakji-bokkeum (Stir-fried Octopus)
For a dinner that packs a punch, I headed to this local favorite. While they are famous for their Gukbap (soup), their Nakji-bokkeum (Spicy Stir-fried Octopus) served in a stone pot is a sleeper hit.
- The Dish: The octopus comes out sizzling in a thick, spicy red sauce topped with enoki mushrooms. It’s spicy, so be ready!
- How to eat it: It comes with an array of side dishes like Ganjang-gejang (soy-marinated crab) and various mountain greens. Mix the octopus and sauce into your rice for the ultimate flavor bomb.
Jeonju IFF 2026: Pro-Traveler Tips
- Festival Dates: April 29 – May 8, 2026.
- Walking is Key: Most of these spots (Nomadic, Notrick, Waeng-i) are within walking distance of the main Jeonju Movie Street.
- English Support: During the festival, there are plenty of English-speaking volunteers (wearing yellow jackets usually) who can help you with directions or menu translations.
Jeonju is a city that rewards those who wander into its small alleys. I hope these personal favorites of mine help you have an unforgettable trip in 2026!