If you think vegan dining is all salads and sad tofu, ARP on Yeongdo Island in Busan is here to completely rewrite your playbook.

The name stands for "Around Plants" and operates under a positive ethical kitchen table philosophy, blending true sustainability with some serious culinary chops.

Step inside, and you are met with a minimalist, clean aesthetic - stark concrete tones and sleek lines that allow the food to take center stage.

Love!

ARP’s signature Bracken (Gosari) Pasta features dried fern and mushrooms, and I was told it's a masterclass in chewy texture and deep, earthy umami. 

But this burger connoisseur has to get the vegan burger which is simply a revelation, featuring a perfectly seared, juicy plant-based patty.

It is topped with a rich, house-made vegan cheese crafted from coconut oil that melts exactly like real cheddar.

But the real stars of this super cool-looking burger are the beetroot ketchup and onion jam - flavor explosion!

And of course I'm eating all the onion rings!

For the full experience, pair your meal a cup of their complimentary herbal welcome tea or a glass of their signature house-made (non-alcoholic) rice wine - similar to my favorite drink, makgeolli!

The culinary world has officially taken notice: ARP has earned a well-deserved Bib Gourmand spot in the Michelin Guide.

It proves that plant-based dining isn't just a trend; it's the future of gastronomy.

Pro Tip: Space is limited, so making a reservation via Catch Table or Naver is highly recommended.

35 Taejong-ro 99 beon-gil, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea

Grab a bus out to the island or you can also walk there from the train station if you're up for it!