1. What does it mean?
먹잘알 compresses 먹는 것을 잘 아는 사람. It praises a person with good food knowledge, useful recommendations, or a knack for delicious combinations and ways of eating.
Also written or said as meokjaral
2. The nuance
It is about appreciative know-how, not simply eating a large quantity. It is an informal compliment rather than a culinary credential.
3. Examples
“소스 조합을 알려 주다니 너 먹잘알이네.”
You really know food, coming up with that sauce combination.
“먹잘알 친구 덕분에 메뉴 고르기가 쉬웠어.”
My food-savvy friend made choosing from the menu easy.
Sources
References support the meaning and usage. Example sentences are written for NoCapWiki.