The 11 best restaurants and places to eat in Seoul

Besides being famous for music and make-up, Korean food is currently also one of the most hyped international foods. And of course, the capital of Korea, Seoul, is a well-known foodie haven with a wide array of both local and international restaurants. Be sure to check out this curated selection of restaurants in Seoul!

Tip #1: Jihwaya

Located near Gwanghwamun is Jihwaja, a high-class traditional royal banquet restaurant operated by Hwang’s family. The food served here was once served to the Korean royal family.

Immerse yourself in Korean culture in the ambiance of a neighbourhood that features a 600-year Joseon Dynasty history whilst providing an antique interior inspired by royal palaces.

The dishes offered by Jihwaja are very healthy and nutritious, as they are prepared with only natural ingredients and royal culinary techniques.

Tip #2: Kanilab

Located underground, another place that specializes in immersive fine dining is Kanilab, one of the unique restaurants in Seoul. The restaurant’s course menu is designed to take you through five distinct chapters consisting of daybreak, sunrise, wavestorm, wake up and milky way.

Besides the stunning light show, the food itself is also presented in a very ethereal and beautiful way, making this restaurant a must-visit restaurant during your time in Seoul.

Tip #3: Young Daban Nowong

Your visit to Seoul is essentially incomplete until you try the iconic Korean street food shown in many shows and dramas: Tteokbokki! This Korean street food is famous for its addictively sweet and savoury taste, paired with a spicy touch and the signature chewy texture.

Whilst there are many great tteokbokki restaurants in Seoul, the one that made it on this list, Young Daban Nowong (청년다방 노원역점), is a well-known food spot with some of the best tteokbokki available.

Tip #4: Hongdae Korean BBQ All You Can Eat Pig Company

If you’re wondering where to eat in Seoul, why not try Korean BBQ? With a prime location right next to Hongdae Street, Hongdae Korean BBQ is super accessible and can be visited together with the iconic Hongdae Street.

This restaurant in Seoul has a great all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ deal and is a hidden spot recommended by locals for generous servings of pork to grill yourself.

Tip #5: Koriko Café Seoul

Themed after the movie Kiki’s Delivery Service, Koriko Café is a charming place that serves both aesthetically pleasing and delicious drinks and food. If you’re a fan of pretty desserts and drinks, this café is a must-visit and one of the best places in Seoul to get dessert and lunch.

Besides one-of-a-kind drinks like a strawberry cotton candy latte, they also serve hearty dishes such as meat pie. Of course, you can’t go wrong with one of their most popular items: JIJI mug tart.

Tip #6: Jogaedo

If you’re looking to try some fresh seafood, this is one of the best restaurants in Seoul to have some. Jogaedo offers fresh fish and shellfish to grill or enjoy in soup and sushi!

Expect big portions as well as warm and helpful service from the restaurant owners. Do note that, due to its popularity, you may have to wait for around 30-45 minutes to get in, but the wait is well worth it since the lively atmosphere is part of the experience!

Tip #7: Ikseon Chihyang

Having recently gone viral on social media for their rosé pasta, Ikseong Chihyang is a must-visit for pasta lovers and fans of Korean-western fusion cuisine. Besides their signature pasta dish, they also offer a variety of risottos and steak.

Their whole pork belly rosé pasta is a culinary delight that will be refreshingly different from both Italian pasta and other Korean rosé dishes. Don’t miss out on one of the best restaurants in Seoul to try out Korean fusion!

Tip #8: Kyochon Chicken Dongdaemun 1st Branch

A restaurant that’s very well-known amongst Koreans and frequently visited for casual dining in Seoul, Kyochon Chicken Dongdaemun is the first branch of this delicious korean chicken place.

Our favorite seasoning to eat together with the fried chicken is savory garlic soy sauce paired with cheongyang chili pepper.

Tip #9: Garden Poete

In the middle of the urban jungle of Mapo-gu lies Garden Poete, a serene and chill restaurant where you’ll find yourself dining in the middle of greenery.

A perfect spot to recover from the daily hustle and bustle of Seoul, this restaurant serves a variety of healthy and delicious dishes that are sure to warm your heart.

Tip #10: La Yeon

Located on the 23rd floor of The Shilla, La Yeon is a contemporary fine dining restaurant in Seoul that offers the traditional taste of Korea.

Experience Korean haute cuisine in the form of a Hanjeongsik style meal in a two-star Michelin restaurant as you enjoy the stunning view over Namsan Park.

Tip #11: The Margaux Grill

The Margaux Grill specializes in woodfired grilled cuisine, as well as rare wines. Reminiscent of a secret European garden, you’ll be able to re-discover the exquisite flavor of steak in this fine dining establishment located in the Marriott Hotel.

Besides offering a 5-course lunch and a 6-course dinner, they also have a delectable selection of à la carte beef. We recommend pairing the main course with a side of herb roasted potatoes and finishing off with their signature caramelized cheesecake.

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!