Buzz
Korean cuisine exudes an irresistible charm in the Land of Ginseng. Check out the most beloved Korean eateries and restaurants favored by local foodies.
Korean eateries and restaurants always offer travelers a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience. So, where are the beloved spots for authentic foodies? Almost everyone knows about South Korea - the country renowned for its hit TV dramas, leading beauty brands, and top-notch music scene. Alongside this, its culinary fame is also one of the main attractions for tourists worldwide.
Are you planning a trip to South Korea but don't know much about the country? Unsure about the best restaurants or the seasonal specialties of Korea? Then don't miss out on this detailed review of the most enticing Korean restaurants!
Unique Korean Dining Experiences
South Korea is a top tourist destination in East Asia. Seasonal Korean restaurants offer unique experiences for travelers from afar. Below are five of the most unique Korean restaurants you should try!
1. Jungsik Seoul
- Address: 11 Seolleung-ro 158-gil, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Jungsik Seoul is a restaurant in Gangnam serving unique Korean cuisine. It's also one of the top 50 restaurants in Asia, where you can find specialties and traditional cuisine, with very reasonable prices. Another plus point of the restaurant is that most of the ingredients here are fresh.
It can be said that this is a wonderful spot for a romantic dinner. The restaurant is installed with transparent glass doors so you can see Dosan Park right outside, and there's also a cozy private dining area for intimate family meals.
2. La Yeon
- Address: The Shilla Seoul, 249 Dongho-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Visit La Yeon to indulge in traditional dishes served in an elegant royal style. This Korean restaurant holds 3 Michelin stars with beautifully crafted food presentations. La Yeon is located on the 23rd floor, offering a view of the modern Seoul city center. The restaurant features 4 seasonal menus along with dessert, tea, and optional wine selections.
3. 81 Banya Ramen
- Address: 737-24, Hannam-dong, Seoul, South Korea.
This Japanese restaurant is located near the Cheil building, making it easy to find. If you're a ramen enthusiast, this is the ideal dining spot for you. 81 Banya Ramen is rated as the best Japanese Ramen restaurant in Seoul. You won't need to fly to Japan to enjoy authentic ramen flavors because the noodles here are already perfect.
The atmosphere at this Korean restaurant is lively, stylish, and friendly, making it extremely comfortable. You can also challenge yourself with the 'Kitchen Sink Bowl' ramen and finish it within 20 minutes to receive a special prize from the restaurant.
4. Pierre Gagnaire A Seoul
- Address: 35F, Lotte Hotel Seoul, 1 Sogong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Pierre Gagnaire A Seoul is the first French restaurant in South Korea, located on the 35th floor of Lotte Hotel Seoul. This renowned Korean restaurant is decorated based on the architecture of the Palace of Versailles. Pierre Gagnaire A Seoul serves French-style dishes such as poached turbot with celery, pork loin with cream sauce, and Honey Vinegar Sorbet. The restaurant also boasts a collection of 250 wine varieties from regions of France such as Burgundy, Loire, and Alsace.
5. Ryunique
- Address: 520-1 Sinsadong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Ryunique's dishes are Korean-inspired but influenced by flavors from French, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese cuisines. This Korean restaurant has won numerous prestigious awards. The interior creates a cozy atmosphere for diners with yellow wooden tables, vibrant fresh flowers, and special designs that enhance natural lighting, creating a simple yet elegant dining spot.
The dishes here are often presented in glass bowls. Ryunique's menu varies depending on seasonal ingredients. Standout dishes include sous-vide white fish, apple-fed pork, smoked garlic-infused duck breast, and orange miso.
You'll also be served with Petit cakes and the unique Choco Winter Forest dessert for dessert, along with your choice of coffee or tea. Ryunique is located in the affluent Sinsa-dong neighborhood in Gangnam, just a 5-minute walk from Sinsa subway station.
Popular Korean Restaurants in Seoul
In a globally developed metropolis like Seoul, it's surprising that you can find budget-friendly eateries. The competitive dining scene here offers travelers delicious meals at bargain prices. Have you heard of these 5 famous Korean restaurants in Seoul?
6. Myth Jokbal
- Address: 123-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
From exits 8 or 9 of Hongik University Station, walk to the biggest food street in the area where you'll find Myth Jokbal - A renowned restaurant that's over 30 years old. The main dish on Jokbal restaurant's menu is Jokbal, or braised pig's feet.
Savor each tender, flavorful bite of pork, expertly seasoned with fresh ingredients. This dish offers various flavors to choose from, including original, garlic, or the spiciness of perilla leaves. It's best enjoyed with a group of 2-4 friends or family members to indulge more and at a cheaper price.
7. 853 Restaurant
- Address: 6 Insadong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
853 is a small Korean-style restaurant, located near Ssamziegil in Insadong. The restaurant employs exclusive cooking techniques, using the best neck and belly pork cuts. The grilled dishes here offer irresistible aromas. Additionally, there are various side dishes (Banchan) for you to enjoy.
Not only renowned for its delicious dishes, but this place is also known for its excellent service. The staff is extremely attentive and friendly, always ready to assist diners. Affordable prices are another reason to visit 853 Restaurant in Korea.
8. Gamja - Jip
- Address: 53, Baekbeom-ro 87-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Gamja-Jip is the next Korean eatery you should definitely visit. The restaurant opens from 5:30 PM until midnight. Their best-selling dish is the exquisite fried potatoes paired with cold beer, a perfect combination.
Visitors here say they can't order anything else because the craft beer and fried potatoes are too good. The staff is extremely enthusiastic and friendly, and the restaurant's casual, relaxed atmosphere helps you immerse yourself in Seoul's nightlife. Come here with your friends, enjoy some beer, and chat all night long.
9. Jihwaja
- Address: 125 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Head northwest of Gyeongbokgung and stop by Jihwaja to savor the delicate royal cuisine from the Joseon era, dishes that have won Michelin Seoul awards. Explore the culinary heritage of the late master chef of the Joseon court, Hwang Hye-seong.
At Jihwaja, you'll indulge in elegant, refined dishes with a royal flair, featuring a variety of flavors and textures. Taste the red bean porridge, abalone stew, and kimchi broth. What are you waiting for to immerse yourself in Korea's royal culinary culture on your upcoming trip?
10. Hwangsaengga Kalguksu
- Address: 78 Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Hwangsaengga Kalguksu is one of the most famous restaurants on Samcheong Street. This street is always bustling with traffic and there's almost always a long line outside the restaurant. The signature dish here is Kalguksu, a hand-cut noodle soup served with dumplings, broth cooked from beef bones in Pyongyang style.
Another standout dish of the restaurant is Sagol Kalguksu, a hearty noodle soup with beef bone broth, pumpkin, mushrooms, and a touch of green onions for garnish. The delicate sweetness of the broth blends perfectly with the freshness of the accompanying vegetables, delighting many. Don't forget to order an extra serving of soft meat-filled buns!
Favorite Korean Eateries in Busan
Busan is known as a major port city in South Korea. This destination attracts adventure-loving travelers seeking new experiences. And it's not just the scenic spots that draw tourists to Busan, but also its culinary culture. What could be better in a port city than fresh seafood?
11. Choryang Milmyeon
- Address: 225 Jungang-daero, Choryang-dong, Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea.
Choryang Milmyeon, a Korean eatery highly praised by both foreign tourists and locals alike, is considered one of the best dining spots in Busan. Nearly every diner leaves satisfied, even the pickiest eaters. If you happen to visit Busan in the summer, be sure to stop by Choryang Milmyeon and try a bowl of their specialty cold noodles; you won't feel the scorching heat of Busan's summer anymore.
The location of the eatery is quite easy to find as it's right across from Busan Station. However, the eatery often attracts a large number of customers daily, so plan to arrive here early in the afternoon, or you'll end up waiting in long queues. The price for a bowl of noodles here is only 4000 won (about 3 USD).
12. Wonjo Halmae Gukbap
- Address: 33 Gunam-ro 21beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea.
Wonjo Halmae Gukbap is situated near Haeundae Beach, in the eastern part of Busan, famous for a dish beloved by many tourists: Gukbap, with a history of over 50 years. The ambiance of this Korean eatery is quite romantic with its elegant design, predominantly using the color yellow to accentuate the patterns on the walls.
The menu here is also very diverse and extensive, tempting almost all tourists who visit. In addition to Gukbap with various levels of spiciness, there are also braised beef, beef stew, kimbap, and tteokbokki.
Wonjo Halmae Gukbap has been serving guests for over 50 years. Not only has the quality and delicious taste remained unchanged throughout all those years, but the prices are also affordable. That's why the eatery is always crowded, open 24/7, and never short of customers.
13. Gosami
- Address: 612 U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea.
When in the port city of Busan, don't miss the chance to try the delicious fresh seafood here. Gosami is a top-notch restaurant offering you the flavorsome seafood rich in Korean culinary culture.
The first dish to mention is grilled tuna - a specialty of the Land of Kimchi. The ingredients for this dish are the freshest tuna caught from the sea. With the skill and meticulousness of the chef in preparation, you'll taste the sweetness, tenderness, and firmness of the fish without any fishy smell. Even the most discerning guests cannot help but praise.
Another dish not to be missed at Gosami is Ganjang-Gejang (Soy Sauce Marinated Crab). With its unique preparation and impressive ingredients, most tourists are curious to try it. Join the 1-Day Busan Tour and recharge at Gosami!
14. Daegil Gochu Bulgogi
- Address: 360-5 Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu Busan, South Korea.
Located near the campus of Pusan National University, Daegil Gochu Bulgogi is a Korean restaurant suitable for every student or traveler on a tight budget. Here, you'll not only enjoy delicious food but also chat or listen to students talk about interesting things in Korea.
The most enticing dish here is Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef) - a popular beef dish in the Land of Kimchi. When you taste it, you'll experience the perfect balance of flavors, rich sweetness, and irresistible appeal. The grilled meat is perfectly seasoned, tender without being dry. Daegil Gochu Bulgogi restaurant is an ideal stop for every traveler, especially young people visiting Busan.
15. Sinbalwon
- Address: 62 Daeyeong-ro 243beon-gil, Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea.
Sinbalwon is renowned as the paradise of steamed buns in Busan, located at the entrance to the Market Street, outside Busan Station. There's almost always a queue of people waiting to buy steamed buns because everyone is drawn to the delicious, savory meat-filled buns. When you taste them, you'll feel the soft, smooth texture of the outer bun. Passing by here, you'll surely be captivated by the tantalizing aroma and renowned deliciousness that only these buns have.
Popular Korean Eateries in Jeju
The hallmark of most restaurants on Jeju Island is serving authentic Korean dishes prepared from high-quality ingredients using long-standing traditional recipes. Let's explore the wonderful culinary world for foodies through Klook's list of the top 5 most enticing Korean restaurants on Jeju Island.
16. Original Charcoal Grill
- Address: 1/F, 19 Jewon-gil, Jeju, South Korea.
If you're a K-BBQ enthusiast, you'll love this restaurant! Original Charcoal Grill offers specialty black pork from the island. When you bite into the meat, you'll experience a unique deliciousness and irresistible flavor. With the fame of black pork, its price at many restaurants is quite high. However, if you want to experience authentic Jeju black pork at a reasonable price, head to The Original Charcoal Grill House.
17. Sea Scent Jeju Restaurant
- Address: 71 Doduhangseo-gil, Jeju, South Korea.
In addition to attractions and culture, Jeju's allure also comes from the surrounding sea. If you want to try local fish and seafood, visit the Sea Scent Korean restaurant in Jeju. Here, they offer a special Sashimi set for you. This set includes thinly sliced raw fish, fresh oysters, clams, soup, french fries, pork belly slices, and a variety of other local specialties.
18. Yeongjumal Garden
- Address: 196, Yeonbuk-ro, Jeju, South Korea.
If you're seeking a new and unique culinary experience, then Yeongjumal Garden is the Jeju restaurant to visit. Here, they serve Korean Tartare Beefsteak, Shabu-Shabu horse meat, savory dumplings, and rice balls. The beef Tartare is perfectly seasoned, and the prices on the restaurant's menu are very affordable, suitable for every traveler's budget.
Because Jeju Island in South Korea can be quite expensive, opt to dine where locals eat to save some money.
19. Macho Grill
- Address: 39, Joongang-ro 2F, Jeju, South Korea.
Looking for authentic and affordable Mexican dishes on Jeju Island? Look no further than Macho Grill. They serve fresh Guacamole with a perfect balance of flavors and the Chicken Nachos are perhaps the highlight of the menu. The spicy grilled chicken is diced and added to Quesadillas, creating a mouthwatering treat. The restaurant owners are friendly and willing to chat with you for hours, sharing interesting stories about the island in English.
It's not overly crowded here except on late weekend evenings. So, if you're visiting on a Friday or Saturday, be prepared for a wait. Remember that Macho Grill is closed on Mondays but open from Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner service.
20. Myeongjin Jeonbok
- Address: 1282 Haemajihaean-ro, Gujwa-eup, Jeju, South Korea.
Myeongjin Jeonbok specializes in abalone dishes. Situated along the coastline, the restaurant offers stunning views. Their signature dish is Abalone Rice, made with rice cooked with abalone, innards, and vegetables. The grilled abalone with butter is also highly favored on the menu.
No matter what dish you choose, the restaurant will also serve you a tantalizing portion of grilled mackerel. Myeongjin Jeonbok is located in an easily accessible and convenient spot to continue exploring Jeju's tourist spots after a satisfying meal.
Seoul's restaurants have garnered countless praises from travelers and food critics alike for their creativity and authentic flavors. Korea takes pride in its diverse cuisine, ranging from fresh seafood, vegetarian dishes, beef steak, noodles, rice dishes, to Western delicacies. No trip to Korea is complete without trying authentic Korean dishes like Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), kimchi, and Korean BBQ.
What are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Korea with Klook Blog and have an exciting experience. Check out the Winter Travel Guide to Korea, Visit 10 Famous Cafes from Korean Dramas, List of 13 Delicious Eateries in Seoul, 7 Days 6 Nights Free and Easy Korea Itinerary, Free and Easy Jeju Itinerary.
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Indulge in the renowned Korean eateries and restaurants, why not?
