May 22, 2024
Last update: August 2025

Where to eat in Seoul: the best restaurants

Where to eat in Seoul

Before diving into this guide on where to eat in Seoul and its best restaurants, it’s important to make a few preliminary notes about Korean food culture. In Korea the overall quality of restaurants is very high. Eating out is part of everyday life, and food is considered something that should be both delicious and accessible to everyone.

Another point worth highlighting is that eating at restaurants in Korea is generally much more affordable than in many other countries, while still offering quality ingredients even in inexpensive spots. This makes Seoul a true food lover’s paradise.

So, where to eat in Seoul? What are the best restaurants in South Korea’s capital? In this article you won’t find a simple ranking, but rather a curated selection of restaurants that I have personally tried and enjoyed the most. This page will be continuously updated, so keep an eye on it as I add new recommendations over time.

Beyond this list of the best restaurants and food courts in Seoul, the city truly is a paradise for anyone who loves good food. In addition to excellent Korean cuisine, you’ll find an incredible variety of international dishes at very affordable prices. My advice is simple: try as much as you can and satisfy all your culinary curiosities. You won’t be disappointed by Korean food — and you’ll be surprised by its consistent quality. Now, let’s dive in and discover the best places to eat in Seoul! To make it easier to plan, we’ve broken down this food guide by neighborhoods and districts, so you can easily integrate it into your own Seoul itinerary. For convenience, I’ve also included links to Google Maps, but keep in mind that in Korea, apps like Naver Maps and Kakao Map work much better for navigation, while Google reviews tend to be less reliable since they are mostly written by tourists. Locals typically use apps like Naver Maps to check and share restaurant reviews.

Where to eat in Hongdae

Hongdae is overflowing with restaurants, which can make choosing where to eat a bit overwhelming. To make things easier, here are a couple of places that are truly worth trying if you’re in the area:

Hyundaiok Hongdae: a bit hidden, this spot is located on the second floor of a low-rise building on Hongdae Street (Eoulmadang-ro). Its signature dish is gukbap (rice soup). The most popular option is Kongnamul gukbap (콩나물국밥), a rice soup with soybean sprouts — a specialty from Jeonju, a city famous for its pure water, which is used to cultivate the sprouts. The menu also offers a variety of excellent side dishes. I personally recommend trying the kimchijeon (김치전), a crispy kimchi pancake, and the flavorful bulgogi (불고기) pork. Prices are very affordable: main dishes cost under €10 (around $10 USD), and you’ll get a generous, filling meal for very little.
Address: 115-2 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Getting there: subway line 2, Hongik University Station
Shaburo 21: an excellent spot for shabu shabu, a Japanese hotpot dish where thinly sliced meat and vegetables are cooked directly in a broth at your table. You can also add extras like fresh noodles, fish cakes, and more, dipping them into three different sauces: sesame, chili, and soy. I recommend choosing two broths to enjoy different flavors. Broth refills are free if you run out. Unlike most traditional hotpot restaurants where diners share a stove and pot, Shaburo 21 gives each guest their own — making it an especially great option for solo travelers. The initial set menu costs about €5 (around $5–6 USD), with the option to add your favorite extras (I always recommend noodles and fish cake). Excellent quality at an unbeatable price.
Address: 334-14 2 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 2, Hongik University Station

Best restaurants in Gangnam

Are you in Gangnam and not sure where to eat? Don’t worry, this district is full of great options.

COEX Mall: if you’re looking for variety and quality all in one place, COEX Mall is a top choice. This massive shopping complex is not only a must-see attraction thanks to its famous Starfield Library, but also one of the best places to eat in Gangnam. Inside, you’ll find an incredible range of restaurants offering everything from traditional Korean cuisine to international flavors, making it easy to satisfy any craving.
Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 9, Bongeunsa Station, or Subway Line 2, Samseong Station

Recommended restaurants in Insadong

Insadong is full of traditional Korean restaurants where you can try the country’s famous side dishes (banchan) along with classic local dishes. Here are two great places to eat in Insadong:

Chon: like many restaurants in Insadong, Chon is located in a charming old building with a warm wooden interior that perfectly matches the atmosphere of the neighborhood. The menu focuses on traditional Korean cuisine with plenty of side dishes, fish, and meat options. I highly recommend the bulgogi (불고기) and the jeon (전), Korean-style pancakes. The version I tried was made with buchu (부추) — similar to chives and typical of East Asia — combined with shrimp and squid. There are set menus for two or more people, ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 won per person (about $15–30 USD), as well as a wide selection of à la carte dishes.
Address: 19 Insadong 14-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 3, Anguk Station
Gaeseong Mandu Koong – Traditional Dumpling House: this cozy restaurant specializes in mandu (Korean dumplings), served in a hot broth along with a few side dishes. A unique detail here is that you cook the dumplings directly in the broth at your table. Don’t worry if you’re unsure when they’re ready — the staff will gladly help you. It’s the perfect meal to warm up after a long day exploring Seoul.
Address: 11-3 Insadong 10-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 3, Anguk Station

Where to eat in Ikseondong

If you’re wandering through the alleys of Ikseondong Hanok Village, chances are you’ll quickly get hungry. The neighborhood is packed with unique restaurants and cafés. Here’s one I tried and recommend:

Ikseon Atteut: like many establishments in Ikseondong, this restaurant is located inside a beautifully restored hanok, a traditional Korean house. The interior is stylish, and the presentation of the dishes is just as appealing. It’s a popular spot, so it’s best to visit either before opening or outside of peak hours. A must-try here is the Corn Cheese Kimchi Pancake — essentially a kimchijeon (김치전) topped with melted cheese and corn. It’s a creative and delicious twist on the classic dish, perfect for sharing with friends.
Address: 24 Donhwamun-ro 11da-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Lines 1, 3, and 5, Jongno 3-ga Station

Best restaurants in Myeongdong

Myeongdong can feel overwhelming because of the sheer number of restaurants and food stalls everywhere you turn. To help you choose, here’s one spot I tried (and approved):

Ssada Gimbap Myeongdong: Ssada Gimbap is a popular chain specializing in gimbap, Korea’s beloved rice rolls. But the menu goes far beyond that — you’ll also find noodles, tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), stir-fries, rice dishes, bibimbap, mandu (dumplings), and much more. Prices are very affordable, with most meals under €10 (around $10 USD), making it a great option if you want a filling and varied dinner without spending much. These restaurants are simple, no-frills, and reliable — the kind of place that “saves” you when you don’t know where to eat. Ssada Gimbap locations can be found not only in Myeongdong but also across Seoul, including Jongno, Dongdaemun, City Hall, Gangnam, and Hongdae, with new branches opening all the time.
Address: 63-3 Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 4, Myeongdong Station
La Seine, at the LOTTE Hotel Seoul: I had the chance (and the luck) to dine at this special restaurant located on the second floor of the LOTTE Hotel Seoul in Myeongdong. It is an all-you-can-eat restaurant — but not the kind you might be used to back home with cheap, low-quality options. Here you’ll find more than 200 dishes from around the world, with open kitchens where chefs prepare food right in front of you. The dedicated sushi buffet (with real sushi made on the spot), the lobster buffet, and the dozens of desserts alone are worth the price. Unlike most restaurants in Seoul, this is not a budget option — expect to pay around €130 ($140 USD) for dinner and a little less for lunch. If you decide to go, make sure you arrive hungry because there is truly so much to try. Dining at La Seine is reservation only, and it’s best to book well in advance since it’s almost always sold out. Booking directly on the official website can also get you a small discount. Since it’s a high-end restaurant with an upscale atmosphere, proper dress is required. If you show up in sweatpants or flip-flops, entry may be denied. La Seine is highly recommended if you want a unique dining experience in Seoul or if you’re celebrating something special.
Address: 30, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu 1F, Lotte Hotel Seoul, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 2, Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station
LOTTE Department Store Main – Myeongdong: unlike in many European malls where you mainly find fast food chains, Korean department stores are known for their variety and quality. The LOTTE Department Store in Myeongdong is a perfect example. If you’re looking for a quick bite, head to the B1 floor (the basement level in Korea), where you’ll find plenty of options for snacks, cafés, and light meals. If instead you want to enjoy a proper sit-down meal, go up to the 13F and 14F, where there is a wide selection of restaurants offering bibimbap, tonkatsu, shabu shabu, soups, noodles, sushi, and much more. There are choices here for almost every budget, making it a great stop during your shopping day in Myeongdong.
Address: 81 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 2, Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station

Where to eat in Yeouido

Yeouido is an area filled with skyscrapers, corporate offices, shopping malls, and attractions along the Han River. After a walk in Yeouido Han River Park or a scenic river cruise, here’s a great recommendation for where to eat in this neighborhood.

The Hyundai Seoul: this spectacular mall is not only a high-end shopping paradise but also a true foodie’s destination. On the B1 floor (Tasty Seoul), you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of restaurants and food corners available. The 6F floor also offers plenty of dining options with both local and international cuisine. Beyond the food, The Hyundai Seoul is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful shopping malls in the city, so make sure to enjoy both its design and its massive food court, which will certainly surprise you.
Address: 108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Getting there: Subway Line 5, Yeouinaru Station, or Lines 5 and 9, Yeouido Station

This guide on where to eat in Seoul will be constantly updated. Check back regularly to discover the best restaurants in Seoul and new foodie hotspots.