All-Time Best
Mingles
Mingles
Mingles offers a harmonious blend of traditional Korean fermented condiments (jang) with modern cooking techniques. As the only 3-star Michelin restaurant in Korea, it represents the pinnacle of Seoul's fine dining scene.
Highlights
- Jang trio dessert
- Seasonal tasting menu
- Elegant atmosphere
- Asia's 50 Best Restaurants
Jungsik
Jungsik
Pioneer of modern Korean fine dining, Jungsik reinvented kimbap and other staples into artistic masterpieces. The 2-Michelin starred venue is perfect for a special occasion with its innovative take on Korean cuisine.
Highlights
- Truffle kimbap
- Dolhareubang dessert
- Gangnam location
- New York sister restaurant
La Yeon
La Yeon
Located atop The Shilla Seoul hotel, La Yeon serves exquisite traditional Korean cuisine with contemporary presentation. The 3-Michelin starred restaurant offers breathtaking views alongside impeccable royal Korean dishes.
Highlights
- Panoramic city views
- Royal Korean cuisine
- Seasonal ingredients
- Elegant setting
Gaon
Gaon
Dedicated to preserving the deep, elegant flavors of the Joseon Dynasty's royal cuisine. This 2-Michelin starred restaurant offers an immersive cultural experience with dishes served on exquisite KwangJuYo ceramics.
Highlights
- Private dining rooms
- Ceramics by KwangJuYo
- Seasonal ingredients
- Hanok-inspired interior
Myeongdong Kyoja
Myeongdong Kyoja
A Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, renowned for its handmade knife-cut noodles (kalguksu) and thin-skinned dumplings (mandu) since 1966. The simple menu focuses on perfection through decades of refinement.
Highlights
- Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles)
- Handmade Mandu
- Garlic Kimchi
- Since 1966
Tosokchon
Tosokchon
The most famous place in Seoul for Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). Housed in a traditional Hanok, it was a favorite of past presidents and is renowned for its rich, milky broth stuffed with ginseng, rice, and jujubes.
Highlights
- Ginseng Chicken Soup
- Traditional Hanok setting
- Ginseng liquor pairing
- Near Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gwangjang Market Stalls
Gwangjang Market Stalls
The heart of Seoul's street food culture since 1905. Famous for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (addictive mini rice rolls), and fresh yukhoe (beef tartare). A sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors.
Highlights
- Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes)
- Yukhoe (beef tartare)
- Mayak Gimbap
- Tteokbokki
Maple Tree House
Maple Tree House
One of Seoul's most acclaimed Korean BBQ restaurants, famous for its premium aged beef and exceptional galbi. The modern, upscale setting and top-quality meat make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Highlights
- Aged premium beef
- Marinated galbi
- Modern atmosphere
- Multiple locations
Noryangjin Fish Market
Noryangjin Fish Market
Seoul's largest seafood market where you can buy fresh fish, crab, octopus, and shellfish downstairs and have it prepared sashimi-style or cooked at a restaurant upstairs. A true sea-to-table experience.
Highlights
- Live Octopus (San-nakji)
- King Crab
- Fresh Sashimi
- 24-hour operation
Jongno Bindaetteok
Jongno Bindaetteok
A humble institution serving Seoul's best bindaetteok (crispy mung bean pancakes) since 1960s. The pancakes are fried in generous amounts of oil until perfectly crispy, best enjoyed with makgeolli (rice wine).
Highlights
- Crispy mung bean pancakes
- Pair with makgeolli
- Cash only
- Authentic atmosphere
Frequently Asked Questions
No, tipping is not required or expected in South Korea. The price you see on the menu is the final price you pay. Some upscale restaurants may add a service charge, but additional tipping is not customary.
Yes, absolutely for the Michelin-starred restaurants (Mingles, Jungsik, La Yeon, Gaon) - book weeks in advance. For popular spots like Tosokchon or Myeongdong Kyoja, you cannot reserve and should expect to queue, especially during peak hours.
Generally, yes. Seoul's street food culture is well-regulated. Gwangjang Market and other established markets have high turnover ensuring freshness. Look for stalls with lines and where food is cooked fresh in front of you.
Myeongdong for street food and casual eats, Gangnam for fine dining and trendy cafes, Hongdae for youthful and budget-friendly options, Itaewon for international cuisine, and Jongno for traditional Korean food and markets.
While Korean dining is often communal (especially BBQ which typically requires 2+ servings), the 'Honbap' (eating alone) culture is growing. Noodle shops, soups (like Samgyetang), gimbap restaurants, and markets are very solo-friendly.
Maple Tree House in Gangnam offers premium aged beef. Samwon Garden is a legendary institution. For budget-friendly options, try Gogi-gui spots in Mapo-gu. Always look for restaurants that let you grill at your table with quality ventilation.