Eat & Drink

1in1jan Cafe (Eunpyeong Hanok Village)

Insadong

A stunning cafe perched at the highest point of Eunpyeong Hanok Village, offering panoramic views of traditional hanok rooftops and Bukhansan Mountain. Established in 2016, this Korean-aesthetic cafe honors the value of each person with one cup of coffee while showcasing the beauty of hanok architecture.

5TO7 Seongsu

Seongsu

A specialty cafe in trendy Seongsu-dong dedicated to Japanese-style souffle pancakes. 5TO7 offers five signature souffle varieties including fruit, Earl Grey, crème brûlée, matcha, and tiramisu. The cafe features a modern interior with large windows overlooking Seoul Forest, outdoor seating, and an antique-inspired aesthetic. Each souffle is carefully prepared with fluffy texture and creative toppings, making it a popular destination for dessert lovers.

Aruhi Niwa

A popular sushi omakase restaurant in Yeouido known for exceptional value. Aruhi Niwa offers fresh seasonal sushi courses at surprisingly affordable prices (dinner omakase from ₩48,000), making it a favorite among office workers and sushi enthusiasts. Despite the budget-friendly pricing, the quality of ingredients and skillful preparation rival more expensive establishments. The restaurant's popularity means reservations are extremely difficult to secure, earning it the nickname "스강신청" (harder to get than university admission).

Asoto Bakery

A charming Japanese-style bakery cafe hidden in the retro printing district of Euljiro, designed with a 1980s kissaten concept. Famous for its signature melon bread filled with rich custard cream and a variety of artisanal Japanese-inspired pastries displayed like works of art.

Beekend

Hongdae

Beekend is a cozy neighborhood cafe near Mangwon Market that has become famous throughout Seoul for serving some of the best brioche French toast in the city. This small, light-filled cafe with minimalist wood interiors offers various French toast flavors including Crème Brûlée, seasonal fig and peach, matcha, chestnut, and sweet potato. The cafe's laid-back atmosphere and exceptional brunch items have made it a destination spot, drawing weekend crowds willing to queue for their signature French toast.

Bills Jamsil

Jamsil

The legendary Australian breakfast restaurant that has become Seoul's premier brunch destination south of the Han River. Famous for their fluffy ricotta hotcakes and world-renowned scrambled eggs, Bills brings Sydney's iconic breakfast culture to Korea. Located on the first floor of Lotte World Mall, this spacious location offers all-day breakfast from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Bunker Company Apgujeong

Gangnam

An award-winning specialty coffee roastery with industrial-chic design. Winner of the 2023 Korean Barista Award for Best Coffee Bar, known for homemade baked goods and high-quality in-house roast beans.

Cafe FINES

Myeongdong

A hidden gem cafe offering spectacular panoramic views of Myeongdong Cathedral and Namsan Tower. Located on the 3rd floor of a building next to the iconic cathedral, this cafe features terrace seating with some of the best cathedral views in Seoul. The combination of historic architecture and modern cityscape creates perfect photo opportunities, especially during Christmas season when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

Cafe Knotted (Dosan)

Gangnam

Seoul's most popular donut cafe featuring fluffy kaya butter donuts that attract long queues daily. The flagship Dosan Park location offers a multi-story space with cute interior design perfect for photos. Famous for fresh cream donuts, premium coffee, and seasonal specials, Cafe Knotted has grown to over 40 locations across Korea and even expanded to Los Angeles.

Cafe Onhwa Ikseon

Insadong

A stunningly renovated hanok cafe in Ikseon-dong, famous for their amazing soufflé pancakes made fresh to order. The bright, clean, modern interior respects traditional Korean architecture while offering Instagram-worthy aesthetics.

Cafe Onion Anguk

Insadong

A beautifully restored 1920s hanok cafe near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Famous for its Pandoro bread that looks like a snow-capped mountain and cozy traditional Korean architecture blended with modern cafe aesthetics.

Cafe Onion Seongsu

Seongsu

The original Cafe Onion location that transformed an old factory building into Seoul's most iconic industrial-chic cafe. This flagship store in trendy Seongsu-dong, often called "the Brooklyn of Seoul," features stunning exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and vintage industrial elements. Known for exceptional pastries and bread, the cafe draws crowds for both its Instagram-worthy architecture and quality baked goods.

Chompi

Itaewon

A fresh and modern poke bowl restaurant in Hannam-dong that opened in November 2025. Owned by Min Geum-jae, the elder brother of BTS member SUGA, Chompi has quickly become a destination for fans and food lovers alike. The minimalist, stylish interior creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual dining.

Coffee Hanyakbang

Insadong

A hidden gem tucked in a narrow alleyway, this vintage coffee house serves specialty coffee in a space reminiscent of a traditional Korean medicine dispensary from the Joseon Dynasty. Located at the former site of Hyeminseo where physician Heo Jun treated patients, Coffee Hanyakbang offers an atmospheric retreat with traditional wooden interiors, antique medicine cabinets, and excellent pour-over coffee.

Coffee Libre

Hongdae

An award-winning independent coffee shop that started as a small hole-in-the-wall in Yeonnam-dong and has become a beloved destination for specialty coffee enthusiasts. Coffee Libre's dedication to quality and simplicity has earned them annual Blue Ribbon awards, making them one of Seoul's most respected coffee destinations.

Deep Blue Lake Coffee

Hongdae

A striking blue three-story roastery cafe in Mangwon-dong, renowned for Nordic-style light roasting and specialty coffee. The distinctive exterior matches the bright, minimalist interior where coffee enthusiasts can enjoy "tea-like" light roasted beans. Located near Mangwon Market, this neighborhood favorite embodies the trendy Mangridan-gil cafe culture.

Deep Blue Lake Coffee & Roasters

A distinctive specialty coffee roastery in Mangwon-dong, housed in a striking pastel blue three-story building that's hard to miss. Famous for its Nordic-style light roasting technique that brings out the tea-like qualities and natural flavors of premium coffee beans, roasted on a USA-manufactured Loring roaster.

DongBaek Bakery (Ikseon)

Insadong

A famous souffle pancake cafe housed in a beautifully renovated hanok in the charming Ikseon-dong alley. DongBaek Bakery specializes exclusively in coffee, tea, and souffle pancakes, with their matcha and strawberry souffles being particularly popular. The cafe combines traditional Korean architecture with modern cafe aesthetics, creating an elegant atmosphere enhanced by ambient lanterns and traditional elements. Featured on Korean TV shows, it's become a must-visit destination for souffle enthusiasts.

Dongjak Sunset Cafe

Itaewon

A unique cafe located in the middle of Dongjak Bridge with panoramic Han River views. This cafe offers one of the best sunset viewing spots in Seoul, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river. The perfect place to watch the sky turn golden while enjoying coffee or light refreshments.

Drunken Bean

Gangnam

A remarkable NYC subway-themed cafe spanning from B1 to 5th floor, designed to replicate a Manhattan subway station. Complete with authentic turnstiles and detailed recreations of the 55th Street station entrance, this immersive cafe offers coffee, sweets, and incredible photo opportunities in a unique New York-inspired setting.

Due Kkoje Hannam

Itaewon

A beloved Italian restaurant in Hannam-dong serving authentic homemade pasta and Italian cuisine since 2002. This family-run establishment is a local favorite known for its exceptional truffle risotto, fresh handmade pasta, and warm hospitality. The cozy atmosphere and consistent quality have made it a hidden gem among Hannam's dining scene, popular with neighborhood residents and those seeking genuine Italian flavors.

Eatanic Garden

Gangnam

A one-Michelin-star restaurant on the 36th floor of Josun Palace Hotel, offering contemporary Korean cuisine with breathtaking Han River views. Chef Son Jong-won creates innovative, wholesome dishes that blend Korean tradition with modern techniques.

Egg & Flour

Itaewon

A Michelin Bib Gourmand fresh pasta restaurant perched atop Haebangchon with stunning Namsan views. Run by chefs who also operate the Michelin 1-star restaurant Soul, this intimate spot handcrafts daily pasta—capellini, reginetti, tagliatelle, rigatoni, pappardelle—paired with creative Korean-influenced sauces. Window seats at sunset offer an unforgettable dining backdrop of Seoul's skyline.

Fritz Coffee Company Mapo

Seoul's most iconic specialty coffee roaster in a beautifully converted 1960s mansion. Fritz set the standard for Seoul's third-wave coffee scene with their retro Korean aesthetic, excellent roasts, and fresh-baked goods.

GML Dosan

Gangnam

GML (Good Materials for Life) is a unique multi-roaster cafe concept featuring specialty coffee beans from world-renowned roasteries. This second location in Apgujeong's Dosan coffee alley showcases 17 different international specialty coffee roasters under one roof, creating a curated coffee experience. Partnering with Obeor for pastries and desserts, GML offers high-quality baked goods alongside exceptional coffee selections. The modern minimalist space attracts coffee enthusiasts and professionals seeking rare coffee varieties.

Gyeongnidan-gil

Itaewon

A charming street near Itaewon with boutique cafes, brunch spots, and unique lifestyle shops.

Ham's Brot Bakery (함스브로트과자점)

A legendary bakery in northern Seoul run by Master Pastry Chef Ham Sang-hoon, Korea's 8th certified Master Pastry Chef. For over 30 years, this beloved neighborhood institution has been crafting exceptional French-style pastries and breads using traditional techniques and premium ingredients.

The Hanok Smith Likes

A unique Korean-Italian fusion restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated traditional hanok in Samcheong-dong. Selected for the Michelin Guide Seoul 2023, this charming venue blends traditional Korean architecture with contemporary Italian cuisine, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light while maintaining the hanok's historic character.

HBC (Haebangchon) Gastro Alley

Itaewon

A foodie paradise with international restaurants, craft beer bars, and cozy wine spots on the slopes of Namsan.

Hoho Sikdang (Ikseon)

Insadong

A cozy Japanese home-style restaurant in the heart of Ikseon-dong's traditional hanok alleys. Famous for its tender hirekatsu (pork cutlet) and comforting omurice, this warm atmosphere eatery has become one of Seoul's most searched restaurants, offering authentic Japanese comfort food in a traditional Korean setting.

Ichizen

Hongdae

A beloved tendon specialist in Mangwon-dong's trendy Mangridangil street, Ichizen has built a devoted following since opening in May 2017. This small, 14-seat restaurant serves authentic Japanese-style tendon (tempura rice bowls) that rivals anything you'd find in Japan itself. The restaurant's commitment to quality has made it one of Seoul's top two tendon destinations, drawing long queues especially during meal times.

Kim Young Mo Bakery

Gangnam

A legendary Seoul bakery with over 43 years of tradition, representing the pinnacle of Korean French pastry craftsmanship. Founded by master baker Kim Young-mo in the Dogok neighborhood of Gangnam, this institution has earned recognition from Blue Ribbon Survey and remains a beloved destination for discerning pastry lovers.

Koriko Cafe

Hongdae

Step into the magical world of Studio Ghibli's "Kiki's Delivery Service" at this officially licensed themed cafe in Yeonnam-dong. Koriko Cafe meticulously recreates the enchanting atmosphere of the beloved animated film across three whimsical floors, making it a must-visit destination for Ghibli fans and cafe enthusiasts alike.

Kyochon Pilbang

Itaewon

An innovative "chimakase" (chicken omakase) restaurant that elevates Korean fried chicken to fine dining. Kyochon's flagship store features a speakeasy-style entrance and offers both a la carte menu and premium 8-course omakase experience (₩70,000 per person). This unique concept transforms traditional Korean fried chicken into an artful culinary journey, making it one of Itaewon's most talked-about dining destinations.

La Yeon

Myeongdong

One of only two restaurants in Korea to hold three Michelin stars, La Yeon represents the pinnacle of modern Korean fine dining. Perched on the 23rd floor of The Shilla Hotel Seoul, this elegant restaurant offers exquisite royal court cuisine reimagined with contemporary techniques, paired with breathtaking panoramic views of Namsan and the city.

Cafe Layered Yeonnam

Hongdae

One of the most massive and popular cafes in Yeonnam-dong, Cafe Layered has become a destination for scone lovers and vintage French aesthetic enthusiasts. This spacious cafe features charming vintage French-style decor with warm wooden elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Parisian patisserie.

Le Forte

A stunning rooftop dining restaurant on the 12th floor offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Han River. Located in Dangsan, Le Forte specializes in Western cuisine with a focus on Italian dishes including pasta, pizza, and steaks, all served against the backdrop of Seoul's iconic riverscape.

Le Montblanc

Itaewon

A whimsical dessert cafe inside Sinheung Market where yarn becomes art—literally. Housed in a converted 20-year-old knitting factory, this charming spot serves Instagram-famous mousse cakes designed to look exactly like balls of yarn and hand-knit sweaters. The earl grey "yarn" cake and mango "sweater" cake are almost too pretty to eat, served across three floors decorated with colorful threads and a rooftop terrace.

Légume

Gangnam

Asia's first and only Michelin-starred vegan restaurant, Légume showcases Chef Sung Si-woo's innovative plant-based Korean cuisine. This refined dining destination earned its Michelin star through creative vegetable-forward dishes that highlight seasonal Korean produce, offering a sophisticated vegan tasting experience with signature creations like flounder with gochujang-marinated caviar reimagined with plant-based ingredients.

Lowide Coffee Bakery

Gangnam

A charming two-story bakery cafe in trendy Seongsu-dong, famous for its cream-filled salt bread and artisanal pastries. The bright, minimalist interior with large windows creates a welcoming atmosphere near Seoul Forest, making it a perfect spot for brunch and coffee.

Maison Jo

Gangnam

An artisanal French charcuterie restaurant in Seocho led by Chef Ouram Cho, the first Korean to receive France's national certification in charcuterie. Complemented by pastry chef Eunhee Lee's French-honed craft and sommelier Jaehwan Jung's thoughtful wine pairings, Maison Jo delivers authentic French flavors with depth and care.

Mesh Coffee

Seongsu

An intimate specialty coffee roastery and bar where knowledgeable baristas craft exceptional pour-overs and espresso drinks. Despite its small size, Mesh Coffee has made a significant impact on Seoul's specialty coffee scene, with the owners authoring the influential book "Oh Yeah Specialty Coffee."

Mil Toast

Insadong

A wildly popular cafe in the charming Ikseon-dong hanok village, famous for its cloud-like soufflé French toast and steamed milk bread. Housed in a beautifully preserved traditional Korean house, this Instagram-favorite combines heritage architecture with modern dessert culture.

Mingles

Gangnam

Korea's only three-Michelin-star restaurant and ranked #4 on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2025. Chef Kang Min-goo masterfully reinterprets traditional Korean cuisine with modern techniques, creating an unforgettable fine dining experience.

Narrow Path

Itaewon

A hidden gem dessert cafe in Itaewon offering beautifully crafted tarts, buttery financiers, flaky pies, and perfectly caramelized canelés. The cozy, minimalist interior creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying artisanal pastries.

Nishimuramen

Hongdae

A Michelin Bib Gourmand ramen restaurant from Fukuoka that uniquely blends Japanese ramen with French cooking techniques. The signature Kyokai Paitan ramen features a rich chicken-based broth, tender char siu, and aromatic seaweed oil.

Onjium

Insadong

A one-Michelin-star restaurant that's both a culinary research institute and fine dining establishment. Chefs Cho Eun-hee and Park Sung-bae reinterpret traditional Korean royal court cuisine with years of heritage research and modern techniques.

Panid M Moony

Gangnam

A stylish multi-floor bakery cafe in Apgujeong known for its photogenic interior and seasonal decorations. Each floor features different moods and aesthetics, making it a popular photo spot year-round. During Christmas season, the cafe transforms with elegant black ribbon decorations and sparkling tree lights, creating a sophisticated holiday atmosphere.

Perlen HAUS

Hongdae

Perlen HAUS is a unique dessert omakase cafe in Yeonnam-dong offering an elevated coffee and dessert pairing experience. The minimalist interior and concept store atmosphere create an intimate setting for their signature Perlen Pairing Course, where carefully selected desserts are matched with specialty coffee. This reservation-recommended cafe appeals to those seeking a more refined cafe experience beyond typical coffee shops, combining design aesthetics with culinary craftsmanship.

Portrait Coffee Bar

One of Mangwon-dong's most beloved specialty coffee destinations, featuring spacious glass-walled interiors with warm wood-toned design. Known for their signature Coconut Vienna coffee and dedication to quality brewing, making it a favorite spot for both coffee enthusiasts and laptop workers.

Rain Report

Itaewon

Experience the magic of rain indoors at this innovative rain-themed cafe in Itaewon. Rain Report creates an immersive atmosphere where artificial rain falls from the ceiling every 30 minutes for 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy your coffee while watching and listening to the soothing sound of raindrops - rain or shine, 365 days a year.

Saeraul

Hongdae

A serene garden cafe housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Korean home in the quiet Yeonhui-dong neighborhood. Saeraul (새라울) offers a peaceful escape from Seoul's bustling streets, with a charming bamboo garden where you can listen to the soothing sound of flowing water while enjoying your coffee.

Salon Sunra

Insadong

An elegant Italian restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated hanok along the trendy Seosunra-gil in Jongno. Famous for its pollack roe pasta and sophisticated wine selection, Salon Sunra combines Western cuisine with traditional Korean architecture, creating a unique dining atmosphere perfect for special occasions and romantic dinners.

Shuchiku

Elevate your dining experience at Shuchiku, an exquisite Japanese omakase restaurant perched on the 58th floor of the iconic 63 Building. This refined establishment combines traditional Kyoto kaiseki and Tokyo Edomae sushi techniques with breathtaking panoramic views of the Han River and Seoul cityscape, creating an unforgettable culinary journey high above Yeouido.

Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town

Myeongdong

The birthplace of Seoul's instant tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), this legendary food alley has been serving Korea's favorite street food since the 1950s. Home to Mabokrim Halmeoni Tteokbokki, the original restaurant that started in 1953, the street features over 15 tteokbokki restaurants offering various styles of this iconic Korean dish.

Solbam

Gangnam

A Michelin one-star contemporary Korean fine dining restaurant that opened in 2021, earning critical acclaim for its innovative approach to Korean cuisine. Led by Chef Um Tae-joon, who honed his skills at New York's Eleven Madison Park and Seoul's Impression, Solbam presents meticulously crafted seasonal courses that showcase the elegance and depth of Korean culinary traditions through a modern lens.

Somunnan Seongsu Gamjatang

Seongsu

A legendary 24-hour Korean restaurant established in 1983, famous for its deeply flavorful gamjatang (pork bone soup). Located in the trendy Seongsu neighborhood, this local favorite has maintained its reputation for over four decades by serving hearty, authentic Korean comfort food at any hour.

STEREOSCOPE Coffee Apgujeong

Gangnam

American specialty coffee roaster STEREOSCOPE opened its first Korean location in April 2025 at Galleria Department Store's West luxury hall gourmet section. This carefully curated coffee shop brings STEREOSCOPE's renowned American specialty coffee culture to Seoul's upscale Apgujeong district. The minimalist interior design reflects the brand's aesthetic, creating an elegant space to enjoy high-quality single-origin coffees and signature blends from this respected U.S. roaster.

Suyeonsanbang (수연산방)

Insadong

A historic traditional Korean tea house nestled in the hills of Seongbuk-dong, housed in the former residence of renowned writer Lee Tae-jun (pen name Sang-heo). Since 1998, this serene hanok has served as a gathering place for those seeking respite from the city's bustle.

The Royal Food & Drink

Itaewon

A cozy rooftop brunch spot perched high in the hills of Haebangchon with stunning views of N Seoul Tower. The Royal offers rustic industrial vibes, an excellent brunch menu with vegan options, and one of the best terrace views in Seoul. Out of 7 brunch options, 4 are completely vegan, making this an inclusive destination for all dietary preferences.

Tortoise Haebangchon

Itaewon

A charming cafe in Haebangchon known for Japanese-style souffle pancakes with exceptional soft texture and elegant presentation. Tortoise combines quality coffee with specialty desserts in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The cafe features seasonal souffle variations, including peach mochi souffle in summer, alongside classic flavors. Popular for its flat white coffee pairing and relaxed neighborhood vibe that contrasts with the busier areas of Itaewon.

The Truffle Bakery

Itaewon

A viral artisanal bakery in Hannam-dong known for its signature Tissue Bread (티슈 브레드), a labor-intensive pastry with delicate, paper-thin layers reminiscent of a mille-feuille loaf. This trendy spot has gained massive popularity on Korean SNS for its Instagram-worthy pastries and premium baked goods featuring truffle ingredients.

Twelve Minute

Seongsu

A trendy new bakery near Konkuk University inspired by paper mills and the optimal 12-minute timing for enjoying perfectly warmed croissants. The cafe's industrial-chic design and commitment to freshly baked pastries with precise heating instructions have made it a popular spot among university students and locals alike.

TYPE Coffee Hangang

Hongdae

A sophisticated Han River view cafe located on the 5th floor of a building in Sangsu-dong, Mapo-gu. TYPE Coffee Hangang offers a serene escape with panoramic views of the Han River, Yeouido, and the surrounding cityscape. The cafe is particularly stunning during sunset (after 5 PM) when the golden light transforms the Han River into a canvas of warm colors visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Vault Steakhouse

Gangnam

A Michelin-recognized American steakhouse in Cheongdam-dong featuring premium USDA beef and one of Seoul's finest whiskey collections. This sophisticated dining destination combines classic steakhouse excellence with masculine, dimly-lit decor and an impressive selection of nearly 400 whiskey bottles. The restaurant serves hormone and antibiotic-free American beef dry-aged for 14 and 28 days, earning recognition with 2 Michelin knife-and-fork symbols for comfort and quality.

VIEW 376

Gangnam

A stunning rooftop cafe near Apgujeong Rodeo Station offering panoramic views of the Han River. This modern three-story cafe features indoor seating with floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive rooftop terrace, making it perfect for sunset watching and night views of Seoul's skyline.

VIEW 376

Gangnam

A stunning Han River view cafe in Apgujeong-dong that opened in September 2024, quickly becoming one of Seoul's most sought-after view spots. Located at the address 376-1, the cafe's name directly reflects its unique location. With panoramic views spanning from the Han River to Namsan Tower, Lotte Tower, and the Seongsu Trimage, VIEW 376 offers one of the best riverside vistas in the city.

Wicker Park West

Jamsil

A spacious brunch café and specialty coffee shop with stunning views of Seokchon Lake's west side and Lotte World Tower. Part of the trendy Songridan-gil café street near Jamsil, this location offers indoor seating with floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace perfect for enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.

Cafe Yeonmujang

Seongsu

A stylish rooftop cafe perched on the 8th floor of Seongsu-dong's tallest building, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul's trendiest neighborhood. Named after the historic street where Joseon era soldiers once practiced martial arts, Cafe Yeonmujang has become one of Seongsu's most sought-after destinations for its stunning views and sophisticated atmosphere.

Yeonnam-dong

Hongdae

A trendy neighborhood next to Hongdae known for its cozy cafes, indie bookstores, and the beautiful Gyeongui Line Forest Park.

Youhan

Itaewon

A small, chic Thai bistro hidden in the winding alleys of Hannam-dong that earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand selection. Founded by Chef Kim Yu-han, who attended culinary school in Thailand, Youhan brings authentic Thai flavors with a creative twist to Seoul's sophisticated dining scene.