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).
Gangnam
Balwoo Gongyang (발우공양)
A prestigious Michelin one-star restaurant specializing in authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine. Located on the 5th floor of the Temple Stay Information Center directly across from Jogyesa Temple, Balwoo Gongyang offers a refined dining experience rooted in 1,700 years of Korean Buddhist culinary traditions. The restaurant serves beautifully presented, completely plant-based cuisine that excludes the five pungent aromatics (garlic, onion, green onion, leeks, and chives) in accordance with Buddhist dietary principles. Each dish reflects the philosophy of mindful eating and respect for nature, presented with exquisite attention to detail. This is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic cultural dining experience and a deeper understanding of Korean temple food traditions.
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 11:00 PM daily.
Buddha's Belly
Itaewon
Since opening in 2005, this authentic Thai restaurant in Itaewon has become a Blue Ribbon award winner. Staffed entirely by Thai chefs including a 5-star hotel veteran, it delivers genuine Bangkok flavors in the heart of Seoul.
Cheongdam The Table
Gangnam
An exclusive fine dining restaurant opened in January 2025 by a Michelin-starred chef, featuring contemporary Korean cuisine with an innovative twist. This intimate establishment offers a sophisticated dining experience with meticulously crafted tasting menus that showcase the best of Korean ingredients.
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.
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.
El Loco
Seongsu
A sophisticated Spanish dining experience in the heart of trendy Seongsu-dong. El Loco brings authentic Spanish flavors to Seoul with signature dishes like honey cod, charcoal-grilled octopus, and creative churros gnocchi. The restaurant features a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for date nights or wine-focused dinners. Their carefully curated wine selection complements the Mediterranean-inspired menu, offering corkage-free service on most days (excluding Saturday evenings).
Glow Seongsu
Seongsu
A groundbreaking global culinary village in Seoul's trendiest neighborhood, showcasing flavors and cultures from around the world. Glow Seoul transformed their showroom into this innovative culinary curation venue that brings together diverse international food and beverage brands under one vibrant roof.