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).

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.

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.

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.

Jinuh Tuna (진어참치)

Hongdae

A hidden gem in Yeonnam-dong's residential alleys, run by a "tuna doctor" with 30 years of experience, serving premium bluefin tuna with various rare cuts including belly, gills, and reproductive organs.