A Culinary Journey Through Seoul
The Korean culinary scene is diverse, combining traditional ingredients with imported flavors and experimental fusions. With so many quality restaurants in Seoul, visitors are likely to stumble upon delicious mom-and-pop shops. However, if you would like some direction, here are some of my favorites for both solo dining and gatherings with friends.
Breakfast
Most Koreans eat similar foods for breakfast as they do for lunch and dinner; rice, soup, and banchan (side dishes) are staples. Thus, breakfast spots tend to merge with regular eateries. Nonetheless, Western-style breakfast and brunch have gained popularity, particularly for weekend meals. An excellent choice is the Australian brunch café Sunday Arvo, tucked away in the hilly alleys south of Namsan Park. It serves delightful eggs benedict and blueberry pancakes.
You’ll also notice that bagels are trending in Seoul, with SF Bagels in Yeonnam leading the way. Known for its delicious, daily-made organic sourdough bagels with cream cheese spreads and fruit compotes, this spot doesn’t offer seating—making it ideal for a takeout picnic in nearby Yeontral Park.
Coffee
Coffee can be found everywhere in Seoul, with a variety of concept cafes to suit any mood. For those seeking a good brew, locations like Le Cafe in Haebangchon offer a cozy atmosphere with just a few tables and a friendly owner-barista, providing a perfect escape from a busy day. Meanwhile, Coffee Nap Roasters in Yeonnam boasts a uniquely designed space that flows charmingly into the seating area.
Another notable mention is Fritz Coffee Company, which has multiple locations and is well-known for its quality coffee and delectable pastries. Don’t forget to try their famous ham and cheese croissant. Lastly, visit the original location of Anthracite Coffee in Hapjeong to savor the bold Butter Fat Trio, noted for its rich notes of dark chocolate and nuts.
Lunch
For a homestyle Korean lunch, visit Nan in Hapjeong, which offers a simple set daily menu that includes a main dish, rice, and banchan. Alternatively, Myeongdong Kyoja is a reliable choice for its delicious kalguksu, the best knife-cut noodles in Seoul.
When in Haebangchon, don’t forget to stop by either Morococo or Casablanca Sandwicherie, located directly across from each other. Both serve up some of the most delightful North African bites in the city, featuring Moroccan-spiced chicken, lamb, shrimp, and vegetarian options, all served in a casual walk-in setting.
Snacks
Korean street food is captivating, and indulging in treats from sidewalk vendors is an unmatched experience. For tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), visit Sindang Tteokbokki Town, which has been a hub for this dish since the 1970s. If you crave twikim (deep-fried vegetables), make your way to Gongdeok Market. Moreover, snacks like mandu, kimbap (rice rolls), gyeranppang (egg bread), and hotteok (sweet-filled pancakes) are easily found in Myeongdong, Hongdae, or any traditional market like Namdaemun, Gwangjang, and Tongin.
Dinner
Seoul’s dinner options range from hearty, satisfying meals to Michelin-starred experiences, all at reasonable prices. Enjoy a 17-hour simmered bone-broth soup at Imun Seolnongtang, located down a quiet alley in Jongno-gu. Alternatively, savor North Korean-style cold buckwheat noodles at Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon, or indulge in handmade dumplings at Gaeseong Mandu Koong and K-BBQ at Geumdwaeji Sikdang, which does not accept reservations.
Another highlight is Sinheung Market, a former textile center that has transformed into a bustling dining scene. For Thai cuisine, Pad Ka Paw is a top pick for its gorgeous chive pancakes, while its equally impressive sister restaurant, Ginn Laoo, run by the charismatic Sriprateep Paw, is also worth a visit.
Bar
Korean alcohol is currently experiencing a renaissance, with bars, distilleries, and bottle shops across the city showcasing intriguing twists on traditional beverages. For a delightful experience, Mr. Ahn’s craft makgeolli on Gyeongridan is a must-visit, featuring a seasonal menu of anju (snacks served with drinks) that provide modern twists on traditional Korean cuisine. Furthermore, Namsan Sool Club serves nearly 100 different varieties of Korean craft alcohol by the glass.
The vibrant Seoul bar scene features intimate, speakeasy-style settings where innovative cocktails take center stage. Some notable hidden bars include Myeongdong Sookhee (located behind a mirror), Jean Frigo (accessible via a refrigerator door near Dongdaemun Market), The Storage Room (behind The Cheese Salon in Seongsu), Boxing Tiger (down an unmarked stairway in Sinsa), and Le Chamber (concealed behind a bookcase in Cheongdam).
