Trying to figure out where to eat in Seoul might be an overwhelming dilemma. After all, there seems to be a surplus of delicious eateries to choose from. Over centuries, Korean cuisine has evolved through sordid political and social reforms. These changes are apparent in the birth of temple cuisine, as well as the transitions between various traditional royal court cuisines. Today, Seoul is one of the most exciting places for worldwide foodies to wallop what new chefs have brought to the table, literally and figuratively speaking. Kimchi overload is a blessing, just as much as a fabulous chicken galbi fitting for after hours. Here are some of our personal favorites recommended by locals and frequent travelers.

 

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This modern Korean restaurant is so popular that its team decided to open another location in New York. Headed by chef Yim Jung-sik, Jungsik is a Michelin-star restaurant spotlighting Korean traditional dishes (banchan, gimbap, bibimbap) with a global and modern twist. Chef Yim was trained in New York’s Aquavit and Bouley, as well as Spain’s Zuberoa and Akelarre. On the first floor of the restaurant, diners can enjoy the à la carte menu with a beautiful selection of wine at the conceptual Jungsik Bar.

Chef Mingoo Kang brings his chops from Nobu Miami and creates an innovative tasting menu that changes every week. Expect Korean fermented soy sauce and vinegars (or, “jang“) as celebrated heroes throughout your Michelin-approved meal. They hum proudly in dishes such as charred beef tenderloin with truffle jang sauce. Chef Kang not only travels around the country to discover new and exciting ingredients, he also lives by the motto, “mingling contrast elements into harmony,” which makes Mingles one of the most thrilling places to eat in Seoul.

Managed by a Buddhist nun from the temple across the street, Balwoo Gongyang has earned one Michelin star by giving “temple cuisine” a total makeover. What’s often perceived as boring and flavorless due to the lack of meat and aromatics (garlic, onions, chives…and more,) Balwoo Gongyang’s vegan dishes are rich in taste thanks to red chili and soy bean pastes made at the temple. The restaurant is located on the top floor of Templestay Information Center.

A trip to Korea isn’t complete without a stop at a traditional barbecue restaurant, but not just any ordinary pick. Yido Mansion’s owner Kim Won-il wanted to create a different kind of eatery where guests can interact and taste premium, expensive-cut meats like: deungshim (grilled Sirloin), and aged antibiotic-free organic pork belly. Situated next to National Assembly, Yido Mansion has neither a website nor a Facebook business page, but its own marketing comes from word of mouth since the restaurant oozes a high-quality vibe as much as its meat cooked to perfection by the staff.

Known to serve the best quality of beef, Woo Lae Oak has stood the test of time. It serves fantastic pyongyang naengmyeon (North Korean style’s cold buckwheat noodles) and bulgogi (marinated beef). Both define Korean’s equivalent of soul food, filled with nostalgia from childhood for many locals. Especially for the older generation of Northerners, here is a sentimental reminder of the home they left behind during the war. This family-owned restaurant has been around since 1946. Woo Lae Oak 又来屋 means “House of Many Returns,” and you’ll sure to come back time and time again.

Yongsusan means Dragon Water Mountain – a fitting name for a restaurant serving Korean royal court cuisine. Much of the approach as we know it today derives from Joseon Dynasty from 1392 – 1910. It typically comes with twelve dishes served in bangjja (bronzeware.) Royal cuisine comes with three important elements in excellence: ingredients, culinary techniques, and a chef’s devotion. At Yongsusan, however, the menu is from Gaesong, the former capital during the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392). Often considered as the Golden Age of Korean cuisine, Gaesong dishes are fresh and clean. Make sure to order Eundaegu: a steamed black cod soup.

After a day of shopping in Myeongdong, take a break at Myeongdong Kyoja for handmade knife-cut kalguksu (noodle soup) served in meat broth and vegetables. Myeongdong Kyoja has been in Seoul for more than four decades, and serves up fabulous mandu (dumplings,) bibim guksu (spicy noodles,) and kongguksu (noodles in cold soybean soup). There are two locations in the same area, both offering equal amounts of deliciousness at extremely affordable prices.

This craft brewery and gastropub is where Mr. Ahn made and sold makgeolli containing zero artificial ingredients. Makgeolli is Korea’s mildest type of alcohol that embodies a sweet taste with very low alcohol content. Nowadays, it has become a trendy choice of drink, as many pubs are creating modern dishes to pair with makgeolli. Try the sweet pumpkin brew called, “Moon Shining on a Thousand Rivers.” Food wise, sous-vide chicken on the menu is a great option for those who love a good fried chicken skin.

Yoogane is one of the best chicken galbi restaurants in Korea with more than 130 branches. Galbi is a large pan of spicy stir fried chicken with cheese, vegetables, and rice. Adored by locals, Yoogane is always filled with young folks looking satisfied after a tasty, tipsy, and cheap meal. For 6,000 Won (USD $5), you should try the marinated chicken galbi fried rice doused in gochujang (spicy red pepper paste) with scallions, onions, meat and rice.

Meal° or Meal-do is one of the most popular bakeries in Seoul, known for its cube breads and loaves. For those who love savory, their Japanese curry cube breads are the best sellers. The ones with custard and cream satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. Their plain bread is made with fat-free milk or rich cream, replacing water. After experiences in both Japan and France, chef Jeon Ik-bum concentrates on daily temperature and humidity to create one of the hottest addresses in town.