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The 16 Best Banchan in Seoul

For those looking to experience the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine, exploring the diverse world of banchan in Seoul is a must. These small side dishes are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering a wide range of tastes and textures that truly enhance the dining experience.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, finding the best banchan in Seoul can be a rewarding adventure. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling city.

Embark on a culinary journey and discover the top banchan in Seoul with our list of The 16 Best Banchan in the city.

Our method for this guide

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of banchan in Seoul, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

A few businesses pay to stand out, always after passing our editorial review and with a label that says so.

Top 3Complete listMapHow to pick one

Top of the list

Top picks

Select one to see why it made the list.

#1
Janggane
4.7116 reviews
#2
Nongmin Baekam Sundae
4.5914 reviews
#3
Seowonjuk
4.7566 reviews

Complete list

Browse 16 local options

Janggane, Seoul#1
Notable strengths

  • The homestyle cooking at Janggane is top-notch, with patrons often praising the owner's dedication to preparing all the food.

  • Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of this small restaurant, where they can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine in a casual setting.

  • Many visitors commend the friendly service provided by the staff and how they feel like they are dining at a homey halmeoni-owned eatery.

  • Customers also highlight the affordability of the menu items, with generous portions and great value for the price.

Janggane

4.7116 reviews
57 Jong-ro 1-gil, Junghak-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Janggane is a charming Korean restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. This cozy spot offers a range of delicious options, including homestyle cooking and traditional dishes that have received rave reviews from many patrons.

With a impressive rating of 4.7 and stellar reviews, Janggane is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience delicious Korean food in a cozy and inviting setting.

Nongmin Baekam Sundae, Seoul#2
Notable strengths

  • Delicious and tender meat, intestine, and sundae in a tasty broth

  • Quick and attentive service with a casual and friendly atmosphere

  • Authentic and reasonably priced local food popular among locals

  • Busy place known for its authentic sundae and flavorful dishes

Nongmin Baekam Sundae

4.5914 reviews
33 Namdaemun-ro 1-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Nongmin Baekam Sundae is a renowned Soondae restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. The restaurant offers various dining options including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to all kinds of visitors. Customers can enjoy the casual atmosphere while indulging in the delicious offerings.

The restaurant provides service options such as takeaway and dine-in, allowing flexibility for customers to enjoy their meals. They also accept credit cards for easy payment. One of the prominent features of Nongmin Baekam Sundae is the availability of alcohol and beer, adding to the dining experience.

With a remarkable rating of 4.5 stars based on 914 reviews, Nongmin Baekam Sundae has received high praise from customers. Here are some key points summarized from customer reviews:

Experience the authentic taste of Korea at Nongmin Baekam Sundae and enjoy a delightful dining experience like never before!

Seowonjuk, Seoul#3
Notable strengths

  • Extremely delicious dishes on the menu

  • Warm and efficient service

  • Best seller abalone dish with amazing flavors

  • Small eating place with a cozy atmosphere

Seowonjuk

4.7566 reviews
141 Toegye-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Seowonjuk is a cozy restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea, offering a variety of dining options such as breakfast and lunch. The ambiance is casual and cozy, making it a perfect spot for groups to gather and enjoy a warm meal. Customers can expect a friendly and efficient service that sets this place apart from others in the area.

With a rating of 4.7 stars based on 566 reviews, Seowonjuk has gained a reputation for its delicious dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a satisfying meal in Seoul, make sure to check out Seowonjuk and experience their delectable offerings firsthand!

Buchon Yukhoe Main Store, Seoul#4
Notable strengths

  • Very delicious food. Cow fresh liver is so delicious. Queue to get in, but it's less than 10 minutes wait time.

  • Good meal, suggested to visit early to avoid long queues. Submit waiting numbers via QR code.

  • First time trying raw beef and squid. Loved the heaters for those waiting outside during winter.

  • Despite the long queue, the service was efficient and the raw beef with egg yolk dish was exceptional.

Buchon Yukhoe Main Store

4.41,545 reviews
200-12 종로, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Buchon Yukhoe Main Store is a renowned Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Customers praise the delicious food served, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients and the unique flavors. Some key points from customer reviews include:

The restaurant offers takeaway and dine-in options, making it convenient for customers with different preferences. Additionally, they provide credit card payments and have a paid parking lot available for those driving to the establishment. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5, Buchon Yukhoe Main Store continues to impress visitors with its quality food and inviting atmosphere.

Korean Folk Village, Seoul#5
Notable strengths

  • Great experience with delicious food

  • Unique mix of history, nature, and fun

  • Classy restaurant with fast service

  • Traditional mood perfect for introducing Korean food

Korean Folk Village

4.4100 reviews
49 Insadong 8-gil, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Korean Folk Village is a popular Korean restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Customers can enjoy their meal in a casual atmosphere and even make reservations in advance.

This restaurant is known for its traditional Korean dishes such as spicy beef soup, seafood, kimchi pancake, and bibimbap. Customers rave about the delicious food, great service, and peaceful view from the 4th-floor location.

Overall, Korean Folk Village is highly recommended for those looking to experience authentic Korean cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak, Seoul#6
Notable strengths

  • Authentic Korean food with lots of side dishes and soup.

  • Superb service and quick food delivery.

  • Delicious bulgogi and amazing side dishes.

  • Great value for money and fantastic quality.

Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak

4.6357 reviews
59 Insadong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak is a popular Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. With a rating of 4.6, it is known for its delicious bulgogi and authentic Korean dishes. The restaurant offers dine-in services and has a casual atmosphere that is perfect for groups.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visitors praise the friendly staff and quick service at Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak. From families to solo travelers, many have enjoyed the experience and highly recommend this restaurant for a taste of traditional Korean cuisine.

Banchan-Wang, Seoul#7
Notable strengths

  • Dongne opened a banchan shop. The owner is really kind, and the kimchi and pickled radish are delicious. A great place to stop by for working people.

  • They also offer a Korean buffet for lunch, which is affordable and tasty.

  • Customers appreciate that the food is not too salty, and the water kimchi is also delicious.

  • One reviewer simply said, "Good!" showcasing their satisfaction with the experience.

Banchan-Wang

5.05 reviews
47 Dolgoji-ro 8-gil, Seokgwan-dong, Seongbuk District, Seoul, South Korea

Banchan-Wang is a popular Korean restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. They offer dine-in services with a casual atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for groups looking to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine. Customers have raved about the delicious food and friendly staff, leaving glowing reviews.

With a 5-star rating and positive feedback from patrons, Banchan-Wang is definitely a must-visit spot for those craving authentic Korean flavors in Seoul.

meet banchan, Seoul#8
Notable strengths

  • Delicious and flavorful 반찬, especially the 갈치조림 (galchi jjorim) and 열무김치 (yeolmu kimchi).

  • Clean and homey feel, with a great selection of traditional side dishes.

  • Highly recommended dishes like 게장 (gejang), 묵은지 (mukeunji), and 장아찌 (jangajji).

  • A wide variety of 반찬 to choose from, each one being fresh and tasty.

meet banchan

4.65 reviews
569 Seongsan-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

meet banchan is a popular Korean grocery store located in Seoul, South Korea, offering a range of in-store shopping services. Customers have rated it 4.6 stars out of 5, praising the delicious 반찬 (banchan) dishes and the welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're looking for quality Korean 반찬 to enjoy at home or on the go, meet banchan is the place to visit!

Bannyongsan, Seoul#9
Notable strengths

  • The friendly staff and delicious food

  • The exceptional cold spicy noodles and big dumplings

  • The authenticity of the North Korean style cuisine

Bannyongsan

4.11,273 reviews
26 Teheran-ro 78-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea

Bannyongsan is a renowned Korean restaurant located in Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea. Offering a variety of services like Takeaway, Dine-in, and more, this restaurant caters to all types of diners. The atmosphere is described as Casual, perfect for gatherings with Groups.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Bannyongsan, highlighting:

With a solid rating of 4.1 and over 1200 reviews, this restaurant has become a go-to spot for those craving traditional North Korean dishes. Visit Bannyongsan for a culinary journey through North Korean flavors.

Mapo Naru, Seoul#10
Notable strengths

  • Traditional Korean tavern feel with a great selection of dishes and alcohol.

  • Convenient electronic ordering system and ample portion sizes.

  • Exceptional food quality, especially highlighted dishes like the chicken stew.

  • Warm hospitality and generosity shown by the staff, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Mapo Naru

4.0585 reviews
11 Samgae-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Mapo Naru is a renowned Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. The establishment offers a variety of services and features that cater to different preferences.

Customers can enjoy the dine-in experience or opt for takeaway service, making it convenient for both those looking for a full dining experience and those on the go. In addition, Mapo Naru provides late-night food options for those craving delicious Korean dishes after hours.

One of the key highlights of Mapo Naru is its welcoming atmosphere, described as a traditional Korean tavern feel by satisfied patrons. Despite changes brought about by the pandemic, customers have praised the restaurant for maintaining the quality of its dishes and service over the years.

Here are a few key points summarizing customer reviews:

Sigol Bapsang, Seoul#11
Notable strengths

  • Very nice selection of food, everything ordered was homely and delicious.

  • Great Korean breakfast, very local, and love the family atmosphere.

  • Super friendly staff who make you feel at home, communicate in English and Chinese.

  • Authentic local Korean food with many vegetarian options, highly recommended.

Sigol Bapsang

4.0424 reviews
68 Nonhyeon-ro 175-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea

Sigol Bapsang is a popular Korean restaurant located in the vibrant Gangnam District of Seoul, South Korea. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features that cater to its diverse clientele. Customers can enjoy a cozy dine-in experience with a casual atmosphere or opt for delivery and take their favorite Korean dishes home. Sigol Bapsang also provides alcohol options, including beer, to complement their flavorful meals.

The restaurant has received 424 reviews with an impressive 4.0 rating. Customers have praised Sigol Bapsang for various reasons, including:

These reviews highlight the warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent customer service provided by Sigol Bapsang. If you are looking for an authentic Korean dining experience in Seoul, this restaurant is a must-visit!

Cheongsujeong, Seoul#12
Notable strengths

  • Delicious mussel rice that exceeded expectations

  • Simple menu with generous portions

  • Traditional Korean seating style with friendly staff

Cheongsujeong

3.9434 reviews
91 Samcheong-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Cheongsujeong is a renowned Restaurant in Seoul, South Korea, known for its delectable cuisine and cozy atmosphere. They offer a variety of services such as Dine-in and Alcohol options, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

Customers have praised Cheongsujeong for its flavorful dishes and welcoming environment.

If you are looking to experience authentic Korean flavors and warm hospitality, Cheongsujeong is the place to be!

Arirang, Seoul#13
Notable strengths

  • Arguably the best restaurant in Seoul with superb beef rib and abalone soup.

  • Excellent food quality and proper guidance on eating the meal.

  • Exceptional beef Korean BBQ with top-notch service, even for foreign customers.

  • Great experience with real Korean BBQ samgyupsal and exceptional side dishes.

Arirang

3.9335 reviews
23 Namdaemun-ro 7-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Arirang Korean restaurant is a popular dining spot located in Jung District, Seoul, South Korea. They offer a variety of service options including Takeaway and Dine-in, with a focus on excellent Korean BBQ dishes. Customers have praised the restaurant for its exceptional food quality and welcoming service.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you are craving authentic Korean cuisine or looking for a memorable dining experience, Arirang Korean restaurant is a must-visit spot in the heart of Seoul.

Yugjeubdang, Seoul#14
Notable strengths

  • Great pork Korean BBQ, especially the Black Pork from Jeju Island.

  • Spacious restaurant located near Gwangjang Market, offering delicious barbecue options.

  • Best Korean BBQ in Seoul, with top-notch service.

  • Good food quality and service, a must-visit spot for Korean BBQ enthusiasts.

Yugjeubdang

4.4138 reviews
1층 Yugjeubdang, 육즙당 Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Yugjeubdang is a popular Korean barbecue restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. They offer a variety of service options including dine-in, and their delicious menu includes options for lunch and dinner. Customers can enjoy their meal in a casual atmosphere that is perfect for groups, and the restaurant also accepts reservations. One of the standout features of this restaurant is their late-night food offerings, allowing customers to enjoy flavorful Korean BBQ at any time.

With a rating of 4.4 based on 138 reviews, Yugjeubdang is known for its excellent service and quality food. Here are some key highlights from customer reviews:

If you are looking for a memorable dining experience with mouth-watering Korean BBQ, Yugjeubdang is the place to be!

Chon, Seoul#15
Notable strengths

  • Traditional Korean dishes, nothing extravagant yet very authentic and delicious.

  • Simple version English menu available.

  • Food tasted authentic and delicious, with good value for money.

  • Great place to have a traditional Korean meal.

Chon

3.7258 reviews
19 Insadong 14-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Chon Korean restaurant is a popular spot in Seoul that offers authentic traditional Korean dishes. Customers can enjoy a cozy and casual atmosphere while indulging in delicious meals for lunch or dinner. The restaurant also provides amenities like toilets and accepts reservations for convenience. Patrons have praised Chon for its traditional Korean food, offering a taste of Korean culture in every dish. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Sigol Bapsang Itaewon, Seoul#16
Notable strengths

  • Customers praise the authentic Babsang-style meals offered at Sigol Bapsang Itaewon.

  • Visitors appreciate the 30+ banchan spread that comes with the option to refill, providing a true taste of Korean cuisine.

  • The cozy and traditional atmosphere, complete with friendly staff, makes dining at Sigol Bapsang Itaewon a memorable experience.

Sigol Bapsang Itaewon

3.7430 reviews
235 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea

Sigol Bapsang Itaewon is a renowned Korean restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. With a rating of 3.7 stars from 430 reviews, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Whether you are looking to enjoy a hearty Korean meal or immerse yourself in a cultural dining experience, Sigol Bapsang Itaewon is the perfect destination. Indulge in a variety of dining options such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and savor the assortment of traditional side dishes that have captured the hearts of many patrons. With a welcoming casual atmosphere and ample seating for groups, this restaurant is an excellent choice for any occasion. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to dine at Sigol Bapsang Itaewon and experience the best of Korean cuisine!

Recap

The key facts side by side

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Janggane 4.7116
#2Nongmin Baekam Sundae 4.5914
#3Seowonjuk 4.7566
#4Buchon Yukhoe Main Store 4.41,545
#5Korean Folk Village 4.4100
#6Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak 4.6357
#7Banchan-Wang 5.05
#8meet banchan 4.65
#9Bannyongsan 4.11,273
#10Mapo Naru 4.0585
#11Sigol Bapsang 4.0424
#12Cheongsujeong 3.9434
#13Arirang 3.9335
#14Yugjeubdang 4.4138
#15Chon 3.7258
#16Sigol Bapsang Itaewon 3.7430

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Map of Banchan in Seoul

Discover the delicious banchan offerings in Seoul with this comprehensive map. From traditional kimchi and pickled vegetables to savory pancakes and marinated meats, Seoul is a haven for anyone who loves Korean side dishes. Use this guide to sample the best banchan spots in the city and experience the full range of flavors that Seoul has to offer.

Choosing Banchan in Seoul

  1. Variety of banchan options available.
  2. Quality and freshness of ingredients.
  3. Location and convenience for diners.
  4. Pricing and value for money.

Frequent questions

What is banchan and why is it important in Korean cuisine?

Banchan refers to a variety of small side dishes served alongside rice in Korean cuisine. These dishes are an essential part of a traditional Korean meal and are meant to add color, flavor, and texture to the overall dining experience. In fact, a typical Korean meal can consist of several types of banchan served at once, showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients of Korean cuisine. These side dishes are usually accompanied by a main dish, such as kimchi or bulgogi, creating a balanced and harmonious meal. The importance of banchan in Korean cuisine lies in its ability to enhance the dining experience and showcase the complexity and diversity of Korean flavors. Each banchan is carefully prepared with fresh ingredients and unique seasonings, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Korea. Additionally, the communal aspect of sharing banchan with others at the table promotes a sense of togetherness and strengthens social bonds.

What are some popular types of banchan in Seoul?

In Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, you can find a wide variety of banchan dishes that are unique to the region. Some popular types of banchan in Seoul include kimchi (fermented vegetables), namul (seasoned vegetables), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew). These dishes often feature local ingredients and flavors that are distinct to the city. Other notable banchan dishes in Seoul include gyeran jorim (braised eggs), kongnamul muchim (seasoned soybean sprouts), and gamjajorim (braised potatoes). These side dishes are commonly served in restaurants and homes throughout Seoul, adding depth and variety to the dining experience. The combination of these banchan dishes with steamed rice creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Where can you find the best banchan restaurants in Seoul?

When visiting Seoul, there are numerous restaurants and eateries that specialize in serving delicious banchan dishes. Some of the best places to enjoy authentic banchan in Seoul include traditional Korean restaurants, street food stalls, and market vendors. These establishments often source fresh, locally-grown ingredients to create flavorful and memorable side dishes. If you're looking for a special dining experience, consider visiting a renowned banchan restaurant in Seoul that offers a wide selection of side dishes made with care and attention to detail. These restaurants may also provide an opportunity to learn more about the history and preparation of banchan in Korean cuisine. Whether you're a food enthusiast or a casual diner, exploring the diverse flavors of banchan in Seoul is a rewarding culinary experience.

Can you eat banchan on its own or is it meant to be eaten with other dishes?

Banchan is typically served as a part of a Korean meal and is meant to be enjoyed alongside other dishes, such as rice, soup, and main courses. The variety of banchan side dishes allows diners to mix and match flavors and textures to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Each banchan complements the other dishes on the table, enhancing the overall dining experience. While it is possible to eat banchan on its own as a snack or appetizer, its true value shines when paired with other dishes to create a harmonious meal. The combination of flavors from the main course, rice, and banchan dishes creates a symphony of tastes that is unique to Korean cuisine. So, the next time you enjoy a Korean meal in Seoul, don't forget to savor the diverse flavors of banchan alongside the other dishes on your table.

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