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The 16 Best Traditional Korean Restaurants in Seoul

For those seeking an authentic taste of Korean cuisine, Seoul's traditional restaurants offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the country. From hearty stews to sizzling barbecues, these eateries provide a feast for the senses that will leave any food lover satisfied.

Whether you are a local looking for a nostalgic taste of home or a traveler eager to experience the flavors of Korea, traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul offer a wide range of dishes to satisfy your cravings. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the best spot. Here are some key points to consider when making your decision:

Embark on a culinary journey through Seoul with our list of The 16 Best Traditional Korean Restaurants in the city. Explore, taste, and enjoy the flavors of Korea at these top dining destinations.

How this guide is ordered

Whether you live in Seoul or are just passing through, these traditional Korean restaurants were chosen to make your search easier: skilled at what they do, praised by their customers, simple to track down and never too far away.

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#1
Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store
4.72,167 reviews
#2
Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store
4.63,941 reviews
#3
Hangaram
4.5863 reviews

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Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store, Seoul#1
What stands out

  • The grilled beef is very delicious and fresh, with excellent service.

  • The two-person beef combo is delectable and the restaurant is conveniently located.

  • The smoky and flavorful BBQ meats consistently meet high standards across branches.

  • The staff are accommodating and attentive, providing an amazing dining experience.

Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store

4.72,167 reviews
45 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store is a well-known Korean barbecue restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. This establishment offers a range of services including Takeaway and Dine-in options for customers to enjoy their delicious food. The restaurant features a cozy and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and groups to dine together.

With a remarkable rating of 4.7, based on 2167 reviews, it is evident that customers have had positive experiences at Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store.

If you are looking for a top-notch Korean BBQ experience in Seoul, Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store is definitely worth a visit!

Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store, Seoul#2
What stands out

  • The BBQ meat is delicious with nice cuts and a charcoal flavor.

  • The staff is friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience.

  • High-quality meats, quick service, and a wide array of side dishes make this place a must-visit for Korean BBQ enthusiasts.

Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store

4.63,941 reviews
26 Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store is a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. With a rating of 4.6, it is clear that customers have only positive things to say about this establishment. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including dine-in experiences, ensuring that patrons can enjoy their meal in a cozy and casual atmosphere.

Whether you are a local or a traveler, Wangbijip is the perfect spot to indulge in some of the best Korean BBQ dishes in town. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor succulent meats expertly grilled to perfection while enjoying top-notch customer service.

Hangaram, Seoul#3
What stands out

  • An exceptional meal with simple clean food that is delicious and accompanied by tasty sides.

  • Outstanding experience with delicious food, generous portions, and excellent service despite the language barrier.

  • Top-notch service, generous portions of sides, and accommodating staff, especially to solo diners.

  • Authentic Korean meal with a wide variety of banchan and heartwarming service, making it a memorable dining experience.

Hangaram

4.5863 reviews
25 Namdaemun-ro 5-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Hangaram is a Korean traditional full course meal restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. They offer a variety of services such as kerbside pickup, delivery, takeout, and dine-in options. The restaurant has a casual and cozy atmosphere, making it family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly. Hangaram accepts reservations and credit cards for payment convenience. They serve alcohol and beer, making it a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, and dessert.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

La Yeon, Seoul#4
What stands out

  • Meticulous execution of dishes with top-notch ingredients

  • Culinary artistry and dedication to traditional Korean cuisine

  • Exceptional service and stunning views of Namsan Tower

  • Sublime dining experience that justifies its Michelin stars

La Yeon

4.5737 reviews
249 Dongho-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

La Yeon is a renowned Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea, offering a unique dining experience that combines traditional flavors with contemporary finesse. The restaurant provides a range of services including dine-in options in a cosy atmosphere, making it perfect for groups and individuals alike.

Customer reviews rave about the impeccable service and exquisite dishes available at La Yeon. Some key points from reviews include:

Whether you are looking for a remarkable dining experience or a special place to celebrate an occasion, La Yeon promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave you impressed. Book your reservation today to savor the flavors of Korea in an elevated setting.

korean restaurants Honey table ggulbabsang, Seoul#5
What stands out

  • The set menu is absolutely delicious with huge portions and great value for money.

  • English-speaking staff provide helpful explanations of the menu.

  • The banchan is a standout, with a wide variety and vibrant colors.

  • Generous portions and delicious home-style cooking make for a satisfying meal.

korean restaurants Honey table ggulbabsang

4.687 reviews
101 Samcheong-ro, Samcheong-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Honey Table GGulbabsang is a popular Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. This restaurant offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy their meal in a casual atmosphere that is family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly.

The menu at Honey Table GGulbabsang includes delicious dishes like Bibimbap served in a sizzling stone pot, and a variety of banchan. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and great value for money. Customers appreciate the helpful and patient staff who are willing to explain the menu in English.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visit Honey Table GGulbabsang to experience authentic Korean cuisine in a cozy and welcoming setting.

Jungsik Seoul#6
What stands out

  • Unforgettable dining journey through Korean cuisine.

  • Two Michelin Stars well deserved with incredible tasting menu.

  • Exceptional contemporary Korean dining experience with attentive staff.

  • Amazing food, friendly staff, and visually pleasing ambiance.

Jungsik Seoul

4.41,431 reviews
11 Seolleung-ro 158-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea

Jungsik Seoul is a renowned Korean restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including dine-in and delivery, along with a range of offerings such as alcohol, beer, cocktails, and vegan options.

Patrons can enjoy a delightful dining experience with options for lunch and dinner in a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant also provides amenities such as a bar on site and free Wi-Fi.

According to the 1431 reviews available, Jungsik Seoul has an outstanding rating of 4.4 stars. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

RAON, Seoul#7
What stands out

  • Customer Review 1: "One of the best Authentic Korean BBQ. Great service where the waiter cooks right in front of you. Delicious food, albeit slightly expensive."

  • Customer Review 2: "Great Korean BBQ dishes, perfect location, and very friendly staff. Enjoyed our dinner here on the first day of our vacation in Korea."

  • Customer Review 3: "Very attentive service with professional grill skills. Clean toilets and budget-friendly options available. Tasty beef dishes!"

  • Customer Review 4: "High-quality meats cooked for you, attentive staff, and a great variety of side dishes. A recommended dining experience!"

RAON

4.4345 reviews
62-20 Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

RAON Restaurant in Seoul offers an array of services and features to ensure a delightful dining experience. Customers can choose from dine-in or takeaway options, and the restaurant also accepts reservations for those who prefer to plan ahead. The casual atmosphere is perfect for both individuals and groups looking to enjoy a delicious meal. RAON provides an extensive menu with vegetarian options and a selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine. With clean amenities and attentive service, guests can relax and savor the authentic Korean BBQ dishes without any worries.

Korean Folk Village, Seoul#8
What stands out

  • Experience mixes history, nature, and fun, worthwhile visit for all ages.

  • Delicious spicy beef soup, seafood, kimchi pancake, and cold but tasty bibimbap.

  • Great views and fast service with a classy restaurant atmosphere on the 4th floor.

Korean Folk Village

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

Korean Folk Village is a well-loved Korean restaurant in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. Customers rave about the delightful experience of walking around in nature and enjoying the various workshops, museum, souvenir shops, and food offerings at this unique theme park. Here are a few key points from their customer reviews:

If you're looking to introduce someone to Korean food or simply enjoy a traditional meal in a clean and kind environment, Korean Folk Village is the place to be!

Korea House, Seoul#9
What stands out

  • Customers have praised the traditional Korean tea experience, with delightful desserts like the omija jelly stick.

  • Visitors appreciate the ambiance, music, dance performances, and the opportunity to explore the grounds.

  • Some guests have noted disappointment with the food quality, describing bland dishes and unsatisfactory experiences.

Korea House

4.31,833 reviews
10 Toegye-ro 36-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Korea House is a renowned establishment in Seoul, South Korea, offering a truly authentic Korean traditional full course meal dining experience. With a rating of 4.3, based on 1833 reviews, customers have shared their experiences at Korea House.

At Korea House, guests can enjoy services like dine-in and explore amenities like the cozy atmosphere and accessible facilities. The restaurant also offers reservations and accepts credit card payments. If you're looking for an authentic Korean dining experience with cultural elements, Korea House is a must-visit destination.

Hoban, Seoul#10
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the delicious Korean sausage stuffed in intestines and the flavorful butterfish stew.

  • The cozy and welcoming atmosphere of Hoban creates an unforgettable dining experience.

  • Visitors recommend trying the mouth-watering sundae and the delectable butterfish stew, paired perfectly with cold fresh beer.

Hoban

4.3463 reviews
20 Samil-daero 26-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Hoban is a renowned Korean restaurant located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. This hidden gem has received a total of 463 reviews with an impressive rating of 4.3. Customers have praised this establishment for its authentic and tasty Korean dishes that capture the essence of traditional Korean cuisine.

Experience the real Korean vibe at Hoban and indulge in a culinary journey like no other. Plan your visit today and savor the rich flavors of Korean cuisine at this authentic restaurant.

Myeongdongjeong, Seoul#11
What stands out

  • First full experience for Korean food, friendly staff, and accommodating service.

  • Nice and relaxing restaurant with private dining rooms, offering a variety of dishes at reasonable value.

  • Authentic Korean cuisine with a delightful royal feast experience.

  • Spectacular royal dining experience with a good choice for authentic Korean cuisine, given variety and price.

Myeongdongjeong

4.2511 reviews
South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Samil-daero, 299 Insid Parking Place Beside Sejong Hotel 이화빌딩 주차장내 Myeongdongjeong, 1층

Myeongdongjeong is a renowned Korean traditional full course meal restaurant located in South Korea, Seoul. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful dining experience for their customers. With offerings such as Takeaway and Dine-in, customers can enjoy their flavorful dishes at the convenience of their choice. The restaurant provides an Alcohol selection including Beer, Spirits, and Wine. Customers have praised the Lunch and Dinner options, along with the pleasant Atmosphere that creates an inviting dining environment.

Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari, Seoul#12
What stands out

  • Love the fresh and tender chicken, clear broth, and friendly service.

  • Great value for money, but sometimes a long wait.

  • Authentic and flavorful traditional dish, highly recommended.

  • Basic meal with a unique atmosphere but slightly overpriced.

Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari

4.17,187 reviews
18 Jong-ro 40ga-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari is a popular chicken restaurant in Seoul, South Korea, known for its delicious chicken soup. Customers have rated it 4.1 stars based on 7187 reviews. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you dine-in or get takeaway, Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari promises a casual and trendy atmosphere, perfect for groups looking to enjoy some late-night food and drinks. Don't miss out on this local favorite!

Samwon Garden Restaurant, Seoul#13
What stands out

  • Easily the best restaurant in Seoul with incredible sukiyaki that was tender and flavorful.

  • Consistently excellent taste, service, and atmosphere over the past 35 years.

  • Efficient and friendly service staff with perfectly cooked seafood pancake, cold noodles, and beef.

  • Traditional Korean food at its finest with fresh ingredients, refined banchan, and a very welcoming venue.

Samwon Garden Restaurant, Seoul

4.11,516 reviews
835 Eonju-ro, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea

Samwon Garden Restaurant in Seoul is a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant that offers a variety of service options such as No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant prides itself on being wheelchair-accessible with amenities like toilets and a cosy atmosphere. Customers can enjoy a range of offerings including Alcohol, Beer, Spirits, and Wine, perfect for pairing with their Lunch or Dinner options.

With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 1516 reviews, Samwon Garden has received high acclaim from its customers. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Korean Restaurant Doore, Seoul#14

Korean Restaurant Doore

4.184 reviews
5-24 Insadong 4-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Korean Restaurant Doore offers an authentic experience of traditional Korean full-course meals in the heart of Seoul. With a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of old Korean houses, customers can enjoy a unique dining experience. Their menu includes a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Korean cuisine.

The restaurant provides dine-in services, accepting reservations for both lunch and dinner. Customers have praised the quality of the food and the attentive service. Some have described the restaurant as a hidden gem in the popular Insa-dong area, offering a delightful culinary journey. One visitor highlighted the beauty and taste of the traditional Korean food, urging others to give it a try. Another reviewer mentioned the high price point and average quality, but overall, the positive reviews outweigh the negative ones.

If you're looking to explore the flavors of Korean gastronomy, Korean Restaurant Doore is a must-visit destination in Seoul.

Traditional Korean Restaurant, Seoul#15
What stands out

  • This restaurant taste is not awesome and any different from other restaurants but! You going there? You have to learning Korean drink culture

  • I'm in super bad mood now,

  • Good value for the price

  • Excellent service and food quality

Traditional Korean Restaurant

3.912 reviews
10, Gangnam-daero 97-gil, Seocho District, Seoul, South Korea

Traditional Korean Restaurant is a beloved spot in Seoul, South Korea, offering a mix of Takeaway and Dine-in options for its customers. The warm and Casual Atmosphere attracts groups looking to enjoy traditional Korean cuisine. Customers appreciate the option to make reservations and pay with credit cards.

Reviews:

Nammaejib, Seoul#16
What stands out

  • This bbq pork place was popular among the Thai cabin crews and the Thai princess have visited. The pork is flavorful but the menu could use more variety.

  • Very traditional Korean BBQ setting that resembles scenes from Korean dramas. The meat is well marinated and delicious.

  • Good traditional Korean BBQ pork with decent prices, popular among Thai tourists.

  • Customers have found the restaurant to serve tasty pork and beef dishes for the Korean bulgogi.

Nammaejib

3.9354 reviews
41 Namdaemun-ro 1-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Nammaejib is a Korean barbecue restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea. They offer both dine-in and delivery services, with a casual atmosphere perfect for groups. Customers can enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, while indulging in delicious pork and beef dishes.

With a rating of 3.9 stars, customers have shared their experiences at Nammaejib:

If you're looking for a place to enjoy quality Korean barbecue in a friendly atmosphere, Nammaejib is the place to visit!

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store 4.72,167
#2Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store 4.63,941
#3Hangaram 4.5863
#4La Yeon 4.5737
#5korean restaurants Honey table ggulbabsang 4.687
#6Jungsik Seoul 4.41,431
#7RAON 4.4345
#8Korean Folk Village 4.4100
#9Korea House 4.31,833
#10Hoban 4.3463
#11Myeongdongjeong 4.2511
#12Granny Jin Ok-hwa Original Dakhanmari 4.17,187
#13Samwon Garden Restaurant, Seoul 4.11,516
#14Korean Restaurant Doore 4.184
#15Traditional Korean Restaurant 3.912
#16Nammaejib 3.9354

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Map of Traditional Korean Restaurants in Seoul

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Seoul with our comprehensive map of traditional Korean restaurants. From cozy mom-and-pop eateries serving up hearty bibimbap to upscale dining establishments offering exquisite hanjeongsik multi-course meals, this map will guide you to the best spots to savor the flavors of Korea's rich food culture.

How to choose Traditional Korean Restaurants in Seoul

  1. Authenticity of dishes.
  2. Quality of ingredients.
  3. Ambiance and decor.
  4. Service and hospitality.
  5. Location and convenience.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular traditional Korean dishes I can try at restaurants in Seoul?

When dining at traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul, there are several must-try dishes that you should not miss. Some popular options include bulgogi, which is thinly sliced marinated beef grilled to perfection, kimchi jjigae, a spicy and flavorful kimchi stew, and bibimbap, a mixed rice dish served with an assortment of vegetables and a fried egg on top. Other classic Korean dishes you should try include galbi (marinated grilled ribs), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables and meat), and samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). Be sure to also sample some traditional Korean side dishes known as banchan while dining in Seoul's restaurants to get a taste of the country's diverse culinary offerings.

How can I find traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul that cater to foreigners?

If you're looking for traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul that cater to foreigners, there are several ways to find them. One option is to look for restaurants with English menus or staff who can speak English to help you navigate the menu and order your food. You can also search online for recommendations from fellow travelers on platforms like TripAdvisor or Yelp, where you can read reviews and see photos of the dishes served at different restaurants. Another option is to join a food tour in Seoul, where a guide can take you to some of the best traditional Korean restaurants in the city that cater to foreign visitors.

What is the typical dining etiquette at traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul?

When dining at traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul, it's important to observe certain dining etiquette practices. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the dining area and sit on floor cushions or at low tables. Additionally, it is polite to wait for the eldest person</b at the table to start eating before you begin your meal. To show respect, use both hands when receiving or giving items, such as dishes or utensils. Remember to refrain from blowing your nose</b at the table and try to keep noise to a minimum while dining.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at traditional Korean restaurants in Seoul?

While traditional Korean cuisine is heavily based on meat dishes, there are still vegetarian and vegan options available at many restaurants in Seoul. Some popular dishes that are typically vegetarian or can be easily modified to be vegan include kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), and bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables). Many traditional Korean restaurants also offer tofu dishes that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and vegans. Some restaurants may even have separate vegetarian or vegan menus, so be sure to ask the staff for recommendations. Alternatively, you can search online for vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Seoul before your visit.

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