Are you looking for dining spots as you plan your trip to Korea? Korea is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse and vibrant dining scene that caters to every taste. From traditional hanok-inspired eateries to trendy bars and casual bagel cafes, the options are endless. On my recent trip, I explored some incredible spots that left a lasting impression, and I’m excited to share them with you. Whether you’re a foodie, a casual diner, or a traveller on the hunt for Instagram-worthy meals, here are the Top 5 Korean dining spots you cannot miss.
#1 of 5 Korean Dining Spots: Ikseon Chihyang
Location: Ikseondong Hanok Village
Nestled in the picturesque Ikseondong Hanok Village, Ikseon Chihyang is a gem for pasta lovers. Korea’s love affair with pasta is no secret, but this spot takes it up a notch with a minimalist menu of just six dishes. Each dish is a masterpiece; my favourite was the spicy cream pasta with pork belly. Unlike most cream pastas, this one wasn’t overly rich, making it light enough to finish the whole plate—a rarity for me. Pair it with one of their refreshing fruity ades, and you have the perfect lunch.
Why visit: Beyond the exceptional food, the cozy, hanok-inspired interiors create a peaceful dining experience, perfect for escaping the city’s bustle. The small, intimate setting ensures a quiet meal—ideal for friends, families, or couples.
Pro Tip: Arrive slightly before lunchtime to avoid the crowds. Walk-ins are generally possible during off-peak hours, and you’ll have the chance to capture stunning food photos in this hanok-themed ambiance.
#2 of 5 Korean Dining Spots: Sinsajeon
Location: Sinsa-dong, Gangnam District
For fans of makgeolli (Korean rice wine), Sinsajeon is a must-visit bar. Known for its generous servings of real honeycomb as a pairing for the makgeolli, this spot is a crowd favourite. While the honeycomb’s sweetness might not suit everyone’s taste, a balanced portion pairs perfectly with a glass of their premium makgeolli.
The menu also features traditional Korean dishes, including jeon (savoury pancakes). Although I found their meat pancake a bit greasy—likely due to having a heavy dinner beforehand—the bar’s ambiance kept me hooked. With its warm lighting and wooden interiors reminiscent of traditional hanok, it’s the perfect setting for a casual hangout or a romantic late-night date.
Pro Tip: Explore their variety of jeon options to find one that suits your taste. The vibe here is lively, with chatter from surrounding tables adding to the excitement of starting a great evening.
#3 of 5 Korean Dining Spots: Sotnaeum at Coex Mall
Location: Coex Starfield Mall, Gangnam District
If you’re nearby or planning to shop till you drop at Coex Starfield Shopping Mall, don’t miss Sotnaeum, a newly opened restaurant specialising in “premium” stone pot rice. The extensive menu features everything from seafood options like octopus and eel to their crowd-favourite steak cubes. I’ve tried the steak cubes twice, and each time, I loved the interactive experience of transferring the rice from the stone pot and pouring roasted rice water for a second serving. It’s uniquely Korean and absolutely worth capturing on video.
Why visit: Located conveniently opposite the Coex Aquarium exit, it’s the perfect pit stop for a meal after a day of fun. The food is presented beautifully, making it both Instagram and taste bud-approved.
Pro Tip: Avoid the lunch crowd to skip the long queues. If you’re a seafood lover, their octopus and eel dishes are top-notch choices.
#4 of 5 Korean Dining Spots: Jangin Dakgalbi
Locations: Myeongdong and Hongdae
For a hearty and affordable meal, Jangin Dakgalbi is a revelation. This spot specialises in dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), and the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours is unmatched. Pairing the chicken with melted mozzarella cheese elevates the dish to a whole new level. A pan for two costs around $24 and is incredibly filling—though my boyfriend and I couldn’t resist adding a bowl of rice for extra carbs.
Why visit: The Myeongdong outlet offers a quieter experience, while the Hongdae branch is more vibrant, located along the bustling dining street. Jangin Dakgalbi provides a complimentary self-bar with various sides to complement your meal.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the pickled radish from the self-bar, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add instant noodles to your dakgalbi for an indulgent twist.
#5 of 5 Korean Dining Spots: Local Villa Bagel
Location: Itaewon
As a bagel enthusiast, Local Villa Bagel was a dream come true. Conveniently located near Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, this cosy cafe offers a variety of bagels and delicious coffee. Their pretzel bagel became my ultimate favourite—I returned four times just to have it! For those with bigger appetites, the bagel-based menus, like the scrambled egg and sausage, are must-tries.
Why visit: The relaxed and social vibe makes it a great spot for couples and friends, though you might also find a few individuals working remotely. Their vanilla latte is a standout, pairing perfectly with any bagel.
Pro Tip: While the bagels cost around $8-10, they are generously sized and worth every penny. Grab a seat by the window for a cozy, picturesque dining experience.
Why These Spots Stand Out
Each of these top 5 dining spots in Korea offers a unique experience, from cosy hanok-inspired interiors to interactive meals and indulgent desserts. Whether you’re exploring the traditional flavours of Korean rice wine, enjoying the DIY fun of stone pot rice, or simply savouring a perfect bagel, these spots cater to every palate and occasion.
Tips for Dining in Korea
- Plan Ahead: Popular spots like these can get crowded during peak hours, so aim to visit slightly earlier or later for a more relaxed experience.
- Try Local Pairings: Whether fruity ades with pasta or makgeolli with jeon, the right pairing can elevate your meal.
- Capture the Moment: Many of these spots are as visually appealing as they are delicious, so don’t forget to snap some photos for your memories (and social media!).
Final Thoughts
From hanok-inspired dining to hearty Korean classics and trendy cafes, these top 5 Korean dining spots offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, these recommendations promise unforgettable meals and experiences. Have you tried any of these spots, or do you have others to recommend? Follow me on @leblissfulescape—let’s exchange foodie tips and make every dining moment in Korea count!
