Seoul, where ancient palaces overlook futuristic skyscrapers, offers a vibrant blend of tradition and modern luxury. The culinary landscape ranges from Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy to humble street stalls serving age-old recipes. Speakeasy bars and wine lounges thrive amid dynamic nightlife, marrying Korean ingredients with global mixology trends. Accommodations span century-old hospitality reborn in modern splendour to chic lifestyle hotels. This guide showcases authentic Seoul—highlighting local heritage, flavours, and design, steering clear of typical tourist traps, inviting discerning travellers to experience the city’s true essence.
Pro Tip: Navigating Seoul with Ease
Seoul’s extensive and efficient subway system is the best way to explore the city, with colour-coded lines and English signage making navigation straightforward for international visitors. Apple Pay is recieved at most places and can generally be used across shops. While taxis are affordable, drivers may not speak English, saving the Korean names of destinations on your phone or using apps like Uber and Naver Map (in English) helps avoid confusion. Most major attractions, from palaces to shopping districts, are within walking distance of subway exits. Avoid rush hour if possible, and wear comfortable shoes, Seoul’s urban terrain includes hilly areas and long station transfers.
WHERE TO EAT: FINE DINING IN SEOUL
Seoul’s fine dining scene combines meticulous culinary artistry with a deep reverence for Korean heritage and produce. Michelin-starred chefs fuse traditional Korean ingredients with global techniques, creating sophisticated dining experiences that narrate the country’s gastronomic story.
7th Door
Innovative Korean cuisine exploring fermentation
7th Door, helmed by Chef Kim Dae-chun, delves into the world of fermentation and ageing with scientific precision. Awarded one Michelin star and ranked No. 40 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, the restaurant presents a progressive tasting menu conceptualised as seven metaphorical doors—each representing a different stage of flavour development. Dishes such as abalone in aged soy broth and grilled fish with fermented chilli showcase deep, layered umami. The sleek, dimly lit space sharpens focus on the culinary journey, while the chef’s philosophy bridges ancestral Korean methods with contemporary gastronomy. 7th Door is both an education in fermentation and an elegant, introspective dining experience.
Allen
Michelin two-starred Korean terroir with French finesse
Restaurant Allen, led by Chef Allen Suh, is a modern fine dining destination that bridges Korean ingredients with French techniques. Having earned two Michelin stars, the restaurant epitomizes technical excellence and seasonal sensibility. Each tasting menu is composed of refined dishes like hanwoo beef with sea salt and micro-seasonal garnishes. The ambiance is calm and minimalist, allowing diners to focus fully on the food and accompanying wine pairings. While not yet on Asia’s 50 Best list, the restaurant is quickly becoming one of Seoul’s most talked-about destinations thanks to Chef Suh’s precision and ingredient-focused ethos.
Born & Bred
Hanwoo beef omakase rooted in butcher heritage
Born & Bred, situated in the Majang-dong butcher district, offers a beef-only omakase experience steeped in family butchery traditions. It is listed on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 extended list at No. 51. Led by Chef Jung Sang-won, the restaurant specializes in premium hanwoo beef, with dishes like top blade steak and yukhoe topped with caviar. Interiors echo a vintage gentlemen’s club with dark woods, leather, and low lighting. Diners are guided through each cut’s origin and preparation, transforming the meal into a masterclass in Korean beef. This educational yet luxurious approach sets Born & Bred apart.
Eatanic Garden
Botanical fine dining driven by Korean fermentation
Perched atop Josun Palace, Eatanic Garden offers a fermentation-led tasting experience by Chef Son Jong-won. The restaurant earned one Michelin star and is ranked No. 25 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, receiving the Highest New Entry Award. Dishes like grilled eel with mountain herbs and hanwoo beef in fermented cauliflower purée reflect the chef’s commitment to native Korean flavours and techniques. Eatanic Garden’s unique no-menu approach means every meal is led by seasonality and storytelling, delivered with poetic service. The setting, high above the city with panoramic views, adds a layer of serenity and grandeur to the experience, making it both immersive and memorable.
Giwakang
Modern Korean comfort elevated by artisan condiments
Chef Kang Minchul’s Giwakang reimagines Korean comfort food through a fine dining lens. Awarded one Michelin star, the restaurant showcases condiments by revered artisan Ki Soon-do to deepen the flavour profiles of dishes like bibim guksu and soy-marinated crab with truffle. The tasting menu is compact but impactful, changing seasonally to highlight the best of Korea’s produce. Interiors feature soft lighting and understated Korean design motifs, creating an intimate setting for a deeply flavourful journey. Chef Kang’s culinary voice is distinctly Korean, yet forward-looking, making Giwakang a compelling stop for those seeking innovation rooted in tradition.
Kwonsooksoo
Refined Korean cuisine rooted in artisan tradition
Kwonsooksoo, led by Chef Kwon Woo-joong, offers a deeply personal interpretation of traditional Korean cuisine. Holding one Michelin star and ranked No. 86 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, the restaurant draws on age-old recipes and ingredients sourced from regional artisans. Dishes such as abalone juk and hanwoo beef with jang sauces are plated with minimalist precision, honouring both form and flavour. The interiors blend Korean woodwork with contemporary aesthetics, reflecting the restaurant’s philosophy of harmonising past and present. Each course is served with context and reverence, inviting diners to explore Korea’s culinary heritage through a modern, fine-dining lens.
Mingles
Contemporary Korean cuisine with global accolades
Mingles, led by Chef Mingoo Kang, is a cornerstone of modern Korean fine dining. With three Michelin stars and ranked No. 5 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, the restaurant harmoniously blends traditional Korean flavours with global techniques. Signature dishes include jang-aged duck and classic “mingling” sauces that explore the country’s fermented heritage. The interiors are understated yet elegant, creating a calm, sophisticated environment for diners. Chef Kang’s philosophy is grounded in innovation, seasonality, and respect for Korea’s culinary legacy, making Mingles a touchstone for Seoul’s fine dining renaissance. The wine list, curated to complement Korean flavours, further enhances the experience for gourmands and international travellers alike.
Onjium
Michelin-starred revival of Joseon-era royal cuisine
Onjium, located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, serves as both a culinary and cultural institution. Holding one Michelin star and ranked No. 10 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, the restaurant focuses on rediscovering and refining royal Korean court cuisine. Led by a team of historians and chefs, Onjium’s dishes include pheasant broth naengmyeon and soy-braised beef, each served with historical context. The minimalist interiors are punctuated with antique cookbooks and hanbok fabrics, reinforcing the connection to Korea’s aristocratic past. The multi-course tasting menus change with the seasons and are presented with narrative storytelling, offering diners a journey through Korean heritage as much as through taste.
Soigné
Narrative-driven seasonal menus
Soigné, the brainchild of Chef Lee Jun, presents themed tasting menus known as ‘Episodes’. Recently ranked No. 57 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 extended list and recipient of a Michelin star, the restaurant builds each menu around a specific story or emotional motif. Dishes such as kimchi ravioli and persimmon sorbet reflect Chef Lee’s playful yet precise style. The open kitchen format invites diners into the creative process, while wine pairings are chosen to enhance the evolving narrative. Intimate and artful, Soigné offers one of the most unique culinary experiences in Seoul, balancing originality with deep-rooted Korean sensibilities.
Solbam
Nature’s symphony on a plate
Solbam, helmed by Chef Eom Tae-jun, blends naturalistic inspiration with meticulous technique. Ranked No. 55 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 extended list and holding one Michelin star, the restaurant is a modern expression of Korea’s diverse landscapes. Drawing from his experience at Eleven Madison Park, Chef Eom crafts dishes such as mussel extract with abalone, barley, and foraged herbs. Each course follows a contemplative rhythm, designed to evoke specific emotions and memories. The minimalist interior, reminiscent of a gallery, encourages mindfulness and focus on the food. Solbam’s seasonal approach and ingredient sourcing philosophy elevate it as a beacon of refined Korean dining.
The Great Hong Yuan
Luxurious Cantonese dining with Korean influence
Located inside Josun Palace, The Great Hong Yuan is one of Seoul’s most elegant Cantonese restaurants, led by Chef Yip Wing Wah. Awarded one Michelin star, it presents traditional Hong Kong-style dishes enriched with premium Korean ingredients. Menu favourites include crispy Korean blue crab and meticulously roasted Peking duck. The interiors, designed by Humbert & Poyet, feature jade tones, gold accents, and expansive city views. Dim sum service is highly polished, with a menu that respects classical technique while.
WHERE TO EAT: CASUAL EATS AND LOCAL DELIGHTS IN SEOUL
Seoul’s casual dining venues offer unpretentious, authentic experiences. From bustling barbecue joints to specialty seafood spots, these eateries highlight everyday Korean cuisine prepared with tradition and passion.
Gold Pig (Geumdwaeji Sikdang)
Iconic charcoal-grilled pork belly
Gold Pig serves succulent samgyeopsal grilled tableside over charcoal, accompanied by bubbling kimchi jjigae and a spread of traditional banchan. This beloved eatery, awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2019, continues to draw long queues of locals and tourists alike. The unassuming setting hides a kitchen devoted to quality, where the pork belly’s crispy edges and juicy centres steal the show. Staff attentively assist with grilling, ensuring guests experience the pork at peak flavour and texture. The scent of smoke, the sizzle of meat, and the tangy fermented sides create an immersive Korean barbecue experience rooted in authenticity and flavour.
JL Dessert Bar
Innovative Korean desserts
Chef Justin Lee’s JL Dessert Bar redefines dessert dining in Seoul. The intimate space seats guests at a counter, offering a dessert-only degustation paired with teas or cocktails. Each course showcases seasonal Korean ingredients in imaginative forms—think black sesame mousse with perilla and reimagined patbingsu with milk snow and condensed dongchimi. The presentation is artful and refined, yet grounded in familiar tastes. Chef Lee’s training in fine dining is evident in the precision and balance of textures and flavours. JL Dessert Bar offers a fresh, localised take on the dessert bar concept, making it an essential stop for pastry lovers and culinary explorers.
Pro Soy Crab
Renowned ganjang gejang specialist
Pro Soy Crab has been a mainstay of Seoul’s seafood scene since 1980, perfecting the art of ganjang gejang—soy-marinated raw crab. Revered by locals and tourists alike, the restaurant’s crabs are marinated for days in a house-made soy brew rich in umami. Served with seaweed rice balls, the silky texture and salty-sweet balance of the dish has earned it legendary status. The spacious, no-frills interior is always abuzz with diners cracking claws and scooping roe. Despite its popularity, quality remains consistently high. For those seeking an unvarnished taste of Korea’s seafood heritage, Pro Soy Crab remains a quintessential experience.
Sancheong Charcoal Garden
Smoky black pork BBQ in retro Euljiro
Sancheong Charcoal Garden is tucked away in Euljiro, known for its maze of retro eateries and workshops. The restaurant specialises in Jirisan black pork, grilled over real charcoal for an unbeatable smokiness. The pork is thickly sliced and well-marbled, yielding a juicy bite with each turn on the grill. Sides include raw garlic, perilla leaves, and fermented vegetables, rounding out a robust meal. The interior channels a 1980s Korean diner, complete with chrome stools and vintage signage. Staff grill for diners, enhancing the experience with precision and pace. This is a place where time slows down, and flavours linger long after.
Sinuijuchapssal Sundae Myeongdong
Traditional sundae and gukbap mastery
Sinuijuchapssal Sundae stands as a proud torchbearer of Korea’s blood sausage tradition. The signature chapssal sundae is filled with glutinous rice and glass noodles, delivering a chewy, savoury bite that pairs perfectly with their hearty gukbap—a pork bone soup rich with depth. The fried sundae offers a crisp alternative, while sides like fermented shrimp paste and sesame salt intensify the experience. The space is casual and community-driven, bustling with regulars who appreciate honest food done right. For those unfamiliar with sundae, Sinuijuchapssal offers a gateway into one of Korea’s most beloved yet underappreciated comfort dishes.
Sooksung Boosim
Doenjang-aged pork BBQ excellence
Sooksung Boosim is renowned for its signature doenjang-aged samgyeopsal, a unique method where pork is aged in fermented soybean paste to intensify umami. Located in Gunja-dong, the restaurant presents thick-cut pork belly grilled at the table and served with kimchi stew, perilla leaves, and fried rice. The aging process lends a nutty complexity and tenderness to the meat. The restaurant maintains a low-key, neighbourhood charm, with warm lighting and attentive service. What sets Sooksung Boosim apart is its dedication to technique and flavour, turning a humble barbecue into a deeply satisfying and memorable Korean culinary experience.
WHERE TO DRINK: RAISE YOUR GLASS AT SEOUL’S BEST BARS
Seoul’s bar scene has matured into one of Asia’s most dynamic, where creative bartenders blur the lines between tradition and innovation. From hidden speakeasies to futuristic mixology labs, the city’s best cocktail bars offer a rich tapestry of storytelling, flavour, and style.
Alice Cheongdam
A whimsical wonderland hidden behind a florist
Alice Cheongdam offers meticulously crafted drinks served theatrically in potion bottles. Signature cocktails like Cheshire’s Smile blend gin, Korean pear, and tea, making it one of Seoul’s most intriguing speakeasy experiences. The playful décor, rabbit motifs, and clock-themed accents transport guests into a fantasy-inspired setting, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, while bartenders provide personalised storytelling for each creative concoction. Ranked No. 45 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024, Alice remains one of Seoul’s most talked-about drinking destinations.
Carbonic Bar
Effervescent sophistication
Carbonic in Hannam is devoted to the art of bubbly beverages, serving inventive sparkling cocktails and grower champagnes. Drinks like cava with yuja and cilantro showcase a playful use of carbonation, complemented by creative chocolate pairings. The vibrant pastel décor and casual atmosphere provide an approachable alternative to the city’s typically moody speakeasies, making Carbonic an ideal spot for casual yet refined socialising. It was recently added to 50 Best Discovery for its innovative concept.
Gong-Gan
Tradition and storytelling in a Hanok setting
Gong Gan, located in a restored hanok near Anguk Station, seamlessly blends Korean heritage with contemporary mixology. The bar’s cocktail programme draws on personal and cultural narratives, crafting drinks like Wind-bell—featuring Calvados, black sesame falernum, and pomegranate citric solution—served in a chiming cup to evoke childhood memories. Another signature, Connected Circle, uses Pungjeongsagye and pineapple to explore the symbolism of soju and hospitality. The serene, minimalist interior surrounds a central glass courtyard, offering a calm yet immersive experience. Committed to sustainability and inclusivity, Gong Gan also upcycles ingredients into bar snacks. It is ranked No. 89 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024.
Kiez
Retro Hamburg meets modern Seoul
Channeling the spirit of 1950s Hamburg, Kiez blends German influences with Korean creativity in a sultry, red-lit basement setting. Cocktails such as the smoky Red Lantern, combining bourbon and cherry, demonstrate experimental flair alongside drinks featuring Jägermeister and local herbs. Plush velvet sofas and vintage posters set a relaxed yet distinctly eclectic mood, perfect for an offbeat evening. Though not part of 50 Best, Kiez is a cult favourite among Seoul’s industry insiders.
Le Chamber
Timeless Gatsby glamour
Le Chamber, a pioneer of Seoul’s speakeasy culture, is concealed behind a bookshelf entrance. Antique decor, live piano music, and expertly mixed cocktails such as the Vieux Carré establish its reputation for sophisticated vintage glamour. Drinks are artfully presented in smoke-filled decanters or antique books, enhancing the exclusive and luxurious ambiance of this beloved drinking destination. It has been featured multiple times on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list and remains a benchmark of Seoul’s cocktail excellence.
The Mix Lab
Molecular mixology laboratory
The Mix Lab in Sinsa combines scientific precision with mixology, employing advanced techniques like sous-vide, centrifuge, and distillation. Guests seated at the interactive bar watch as bartenders craft inventive cocktails such as the Seoul Sour and clarified Old Fashioneds using Korean ingredients like nuruk. The welcoming atmosphere invites cocktail enthusiasts to explore and experience cutting-edge drink innovation. The bar is gaining attention as a potential future entry to Asia’s 50 Best.
Pine & Co
Innovative cocktails in a retro Seoul setting
Tucked away in Apgujeong-dong, Pine & Co offers a nostalgic journey to Seoul’s 1980s and 1990s, blending retro ambiance with cutting-edge mixology. The bar’s name reflects its ethos: ‘Pine’ symbolizes longevity, while the pineapple represents warm hospitality. Inside, guests encounter a cozy environment featuring low leather couches, flickering candles, and bookshelves adorned with curios. The service bar resembles a mad scientist’s lab, equipped with vacuum packing machines, a rotovap, and sous vide technology, showcasing the team’s commitment to innovative cocktail creation. Signature drinks like the ‘Kimchi Cocktail,’ inspired by white kimchi and topped with sweet potato foam, and ‘Ant Love Corn,’ a tequila-based cocktail complemented by edible ants, highlight the bar’s inventive approach. Sustainability is also a priority, with efforts such as repurposing spent coffee grounds from local cafés into flavorful cocktail ingredients. Pine & Co’s dedication to creativity and sustainability earned it the No. 50 spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024.
Villa Records
Vinyl tunes and whiskey elixirs
Villa Records uniquely merges a vinyl music bar with a sophisticated cocktail lounge, inspired by jazz, funk, and soul genres. Drinks creatively reinterpret classic cocktail formulas with Korean influences, enjoyed alongside curated whiskey flights. The carefully selected vinyl playlist enriches the relaxed, mid-century lounge setting, offering patrons a refined, leisurely drinking experience. Though under the radar, Villa Records has gained critical acclaim and a loyal following.
Vinology Wine Bar
Wine and Korean fusion
Vinology in Cheongdam serves an extensive global wine selection complemented by Korean-inspired dishes designed for pairing. Signature bites like jeon enhanced with truffle or succulent gochujang-glazed short ribs harmonise effortlessly with the sommelier-selected wines. The knowledgeable and approachable staff facilitate a relaxed yet insightful exploration of wine, making Vinology a favoured spot among Seoul’s wine enthusiasts. While focused on wine, its thoughtful approach to pairing places it within Seoul’s broader drinks culture.
Zest
Zero-Waste, Maximum Flavour
Zest leads Seoul’s sustainable cocktail movement, meticulously crafting zero-waste beverages from house-distilled spirits and local ingredients. Signature cocktails like No Coconut Here creatively reinvent classics using Korean rice spirits and fermented fruits. The minimalist, laboratory-like setting encourages guests to engage with bartenders who passionately share each cocktail’s unique story, highlighting Zest’s commitment to both sustainability and exceptional flavour. Zest is ranked No. 18 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 and won the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award.
WHERE TO STAY: AFFORDABLE AND LUXURY RETREATS IN SEOUL
Seoul’s hotels combine modern sophistication with historical charm, offering luxury experiences complemented by impeccable service and unique amenities. Each venue encapsulates a distinct facet of Seoul’s cosmopolitan allure.
Aloft Seoul Gangnam
Modern comfort in a trendy district
Located in the heart of Seoul’s fashionable Gangnam district, Aloft Seoul Gangnam provides contemporary accommodations with convenient access to popular attractions. The hotel is just a short distance from landmarks such as Namsan Tower and Starfield COEX Mall, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers. Guests can enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, a well-equipped fitness centre, and on-site dining options, including the signature ARTICHOKE restaurant and the self-serve Re:fuel by Aloft. The hotel’s vibrant design and tech-savvy features cater to a modern, youthful clientele seeking a stylish stay in Seoul.
Grand Hyatt Seoul
Luxury amidst natural beauty
Perched on the slopes of Mount Namsan, Grand Hyatt Seoul offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the city and the Han River. The hotel features 615 rooms and suites, each designed with stylish interiors accented with Korean cultural inspiration. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options across the hotel’s nine restaurants and bars, enjoy leisure facilities such as indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and the expansive Club Olympus fitness centre. Its central location provides easy access to popular districts like Itaewon and Myeongdong, making it a favoured choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and proximity to Seoul’s vibrant urban life.
Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
Timeless elegance in the heart of Gangnam
Situated in Seoul’s upscale Gangnam district, Josun Palace seamlessly blends over a century of hospitality experience with modern luxury. The hotel occupies floors 27 to 35, offering guests unobstructed views of the city. Each of the 254 rooms and suites features chic art deco design and state-of-the-art amenities. Dining options include upscale Korean cuisine and a Cantonese restaurant, while the 1914 Lounge & Bar pays homage to the original Chosun Hotel. Additional facilities encompass a rooftop pool deck, fitness centre, and spa. Its prime location places guests steps away from premier shopping and entertainment venues, such as COEX Mall and Apgujeong’s fashion boutiques, making it an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking sophistication and convenience.
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