One of the most popular restaurants in the city, Soigné features an elaborate menu inspired by cuisines from all over the world. Its basic yet elegant interiors include warm color tones, exquisite furniture and a warm atmosphere that sets the mood perfectly for a laidback meal. The brainchild of Chef Jun Lee, this restaurant incorporates contemporary American, French and Italian influences into Korean cuisine to offer a unique yet delectable dining experience. The menu changes seasonally, so you can expect a different experience each time you choose to dine at this brilliant restaurant. You need to make reservations ahead of time and deposit money that will be included within your bill after your meal. They willingly adjust according to allergies and dietary restrictions and make all arrangements before your visit. The staff are well mannered and explain every little detail.
In operation since 1996, this Italian restaurant offers a memorable alfresco dining experience. Designed in the style of a lavish Korean palace, the restaurant makes fresh spaghetti daily, and prepares delicious Italian cuisine from all natural ingredients. Enjoy pasta, pizza, or steak at reasonable rates. Complete your meal with glass or two of wine. The view of the buzzing Taehakro area is stunning, especially at night.
Located beside Hongik University, a meal at this restaurant is a special treat for students in the area. A popular dish here is gaminabe, which is cooked in a paper pot. Amazingly, the paper container does not burn in the cooking process. The interior of the restaurant is simply decorated with wood features. While there is nothing special about the decor, the food is a different story. For great value try Set Menu A which contains salad, porridge sashimi, eel with wasabi, Philly cheese with avocado sushi, broiled salmon, udon, and ice cream.
Established in the 1950s, this cafe now sports a Retro 1970s look. It is a popular hang-out for university students and young adults as well as middle-aged Koreans wanting to relive the past. Hakrim will delight anyone who is tired of bland modern cafes and seeking something a little different. Enjoy a coffee, or a meal for a very reasonable price. Come and experience the food, drinks and time-warp, Korean-style.
During the Chosun Dynasty (1392-1910), people had to go through a gate to get inside Seoul. There were eight gates placed around the city. Featuring breath—taking views, this restaurant created its own ninth gate to be part of the decor. Apart from the gate, other eye—catching aspects of the restaurant are a big stone, Korean traditional drums and the garden that surrounds all of these. This is the oldest French restaurant in Korea. Capitalizing on its long history, the chefs offer authentic and delicious dishes. Special recommendations include an eight-course lobster meal.
Leave the crowds behind and escape the chaos with Irodori, a Japanese restaurant that not only offers good food but also privacy to enjoy your meal. This place boasts of six private rooms with Tatami mats and service that's truly Japanese. And for those who have a liking for Teppanyaki, there are special tables reserved for this culinary delight. Seat yourself in an authentic Japanese ambience and indulge in food that's well worth the money.