Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Seoul

This is one of the most famous restaurants in Seoul. It is nestled close to the National Theater, which makes it a popular hangout for the art enthusiasts. The chef prepares authentic Korean cuisine and doles out a colorful arrangement of meats and vegetables in the Joseon Dynasty Royal style.

Tucked away in the Gangnam Alley, Jungsik is a great place to enjoy a fine- dining experience. Don’t expect to taste the usual Korean flavors since Chef Jung Sik Yim also utilizes Western culinary techniques for the preparation of authentic Korean delights. Relish a full-course meal and pair it with a glass of exquisite wine. Vegetarian options are also available. Awarded two- Michelin stars, this restaurant features chic interiors and is adorned with beautiful indoor plants that help to create a calm atmosphere. Reservations are highly recommended.

Considered to be among the top 50 restaurants in the world, Ryunique has been wowing diners since 2011. Owned and helmed by Chef Tae Hwan Ryu, this elegant establishment offers a seasonal menu that highlights contemporary French and Japanese cuisines with market fresh Korean ingredients. A beautiful balance of fusion and culinary art, their dishes are sublime and worth all the applause it has garnered over the years since its opening. Complement your meal with wine suggested by their sommeliers. Reservations are highly recommended.

The huge white cube facade doesn't prepare you to what is inside. Si.Wha.Dam Itaewon looks more of a prestigious art gallery than a fine dining restaurant. But it is and among the top of its kind. A part of the Relais & Chateaux, this tastefully done up establishment with antique Korean objects and other artistic installations as decorative elements believes in showcasing food as poetic renditions in bespoke ceramic vessels by renowned Korean artists. The result is like a painting unveiled where seasonal ingredients are used in the canvas to reveal a story. Get bedazzled by the beautiful plates and fall in love with the distinct flavors of their modern Korean cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.

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.

Relish contemporary Korean cuisine at the Michelin star restaurant, Kwonsooksoo. Sooksoo literally means professional chef and in this case it refers to the culinary chef maestro and owner, Chef Kwon Woo Joong. Chef Joong draws culinary inspiration from his family traditions and experiences as a chef. Discover unique flavors since exotic and rare ingredients that are procured from various parts of the country are utilized in the kitchen. Kwonsooksoo also offers an interesting collection of exquisite wines, making it a great option for oenophiles. Reservations are recommended.