Seoul is a great place for food lovers, offering the 10 Best Cafés and Restaurants in Seoul that mix old traditions with new ideas. You can visit busy markets like Gwangjang, known for tasty pancakes, and also explore fancy places like Mingles, which boasts Michelin stars. In 2025, Seoul’s food scene is both creative and full of history.
Key Takeaways
Café Onion Anguk mixes old history with tasty modern treats.
Mingles offers fancy food with unique Korean flavors and a Michelin star.
Gwangjang Market is great for street food like mung bean pancakes.
Top 5 Must-Visit Cafés in Seoul
Café Onion Anguk
Visit Café Onion Anguk, where old meets new. This café is inside a restored hanok, a traditional Korean house. It’s a quiet spot away from the busy city. Their famous pastries, like the soft pandoro with powdered sugar, are delicious. The calm courtyard is great for enjoying coffee and the historic vibe. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring Seoul’s best cafés.
Perlen Haus
Perlen Haus is perfect for coffee and design fans. This café is also a concept store with simple, stylish products. Their sesame latte, topped with whipped cream, looks and tastes amazing. The modern vibe makes it a great place to relax or take cool photos for your trip.
Fritz Coffee
Fritz Coffee serves some of the finest coffee in Seoul. The café has a retro style and loves quality coffee. You’ll smell fresh beans as soon as you enter. The skilled baristas make every cup with care. Try their buttery croissants with a hot Americano for a tasty treat.
Koriko Cafe
Koriko Cafe is a cozy spot for readers and coffee lovers. The wooden furniture and bookshelves make it feel warm and inviting. The New York subway-themed décor adds a fun twist. Their caramel macchiato is sweet and bold, a perfect mix. It’s a relaxing place to visit after sightseeing.
Sulbing Myeongdong 1st
For a sweet snack, head to Sulbing Myeongdong 1st. This café is famous for bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert. Their mango cheese bingsu is a favorite, with mango, cheesecake, and fluffy ice. It’s a cool and tasty treat you must try in Seoul.
Top 5 Must-Visit Restaurants in Seoul
Mingles
Mingles mixes old and new Korean cooking styles. This Michelin-starred spot uses fresh, local ingredients in creative ways. Their seasonal tasting menus are full of unique flavors. Each dish looks beautiful and tastes amazing. If you want fancy dining with Korean flair, visit Mingles.
Jungsik
Jungsik changes how people see Korean food. It’s famous for “New Korean Cuisine” and has two Michelin stars.
Year | Rating | Restaurant Name |
|---|---|---|
2018 | 2 Stars | Jungsik |
2025 | 2 Stars | Jungsik |
Their bibimbap and desserts are both tasty and creative. The classy setting is great for special dinners or celebrations.
Gwangjang Market Food Stalls
Gwangjang Market is a dream for food lovers. Open since 1905, it’s now a top spot for street food.
It started as a textile market but grew into a food hub.
Vendors sell traditional dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).
Mr. Kim, a longtime vendor, adds charm to the market.
The busy vibe and variety of foods make it a must-see in Seoul.
La Yeon
La Yeon is all about elegance and tradition. Found in The Shilla Seoul, it serves fancy Korean dishes. With two Michelin stars, it’s one of the best in Seoul.
Restaurant Name | Stars |
|---|---|
La Yeon | 2 |
Kwonsooksoo | 2 |
Mingles | 2 |
Soigné | 2 |
Alla Prima | 2 |
Jungsik | 2 |
Joo Ok | 2 |
Kojima | 2 |
Enjoy dishes that honor Korean history while looking at city views. It’s a meal you’ll always remember.
Maple Tree House
Maple Tree House is perfect for Korean barbecue fans. They serve top-quality meats in a cozy setting. Try their marinated beef or pork belly, grilled at your table. The friendly staff and tasty food make it a hit with locals and visitors. It’s a fun place to share a meal with family or friends.
Seoul’s cafés and restaurants in 2025 are amazing.
Their looks and vibes are one of a kind. Visitors love their time there and want to return.
The food scene is very competitive, so quality stays high.
Studies show that a nice setting makes people happier. This makes Seoul’s 10 Best Cafés and Restaurants a must-see for food fans.
Key Facts | Information |
|---|---|
Food tourism rise | |
What visitors like | Mix of old and new styles |
Whether you live in Seoul or are visiting, these places offer a great mix of history and modern food fun.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit these places?
Most cafés and restaurants open in the morning. They stay busy until late. For fewer crowds, go early or on weekdays.
Do they have options for special diets?
Yes, many places have vegetarian or gluten-free choices. Check menus or ask staff for help with your needs.
Can I book a table at these restaurants?
Yes! Fancy spots like Mingles suggest making reservations. For casual places, you can usually just walk in.
💡 Tip: Use apps like Naver or Kakao to check times and reserve tables quickly.