If you are looking for the best Korean BBQ restaurant in Seoul, look no further than Mongtan which specialises in straw-grilled aged beef short ribs and pork neck.

The waiting time at Mongtan can be as long as 2-3 hours, but trust us, it is definitely worth the wait. We’ve also included tips on how you can get a table at Mongtan.

Located within walking distance from exit 8 of Samgakji Station near Itaewon, Mongtan is one of the most popular Korean BBQ restaurants in Seoul, with locals and tourist alike flocking here to try their famous straw-grilled aged beef short ribs.

A 280-gram whole beef rib is marinated and grilled in the kitchen over a straw fire with charcoal.

After which, the staff skillfully cooks it on a hot sizzling plate at the table before cutting it into small pieces.

The Udae Galbi was tender, juicy and absolutely stunning; this was the best meal that we had during our recent trip to Seoul.

They offer several dipping sauces and wasabi to go along with the beef short ribs.

And if you still have space for more food, Mongtan also serves Straw-Grilled Pork Neck (17,000 won for 150g). We didn’t get the Pork Neck as we ordered additional portions of the Udae Galbi.

Complete your meal with their solid Doenjang-Jjigae (8,000 won). The other dishes on the menu are Soondubu Stew (8,000 won), Spicy Onion Fried Rice (5,000 won), and Cold Noodles (8,000 won)

How to get a spot at Mongtan:

They open for lunch at 12pm, but the queue starts as early as 10am. Mongtan doesn’t allow reservation and you have to queue up to put your name on the waiting list. If you do not have a local Korean number, just let the staff know and they will indicate it on the waiting list. However, that will mean that they will not be able to call you once the table is ready.

The restaurant informed us that they might call us earlier and we would have to get there within 10 mins or they will give up the table for someone else.

We reached the restaurant at 11am and we were told that our table would be ready at 1pm. We eventually got our table at 1.10pm.

The 2-3 hours waiting time may sound scary, but instead of waiting at the restaurant, you can hang around and explore the nearby neighbourhood after putting your name on the waiting list. You can also choose to get a table for dinner and come back later.

You have to check out Mongtan, one of the best Korean BBQ restaurants in Seoul!

Mongtan
50 Baekbeom-ro 99-gil
Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

There is no denying that Korean pop culture is extremely influential—both in Korea and across international borders—as we are seeing a rapid increase in Korean pop groups, dramas and movies these few years. Love it or hate it, the Kpop wave does not seem to be slowing down and we are expecting it to grow even more in the future.

Besides being in the entertainment industry, some A-list Korean pop idols have been venturing into the F&B industry and opened their own cafes and restaurants. Of course, that would make these places a must-visit for fans of these Korean celebrities!

So for all those who are a fan of Kpop, here are 7 Celebrity-Owned Cafes And Restaurants In Seoul you have to hit up.

Photo Credit: Manager Hyung

#1 BIG BANG SEUNGRI’S AND HERE

Managed by Big Bang member Seungri’s mother, And Here is a two-story cafe located in Daehakro area. The spacious coffee shop is visited by not only fans of this Kpop idol, but also tourists who are travelling to Korea.

The cafe features a small stage on the second level where guests can expect performances from time to time and a display of merchandises such as notebooks and pens.

90 Dongsung-gil, Jongno-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 744 8464
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Hyehwa

Photo Credit: Kpop Map

#2 EXO CHANYEOL’S VIVA POLO

EXO Chanyeol’s parents certainly know how to please the fangirls—there are childhood photographs of this popular Kpop star and his sister that are being displayed in the restaurant. Besides that, you can also take a look at real autographs by the extremely popular boy band too.

This cosy Italian restaurant is where you can indulge in a range of pasta and risotto dishes. For those who are looking for something special, some of the dishes are infused with Korean recipes such as the Kimchi Arabiatta Pasta.

312-86 Myeongil 1(il)-dong, Gangdong-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 442 7885
Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Myeongil

Photo Credit: Soompi

#3 EXO KAI’S KAMONG

Operated by EXO Kai’s sister, KAMONG is a modern cafe where young crowd hangs out at. The name ‘KAMONG’ is actually a combination of the Kpop celebrity’s name and his pet dog—Kai and Monggu respectively.

Unlike other celebrity-owned cafes that feature photographs of the idol, the only few things there that will remind you of Kai are the drawings and messages that are made by him. Some highlights on the menu include their signature waffles, muffins and a neat selection of coffee options.

1678-4 Seocho 1(il)-dong, Seocho-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 522 5949
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Seoul National University Of Education

Photo Credit: MollaKorea

#4 HAHA’S LOCO QUAN 401 BBQ RESTAURANT

As a cast of the famous Running Man variety show, HAHA needs no further introduction. His Korean BBQ restaurants in Myeong-dong and Hongdae have welcomed fans from all over the world and also locals who are craving for the restaurant’s signature Jeju Black Pork.

Other classic KBBQ dishes you can expect there include Pork Belly, Pork Cheek Meat and Collar Butt Pork Steak. Otherwise, the restaurant also has Korean sides such as Bean Paste Noodles and Kimchi Stew.

41 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 325 0805
Daily: 11am – 1am
Nearest Station: Myeong-dong

Photo Credit: One Hallyu

#5 MISS A SUZY’S CAFFE SOO

Caffe Soo in Gwangju province is a gift from Miss A’s Suzy to her parents back in 2013. The entire cafe is dedicated to this Korean idol, with large posters of her plastered on windows and walls.

While most themed cafes charge exorbitant prices, Caffe Soo is known for offering wallet-friendly cafe fare in generous portions.

14-25 Usan-dong, Buk-gu
Gwangju, Seoul, South Korea
Daily: 9am – 10pm

Photo Credit: Park Shin Hye International Community

#6 PARK SHIN HYE’S LITTLE TIN DRUMS

The best place to catch a glimpse of Park Shin Hye who starred in hit dramas such as Pinocchio and Doctors is at Little Tin Drums—a Korean restaurant run by her parents in Gangdong-gu.

The famous actress is said to dine at the restaurant frequently but there is an unspoken rule that diners are not allowed to take photographs with her in the restaurant. Some of the signature dishes include barbecued beef and pork intestines and other grilled Korean delights.

548-3 Seoul Gangdong-gu, Seonae-dong
Seoul, South Korea
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Gangdong-gu Office

Photo Credit: Andiekp

#7 SUPER JUNIOR YESUNG’S MOUSE RABBIT

Near to Kokuk University, Mouse Rabbit is a cosy three-story cafe co-owned by Super Junior Yesung and his brother. True to its name, the basement of the cafe is designed to look like a rabbit’s hole where guests are encouraged to take off their shoes and unwind in a comfortable environment.

Apart from the basement, the first level is where diners will purchase food and drinks while those who are into art and craft will have a great time browsing through art products on the second level.

5-14 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 02 462 4015
Daily: 10am – 12pm
Nearest Station: Konkuk University

For more recommendations, read our Seoul’s food and travel guides to find the best places to go to in the city.

Hadongkwan is a traditional Korean restaurant in Myeongdong that serves only two items on their menu—Gomtang (thick beef bone soup) and Suyuk (boiled beef or pork slices).

Having been around for 80 years, Hadongkwan has made a name for itself among locals and tourists who love to drop by for a comforting bowl of Gomtang, especially during winter. Only the highest grade of ingredients are used and no artificial flavourings are added to their food.

If you are looking for a light and nutritious breakfast or lunch option at Myeongdong street, Hadongkwan is where you should go to. 

Originally located in a back alley near Cheonggye Stream when they first started out, the restaurant was demolished due to redevelopment initiatives and it has since moved to central Myeongdong.

Despite scaling up, Hadongkwan has retained its original wooden signboard, doors and furniture so long time customers still feel that sense of nostalgia.

Their signature dish is the Regular Gomtang (W12,000), which is Korean beef soup with rice. The light, yet flavourful soup is the result of boiling beef and radish for hours and only using natural ingredients. We enjoyed the clean soup tremendously and it was made better with savoury beef slices.

For those who find it too light to their liking, add some fresh spring onion and salt into the soup. All diners are given radish kimchi as sides as well to spice up their meal.

Looking for something better? You have to go for their Special Gomtang (W15,000) instead. On top of beef slices and rice, diners are also treated to a generous portion of tripe as well—what you get is a variety of textures from the soft rice, tender beef and chewy tripe slices.

The best part about Hadongkwan is that the restaurant offers free soup refills, so do not be shy about asking for more soup from the friendly waitresses!

Hadongkwan
12, Myeongdong 9-gil
Jung-gu, Seoul
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Euljiro il-ga

For more recommendations, read our Seoul’s features to discover the best things to see, do and eat in the city.

KyoChon has the best fried chicken in Seoul, South Korea. There, we’ve said it. There is no lack of Korean fried chicken restaurants in Seoul, but KyoChon’s rendition is head and shoulders above the rest.

KyoChon offers its Korean fried chicken in several flavours—Garlic Soy Series, Honey Series, and Red Series (Red Pepper). Do not leave Seoul without having KyoChon’s Korean Fried Chicken.

We visited one of KyoChon outlets in the Hongdae district. Unlike other older KyoChon outlets which are a lot more casual, it impressed us with a modern and sleek setting.

“Kyo” translates to wisdom and enlightenment and “Chon” means village. KyoChon was created to remind the brand’s founder of home and the amazing fried chicken he used to have. The one thing that sets Kyochon apart from many other fried chicken joints, is the fact that they use only natural ingredients.

This means that their chickens are not injected with hormones and only canola oil is used to fry the chicken. No trans fat or MSG, just simple and fuss-free chicken that is oh-so-good!

The menu was extremely straightforward and we went right for the Garlic Soy option. You can choose from different serving types, including—Whole Chicken (W16,000), Sticks [Drumlets] (W18,000), Wings & Drummettes (W18,000) and Combination (W18,000).

We had the Combination platter to have a go at the different chicken types. All we can say is, “Wow!”

It was probably the most satisfying fried chicken experience we ever had in our entire lives. From the crispy exterior to the evenly coated sauce and tender meat, KyoChon has created THE perfect fried chicken. Honestly, we were probably too appalled by how good it was that we gobbled the entire platter up within a mere few minutes.

For something that has no MSG or preservatives, it was damn addictive! The garlic soy sauce was just right. Mildly sweet with a strong garlic flavour, each bite we had got better and better. It was an out-of-body experience that we can barely put into words.

Also, the simple process of savouring a chicken drumlet to the bone is ultra-satisfying. Be sure to get all the good, crispy parts at the ends of your drumlet to enjoy it fully. There is no debate, KyoChon has our heart and our tummies.

If there is just one Korean fried chicken place to go in Seoul, South Korea, look no further. Be prepared to be so satisfied by their amazing Korean fried chicken!

KyoChon (Hongdae)
362-15, Seogyo-dong
Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 3381300
Daily: 3pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Sangsu

One local dish that everyone looks forward to trying in Seoul is Budae Jjigae, or also commonly known as ‘Korean Army Stew’. Bada Sikdang is an eatery in Itaewon district that is frequented by locals who are craving for Budae Jjigae.

Bada Sikdang has been serving its Budae Jjigae for over 45 years. What makes the Budae Jjigae at Bada Sikdang unique is the addition of cheese; it may not follow the exact recipe for the traditional Budae Jjigae, but it is an interesting twist for those who are looking for something different.

Other than Budae Jjigae, Bada Sikdang also offers BBQ meats such as T-bone Steak (W30,000 per pax), Beef Ribs (W25,000 per pax), Pork Chops (W15,000 per pax), as well as the signature Beef Sausages (W25,000 per pax).

Drop by Bada Sikdang in Itaewon for a fuss-free Korean stew and you will leave with happy tummies.

Visitors are expected to take off their shoes before they enter the eatery and cloth shoe bags are available at the entrance. The simple eatery was buzzing with activity as the waitresses serve up aromatic dishes and guests chatter among themselves.

You can even peek into their kitchen and watch the chefs in action as they whip up your food inside.

For the uninitiated, Budae Jjigae is also referred as ‘Johnson Tang’. This is the name you should be searching for on the menu if you cannot read Korean.

The rich sausage stew is made of beef bone broth as its base and the addition of chilli powder, high-quality ham, fresh lettuce and not forgetting the key ingredient—cheese. Melted cheese goes well with almost everything and it sure made the pot a lot tastier!

Bada Sikdang’s rendition is a lot drier than the usual Budae Jjigae and while the regulars swear by it, we prefer the usual Korean Army Stews which are soupier and heartier.

Do take note that there is a minimum order starting from 2 pax (W20,000).

The portion of the Budae Jjigae portion is actually not huge so we recommend ordering the popular Pork Chops (W15,000) to share. The smokey barbecue sauce that was lavishly poured over the tender meat was the winning factor for us. Have it together with plain rice to balance the flavours on your palate.

Bada Sikdang
18 Itaewon-ro 49-gil
Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 02 795 1317
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish made up of a mixture of seasoned vegetables and meat on a bed of warm white rice. Diners are required to toss the ingredients with savoury chili pepper paste that serves to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

There are a few variations of bibimbap you can find in South Korea but the Jeonju-style bibimbap is especially famous there. This elaborated dish was served to the royal family in the past and is widely enjoyed by locals today.

If you are looking for a Korean restaurant that specialises in traditional Jeonju Bibimbap, then Gogung in Myeong-dong is where you should be heading to. 

Its central location in Myeong-dong makes Gogung the go-to place for many tourists who want to have an authentic taste of South Korea’s Bibimbap. The Korean restaurant has three versions of bibimbap—Jeonju traditional Bibimbap, Jeonju Dolsot Bibimbap and Yukhoe Bibimbap.

Although they are more known for their bibimbap, meat lovers should be pleased to know that Gogung also happens to be a Korean BBQ restaurant that offers quality meat.

While toppings on a bibimbap may change according to the season, a classic Jeonju-style Bibimbap usually consists of soybean sprouts, raw egg yolk and beef tartare.

Gogung’s Jeonju Dolsot Bibimbap (W11,000) is an aesthetically-pleasing dish served in an earthenware bowl which helps to keep the food warm throughout your meal. We particularly liked how the edges of the rice are slightly burnt from the stone pot as it results in a slightly crispier texture.

If you are looking for something better, the Yukhoe Bibimbap (W15,000) will do the trick. Similar to the Jeonju Bibimbap, you also get a generous portion of Korean-style beef tartare, sliced mushrooms, an assortment of colourful vegetables and raw egg.

The tender raw beef was every bit delicious and seasoned really well with sesame oil and soy sauce. Have that with fresh vegetables and runny yolk to get a combustion of savoury and sweet tones in your mouth.

Complete your meal with a steaming bowl of Beef Short Ribs Soup (W11,000). Having gone through the slow and long simmering process, the succulent meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and the clear soup was rich with beef flavours.

Diners are also given a bowl of white rice together with the soup.

Gogung
27 Myeongdong 8ga-gil
Chungmuro 2(i)-ga
Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2-776-3211
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Myeongdong

Kimchi Jjigae is a staple in South Korea which we enjoy tremendously even in Singapore, so we made it a point to hunt down the best Kimchi Jjigae on our trip to Seoul.

We discovered a popular hole-in-the-wall eatery visited by locals called Gwanghwamun Jip, which is relatively near to Gyeongbokgung Palace. While the eatery lies in one of the most touristy spots in Seoul, it is tucked away from the main road and hidden from plain sight in a narrow alley.

Fans of Kimchi Jjiage have to make it a point to visit Gwanghwamun Jip!

Upon stepping into the eatery, it reminded us of a cosy Korean home with home cooked food—with the aromatic fragrance of Kimchi Jjigae in the air and the kitchen located just behind the seating area. If you are interested to see how they cook their fluffy omelettes, take a peek behind the counters.

The highlight of our lunch is their famous Kimchi Jjigae which was rich and flavourful. For only W7,000 per person, you get an extremely generous portion of soup and kimchi. It was hearty, with a mixture of tangy and savoury tones just the way a good pot of Kimchi Jjigae ought to be.

Have it with white rice and a variety of mixed ban chan which are given to you for free!

Another savoury side we enjoyed was the Stir Fried Spicy Pork (W10,000). While the lean meat did not impress us, we were full of praises for the fatty bits. Yes, it is sinful but that is what makes it taste so good!

For something lighter and not too filling, go for their rolled omelette (W5,000/ S$6.02) which we felt were decent. It may not be the best we tried, but it came with the right amount of fluffiness and was good for four to share.

Gwanghwamun Jip
43 Dangju-dong
Jongno-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 739 7737
Daily: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Gwanghwamun

Often overshadowed by other popular counterparts such as Dongdaemun and Namdaemun, Gwangjang Market is a popular market in Seoul that is truly deserving of a special mention. Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market is widely recognised as one of the oldest markets in Seoul.

While many parts of Seoul City has evolved to accommodate western influences and ideas from abroad, Gwangjang Market has retained all of its traditional Korean roots which makes it the best place to go if you want to experience authentic Korean street food and culture under one roof. Fans of Running Man might find Gwangjang Market very familiar (watch episode 186).

Not sure what you can expect there? Here’s What To See And Eat At Gwangjang Market.

WHAT TO SEE AT GWANGJANG MARKET

There are various sections in Gwangjang Market offering silk, clothes and food. Within the food section, you will also find a variety of items on sale which include fresh vegetables, fruits, kimchi, seafood and the best of all—delicious street food!

You are likely to see two groups of people at Gwangjang Market—locals going about their grocery shopping there and curious tourists wandering around the place.

There are many makeshift stalls set up around Gwangjang Market, but the place is far from being disorganised. Basically, all the portable stalls are lined up along the centre of the walkway so visitors are required to walk either on the left or right side of the pavement.

WHAT TO EAT AT GWANGJANG MARKET

If you are not interested in fresh produce, head straight for the street food section. Seoul may have amazing night markets that offer plenty of street food but you definitely should not miss out on the buzzing atmosphere at Gwangjang Market.

As cooking is done on-site, the first thing that will hit you is the glorious smell of street food from all the different stalls there. So come prepared with an empty stomach so that you can try many varieties of Korean street food!

Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) and Kimbap (seaweed rice roll) are two local favourites you really have to try. This stall in Gwangjang Market is offering a set for W2,000/ S$2.38 and we noticed that it is extremely popular among young Koreans who would pop by for a quick meal and leave.

Another common dish you will find there is Pajeon (W2,000/ S$2.38). It may be a simple recipe consisting of only batter and wild green onions but you will be surprised at how the sweet and savoury flavours from the onions and pancake will create a nice balance on your palate.

We were given fresh kimchi and marinated onions as sides to give the dish an extra oomph. Side dishes are refillable so that really gives you more bang for your buck.

Another highlight at Gwangjang Market is Bindaetteok (W4,000/ S$4.77) which is also known as ‘Mung Bean Pancake’. Locals make these pancakes during Korean festival celebrations such as New Years and Chuseok, so you can imagine how significant it is to them.

Made from ground mung beans, the pancakes are pan-fried in hot oil before they are served to you with marinated onions. Since the portion is huge, light eaters can consider sharing one so that you still have enough stomach space to try other street food there.

If you are still feeling hungry after all that, go for a filling meal at one of the many casual restaurants there. We highly recommend the Yukhoe (W8,000/ S$9.54), which is essentially bibimbap with raw beef that has been seasoned with a mixture of sauces.

For an even more satisfying meal, pair it with a cup of ice-cold Makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) to wash it all down.

Gwangjang Market
88 Changgyeonggung-ro
Jongno-gu
Seoul, South Korea
General stores: 8.30am – 6pm
Restaurants: 8.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Jongno 5-ga / Euljiro 4-ga

For more recommendations, read our Seoul’s food and travel guides featuring the best places to visit in the city.

Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market in Seoul needs no further introduction. The popular fish market has appeared in many Korean variety shows and is now one of the top tourist destination in Seoul.

What makes Noryangjin Fish Market so well-received among both locals and travelers is the wide selection of fresh seafood on offer. Some head there to buy seafood back home but many more choose to have them steamed and cooked in various ways at the restaurants nearby.

Having a seafood feast at Noryangjin Fish Market is an eye-opening experience no one should miss out on, but it may be intimidating for first timers and those who are not able to speak Korean. Follow our tips in this guide and you will be able to conquer Noryangjin Fish Market like a pro!

We have also included a rough estimate of the prices of fresh seafood as well as cooking services at the restaurants in Noryangjin Fish Market.

#1 WEAR PROPER FOOTWEAR

As with all fish markets, it is advisable to wear proper footwear so that you would not slip when walking because the floors can get very wet. Sneakers or boots are good choices as they have firmer grip. As there are puddles of water everywhere, it is recommended to wear old shoes that you would not mind them getting dirty.

#2 NO IDEA WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING AT? JUST ASK.

For those who know Mandarin, there is no harm in asking in Mandarin; we found out that many stall vendors are able to understand that language. If not, simply use your body language to convey your messages. Most of them are more than willing to help you.

#3 WALK AROUND THE FISH MARKET BEFORE YOU DECIDE

There are many stalls in the market and the offerings are homogeneous, so do not be pressured to buy seafood from the first stall you “spotted”. Instead, take your time to walk around the market and understand the average market prices before you get something.

#4 DO NOT BE AFRAID TO BARGAIN

Even if you are not able to speak Korean, there is always the calculator to help you out. Key in the prices that you are willing to fork out for and negotiate with the seller. The more you buy, the higher your chances are at getting more discounts from them. We met a really friendly stall owner who gave us free seafood on top of what we ordered from her!

#4 EXPECTED PRICES

While prices are largely similar across the board, here is what you can probably expect for various types of seafood:

Abalone – four (small) for W10,000/ S$11.94 or one (big) for W3,000 to W20,000/ S$3.58 to S$23.89

Clams – one serving for W10,000/ S$11.94

King Crab – one for W45,000/ S$53.76

Live Octopus – three for W10,000/ S$11.94

Lobster – one for W75,000/ S$89.60

Prawn – five for W10,000/ S$11.94

Sea Urchin – two for W10,000/ S$11.94

Do note that these are just prices for the seafood and it is not inclusive of cooking services which are charged separately.

#5 DECIDE ON WHICH COOKING STYLE YOU PREFER

Most of the stalls have a partnership with the restaurants so there will be someone who will bring you there. All you have to do is to select your seafood and let them handle the rest.

At the restaurant, decide on which cooking style you prefer and the in-house chefs will whip them up for you at a fixed price. There is a standard cover charge of W3,000 per person as service fee.

The best way to enjoy fresh seafood is to have them steamed and lock in all the natural juices—all of us at the table were raving about the sweet and tender lobster meat. Just look at the fleshy claw!

Depending on the size of the catch, cooking prices vary as well. The restaurant we were at charges W8,000/ S$9.55) per kg to steam lobsters. For the size of our lobster, we had to pay W16,000/ S$19.11.

Our steamed King Crab set us back at W16,000/ S$19.11 for the steaming but it was worth every penny. We cracked open the shell to reveal extremely juicy crab meat which was good on its own without the need for dipping sauce.

You can also have your seafood done in sashimi style. For those who have yet to try ‘live’ octopus, Noryangjin Fish Market is a great place to start! Do not be alarmed at its movements as the octopus is not alive anymore and these are just muscular contractions.

Have it with sticky sesame sauce for an elevated taste.

Craving for something comforting? Top up W10,000/ S$11.94 for their seafood stew. It was a mixture of spicy and savoury tones which became even more rich in flavour after the addition of seafood. Those who are visiting during winter must order this seafood hot pot to keep warm!

Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market
674 Nodeul-ro
Noryangjin 1(il)-dong
Dongjak-gu, Seoul
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest Station: Noryangjin

The Korean term ‘Samgyetang’ refers to Korean ginseng chicken soup whereby a small chicken is usually stuffed with nutritious ingredients such as ginseng, garlic, jujube and rice. Locals have it during harsh winter days to stay warm and even during summer to replenish lost body fluids.

After days of Korean BBQ and Kimchi Jjigae, we were craving for something lighter on the taste buds and decided to drop by one of Seoul’s oldest and most established ginseng chicken soup restaurants, Korea Samgyetang.

The no-frills restaurant is just like its straightforward name—they dish out honest-to-goodness Samgyetang dishes that are flavourful and leaves you wanting more.

Having been around since 1960, Korea Samgyetang is recognised as the first Korean ginseng chicken soup restaurant in Seoul. So yes, you know that you are left in good hands under experienced chefs.

The spacious Samgyetang restaurant is sparkling clean with long communal tables that are great for families and groups of friends who are dining together.

No one goes to a Samgyetang restaurant without ordering the classic Samgyetang (W15,000/ S$18.07). Served in an iron pot, the bubbling broth carried a strong fragrance which we got us all excited before we even begin our meal.

We could taste all the ingredients that were infused in the soup—ginseng, garlic, Chinese dates and other traditional herbs. The chicken meat was tender and the dish was further perfected with sweet glutinous rice.

All Samgyetang dishes are accompanied with a ginseng shot which you can either have it before you start eating or add it to the soup for a richer ginseng taste.

For something more premium, try their Jeonbok Samgyetang (W21,000/ S$25.30). The same ingredients are used as the traditional Samgyetang but this one comes with a piece of abalone. The fleshy abalone was generous in size and came with a smooth texture.

For an even healthier alternative, go for the Ogolgyetang (W21,000/ S$25.30). Black chicken is known to contain plenty of antioxidants which are beneficial for your health and it is often used as a form of Chinese medicine.

Prepared in a similar way, you will also find sticky rice and ginseng in the succulent, fall-off-the-bone chicken. If you have never tried black chicken before, this is a good place to start.

Korea Samgyetang
1, Seosomun-ro 11-gil
Seosomun-dong
Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 737 1888
Daily: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

Heading to Seoul soon? Take a look at our Seoul Travel Guide for more recommendations.

Get the ultimate banchan feast for only W8,000/ S$9.63 per person when you dine at Sigol Bapsang in Itaewon, Seoul.

By banchan feast, we do not mean 10 or even 20; we are referring to a whopping 30 banchan dishes, including rice and tofu soup on your dining table! Saying that you are spoilt for choice is an understatement at Sigol Bapsang.

The traditional Korean eatery opens for 24 hours daily, so you can come here for a filling meal at any time of the day. 

Established in 1986, Sigol Bapsang has been dishing out classic banchan dishes that are well-loved by locals and foreigners. Guests who are sitting on the low tables are required to take off their shoes and sit on mats that are given.

The small Korean eatery is decorated with traditional tools and crockery used in early days that have since been replaced by modern equipment. Seats are limited as the eatery is small, so we would recommend visiting on off peak hours.

Apart from the steamed egg, all diners get to share 30 banchan dishes. Each person also has their own bowl of rice and a steaming bowl of soybean paste soup with tofu and seaweed. Yes, all these are yours for only W8,000/ S$9.63. You can even get the ahjumma to refill the banchan sides. What a steal!

Guests can expect the standard banchan dishes such as kimchi, pan-fried Korean pancake, steamed bean sprouts, fish cakes, marinated Ikan Bilis, marinated cold tofu, quail eggs, crispy seaweed, mushrooms and more.

We enjoyed most of the banchan—with the fish cakes and quail eggs being our favourites. Wash it all down with savoury soybean paste soup which was hearty and comforting.

On top of our banchan spread, we also ordered an a la carte portion of Steamed Egg (W4,000/ S$4.81) which was light and fluffy. Have this in between full-flavoured banchan to strike a balance on your palate.

Sigol Bapsang
738-17 Hannam-dong
Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 793 5390
Nearest Station: Itaweon/Hangangjin station

Talk about Samgyetang (Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup) in Seoul and many will point you to Tosokchon.

There are often arguments about how Tosokchon is touristy/ meant for tourists, but there is no denying that this institution serves one of the best Samgyetang renditions in Seoul. And it is actually pretty reasonably priced!

If you haven’t already tried it, here’s what you are missing out on.

Tosokchon is a stone’s throw from Gyeongbokgung Station, making it a common pit stop after a visit to Seoul’s most famous Imperial Palace. The restaurant is said to be frequented by Korean’s late President Roh Moo-hyun.

Queues are not uncommon at Tosokchon but the wait is not long; the Hanok-style restaurant has a seating capacity of approximately 400, hence the relatively easy waiting time. We also love the traditional seating style on wooden floors and eating on old-school wooden tables.

On the menu, go straight for the signature Korean ginseng chicken soup and do not bother about anything else. Both Tosokchon Korean ginseng chicken soup (W15,000) and Tosokchon Korean Black Chicken Ginseng Soup (W22,000) are fantastic; we’ve had them on numerous occasions over the last few years and never once had they disappointed us.

A whole chicken stuffed with glutinous rice sits in a bowl of milky broth that is also filled with garlic, dates and ginseng shreds; the chicken is so tender that the flesh falls off the bone with just a tug.

You can also opt to add wild ginseng roots to enhance your soup for an additional W6,000. To be honest, we thought that it did not make a big difference to the taste of the soup.

If you are one who fancies your food strong-flavoured, there is a jar of salt where you can help yourself to. They serve really good kimchi that you can eat all you can, too.

Really, guys. Don’t be too bothered by what people say about Tosokchon being touristy. You have to try it to believe how good it is. Tosokchon has the best Samgyetang in Seoul.

Tosokchon
5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Sajik-dong
Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82 2 737 7444
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Gyeongbokgung

For more recommendations on the best places to visit in Seoul, read our Seoul’s food and travel guides.