The Hanok Smith Likes
A unique Korean-Italian fusion restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated traditional hanok in Samcheong-dong. Selected for the Michelin Guide Seoul 2023, this charming venue blends traditional Korean architecture with contemporary Italian cuisine, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light while maintaining the hanok's historic character.
HBC (Haebangchon) Gastro Alley
Itaewon
A foodie paradise with international restaurants, craft beer bars, and cozy wine spots on the slopes of Namsan.
Heavyside
A stylish brunch and specialty cafe in Yongsan, known for its quality coffee and relaxed atmosphere. The second branch of the popular Heavyside from Bukahyeon-dong, this location offers a curated brunch menu alongside exceptional coffee drinks in a modern, minimalist setting.
Hebe Coffee
A specialty coffee shop in Chungmuro operated by barista Lim Ji-young, who serves as a judge for the Korea Brewers Cup competition, roasting competition coordinator, and national barista coach. Hebe Coffee is known for its own roasted beans and award-winning coffee expertise.
Hoho Sikdang (Ikseon)
Insadong
A cozy Japanese home-style restaurant in the heart of Ikseon-dong's traditional hanok alleys. Famous for its tender hirekatsu (pork cutlet) and comforting omurice, this warm atmosphere eatery has become one of Seoul's most searched restaurants, offering authentic Japanese comfort food in a traditional Korean setting.
House of Vinyl
Seongsu
A Hong Kong-style LP bar and cafe that brings a unique vinyl record culture to Seongsu-dong. House of Vinyl offers an immersive music experience where you can enjoy coffee, cocktails, and light meals surrounded by vintage LP records. The space combines retro Hong Kong aesthetics with Seoul's trendy cafe culture, creating an atmospheric retreat for music lovers and those seeking a distinctive ambiance away from the ordinary.
Ichizen
Hongdae
A beloved tendon specialist in Mangwon-dong's trendy Mangridangil street, Ichizen has built a devoted following since opening in May 2017. This small, 14-seat restaurant serves authentic Japanese-style tendon (tempura rice bowls) that rivals anything you'd find in Japan itself. The restaurant's commitment to quality has made it one of Seoul's top two tendon destinations, drawing long queues especially during meal times.
IMMU Bake Shop
Hongdae
A beloved neighborhood bakery in Hongdae known for its exceptional French-style pastries and artisan breads. IMMU Bake Shop creates fresh-baked goods daily using premium ingredients and traditional techniques, offering everything from flaky croissants and pain au chocolat to seasonal fruit tarts and savory sandwiches.
IMOK Smoke Dining — Fire and Smoke Tasting Experience
Gangnam
IMOK Smoke Dining gained fame when its chef, Yoo Yong-wook, appeared on Netflix's hit cooking competition "Culinary Class Wars" (흑백요리사). The restaurant is housed in a converted 36-year-old bathhouse in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam, transformed into an atmospheric fire-and-smoke-themed dining space that is as dramatic to look at as it is to eat in.
Jayyeondo Salt Bread (자연도 소금빵)
Seongsu
A viral sensation in Seoul's bakery scene, Jayyeondo Salt Bread has taken the city by storm with its signature salt bread creations. Located in the trendy Seongsu-dong area, this bakery has become a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking the latest trends in Seoul's thriving bakery culture.
ZEEK COFFEE (지크커피)
Seongsu
A trendy specialty coffee shop in Seongsu-dong famous for its homemade lemonade and artisanal coffee beans. ZEEK COFFEE has quickly become a local favorite with its minimalist interior and dedication to quality.
Jinuh Tuna (진어참치)
Hongdae
A hidden gem in Yeonnam-dong's residential alleys, run by a "tuna doctor" with 30 years of experience, serving premium bluefin tuna with various rare cuts including belly, gills, and reproductive organs.