A Trip to Seoul is not complete without eating at a proper Korean barbecue or Gogi gu-i. However, there are so many different barbecue houses in Seoul it can be hard to find the right place.
To make your quest easier, we compiled a list of 6 famous Korean BBQ restaurants in Seoul.
1. Saemaul Sikdang
If you like to watch Korean cooking shows then you might already be familiar with Korean chef Baek JongWon. He hosts his own shows on SBS and has gained recognition from the public over the years. He opened his first Saemaul Sikdang restaurant and now has over 123 branches in the world.
Saemaul Sikdang’s main menu is the Yeoltan Bulgogi, translated to spicy thin pork. Spicy and sweet at the same time, the meat is loved by both locals and tourists. If you cannot handle spicy food then you might prefer the “Saemul bulgogi” that is non-spicy.
A popular side dish is the 7-minute Kimchi Jjigae, a kimchi and pork soup. 7 minutes is supposed to be the perfect time for the pork meat to take in the flavor of the fermented cabbage.
One serving of the Yeoltan Bulgogi costs ₩9,000 ($7.50) while the Kimchi Jjigae is priced at ₩6,000 ($5).
Address of the Hongdae Branch: 331-18 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
2. Wangbijib
Situated in Myeongdong, Wangbijib, which translates to "Queen’s House", is probably the most famous barbecue restaurant in the district. Appreciated for its premium meat choices, it’s especially popular among tourists visiting the shopping area.
The staff, who speak English and Mandarin, will cook the meat for you so it's perfect if it’s your first time eating at a Korean barbecue!
Additionally, this barbecue place is particularly well ventilated so you won’t have to worry about having a meat smell when leaving.
The menu includes beef and pork with premium boneless short ribs priced at ₩32,000 ($26.50) and premium pork belly costing ₩15,000 ($12.50).
Address: 2F 26 Myeongdong 8ga-gil, 63-6 Chungmuro-2ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
3. Saebyukjib
Saebyukjib meaning “House of Dawn” is the best spot if you are looking for a late-night barbecue. Open 24/7, it is always available to satisfy your meat cravings (especially after a night out !).
Situated in the fancy district Gangnam, the meat is of the best quality with prices situated on the higher ends. Count ₩64,000 ($53) for 260g of seasoned ribs, ₩35,000 ($29) for 200g of Bulgogi and ₩8,000 ($6.60) for their infamous Kimchi stew.
Address: 6 Dosan-daero 101-gil, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
4. Daedo Sikdang
Founded in 1964 in Seoul, Daedo Sikdang is an institution among Seoul barbecue restaurants.
Daedo Sikdang uses a simple but efficient formula with a modest interior design and a small menu. Premium sirloin beef is the only meat available along with delicious side dishes including a Korean-style beef tartare bibimbap and fried rice.
As opposed to a lot of Korean BBQ restaurants, the meat isn't cooked on the usual hot coals but on a pan with a touch of butter to keep it moist.Additionally, there is an open window butchery so you can even watch how your meat gets trimmed. You’ll cook the beef yourself but the staff is always there to assist you if you need anything.
The restaurant is usually packed so be ready to wait before having a table!
Address: 431, Hongik-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
5. Maple Tree House
With the main branch situated in the foreigner-friendly district Itaewon, Maple Tree House is super popular among tourists but also locals.
This barbecue restaurant is the perfect combination of traditional Korean BBQ Restaurants' techniques and modern interior, it is also perfect if you come in a big group.
The menu includes a variety of different meat types including Jeju Korean Black Pork Belly, Pork Jowl, Premium Boneless Short Ribs or Aged USDA Prime Bulgogi.
There are also special menus such as Grilled Jumbo Prawns and vegetable platter as well as an assortment of side dishes like Cold Noodles, Tofu Stew or Jumbo Galbitang. With all this choice, you can be sure that you will find something fitting your taste.
Address: 116-1, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
6. Woosang Galbi
If you’re looking for an authentic Korean BBQ experience, then Woosang Galbi is the place to be!
Located in the middle of Yaksu Market, it portrays a modest interior - you’ll sit on plastic chairs- and a straightforward menu with only two items, pork rinds and pork galbi, both taste amazing.
This place is particularly favored by locals, including bloggers and food critics.
The best part? It’s really affordable. For only ₩12,000 ($10) you can get one serving of meat. Address: 372-40 Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
I know your mouth is watering, which of this restaurants would you love to visit?
Author: Elisa
