Are you looking for the best traditional Korean restaurants and cafes near Seoul’s most famous attractions? You’re in the right place! If you haven’t already read Part 4 of the “Let’s SEOUL” series, check it out first to get the full context. You can view it here without leaving this page.
Now, let’s dive into the must-visit traditional dining spots and cafes around Gyeongbokgung, DDP, Lotte World, and Namsan Tower.
Gyeongbokgung Palace Area
Restaurant: Saenggogi Jib (생고기집)
• Address: 30 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
Saenggogi Jib specializes in Han-jeongsik, a traditional Korean set meal featuring a variety of dishes such as bulgogi (marinated beef), doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), and a colorful array of seasonal side dishes (banchan). This restaurant offers a taste of Korea’s rich culinary heritage in a cozy, family-style atmosphere.
Why you’ll love it:
Han-jeongsik is not just a meal—it’s an experience. Each component is carefully prepared to highlight the harmony of flavors that Korean cuisine is known for. Located close to Gyeongbokgung, this spot allows you to enjoy authentic food in a setting steeped in history.
Since Gyeongbokgung served as a royal palace during the Joseon dynasty, its surroundings are rich in traditional elements. After exploring the palace, why not enjoy some traditional Korean desserts? It’s a delightful way to create lasting memories of your visit.
Cafe: Onion Anguk (어니언 안국)
• Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
Set in a restored Hanok (traditional Korean house), Onion Anguk merges tradition and modernity. The cafe serves Korean-inspired pastries like yakgwa scones (honey-based cookies) and injeolmi croissants (filled with sweet rice cake), along with expertly brewed coffee.
Why you’ll love it:
The serene Hanok setting transports you back in time, making it the perfect place to relax after exploring Gyeongbokgung. Plus, their fusion pastries provide a gentle introduction to Korea’s unique flavors for those who are new to traditional desserts.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) Area
Restaurant: Gwangjang Market Bindaetteok Alley (광장시장 빈대떡 골목)
• Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
At this bustling market, you’ll find stalls frying up bindaetteok, crispy mung bean pancakes made with ground mung beans, vegetables, and occasionally meat or seafood. Pair it with a glass of makgeolli (fermented rice wine) for the full Korean street food experience.
Why you’ll love it:
Eating at Gwangjang Market is like stepping into Seoul’s culinary soul. The pancakes are freshly made, golden brown, and irresistibly savory. It’s also a budget-friendly option for travelers who want authentic flavors without breaking the bank.
Gwangjang Market is incredibly famous and has been featured in numerous media outlets, making it a well-known spot. This also means it can get quite crowded. However, if you’re planning to take a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, this market is a fantastic choice. Its vibrant and energetic atmosphere will surely enhance your travel experience.
Although bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) is the most popular dish here, the market offers a wide variety of delicious foods and welcoming vendors. Even if you don’t stick to the pancakes, you’re bound to have a fun and lively time exploring the market.
Cafe: Solgaheon (솔가헌)
• Address: 22 Toegye-ro 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
Solgaheon is a traditional Korean tea house offering herbal teas such as ssanghwa-cha (a medicinal tea) and omija-cha (five-flavor berry tea). They also serve light snacks like yakgwa(honey cookies) and tteok (rice cakes). Although it was filmed at a different location, the drink that even captivated BTS at the time was none other than SSanghwa-cha (a traditional Korean medicinal tea). The location where BTS enjoyed Ssanghwa-cha is Hyuga Cafe in Seoul, situated at Woo seong Village 16, Nonhyeon-ro 119 gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
Why you’ll love it:
The calming atmosphere of Solgaheon makes it a hidden oasis in the vibrant Dongdaemun area. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing escape while learning about Korea’s centuries-old tea culture.
Lotte World Adventure and Lotte World Tower Area
Restaurant: Hanam Pig House (하남돼지집)
• Address: 21 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
Hanam Pig House is a Korean BBQ spot specializing in samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly). Guests grill the pork themselves at their table and pair it with ssamjang (seasoned soybean paste), fresh lettuce wraps, and kimchi.
Why you’ll love it:
Korean BBQ is an interactive dining experience that’s fun for groups or solo travelers. Hanam Pig House’s high-quality pork and attentive service ensure you’ll leave with a full stomach and great memories.
Korea’s barbecue culture and lettuce wrap traditions are already beloved by many. Sharing a lively meal while grilling meat and enjoying a bottle of soju can make for a memorable travel experience. Just remember to drink responsibly, as excessive drinking can be risky.
Cafe: Hwangso Coffee (황소커피)
• Address: 18 Olympic-ro 12-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
This cozy cafe offers a mix of traditional drinks like sujeonggwa (cinnamon punch) and misutgaru (roasted grain drink), alongside modern coffee options. Their desserts include patbingsu (shaved ice with red beans) for a refreshing treat.
Why you’ll love it:
The traditional drinks are a unique way to cool off or warm up, depending on the season. Hwangso Coffee’s quiet ambiance makes it a great place to recharge after the excitement of Lotte World.
Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) Area
Restaurant: Mok Myeok San Bang (목멱산방)
• Address: 17-7 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
This charming restaurant is known for its bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables) served in a hot stone pot, as well as hearty stews like kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and galbitang (beef rib soup).
Why you’ll love it:
The rustic, traditional decor and warm hospitality make Mok Myeok San Bang an excellent choice for experiencing comfort food with a view of Namsan. The bibimbap is a balanced meal perfect for first-time visitors to Korean cuisine.
While donkatsu (pork cutlet) is undoubtedly famous around Namsan, I’ve already recommended a donkatsu restaurant in the Amsa Prehistoric Site area. This time, I’d like to suggest a different dish. However, if you’re still craving donkatsu, here’s the address of the restaurant featured in the TV drama Moving. It’s well-known and sure to bring you joy just by deciding where to eat:
Donkatsu House
• Name: Yeongyeong Donkatsu (영영돈까스)
• Address: 76 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Cafe: Bukchon Son Mandu Cafe (북촌손만두 카페)
• Address: 34 Bukchon-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What makes it special?
Known primarily for its handmade dumplings, this cafe also offers traditional teas and desserts, such as honey citron tea and red bean porridge.
Why you’ll love it:
The combination of savory dumplings and sweet desserts lets you sample a variety of Korean flavors in one stop. It’s a cozy, unpretentious spot to end your Namsan visit.