Seoul

1. Categories of International Cuisine Available in Seoul

Seoul’s international dining scene is vast and includes the following categories:

• Western Cuisine: Italian, French, American, British, and Mediterranean.
• Asian Cuisine: Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern.
• Latin American Cuisine: Mexican, Brazilian, and Peruvian.
• African Cuisine: Ethiopian and Moroccan.
• Fusion Cuisine: Creative blends of Korean and international flavors.

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2. Popular Restaurants and Dining Areas

Seoul has several neighborhoods and restaurants known for their international food offerings. Below are some highlights:

Western Cuisine

• Italian:

  • Brera (Itaewon): Authentic Italian dishes with a focus on fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza.
    • Price Range: ₩20,000–₩50,000 per person.
  • Ciro 92 (Hannam-dong): Known for Neapolitan-style pizza and a cozy ambiance.
    • Price Range: ₩15,000–₩40,000 per person.

• French:

  • L'Amant Secret (Gangnam): A fine-dining French restaurant with a romantic atmosphere.
    • Price Range: ₩50,000–₩150,000 per person.
  • Maison M'O (Itaewon): A French patisserie and bistro offering exquisite desserts and light meals.
    • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩30,000 per person.

• American:

  • Brooklyn The Burger Joint (Itaewon, Gangnam): Famous for gourmet burgers and milkshakes.
    • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩20,000 per person.
  • Linus’ BBQ (Itaewon): Southern-style barbecue with pulled pork, ribs, and brisket.
    • Price Range: ₩20,000–₩40,000 per person.

Asian Cuisine

• Japanese:

  • Sushi Hyo (Cheongdam-dong): A high-end sushi restaurant offering omakase experiences.
    • Price Range: ₩100,000–₩300,000 per person.
  • Menya Sandaime (Hongdae): Affordable and authentic Japanese ramen.
    • Price Range: ₩8,000–₩15,000 per person.

• Chinese:

  • Da Dong (Myeongdong): Specializes in Peking duck and other traditional Chinese dishes.
    • Price Range: ₩30,000–₩70,000 per person.
  • Chai797 (Multiple Locations): A modern Chinese restaurant chain offering dim sum and Sichuan dishes.
    • Price Range: ₩15,000–₩40,000 per person.

• Indian:

  • Jyoti Indian Restaurant (Itaewon, Sinchon): A popular spot for authentic North Indian and Nepalese cuisine.
    • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩25,000 per person.
  • Taj (Itaewon): Known for its rich curries and tandoori dishes.
    • Price Range: ₩15,000–₩30,000 per person.

• Thai:

  • My Thai China (Itaewon): Offers a mix of Thai and Chinese dishes in a casual setting.
    • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩25,000 per person.
  • Baan Pad Thai (Gangnam): Specializes in pad Thai and other classic Thai dishes.
    • Price Range: ₩12,000–₩25,000 per person.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

• Petra (Itaewon): A long-standing favorite for authentic Jordanian and Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, falafel, and kebabs.
  • Price Range: ₩15,000–₩30,000 per person.
• Hummus Kitchen (Hannam-dong): A modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine with a focus on vegetarian options.
  • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩25,000 per person.

Latin American Cuisine

• Vatos Urban Tacos (Itaewon, Gangnam): A Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant offering tacos, burritos, and kimchi carnitas fries.
  • Price Range: ₩15,000–₩30,000 per person.
• Coreanos Kitchen (Garosugil): Known for its creative Mexican dishes with a Korean twist.
  • Price Range: ₩12,000–₩25,000 per person.

African Cuisine

• Braai Republic (Itaewon): Specializes in South African dishes like boerewors (sausages) and meat pies.
  • Price Range: ₩20,000–₩40,000 per person.
• Ethiopian Restaurant (Hyehwa): Offers traditional Ethiopian dishes like injera and stews.
  • Price Range: ₩10,000–₩20,000 per person.

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3. Dining Areas for International Cuisine

Certain neighborhoods in Seoul are known for their concentration of international restaurants:

• Itaewon: The most diverse area for international cuisine, offering everything from American BBQ to Middle Eastern and African food.
• Hannam-dong: Known for upscale international dining, including Italian, French, and fusion restaurants.
• Gangnam: Offers a mix of high-end and casual international dining options, particularly for Japanese, Italian, and Thai food.
• Hongdae: Popular with younger crowds, this area has affordable international options, including Japanese ramen, Mexican food, and Western-style cafes.
• Myeongdong: While primarily known for Korean street food, it also has several Chinese and Japanese restaurants.

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4. Estimated Costs

• Casual Dining: ₩10,000–₩25,000 per person.
• Mid-Range Dining: ₩25,000–₩50,000 per person.
• Fine Dining: ₩50,000–₩300,000+ per person.

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5. Dining Customs to Be Aware Of

• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in South Korea, as service charges are usually included in the bill.
• Sharing: While Korean dining culture emphasizes sharing, international restaurants may serve individual portions.
• Reservations: For fine dining or popular restaurants, reservations are highly recommended.
• Language: Many international restaurants in Seoul have English-speaking staff or English menus, especially in Itaewon and Hannam-dong.

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6. Considerations for Locating and Enjoying International Food

• Use Food Apps: Apps like Naver Maps, KakaoMap, and Mangoplate are excellent for finding international restaurants.
• Cultural Adaptations: Some international dishes may be slightly adapted to suit Korean tastes (e.g., less spicy or sweeter).
• Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While vegetarianism is not as common in Korea, many international restaurants, especially Indian, Middle Eastern, and Western establishments, offer vegetarian or vegan options.
• Halal Food: Halal-certified restaurants are available, particularly in Itaewon. Look for signs or ask the staff for confirmation.

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Seoul’s international food scene is as dynamic as the city itself, offering something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving authentic flavors from home or looking to try something new, the city’s diverse culinary landscape is sure to satisfy.