If you are planning a trip to Seoul, why not dine like a K-pop idol or a Hallyu actor? Seoul is a city where world-class cuisine meets star-studded sightings. From smoky BBQ joints to sophisticated modern dining, here are five restaurants where you’re most likely to spot your favorite celebrities or, at the very least, enjoy the same meals they rave about.
Geumdaeji Sikdang (Gold Pig Restaurant) – The K-Pop BBQ Sanctuary
This is arguably the most famous pork BBQ spot in Korea right now. It has been a Michelin Bib Gourmand selection for years and is the ultimate "go-to" for the industry's biggest stars.
- Who likes it: BTS (Jungkook, Jimin), EXO (Kai), G-Dragon, and NCT 127 are among the regular visitors.
- What it is: A premium pork BBQ restaurant specializing in high-quality, aged pork belly.
- Why it's famous: It’s known for its unique "Gold Pig" breed of pork, which offers a richer flavor and juicier texture than standard pork. The retro white-tile exterior and the fact that staff grill the meat to perfection for you add to the appeal.
- Must try: Boned Samgyeopsal (Bone-in Pork Belly) and their famous Kimchi Stew.
- Location: 149 Dasan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (Near Yaksu Station(line no.3)).
Hannam-dong Hanbang Tongdak – The Legendary Rotisserie Chicken
Located in the trendy Hannam-dong neighborhood, this humble-looking spot is a favorite for celebrities looking for a comforting, soul-food meal after a long day of filming.
- Who likes it: Lee Young-ja (The famous foodie entertainer), Gong Hyo-jin, Jung Woo-sung, and Yuna Kim(Olympic Figure Skater).
- What it is: Traditional Korean rotisserie chicken stuffed with glutinous rice and medicinal herbs (Hanbang).
- Why it's famous: It became a national sensation when Lee Young-ja described it as her "natural digestive medicine." The chicken is roasted over oak wood for hours, making it incredibly tender and fragrant.
- Must try: Hanbang Tongdak (Medicinal Rotisserie Chicken) served with their signature spicy radish kimchi.
- Location: 38 Daesagwan-ro 34-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
Yeongcheon Yeonghwa (Cheongdam Branch) – The Late-Night Beef Elite
If you want to feel the vibe of "Gangnam luxury," this is the place. It’s a 24-hour high-end beef restaurant where the walls are literally covered from floor to ceiling with celebrity autographs.
- Who likes it: Lee Jung-jae, Jung Woo-sung, G-Dragon, and various members of SHINee and EXO.
- What it is: A premium Hanwoo (Korean beef) specialty restaurant known for its incredibly fresh raw beef dishes.
- Why it's famous: Located in the heart of Cheongdam-dong, it is the premier spot for celebrities to have private late-night meals. The quality of their beef is considered top-tier in the city.
- Must try: Yukhoe Bibimbap (Raw Beef Bibimbap) – it is widely considered the best in Seoul.
- Location: 6 Dosan-daero 101-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
On 6.5 (On Yug-o) – The Trendy "It" Spot for Modern Kimchi
This contemporary dining bar has recently become the hottest spot for the "cool crowd" in Seoul, blending traditional Korean fermentation with modern culinary techniques.
- Who likes it: BTS (RM, Jimin), G-Dragon, Taeyang, and LE SSERAFIM.
- What it is: A modern Kimchi-themed dining bar that reinterprets Korea's most famous side dish into high-end tapas and main courses.
- Why it's famous: It gained massive fame after hosting exclusive events for global brands and idols. The name "6.5" refers to the ideal temperature for fermenting kimchi. The interior is sleek, artistic, and very Instagrammable.
- Must try: Kimchi Arancini, Kimchi Pad Thai, and their selection of premium Makgeolli (Rice Wine).
- Location: 28 Bukchon-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Near Anguk Station).
Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon – The Soul Food of the Stars
Pyeongyang-style cold noodles are an "acquired taste" that Korean celebrities are obsessed with. This specific restaurant is often cited by stars as their favorite "no-nonsense" noodle house.
- Who likes it: Sung Si-kyung, John Park, and many actors who frequent the Nonhyeon area.
- What it is: A traditional Pyeongyang-style cold buckwheat noodle (Naengmyeon) specialty house.
- Why it's famous: It’s a Michelin Bib Gourmand winner known for its clean, meaty broth that tastes better with every sip. It’s less flashy than the others but is a true "insider" favorite for those who appreciate authentic Korean flavors.
- Must try: Pyeongyang Naengmyeon and Pyeonyuk (Sliced Boiled Pork).
- Location: 305-3 Hakdong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
