Seoul(Jung-gu) , Euljiro・Chungmuro・Namsan

Gassra (est. 2000) is a Japanese restaurant in Myeongdong that turns into a Japanese Izakaya at night, giving customers a chance to enjoy fresh sashimi, meat dishes, and sake. Though the lunch menu consists only of Hiraekatsu (tenderloin cutlet), Donkatsu (pork cutlet), and Koroke, there is usually a long line that reaches all the way out the door.One of Gassra’s claims to fame is that it is one of the only places in Korea that serves Wolgyegwan refined rice wine. Gassra is also praised as one of the best places to get a little taste of Japan in Korea. Some even say that the udon and noodles served here are better than many found in Japan, which also helps explain the extreme popularity of the restaurant.A main specialty of the restaurant (particularly at lunch) is its fried pork cutlet. Though fried pork cutlets are typically considered to be fairly greasy, the Japanese Hiraekatsu and Koroke served at the restaurant have a clean aftertaste and are paired with a mouth-watering soup and salad.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gyeongju-si)

Named after Silla King Muyeol's daughter, Princess Yoseok, Yosokkoong serves traditional Korean food. The resturant is run by the Choi family, who settled on the site of Princess Yoseok's house in the Joseon Dynasty, and has passed on the restaurant and family recipes through 12 generations. All the foods served are made with organic ingredients, for a healthy taste that cannot be found anywhere else.


Busan(Jung-gu)

Hannyang Jokbal, located on Nampodong Food Street, is a Jokbal (steamed pigs’ feet) ‘Matjip’ (a term that refers to the most delicious restaurants in a certain area). Hanyang Jokbal is one of the most famous restaurants on the street, which is well known for jokbal. The most famous dish at the restaurant is ‘Nangchae Jokbal’. This cold pigs’ feet dish is a specialty of Nampodong Food Street, but is hard to find in other parts of Korea. The combination of steamed pig feet, fresh cucumber, and jellyfish mixed with mustard sauce is a must-try food for visitors to Busan.


Busan(Suyeong-gu)

Located in Gwangan 2-dong, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Halmae (meaning "grandmother" in Busan dialect) Jaecheopguk has a long history of selling jaecheopguk (clear shellfish soup) made with jaecheop (shellfish) caught from the nearby Gupo area to people who sought refuge in Busan during the Korean War. Each bowl of cool tasting broth has abundant amounts of jaecheop. Jaecheop has long been widely used as an ingredient to help in relieving hangover symptoms.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Seoul City Hall・Gwanghwamun

Seven Springs delivers pleasure and well-being, as the food intends to serve an environmentally-friendly, healthy meal. The restaurant is styled with a pleasantly comfortable interior, while the open-kitchen allows guests to watch the chefs prepare the salads, for a more delightful dining experience.


Seoul(Mapo-gu) , Hongik-University-Area

If you want to enjoy “Chimak,” which is the main feature in Korean street cuisine, you can take a look at BBQ Hapjeong Star Branch, which is owned and operated by the parents of Seong Yeol, from the Korean boy band. It is located in front of the 3rd exit; so, it is very easy to reach. The chicken is fried with olive oil. They also sell pizza, pasta, etc., which you can buy together with chicken, which gives the menu a wide variety. The nickname of the restaurant, which is given by Seong Yeol’s fans is called, “Yeol BQ,” with part of his name, “Yeol,” in the nickname. You can see posters and photos of Seong Yeol. The store is known as, “a kind store,” through word by mouth.  


Seoul(Seodaemun-gu) , Sinchon・Ewha Womans University

Pungyoram has been in operation in the same location, specializing in beef loin and pork ribs for nearly 35 years. An order of diced beef loin also comes with a sampling of 3 or 4 pieces of chadolbagi (brisket). After you are done with the meat, they fry a generous serving of rice on the same hot plate, a delicious way to end your meal.  


Seoul(Seocho-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

Mad for Garlic is an Italian wine bistro chain that offers 40 dishes with garlic as their signature ingredient, as well as over 100 wine brands. Its interior, designed primarily with wood and brick, adds a rustic ambience for a more relaxed dining experience.


Seoul(Mapo-gu) , Sinchon・Ewha Womans University

Songdam chueo-tang (loach soup) is a boyangsik (medicinal Korean food) made with loach that is full of protein, iron, calcium, vitamins, and other healthy ingredients. In addition, the food helps prevent colds and eye diseases. It doesn't only serve chueo-tang (loach soup), but also serves donkatsu, fried food, dumplings, and other dishes cooked with loaches.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

This restaurant specializes in dishes with traditional Oriental herbs. The sauces and seasonings made from natural ingredients such as ginseng, deodeok (Codonopsis lacneolata) and bellflowers are very delicious; as are the low-fat steamed and roasted dishes. This place is filled with pleasant aromas from the food that is known to boost one's immune system. *Best Korean Restaurant as designated by The Seoul Metropolitan Government