Hongdae is a vibrant Seoul, South Korea, neighborhood renowned for its trendy cafes, lively nightlife, and street performances. However, one of the main reasons people flock to this district is its fantastic Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Hongdae’s restaurants offer an exceptional dining experience that will delight any Korean food lover. In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurants in Hongdae for Korean food lovers, their unique offerings, and why they are a must-visit for anyone who appreciates Korean cuisine.
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- Best Restaurants in Hongdae
- Yoogane Chicken Galbi (유가네닭갈비 홍대점)
- Myth Jokbal Hongdae (미쓰족발)
- Sangsu Jutaek (상수주택)
- Okdongsik Seogyo (옥동식 서교점)
- Ooh-ahh-hage (우아하게)
- Baettegi Gobchang (배떼기 곱창)
- Hong Ma Tteok (홍마떡 홍대본점)
- Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang Hongdae (백년토종삼계탕 본점)
- Makgeolli Salon (막걸리 싸롱)
- What the Burger (왓더버거)
- Jangin Dakgalbi (장인닭갈비)
- Honkaz (혼가츠)
- Best BBQ restaurants in Hongade
- Best Korean noodle restaurants in Hongdae
Best Restaurants in Hongdae
Yoogane Chicken Galbi (유가네닭갈비 홍대점)
If you’re a fan of spicy food and want to explore the vibrant food scene of South Korea, you’ve got to check out Yoogane Chicken Galbi! This wildly popular restaurant chain has been serving up mouth-watering, stir-fried chicken dishes since 1981, with its original spot in the hip Hongdae neighborhood of Seoul.
The main dish at Yoogane Chicken Galbi is the Dakgalbi. This spicy stir-fried chicken with veggies like cabbage, scallions, and sweet potatoes. The chicken gets marinated in a special sauce made with Korean chili paste, soy sauce, and other spices that give it that yummy, spicy taste. But the best part is that you can customize your Dakgalbi with yummy add-ons like cheese, rice cakes, and noodles, so every dish is uniquely your own.
Apart from the Dakgalbi, Yoogane Chicken Galbi also offers a variety of other dishes, such as fried rice, bibimbap, and Korean-style pancakes. Moreover, the restaurant’s menu includes non-spicy options for those who cannot handle the heat.
- Address: 109 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 10:00 AM – 11 PM daily
- Phone: +82 2-333-4655
- Website: yoogane.co.kr
- Price range: 9.9 – 24.75 USD per person
Myth Jokbal Hongdae (미쓰족발)
If you’re a fan of pork, then you can’t miss the famous Jokbal (pig’s trotters) at Myth Jokbal in Hongdae! This restaurant has been serving its deliciously tender and flavorful Jokbal for 30 years, with multiple locations all over Korea. However, the Hongdae location is the place to be, with its lively atmosphere and cozy seating.
Jokbal might be new to you but it is a tradition in Korea. It is braised pig trotters with soy sauce and spices. It’s chewy and tastes sweet. The jokbal is complemented with side dishes like noodles, spicy soup, salads with olives and almonds, and Korean rice balls.
Not only do they serve traditional Jokbal, but also other delicious dishes like garlic or spicy Jokbal with perilla leaves. The portions are large, perfect for sharing with 2-3 people or even 3-4 people. And let’s not forget the mouth-watering sauces that come with it, including soy sauce, miso chili sauce, and sweet chili sauce.
But that’s not all. Each order also comes with a bowl of mixed rice with sesame oil, kimchi, salad, and a complimentary noodle soup. No wonder this place is always packed with hungry customers, so be prepared to wait for about 10 minutes for a table. The wait is worth it for the scrumptious Jokbal at Myth Jokbal in Hongdae!
- Address: 123-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 4 PM – 12 AM on Monday and Tuesday, 12:30 PM – 12 AM from Wednesday to Sunday
- Phone: +82 2-337-2111
- Price range: 10 – 25 USD per person
Sangsu Jutaek (상수주택)
Located in the heart of Hongdae, Sangsu Jutaek is a beloved spot known for its charming, atmospheric setting and delicious Korean-style bar food. With a menu featuring a variety of traditional and creative dishes, it’s a perfect place to enjoy a night out with a special someone. The cozy, aesthetically pleasing interior and intimate seating arrangements make it an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic yet relaxed dining experience.
The bar also offers a wide selection of Korean drinks, from craft soju to unique makgeolli, complementing the flavors of the dishes perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a casual date spot or a cozy hangout, Sangsu Jutaek provides a delightful blend of ambiance and flavor that keeps patrons coming back.
- Address: 19, Dongmak-ro 15-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Open hours: 2 PM – 2 AM
- Phone: 0507-1313-4083
Okdongsik Seogyo (옥동식 서교점)
The Okdongsik Seogyo (옥동식 서교점) is a must-visit restaurant. It has gained a reputation for its delicious pork and rice soup, known as 돼지국밥 (dwaeji gukbap), which is perfect for warming you up on a chilly day.
The cozy ambiance of Okdongsik Seogyo creates the perfect setting for a satisfying and hearty meal. The restaurant is always bustling with locals and tourists eager to try the famous pork and rice soup. The soup is made with tender slices of pork belly, simmered in a flavorful broth made with various spices, garlic, and scallions before being served in a rice bowl.
Moreover, the restaurant’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide 2018 is a testament to its high quality and delicious food. So, if you want to experience one of Seoul’s top-rated dining destinations, head to Okdongsik Seogyo and enjoy the unforgettable flavors of their pork and rice soup.
- Address: 44-10 Yanghwa-ro 7-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 11 AM – 10 PM every day
- Phone: +82 2-6012-9915
- Instagram: okdongsik
Ooh-ahh-hage (우아하게)
This place is an absolute gem, offering not only delicious food but also incredibly friendly staff and a trendy atmosphere. Watching the food being grilled in the center of the restaurant adds a special touch, and enjoying it on a personal grill at your table makes the experience even more memorable—especially at night, when the drinks flow effortlessly. Their signature dish, 떡갈비 (grilled short rib patties), is freshly grilled upon order, bursting with juicy flavors that melt in your mouth.
For those looking to try something unique, the 대창덮밥 (beef intestine rice bowl) and 항정살 (pork jowl) are both flavorful and distinctive choices. In addition to their delicious meats, the grilled vegetables and shrimp are also highly recommended. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy high-quality Korean BBQ in a chic setting, Elegant is a must-visit!
- Address: 185, Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Open hours: 11:30 AM – 12 AM every day | Breaktime 15:00 – 16:30
- Phone: 02-336-7883
- Instagram: ooh_ahh_hg
Baettegi Gobchang (배떼기 곱창)
The Baettegi Gobchang is a cozy eatery famous for serving up some of the most mouthwatering Gobchang (Korean-style grilled beef intestines) in town. This is one of the most popular dishes among locals and tourists alike.
Baettegi Gobchang offers a unique dining experience, with customers seated at low tables surrounded by a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant’s signature dish is Gobchang, made from the small intestines of beef or pork. The intestines are cleaned thoroughly and marinated in a spicy sauce, giving them a rich and savory flavor.
We highly recommend you try Snowflake Makchang (눈꽃막창), which is beef intestines that have been marinated in special spices, giving it a distinctive red color and a unique taste that is not too spicy. The dish is then covered with a thick layer of melted cheese resembling snow, hence the name Snowflake Makchang.
- Address: 44-10, Yanghwa-ro 7-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Open hours: Wed. – Mon. 3 PM – 12 AM | Tue. Closed
- Phone: +82 2-6082-0064
- Price range: 8.5 – 22 USD
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Hong Ma Tteok (홍마떡 홍대본점)
Regarding Korean street cuisine, Tteokbokki, or spicy rice cakes, is one of the most well-liked dishes. If you’re in love with Tteokbokki and also a fan of garlic? Then you must check out Hong Ma Tteok! This small eatery is tucked away in a cozy alley in Seoul’s bustling Hongdae neighborhood and serves up some of the best spicy rice cakes you’ll ever taste.
This dish is a twist on the classic Tteokbokki, which is rice cakes in spicy sauce, with the addition of fragrant garlic and the unique flavor of hong ma, or red perilla. The sauce is made with a blend of gochujang, soy sauce, and garlic, giving it a rich and savory flavor that will leave you craving more.
Hong Ma Tteok also offers a variety of other dishes, including fried rice, spicy pork, and kimchi stew. Each dish is cooked perfectly and served hot, a great option for a cozy meal with friends or family.
- Address: 24 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 11:30 AM – 9 PM daily
- Phone: +82 2-324-1107
Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang Hongdae (백년토종삼계탕 본점)
(source: visitkorea.or.kr)
The Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang is a popular restaurant in Seoul specializing in samgyetang. This Korean dish is made of whole young chicken stuffed with ginseng, garlic, jujube, and glutinous rice, then boiled in a rich broth. This dish is widely regarded as a healthy food in Korea and is especially popular during the hot summer months as it is believed to help fight heat exhaustion.
The special point is that Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang uses a special breed of chicken called baeknyeon. Those are raised on a diet of natural herbs and grains, giving the meat a unique flavor and texture. The restaurant uses only the freshest and highest quality ingredients for their broth, ensuring a rich and delicious flavor in every bowl.
In addition, the restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes worth trying, such as ginseng chicken soup, grilled eel, and various vegetable dishes. The cozy and rustic interior of the restaurant creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty and comforting meal.
- Address: 118 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM from Tues to Fri; 10 AM – 10 PM from Sat to Mon
- Phone: +82 2-325-3399
- Price range: 12 – 23 USD per dish
Makgeolli Salon (막걸리 싸롱)
If you’re looking for a unique and cozy spot to enjoy authentic Korean drinks and snacks, then the Makgeolli Salon in Seoul’s trendy Hongdae neighborhood is worth visiting.
As the name suggests, the Makgeolli Salon specializes in makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine enjoyed for centuries. The salon offers a wide range of makgeolli flavors, including plain, strawberry, and chestnut, all brewed in-house using only the best quality ingredients. Additionally, they also serve up a variety of delicious Korean snacks to pair with your drink. Some must-try dishes are crispy fried chicken, the spicy tteokbokki (Korean rice cakes), and the flavorful kimchi pancake.
The atmosphere at the Makgeolli Salon is warm and inviting. It has rustic wooden tables and a cozy interior, making it the perfect place to catch up with friends or enjoy a relaxing evening out. Makgeolli Salon should be on your list if you want a new experience in Seoul.
- Address: 358-92 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: Mon. – Sat. 5 PM – 1 AM | Sun. Closed
- Phone: +82 2-324-1518
- Price range: 3.8 – 9.2 USD
What the Burger (왓더버거)
If you’re craving a truly satisfying burger experience near Hongdae Station, look no further than What the Burger. This place serves up some seriously delicious handmade burgers that will have you saying “What the…!” in delight. With fresh, crispy vegetables and juicy, perfectly cooked patties, every bite melts in your mouth. The highlight is their 통살새우버거 (whole shrimp burger), where the plump shrimp bursts with flavor in every bite.
Their buns are perfectly toasted, crispy, and deliciously nutty. The burgers are also huge, making for a satisfying meal that fills you up. The interior is spacious and stylish, with plenty of room to relax and enjoy your food. Plus, they offer draft beer, which pairs perfectly with their mouthwatering burgers. It’s the ideal spot for a casual hangout or a laid-back meal with friends. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable burger experience!
- Address: 100-3, Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Time: 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Phone: 0507-1369-0932
Jangin Dakgalbi (장인닭갈비)
It is a popular Korean dish made with spicy grilled chicken and vegetables like sweet potato, onion, and cabbage. You can choose how spicy you want it and you can add toppings like cheese, bacon, sausage, noodles, and Korean rice cakes.
Koreans eat dakgalbi with Ssam, a traditional method of wrapping the grilled chicken with leafy vegetables like lettuce or sesame leaf. You might have seen it in Korean dramas. It’s how the locals here eat and also quite healthy! 🙂
The best part is they have a “self bar” so you can eat as many vegetables as you want without asking anyone.
- Address: Eoulmadang-ro 111-1, Mapogu, Seoul
- Time: 11:00 – 24:00
- Price: 24,000 KRW (20 USD) for 2 people
Honkaz (혼가츠)
Known for its famous cheese tonkatsu, Honkaz is a popular restaurant that has been featured on multiple Korean TV shows. The star of the menu is their thick, crispy pork cutlet stuffed with gooey, melted cheese, making it a must-try for any tonkatsu lover. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the creamy cheese filling creates a satisfying and indulgent dining experience. Located in a cozy, welcoming space, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a comforting meal. If you’re craving a delicious twist on traditional tonkatsu, Honkaz is definitely worth a visit.
- Address: 19, Dongmak-ro 15-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Open hours: 11 AM – 9:30 PM
- Phone: 02-322-8850
Best BBQ restaurants in Hongade
Piggy-Bank Stone Grill (돼지저금통)
The Piggy Bank is a popular restaurant in Hongdae that offers a unique dining experience. Instead of traditional tabletop grills, diners can cook their meat on a hot stone grill at their table. This method of grilling results in a crispy and flavorful crust on the meat while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
The restaurant offers a variety of meat options, including pork belly, beef brisket, and marinated galbi. They also serve a variety of banchan (side dishes), such as kimchi, pickled radish, and soybean sprouts. The menu also features a selection of Korean alcoholic beverages, such as soju and makgeolli, to accompany the meal.
The restaurant is named after the traditional Korean “piggy bank,” a ceramic pig used to store coins. The ceramic pig is believed to bring good luck and prosperity and is often used as a symbol of wealth in Korean culture.
- Address: 146-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 2 PM – 2 AM Monday to Thursday, 12:30 PM – 2 AM Friday to Sunday
- Phone: +82 2-323-6292
Tongkeun Galbi (통큰갈비 홍대점)
Looking for an authentic Korean barbecue experience? Head over to Tongkeun Galbi in Hongdae! This restaurant has been a local favorite for years, and for a good reason. The mouthwatering aroma of grilled meat will greet you as soon as you step inside.
The menu offers a variety of meats, including the must-try galbi (marinated beef short ribs), a customer favorite. However, its secret marinade sets Tongkeun Galbi apart from other Korean barbecue places. This is a family recipe passed down for generations. The result is tender, juicy meat bursting with flavor. The banchan, or side dishes, are also a standout feature of Tongkeun Galbi.
The restaurant’s interior is cozy and welcoming, with traditional Korean decor adding to the ambiance. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home, and the lively atmosphere is perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. Don’t miss Tongkeun Galbi’s delicious barbecue and authentic Korean dining experience!
- Address: 170-12 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 12 AM – 12 PM daily
- Phone: +82 2-3142-4166
- Price range: from 10 USD
Haha & Kim Jong Kook’s 401 Restaurant (하하&김종국의 401 정육식당)
Do you like the popular Korean variety show ‘Running Man’? If so, you may be interested that two of the show’s panel members, Haha and Kim Jong Kook, have opened their Korean barbecue restaurant in the Hongdae neighborhood. That is Haha & Kim Jong Kook’s 401 Restaurant.
The restaurant specializes in Korean barbecue, offering a variety of high-quality meats to grill perfectly at your table. From juicy pork belly to tender beef ribs, there’s something for every meat lover to savor. If you’re unsure where to start with the menu, we recommend trying the signature galbi (beef short ribs), which are marinated and grilled to tender, smoky perfection. You can also sample the Samgyeopsal (pork belly), a Korean barbecue classic that never disappoints.
But what makes 401 Restaurant truly unique is the opportunity to dine in the presence of Haha and Kim Jong Kook’s personal touches. Fans can admire autographed photos, memorabilia, and even the “Running Man” mascot statue while enjoying their meal. Plus, with its trendy and stylish interior, the restaurant is the perfect place to capture an Instagram-worthy moment.
- Address: 23 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 4 PM – 2 AM daily
- Phone: +82 2-325-0805
- Insatgram: 401 Restaurant
Best Korean noodle restaurants in Hongdae
Yeonhuidong Noodle Soup (연희동칼국수)
The Yeonhuidong Noodle Soup, near Hongdae, is a must-try restaurant for those seeking Korean comfort food. As the name suggests, their specialty is the Korean classic dish of Kalguksu. These are handmade knife-cut noodles served in a piping hot and savory broth.
At Yeonhuidong Noodle Soup, the noodles are made fresh daily using a traditional method that involves kneading the dough with barley flour and boiling the noodles in a rich chicken broth. The soup is then topped with generous portions of tender chicken, beef, and fresh vegetables, making for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Aside from the classic Kalguksu, the menu at Yeonhuidong Noodle Soup also offers other Korean comfort food dishes such as Kimchi Fried Rice, Jjajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles), and Mandu (dumplings). The restaurant has a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. So this is absolutely a perfect spot to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy a hearty meal with friends.
- Address: 37 Yeonhuimat-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Korea
- Open hours: 11 AM – 8:30 PM from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Monday
- Phone: +82 2-335-3955
- Price range: 7 – 19 USD
Mashi China (맛이차이나)
The Mashi China is a Chinese-Korean restaurant that has gained popularity among locals and visitors for its delicious jjajangmyeon. Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese noodle dish that consists of a thick black bean sauce mixed with noodles, diced pork, and vegetables. At Mashi China, the jjajangmyeon is a must-try dish. The restaurant’s recipe for the black bean sauce has become renowned throughout the area.
Aside from jajangmyeon, Mashi China also offers a wide variety of other Chinese-Korean dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Their jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup, is perfect for those who love a bit of heat. Their tangsuyuk, a sweet and sour pork dish, is also a favorite among patrons.
The ambiance of the restaurant is another highlight. The walls are decorated with Chinese lanterns and traditional decorations, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Open hours: 11:30 AM – 4 PM and 5 PM – 10 PM from Mon to Sat, 11:30 AM – 10 PM on weekends
- Price range: 4.5 – 15 USD
Hongdae is a culinary paradise for Korean food lovers, offering a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. The 15 best restaurants listed above have garnered a reputation for their delectable dishes, unique atmospheres, and exceptional service. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these restaurants are must-try destinations for any food lover visiting Hongdae. So why not take a culinary journey and experience the best of what Hongdae has to offer?
