From traditional Korean cuisine to refined French gastronomy, Seoul’s culinary scene thrives on the tension between the classic and the unexpected. These five HOT spots capture the best of global cooking reimagined with Korean soul, technique, and creativity.

Mukjung

In the heart of Jung District, chef Austin Kang creates a cuisine that bridges two worlds: Korean heritage and the contemporary influences of Los Angeles. His entire approach revolves around time. The star of the menu is the pork belly, marinated in doenjang with red ginseng and slowly cooked over smoke for six hours. The result: a deep, layered, and sophisticated flavor.

Must try: tofu hummus
Address: 28-14 Mukjeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Phone: +82 2-6743-0101

Toh Lim 

Located inside the Lotte Hotel, this HOT spot redefines Chinese cuisine with precision and restraint. The chef offers a modern, elevated take on Cantonese cooking, allowing each ingredient to maintain its natural essence while creating an elegant balance of flavors. The setting is equally impressive, with a panoramic view of Mount Bukhansan and an atmosphere shaped by meticulous technique.

Must try: Cantonese-style duck
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Eulji-ro, 30 Main Tower 37
Phone: +82 2-317-7101

Pierre Gagnaire

From Paris to Seoul, legendary chef Pierre Gagnaire brings a culinary proposal that fuses French sophistication with Korean sensibility and ingredients. His menu showcases creativity, refinement, and flawless technique: dishes crafted with 80% local products, transformed into remarkable flavors.

Must try: blue lobster à la parisienne
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Eulji-ro, 30, Executive Tower 35F
Phone: +82 2-317-7181

Gigas

In the heart of the city, chef Jung Ha-wan brings the true spirit of the Mediterranean to Korea. His philosophy is simple: pure ingredients, sustainable processes, and deep respect for the land. Everything served at Gigas comes from the restaurant’s own organic farm, reinforcing a conscious, roots-driven culinary approach.

Must try: grilled octopus with eggplant purée
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Toegye-ro 6ga-gil, 30 3
Phone: +82 2-3448-9929

IG. @gigas_seoul

Sooksoodoga

In the world of Korean BBQ, this spot stands apart. The chef has spent years mastering the art of dry-aged beef, maturing each cut for 720 hours under carefully controlled conditions of temperature, humidity, and oxygen to amplify its umami. At the table, each piece is grilled with a signature technique that elevates the entire experience.

Must try: Hanwoo dry-aged sirloin
Address: 28 Dongsomun-ro 17-gil, Dongsomun-dong 6(yuk)-ga, Seongbuk District, Seoul
Phone: +82 10-8231-2627