Your Local Korean Guide, Minari

Category: Food

Experience the rich flavors of Korea, from sizzling K-BBQ to delicious street food!

  • 17 Best Halal Restaurants in Seoul – Must-Try Muslim-Friendly Food Spots(2025)

    Seoul is a vibrant and diverse food destination, offering a wide range of Halal-friendly options for Muslim travelers. Whether you’re craving authentic Korean cuisine, Indian flavors, or Middle Eastern dishes, the city has plenty of Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly restaurants.

    In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best Halal restaurants in Seoul, categorized by cuisine type and location. We’ll also share essential dining tips and a Naver Map list to help you easily find these restaurants during your trip.

    📍 Where to Find Halal Restaurants in Seoul?

    Most Halal-friendly restaurants in Seoul are located in Itaewon, Myeongdong, Insadong, and Hongdae. Itaewon, in particular, is home to a large Muslim-friendly community, making it the best area for Halal food.

    Below is a curated list of the top Halal restaurants in Seoul, categorized by cuisine.

    🥘 Best Halal Indian Restaurants in Seoul

    1️⃣ Japeuran (자프란) – Authentic Indian Cuisine

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? One of the most popular Indian restaurants serving a variety of curry dishes, tandoori, and naan.

    2️⃣ HOOR Restaurant

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? Offers a wide selection of Halal Indian and Pakistani dishes, perfect for those who enjoy spicy flavors.

    3️⃣ Little India Seoul

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? Known for its authentic Indian flavors and cozy ambiance, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

    4️⃣ Bombay Grill

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? A go-to place for Indian food lovers, offering a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Halal options.

    5️⃣ Taji Palace Itaewon Branch

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? One of the best Halal Indian restaurants in Itaewon, featuring a diverse menu of classic Indian curries.

    6️⃣ Nirvana

    📍 Location: Insadong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? A hidden gem in Insadong, perfect for those looking to experience traditional Indian flavors in a historic area.

    7️⃣ India Chef

    📍 Location: Insadong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? Known for its rich curries and freshly baked naan, this place is a must-visit for Indian food lovers.

    8️⃣ Pooja 2 (뿌자2) – Halal Indian Food

    📍 Location: Euljiro, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? Serves a wide range of authentic Indian dishes, including biryani, curries, and tandoori chicken.

    🥢 Best Halal Korean Restaurants in Seoul

    1️⃣ Eid – Halal Korean Food

    Eid (이드) – Halal Korean Food
    Eid (이드) – Halal Korean Food

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍲 Why Visit? One of the only Halal-certified Korean restaurants in Seoul, serving bulgogi, bibimbap, and samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup).

    2️⃣ Busan Jib (부산집) – Halal-Friendly Korean BBQ

    📍 Location: Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🍲 Why Visit? A great place to try Korean dishes with Halal meat options.

    🍕 Best Halal Western & Fusion Restaurants in Seoul

    1️⃣ Dubai Restaurant

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Why Visit? A great spot for Middle Eastern cuisine, serving classic dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and hummus.

    2️⃣ Halal Guys (Itaewon, Hongdae & Gangnam Branches)

    📍 Locations: Itaewon, Hongdae, Gangnam
    🍽️ Why Visit? Famous for their Halal chicken and rice platters, this international chain is a favorite among Muslim travelers.

    3️⃣ The Halal Pizza (더 할랄 핏짜)

    The Halal Pizza
    The Halal Pizza

    📍 Location: Hongdae, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    🍕 Why Visit? One of the few places in Seoul offering Halal-certified pizza with a variety of toppings.

    4️⃣ City Sara – Asian Fusion Cuisine

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? Offers a diverse menu featuring a mix of Asian and Western Halal-friendly dishes.

    🍢 Best Halal-Friendly Restaurants for Quick Eats

    1️⃣ Halal King

    Halal King
    Halal King

    📍 Location: Dongdaemun, Seoul
    🍢 Why Visit? Offers affordable Halal food, perfect for travelers exploring Dongdaemun.

    2️⃣ Kervan Restaurant – Halal Turkish Cuisine

    📍 Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🥙 Why Visit? One of the best Halal Turkish restaurants in Seoul, serving kebabs, pide, and baklava.

    3️⃣ Small India Café (작은 인디아 카페)

    📍 Location: Insadong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
    🍛 Why Visit? A cozy place offering Halal-friendly Indian snacks and tea.

    ✅ Essential Tips for Dining in Seoul as a Muslim Traveler

    🔹 Look for Halal Certification: Restaurants with official Halal certification are the safest option.
    🔹 Visit Itaewon for More Options: Many Middle Eastern and Indian restaurants in Itaewon cater specifically to Muslim travelers.

    📍 Find Halal Restaurants Easily with Naver Maps

    To make your search easier, I’ve compiled all these restaurants into a Naver Map list! Click the link below to access the interactive map and find the nearest Halal restaurant in Seoul.

    🔗 View the Halal Restaurant Map on Naver (Link will be provided)

    🌟 Final Thoughts – Enjoy Halal Dining in Seoul!

    Finding Halal food in Seoul has become easier than ever, thanks to the growing number of Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Korean cuisine, Indian delicacies, or Middle Eastern dishes, Seoul has plenty of Halal dining options to explore.

    📌 Have you tried any of these Halal restaurants in Seoul? Share your experience in the comments below!

  • Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong – Where to Eat Delicious Samgyeopsal!

    If you’re visiting Myeongdong, Seoul, and craving authentic Korean BBQ, you’re in for a treat! Myeongdong is home to some of the best samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) restaurants, where you can experience the true flavors of Korean BBQ. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or in a group, this guide will help you find the perfect BBQ spot. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to enjoy samgyeopsal the Korean way!

    📍 1. Hongojip (혼고집) – Best for Solo Diners

    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong

    📌 Address: 1F, 40 Myeongdong 3-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🚇 Nearest Station: 93m from Exit 6, Euljiro 1-ga Station
    ⏰ Opening Hours:
    🕙 Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last Order: 9:20 PM)

    If you’re traveling solo and looking for a budget-friendly BBQ spot in Myeongdong, Hongojip (혼고집) is the perfect place! This restaurant is affordable, offers generous portions, and welcomes solo diners. However, it’s self-grill, meaning you’ll have to cook your own meat. But don’t worry—it’s part of the fun!

    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong
    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong

    🔥 Why You Should Visit:

    ✔ Perfect for solo travelers
    ✔ Affordable prices with large portions
    ✔ Great selection of meats
    ✔ Cold naengmyeon (Korean cold noodles) is also a must-try!

    💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve never grilled meat yourself, don’t be afraid to ask the staff for help!

    📍 2. Yuktongryeong (육통령) – High-Quality Jeju Black Pork

    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong

    📌 Address: 37-2 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🚇 Nearest Station: 217m from Exit 5, Myeongdong Station
    ⏰ Opening Hours:
    🕙 Daily: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Last Order: 10:15 PM)

    If you’re looking for premium Jeju black pork, Yuktongryeong (육통령) is the place to go. This restaurant has been featured on Korean food programs like Tasty Guys and has won the Blue Ribbon Award for five consecutive years.

    Unlike many BBQ spots, the staff grills the meat for you, so you can enjoy the perfect crispy yet juicy pork belly without any hassle. Plus, you can cook your own kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) right at the table, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong

    🔥 Why You Should Visit:

    ✔ One of Korea’s top 3 samgyeopsal restaurants
    ✔ Premium Jeju black pork
    ✔ Staff grills the meat for you
    ✔ Cook-your-own kimchi jjigae experience

    💡 Pro Tip: Try dipping the grilled pork in salted sesame oil—it enhances the rich flavor of the meat!

    📍 3. Hanam Pig House (하남돼지집) – Popular Among Locals

    Best Korean BBQ Restaurants in Myeongdong

    📌 Address: 12 Myeongdong 9ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🚇 Nearest Station: 188m from Exit 6, Euljiro 1-ga Station
    ⏰ Opening Hours:
    🕙 Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM (Break: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
    🕙 Monday – Friday: 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM
    🕙 Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM (Break: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

    If you want to experience a BBQ restaurant popular among Koreans, Hanam Pig House (하남돼지집) is a great choice. It’s known for high-quality pork, professional grilling service, and flavorful side dishes.

    The staff grills the meat for you, so you can sit back and enjoy. However, they require a minimum order of 2 servings per person. If you’re eating alone, don’t worry—Korean BBQ portions are usually small, so you’ll likely be able to finish it!

    🔥 Why You Should Visit:

    ✔ Locals’ favorite BBQ restaurant
    ✔ Staff grills the meat for you
    ✔ Delicious kimchi mari guksu (cold kimchi noodles)
    ✔ Multiple locations – check for a branch near you!

    💡 Pro Tip: Don’t miss the kimchi mari guksu (cold kimchi noodles)—it’s the perfect refreshing dish after BBQ!

    🥓 How to Eat Samgyeopsal Like a Korean

    To truly enjoy Korean BBQ, follow these traditional eating methods:

    1️⃣ Wrap It in Lettuce & Perilla Leaves (Ssam, 쌈)

    • Take a lettuce or perilla leaf (깻잎).
    • Add a slice of grilled samgyeopsal.
    • Top it with ssamjang (Korean BBQ dipping sauce).
    • Add garlic, kimchi, or grilled onions for extra flavor.
    • Wrap it into a bite-sized portion and eat it in one bite!

    💡 Pro Tip: Perilla leaves (깻잎) have a minty, slightly spicy taste that complements grilled pork belly perfectly!

    2️⃣ Try Different Dipping Sauces

    Korean BBQ offers a variety of dipping sauces. Try them all to find your favorite!
    ✔ Ssamjang (쌈장) – A thick, slightly spicy soybean paste sauce.
    ✔ Salt & Sesame Oil (소금+참기름) – Enhances the pork’s natural flavor.
    ✔ Wasabi (와사비) – Adds a bit of a kick.

    3️⃣ Pair It with Naengmyeon (냉면)

    Many Koreans end their BBQ meal with naengmyeon (cold noodles). The chewy noodles and icy broth balance the richness of the pork belly, making it the perfect way to finish your meal.

    💡 Pro Tip: Eat a piece of grilled pork belly together with naengmyeon for a delicious contrast of flavors!

    🏆 Final Thoughts: Where to Eat Korean BBQ in Myeongdong

    Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, there’s a perfect samgyeopsal restaurant for you in Myeongdong:

    ✔ 💰 Budget-Friendly & Solo Diner Option: Hongojip (혼고집)
    ✔ 🔥 High-Quality Jeju Black Pork: Yuktongryeong (육통령)
    ✔ 🍽️ Locals’ Favorite & Convenient Chain: Hanam Pig House (하남돼지집)

    No matter where you go, make sure to try samgyeopsal the Korean way—with fresh lettuce wraps, ssamjang, and delicious side dishes!

    👉 Which Korean BBQ spot are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

  • 6 Must-Try Korean Winter Snacks

    Winter in Korea is not just about chilly winds and snowy streets; it’s also the perfect season to indulge in delicious, warm street snacks. Whether you’re wandering through traditional markets or exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here are the top Korean winter snacks you must try, where to find them, and insider tips on prices!

    1. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

    🔥 Flavor: Spicy, sweet, and chewy
    📍 Where to Find: Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong Street Food Alley
    💰 Price: Around 3,000–4,000 KRW per serving

    Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food made of chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy, sweet gochujang-based sauce. It’s often accompanied by fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions. For an authentic taste, head to Gwangjang Market, where vendors have perfected this dish over decades.

    2. Hotteok (Sweet Korean Pancakes)

    🥞 Flavor: Crispy outside, gooey brown sugar, cinnamon, and nut fillings inside
    📍 Where to Find: Namdaemun Market, Insadong, Myeongdong Street Food Stalls
    💰 Price: Around 1,000–2,000 KRW per pancake

    Hotteok is a popular winter treat that warms both your hands and heart. These pancakes are fried until golden brown, with fillings like brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon melting inside. Visit Namdaemun Market for the best traditional hotteok stands.

    3. Bungeoppang (Fish-Shaped Pastry)

    🐟 Flavor: Crispy pastry filled with sweet red bean paste
    📍 Where to Find: Myeongdong Street, Dongdaemun Night Market, Street Vendors Everywhere in Winter
    💰 Price: Around 1,000–1,500 KRW for 2 pieces

    Despite its fish shape, bungeoppang has nothing to do with seafood. This snack is filled with sweet red bean paste and is best enjoyed hot off the griddle. The crispy edges and soft, warm filling make it a winter favorite.

    4. Hodu-Gwaja (Walnut Cakes)

    🌰 Flavor: Soft pastry filled with red bean paste and walnuts
    📍 Where to Find: Express Bus Terminals, Train Stations, and Street Vendors
    💰 Price: Around 3,000 KRW for a pack of 10

    Hodu-gwaja, or walnut cakes, are bite-sized treats filled with sweet red bean paste and crunchy walnuts. They’re often sold near transportation hubs, making them a perfect snack for travelers. Try them fresh for a warm, nutty flavor.

    5. Korean Hot Dog (Corn Dog)

    🌭 Flavor: Crispy batter with stretchy cheese or sausage inside
    📍 Where to Find: Myeongdong, Hongdae, Sinchon…
    💰 Price: Around 2,000–4,000 KRW depending on fillings

    Korean hot dogs take the classic corn dog to the next level. They’re coated in a crunchy batter, sometimes with potato cubes, and filled with sausage, mozzarella, or both. Topped with sugar, ketchup, and mustard, it’s an irresistible street snack.

    6. Odeng (Fish Cake Skewers)

    🍢 Flavor: Savory, slightly salty, served in warm broth(Sometimes very spicy)
    📍 Where to Find: Gwangjang Market, Street Carts in Myeongdong and Insadong
    💰 Price: Around 1,000 KRW per skewer

    Odeng, or eomuk, is a comforting snack, especially on cold days. The skewered fish cakes are served in hot broth, which you can sip for free. It’s simple yet satisfying, and you’ll find it at almost every street food stall during winter.

    Where to Find These Winter Delights

    • Gwangjang Market: Famous for traditional Korean street food.
    • Namdaemun Market: Perfect for budget-friendly snacks.
    • Myeongdong Street Food Alley: Great for trendy, Instagram-worthy treats.
    • Dongdaemun Night Market: Best for late-night food adventures.

    Insider Tips for Street Food Lovers

    • Cash is King: Most street vendors prefer cash, though some accept mobile payments.
    • Portion Sizes: Street food portions are often small, allowing you to try multiple items.
    • Sharing is Caring: If you’re traveling with friends, buy different snacks and share to taste a variety.

    Final Thoughts

    Korean winter street snacks are more than just food; they’re a warm embrace during cold days. Whether you’re a foodie or a casual traveler, don’t miss out on these delicious bites when exploring Seoul.

    #KoreanWinterSnacks #SeoulStreetFood #Tteokbokki #Hotteok #Bungeoppang #MyeongdongFood #NamdaemunMarket

  • Top 9 Must-Visit Restaurants in Korea by Black & White Chef Top Chefs

    If you’re a food lover traveling to Korea, don’t miss these top restaurants run by the finalists of Black & White Chef! From modern Korean fine dining to authentic Italian and Japanese fusion cuisine, these restaurants offer one-of-a-kind dining experiences crafted by some of Korea’s most talented chefs.

    1. Chef Kwon Sung-jun – Via Toledo 🇮🇹

    📍 7-2, Wonhyo-ro 83-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Authentic Italian cuisine, including Neapolitan-style pizzas.
    ⭐ Why Visit? Chef Kwon, known as “Napoli Mafia,” brings true Neapolitan flavors to Korea with a wood-fired oven straight from Italy.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.
    📸 Instagram: @viatoledo_official

    2. Chef Kang Seung-won (Triple Star)– Trid 🍽️

    📍 2F, 16 Seolleung-ro 162-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Innovative multi-course menus blending various cultural influences.
    ⭐ Why Visit? A fine dining experience that combines modern techniques with Korean and international flavors.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.
    📸 Instagram: @tridseoul

    3. Chef Yoon Nam-no(Cooking Maniac) – Deepin 🍷

    📍 411, Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Japanese-French fusion with seasonal tasting menus.
    ⭐ Why Visit? An intimate dining space with a focus on artful plating and deep flavors.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.
    📸 Instagram: @deepin_seoul

    4. Chef Jang Ho-jun – Cabistry

    📍 1st Floor, 21 Dosan-daero 37-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Authentic Spanish cuisine, featuring traditional tapas and paella.
    ⭐ Why Visit? One of the best Spanish restaurants in Seoul, perfect for wine lovers and those craving bold Mediterranean flavors. I had the pleasure of dining at Cabistry, and it was truly one of the best fusion restaurants I’ve ever visited! Chef Jang Ho-jun’s dishes are not only visually stunning but also packed with rich, unforgettable flavors. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, this is the place to go!
    📅 Reservations: Best made through CatchTable.
    📸 Instagram: @cabistry_seoul

    5. Chef Choi Kang-rok – Restaurant Neo 🍽️

    📍 4, Samjeon-ro 12-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Contemporary Western cuisine with artistic plating.
    ⭐ Why Visit? A stylish dining spot in Seoul, offering modern flavors with a creative touch.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.

    6. Chef Choi Ji-hyung – Li Bukbang 🥟

    📍 16, Mapodaero 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: North Korean-style dishes, offering rare and authentic flavors.
    ⭐ Why Visit? If you’re interested in North Korean cuisine in Seoul, this is one of the few places offering an authentic taste.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.

    7. Chef Hwang Jin-seon – Jinjin 🌶️

    📍 60, World Cup Buk-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Traditional Szechuan Chinese cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors.
    ⭐ Why Visit? If you love spicy Chinese food, this restaurant is a must-try.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.

    8. Chef Bang Ki-soo – Gitdeun 🍽️

    📍 46-5, Wolgye-ro 7na-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
    🍽️ Cuisine: Korean-Western fusion, blending traditional Korean ingredients with modern techniques.
    ⭐ Why Visit? Creative takes on classic flavors, perfect for foodies looking for something different.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.

    9. Chef Kim Seung-min – Morinoarujo 🍣

    📍 769-58, Haso-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju
    🍽️ Cuisine: Japanese-Korean fusion, using fresh Jeju ingredients.
    ⭐ Why Visit? A must-visit for Japanese food lovers in Jeju, offering refined and seasonal flavors.
    📅 Reservations: Available via CatchTable.

    How to Make Reservations as a Foreigner?

    🔹 CatchTable App: An English-supported app for easy online bookings.
    🔹 Hotel Concierge: If online booking isn’t available, hotel staff can assist.
    🔹 Direct Contact: Some restaurants accept phone reservations in English.

    Conclusion: Where to Eat in Korea?

    If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Korea, these Black & White Chef restaurants are a must-visit! Whether you want to try modern Korean fine dining, North Korean specialties, Spanish tapas, or Michelin-starred Japanese-French fusion, there’s something for every food lover.

    📌 Have you been to any of these restaurants? Share your experience in the comments! 😊 #BestRestaurantsInSeoul #SeoulFoodie #WhereToEatInSeoul