Top 9 Affordable Michelin Star Restaurants in Seoul
Want to give yourself a treat without breaking your bank? Check out these top affordable Michelin restaurants in Seoul.
Seoul is a city that celebrates both tradition and innovation, and nowhere is this more evident than in its food scene. While the buzz around Michelin star restaurants in Seoul often points to the ultra-luxurious spots, the city also offers a hidden treasure trove of affordable gems that boast the same world-class quality.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a local foodie, this guide will introduce you to the top 9 affordable Michelin star restaurants in Seoul, where excellence meets value. Ready to feast on Seoul’s finest without breaking the bank? Let’s dig in!
Top Affordable Michelin Star Restaurants in Seoul
1. Woo Lae Oak
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Woo Lae Oak, a beloved family-operated restaurant in the back alleys of Euljiro 4-ga, has been serving exceptional Pyeongyang cold buckwheat noodles since 1946. Known as one of the best spots in Seoul for this traditional dish, the restaurant offers a spacious and clean interior, creating a welcoming atmosphere amid the bustling business district.
The restaurant’s signature Pyeongyang cold buckwheat noodles can be enjoyed in a chilled broth or with a spicy sauce. The delicate, chewy noodles paired with the refreshing broth or bold, tangy sauce offer a perfect balance of flavors, making it a must-try for noodle lovers.
In addition to their legendary noodles, Woo Lae Oak also serves grilled bulgogi cooked tableside, delivering tender, flavorful beef with a delightful aroma. Whether you’re craving cold noodles or a hearty barbecue experience, Woo Lae Oak offers a memorable taste of traditional Korean cuisine that has stood the test of time.
Address: 62-29 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04546, South Korea
2. Buchon Yukhoe
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Located in the heart of Gwangjang Market’s famous raw beef alley, Buchon Yukhoe has been a staple in the area since 1965. Originally opened as Buchon Sikdang, a spot specializing in short rib soup, the restaurant evolved into a beloved purveyor of Jeollado-style raw beef. Over the years, it’s become known for its unique twist on this traditional dish, with the signature Seoul-style yukhoe (raw beef) seasoned with sesame oil, a perfect balance of flavors, and served with refreshing matchstick pears.
The locally sourced beef, delivered fresh each morning, ensures that each plate of yukhoe is of the highest quality, tender and flavorful. The raw beef is meticulously prepared and served with a delicate seasoning of sesame oil, giving it a rich, nutty flavor. It’s paired with crisp pears, adding a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the beef. Though yukhoe is the main attraction, don’t miss out on their raw beef bibimbap—a heartier option that combines the raw beef with seasoned vegetables and a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste), making for a substantial and satisfying meal.
The long-standing history of Buchon Yukhoe, coupled with its commitment to using the freshest ingredients, has made it a go-to destination for raw beef enthusiasts in Seoul. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, the quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere of the market make Buchon Yukhoe an unforgettable experience.
Address: 200-12 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03195, South Korea
3. Pildong Myeonok
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Nestled near Namsangol Hanok Village by Chungmuro subway station, this iconic restaurant has been a beloved Pil-dong landmark for decades, specializing in Pyeongyang cold buckwheat noodles. Known for its expertly crafted chilled broth, the noodles are served with a delicate beef flavor that has both loyal fans and critics among cold buckwheat noodle aficionados. Whether you love the subtlety or prefer a bolder broth, this dish has earned a reputation for its finesse and authenticity.
The real standout, however, is the restaurant’s boiled pork slices. Served in thick, buttery cuts, the pork is tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, complemented perfectly by a tangy dipping sauce that elevates the flavor. It’s a perfect pairing with the cold noodles or enjoyed on its own as a savory treat. Additionally, their homemade dumplings are a fan favorite, offering a delightful bite with each chew and a flavorful filling that complements the other dishes beautifully.
With its long-standing tradition and commitment to quality, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in the Chungmuro area craving an authentic and satisfying Korean meal. Whether you’re after a refreshing bowl of cold noodles, savory pork slices, or comforting dumplings, this spot delivers consistently excellent flavors, making it a true Pil-dong treasure.
Address: 26 Seoae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04624, South Korea
4. Pyeongyang Myeonok
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For three generations, this family-run restaurant has been serving some of the finest Pyeongyang cold buckwheat noodles in Seoul, making it a staple in the local dining scene. Located in a bustling neighborhood, the long queue outside the entrance, especially during the hot summer months, is a testament to the restaurant’s popularity and the quality of its dishes. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, the wait is always worth it for a taste of their legendary noodles.
The secret to their success lies in the delicate clear meat broth, which is perfectly seasoned—neither too strong nor too bland—allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine through. The buckwheat noodles are just the right texture: firm yet smooth, with a pleasant bite that isn’t overly chewy. For many, it’s the ideal balance between flavor and texture, making each bowl a refreshing and satisfying experience, especially on a hot summer day.
Aside from their famous noodles, the restaurant also excels in other traditional dishes. Their steamed dumplings are perfectly crafted, with a tender wrapper and a flavorful filling, while the boiled pork slices, served warm, are a rich, comforting addition to the meal. With its commitment to quality and a recipe that’s been passed down through three generations, this restaurant remains a true icon for lovers of authentic Pyeongyang cold buckwheat noodles.
Address: 207 Jangchungdan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04615, South Korea
5. Niroumianguan
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Step into Niroumianguan, and you’re immediately struck by the restaurant’s vibrant yet clean décor—a striking combination of white and rust tones that creates a modern yet inviting atmosphere. Known for its take on the beloved Chinese beef noodle soup, Niroumianguan offers a memorable dining experience that celebrates both the tradition and evolution of this iconic dish. While many associate Chinese beef noodle soup with Taiwan, the dish actually hails from Lanzhou, mainland China, and here, the chef’s unique twist on the recipe adds a distinct flavor to the mix.
The soup is built on a mildly sweet broth that’s both clean and rich in flavor, offering a delicate base for the hearty noodles and tender beef. What sets this dish apart is the personal touch the chef brings, learned from a noodle joint in Shandong Province. The noodles themselves are perfectly chewy, providing a satisfying contrast to the rich broth. To elevate the flavor, the dish is served with an abundance of fresh cilantro, which brightens the flavors with its fresh, herbal kick. For those who prefer an added layer of heat, a dab of chili sauce brings a deeper, more intense flavor to each spoonful.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic Taiwanese version or are eager to explore a slightly different take, Niroumianguan offers a delightful and nuanced version of this popular dish. With its carefully crafted broth and perfectly seasoned toppings, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic yet innovative bowl of Chinese beef noodle soup.
Address: 75-2 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03190, South Korea
6. Menten
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At Menten, less is truly more. This intimate, one-chef ramen restaurant specializes in just two dishes—shoyu ramen and tantanmen—but what it lacks in variety, it more than makes up for in quality and precision. The chef, solely responsible for every step of the cooking process, has honed his craft to perfection, focusing all his attention on creating two ramen dishes that are as simple as they are exceptional. The result? A memorable dining experience that highlights the beauty of streamlined excellence.
The key to Menten’s success lies in its clear broth, which serves as the base for both dishes. The shoyu ramen, in particular, is a standout, offering a complex and savory balance of flavors. The broth, rich in umami, complements the delicate noodles and tender toppings perfectly. The chef’s dedication to every ingredient is evident in the precise preparation and cooking, ensuring each component contributes to the harmony of the dish. As the chef humbly describes it, his ramen is “simple and uncomplicated but aims for perfection”—a philosophy that clearly resonates in every bowl served.
Despite the minimalist menu, Menten’s focus on quality and attention to detail make it a true gem for ramen lovers. The chef’s quiet confidence and responsibility for the entire cooking process shine through in the final dish, leaving diners with a sense of satisfaction that only the finest, most thoughtfully prepared ramen can provide. Whether you choose the bold tantanmen or the subtly complex shoyu ramen, each dish at Menten promises a refined and perfectly executed experience.
Address: 305 Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04537, South Korea
7. Hadongkwan
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Tucked away on a bustling side street in Myeong-dong, this beloved family-owned restaurant has been a culinary landmark since 1939, specializing in hearty, rustic beef bone soup. Known for its no-frills, traditional approach, the restaurant has earned a loyal following, with customers returning year after year for the same simple yet satisfying bowls of soup. The old-fashioned charm and enduring quality make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience a piece of Seoul’s rich culinary heritage.
The soup is served in traditional brass bowls, with rice already submerged in the piping-hot broth. The secret to its exceptional flavor lies in the pure, rich broth, which is simmered for hours to extract every ounce of flavor from the beef bones. The result is a deep, savory base with an unmistakable sweetness, a mark of the long boiling process that produces a broth unlike any other. Every spoonful of the soup is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition.
This no-fuss, family-run eatery opens early in the morning and serves until the last of its soup vats runs dry, reflecting a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the craft. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing meal to start your day or craving a comforting bowl of beef bone soup, this Myeong-dong institution delivers an unforgettable taste of Seoul’s culinary past. It’s a true gem for those who appreciate the power of tradition and the beauty of simple, well-made food.
Address: 12 Myeongdong 9-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04538, South Korea
8. Geumdwaeji Sikdang
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Nestled along a busy main road in Sindang-dong, Geumdwaeji Sikdang is a must-visit for anyone craving top-tier pork dishes. Easily recognizable by its eye-catching gold-on-white-tile signage, the restaurant draws long queues, often well beyond peak dining hours, a testament to its popularity and reputation. Here, the star of the show is YBD pig, a high-quality crossbreed of Yorkshire, Berkshire, and Duroc pigs known for its exceptional flavor and texture.
The texture of the pork is remarkably firm and meaty, with just the right amount of flavorful fat, which renders the meat supremely juicy as it cooks. The cuts are prepared and grilled over coal briquettes on a cast-iron grill, allowing the heat to stay constant and infusing the meat with a delicious smoky flavor. The result is a truly satisfying dining experience, with every bite offering a perfect balance of tenderness and rich, savory flavors.
Geumdwaeji Sikdang does not accept reservations, which only adds to the charm and excitement of the experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or seeking out a taste of some of the finest pork in the city, this Sindang-dong institution delivers every time. The queue is long, but the wait is always worth it for a taste of their juicy, flavorful YBD pork that keeps diners coming back again and again.
Address: 149 Dasan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04607, South Korea
9. Base is Nice
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Tucked away in a peaceful corner, Base is Nice offers a delightful departure from the typical dining scene with its focus on wholesome, vegetable-centered dishes that cater to those seeking a lighter, more balanced meal. Chef and owner Jang Jin-a, who spent years honing her culinary craft overseas as a restaurant consultant and food stylist, brings a refined touch to the art of everyday food. The result is a space that exudes natural warmth, with dishes that are as thoughtful as they are flavorful.
The menu, built around rice and fresh vegetables, is anything but simple. Each creation is carefully balanced, offering an array of textures and flavors that highlight the best of seasonal produce. Every meal comes with accompanying soup and side dishes, elevating the humble ingredients to something truly special. As Jang herself puts it, the food at Base is Nice is not just about vegetarianism, but about experiencing everyday meals through the lens of a natural, veggie-centered diet. It’s a way to reconnect with the essence of good, honest food, without the need for a conscious focus on vegetarianism.
With its serene atmosphere and emphasis on quality, Base is Nice provides a truly satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a meal that’s both refined and wholesome, this restaurant offers an inviting escape. Reservations are required, ensuring a calm, personalized experience. For those who appreciate the beauty of natural, balanced meals, Base is Nice is a destination worth seeking out.
Address: 20 Dohwa 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04171, South Korea
