The Best 11 Restaurants in Myeongdong, Seoul
After living a few years in Seoul, I’ve had the opportunity to explore almost all of the food areas in the city, and Myeongdong is not the exception.
Myeongdong, famous for its bustling streets and diverse food scene, is a haven for food enthusiasts. From the irresistible Myeongdong Street Food Alley to the legendary Myeongdong Kyoja, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore.
This post is all about the best restaurants in Myeongdong, Seoul.
Best Restaurants in Myeongdong
1. Kkongsimyeongwan (꽁시면관)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
Personally my favorite restaurant in Myeongdong, Kkongsimyeongwan is a Chinese restaurant based in the heart of Seoul.
Their representative menu includes 꿔바로우 (gwe barou), a Korean dish that features deep-fried pork, usually coated in a sweet and sour sauce, and 홍소 우육탕면 (hongso uyuktangmyeon), or braised beef noodle soup, which I always get when I visit the restaurant. This dish typically includes tender pieces of braised beef, noodles, and a flavorful broth often made with soy sauce, garlic, and various spices.
Since the portions are generous, it’s a good idea to share your meals with others. This way, everyone can sample a variety of dishes from the menu!
Address: 45 Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung District, Seoul
2. Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
Listed on the Michelin Guide Seoul 2024, Myeongdong Kyoja features only 4-5 dishes on their menu, but don’t let yourself be misled by the simplicity. Myeongdong Kyoja focuses on quality over quantity, showcasing their expertise in crafting each dish to perfection.
Their featured menus are 칼국수 (kal-guksu), which is a delicious Korean noodle soup made with handmade, knife-cut wheat noodles, and 만두 (mandu), which are Korean dumplings that can be steamed, boiled, or fried.
Address: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung District, Seoul
3. Miseong-og (미성옥)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re in the mood for comforting Korean cuisine, Miseong-og offers a solid experience, particularly with their 수육 (suyuk) and 곰탕 (gomtang). The standout dish here is undoubtedly the suyuk, which is incredibly tender and flavorful. Although some may find the prices a bit on the higher side, I wholeheartedly recommend trying it at least once—it’s worth the splurge.
The atmosphere is reminiscent of a traditional gomtang house, giving it a nostalgic feel. While I personally enjoyed the gomtang, I found the suyuk to be the real star of the show. Others have noted that while it’s not extraordinary, it still delivers a satisfying experience, especially if you’re looking for a hearty meal alone.
Address: 25-11 Myeongdong-gil, Jung District, Seoul
4. Jjeuruhasi Fugetsu (쯔루하시 후게츠)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re in the mood for an authentic Japanese teppanyaki experience, Jjeuruhasi Fugetsu does an excellent job capturing that vibe. Be prepared for some wait times if you walk in, so I highly recommend using their remote queuing system to save yourself the hassle.
One of the highlights of the dining experience is watching the skilled chefs prepare your meal right in front of you. Their impressive knife skills and flair add a fun element to the meal. As for the food, the 오코노미야키 (okonomiyaki) is solid, while the 야끼소바 (yakisoba) surprised me with its flavor and richness. However, keep in mind that portion sizes are on the smaller side; two dishes might leave you wanting more if you’re sharing.
The taste is reminiscent of a good okonomiyaki spot in Osaka, bringing that home-cooked vibe to the table. The 감자치즈맛 (potato cheese flavor) was particularly unique and stood out.
Address: 21-5 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung District, Seoul
5. Menten (멘텐)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
Tucked away in a small space, Menten is a gem that draws a crowd even before opening time. If you’re searching for ramen that rivals what you’d find in Japan, look no further—this spot delivers a truly delightful experience.
The ramen here is exceptional, with the meat practically melting in your mouth. The broth strikes the perfect balance: rich yet clean, providing a deep flavor without being overwhelming. It’s complemented beautifully by the simple, well-prepared toppings like 멘마 (menma) and 차슈 (chashu), which enhance the overall harmony of the dish. The noodles are cooked just right, maintaining a satisfying bite while soaking up the savory broth.
For those who’ve sworn off the bustling streets of Myeongdong, this restaurant makes the trip worthwhile. It’s rare to find such hidden treasures in a tourist-heavy area, and discovering this place felt like unearthing a culinary treasure.
Address: 305 Samil-daero, Jung District, Seoul
6. Yeongyang Center Main (영양센타 본점)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
After quite some time, I revisited Yeongyang Center Main, and I’m thrilled to report that the quality of their chicken remains outstanding! The chicken here is known for its exceptionally tender and clean flavor. Each bite reveals perfectly grilled meat with just the right amount of oil rendered out, making for a wonderfully soft texture that’s hard to match.
This isn’t your typical electric-roasted chicken; the meat is juicy and the skin is perfectly crispy, delivering an all-around flawless experience. When dining with a companion, however, choosing the right menu can be a bit tricky. Sharing a 삼계탕 (samgyetang) and a whole chicken could be too much, but just ordering a chicken feels slightly insufficient. Thankfully, they offer soup and bread as well, which adds a nice touch to the meal.
This is the go-to spot when I crave tender chicken, and it’s a classic in Myeongdong that has stood the test of time. Even after a long hiatus, the taste was just as delightful as I remembered! While I did notice that prices have increased—like everywhere else—it no longer feels overly expensive given the quality and experience provided.
Address: 52 Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung District, Seoul
7. Sandong Gyoja (산동교자)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
Sandong Gyoja is a small yet charming Chinese restaurant that has definitely made a name for itself. It can be a bit tricky to find, nestled between other shops and with a bright red sign that catches your eye once you’re close. Just a heads up—there’s no parking available!
The 탕수육 (tangsuyuk) is a standout, with a crispy batter that doesn’t have any off-putting odors from the meat. It’s delicious enough to enjoy without the sauce, as it has a great salty flavor. The 오향장육 (five-spice pork) is fresh and flavorful, combining cucumber, sauce, and minced garlic in a delightful way. The 짜장면 (jajangmyeon) may seem standard, but the noodles are slightly thinner and chewier than average, making them quite enjoyable. I also recommend trying the egg soup; it’s worth the extra cost!
I visited on a weekday and got lucky with no wait time, but be aware that this place can get busy, especially since it’s been featured on YouTube! If you don’t mind a bit of a wait, it’s definitely worth it for some satisfying Chinese comfort food.
Address: 26 Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung District, Seoul
8. HaiDiLao Hot Pot Myeongdong Branch (하이디라오 명동점)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re a fan of hot pot, HaiDiLao Hot Pot Myeongdong Branch is a must-visit. Conveniently located near Euljiro Entrance Station (Exit 6), this spot is easily accessible, making it perfect for a casual meal with friends. One thing to note is that whether you’re dining solo or in a larger group, the bill tends to hover around 80,000 won, so it’s ideal to go with 3-4 people to make the most of your meal.
The toppings here are consistently good, but I highly recommend trying the 새우완자 (shrimp balls)—they’re definitely a highlight! The broth options are also worth mentioning; you can expect standard favorites like mushroom and tomato broth, both of which are delicious. The mushroom broth, in particular, is a standout and perfect for cozy winter nights.
No need to worry about sauce recipes; everything you need is laid out at the sauce station. I particularly enjoy the 건희소스 (add chili and cilantro for an extra kick), which pairs wonderfully with the dishes. It’s a blissful experience for anyone who loves spicy and savory flavors.
Address: 36 Myeongdong 3-gil, Jung District, Seoul
9. Myeongdongchungmu Gimbap (명동충무김밥)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re on the hunt for a kimbap spot that has stood the test of time, Myeongdong chungmu Gimbap is an absolute must-visit. This beloved establishment has been a favorite for over 30 years, and while it’s undergone some changes, the essence of its delicious offerings remains intact.
My favorite part of visiting is still the 오징어반찬 (squid side dish) and 깍두기 (radish kimchi), which are unbeatable. The fresh, tangy flavors of the 깍두기 are pure perfection and have returned to their original deliciousness, reminiscent of the classic taste that drew me in years ago.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, this place is still worthy of its reputation. The combination of flavors here is unlike any other, making it a staple in the Myeongdong area. If you love good food and authentic tastes, don’t miss out on the chance to experience this gem!
Address: 16 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung District, Seoul
10. Bantianyao Roast Fish (반티엔야오 카오위 명동점)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re a fan of spicy, flavorful dishes, Bantianyao Roast Fish is a must-visit! Whether it’s a weekday or weekend, expect a long wait—it’s a popular spot for good reason. The rich aroma of 마라 (mala) fills the air, tantalizing your taste buds as you indulge in tender fish fillets that pair perfectly with the intense flavors.
The portions are quite generous; while it’s possible for two to share, I’d recommend bringing three or four people along to really enjoy the full experience. You can also order extra noodles to round out the meal. The self-service area is well-organized, which is impressive given the usual crowds. It definitely gives off a local vibe, with many patrons being Chinese, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
If you’re new to 카오위 (kaowei), you might feel hesitant at first, but don’t worry! The dish offers a variety of flavors beyond just the mala—think garlic, chili, and more. The fish itself is incredibly tender and easy to eat, with bones that are well-removed.
Address: Seoul, Jung District, Myeongdong 7-gil, 13 명동증권빌딩 1층
11. Myeongdong Tonkatsu (명동돈가스)
Picture Source: Naver Maps
If you’re a fan of 돈까스 (tonkatsu), you absolutely have to check out 명동돈가스! This spot is a gem for those who appreciate freshly made, crispy tonkatsu. The best part? When you place your order, they fry it right in front of you, which is a treat to watch from the first-floor seating area.
Pairing their tonkatsu with a refreshing draft beer is a must—it complements the flavors perfectly. This place has a nostalgic charm, reminding me of the times when delicious tonkatsu was harder to come by. The immediate satisfaction of biting into that crispy crust, knowing it was made to order, is something special.
Address: 8 Myeongdong 3-gil, Jung District, Seoul
