5 Best Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea

Set on the 50th floor of the FKI Tower, this see-and-be-seen restaurant made popular in the 2016 K-Drama series W is all about the views. The airy dining room is a mish-mash of glass, whitewashed steel, hanging plants, and a rustic, almost farm-like vibe, made more prevalent by waitstaff dressed in Little House on the Prairie–style garb. While known as a brunch restaurant with favorites like French toast, full English breakfast, and chicken and waffles, the menu also has a steady lineup of pasta, salads, and desserts. Reservations are taken a month in advance, and without one there can be a long wait—pass the time with a stroll in the building’s rooftop atrium garden.

One of the first well-known Western-style vegan restaurants in Seoul, Plant opened in 2013 as the brainchild of former designer and blogger Mipa Lee. Although Plant was first a small cafe for baked goods, its popularity from vegans and non-vegans alike has helped grow the menu and the space. Still operating as a 100% plant-based restaurant, the beloved menu includes a hummus and roasted squash salad, lentil veggie bowl, and mushroom burger in addition to its wide range of desserts. Today, Plant has two locations: this one near Itaewon Station and another in Yeonnam-dong, Hongdae.

While a delicious and hearty salad can be difficult to come by, one place that does it right is Root Everyday, a salad cafe that also makes sandwiches, soups, and rolls. Their salads center proteins like chicken, salmon, and tofu with two favorites being the shrimp poke bowl and the Thai steak bowl. Their root avocado roll made with avocado, brown rice, red peppers, and cabbage is a fresh, light meal for anyone needing a break from heavy holiday eating.

Despite Korea's wonderful and varied cuisine, there are days when you want a taste of home and Suji's it the best place in Seoul to get it. After studying at New York's French Culinary Institute, chef Suji Park introduced the best of American cuisine to Seoul. Everything—including the bread, pickles and deli meats—is made in house. Not only is it the best place in Seoul to get a pastrami sandwich or apple crumble, it is hands-down the city's best brunch.

One of the best places for Western-style dining, Summer Lane is an Australian, all-day brunch eatery located in the backroads of Hannam-dong. Popular menu items include the bacon waffle eggs benedict, smashed avocado, and the DIY option which allows you choices of sourdough bread, eggs any way, tomatoes, spinach, and bacon among others. With high ceilings and a bright decor, the dog- and kid-friendly space is a favorite among early birds, especially since the restaurant opens at 7:30 am (a rarity for a Western restaurant in Korea).