Intro: Best Restaurants in COEX & Samseong
Standing in the heart of Samseong-dong, phone in hand, feeling the familiar wave of decision fatigue? You’re surrounded by towering glass buildings, the endless buzz of the COEX Mall, and hundreds of dining options. It’s overwhelming. You need more than just a list; you need a confident recommendation from a local who gets it.
Consider this your definitive Samseong-dong food guide. I’ve navigated the business lunches, the pre-concert rushes, and the casual weekend dinners to bring you the absolute best restaurants in COEX & Samseong. Whether you’re sealing a deal, treating your family, or just satisfying a serious craving, your perfect meal is just a short walk away. Let’s eat.
For the Unforgettable Korean BBQ Experience
If you’re in Korea, you have to experience authentic K-BBQ. These spots offer sizzling platters, an electric atmosphere, and flavors you won’t forget.
1. Byeokje Galbi (벽제갈비)
A legendary name in Seoul’s high-end Korean BBQ scene. This is where you go to impress. They are famous for their impeccably sourced, top-tier Hanwoo (Korean beef) that melts in your mouth. The service is formal and attentive.
- Best For: Business Dinner, Special Occasions
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Reservations are essential and can be made well in advance.
2. Saebyukjib (새벽집)
A Gangnam institution that’s open 24/7. Famous for its high-quality beef and its signature beef tartare bibimbap. The vibe is a bit more bustling and casual than Byeokje Galbi, but the quality is still top-notch.
- Best For: Late-Night Cravings, Authentic K-BBQ Experience
- Reservation Call-to-Action: It gets very busy during peak hours, so calling ahead for a group is a smart move.
3. Gwangyang Bulgogi (광양불고기)
Specializing in the thinly-sliced, marinated bulgogi style of BBQ. It’s sweeter and less intense than galbi, making it a great choice for those new to K-BBQ or dining with kids. The atmosphere is traditional and welcoming.
- Best For: Family Dinner, First-time K-BBQ
- Reservation Call-to-Action: We recommend booking a table, especially on weekends.
Quick & Satisfying Lunches on the Go
Need a delicious meal without the two-hour commitment? These are your go-to spots for a fast, flavorful, and high-quality lunch.
4. Gatten Sushi (갓덴스시)
A conveyor-belt sushi restaurant that delivers on quality and fun. Grab a seat at the bar and pick plates as they glide by, or order directly from the chefs. The fish is fresh and the prices are reasonable for the quality.
- Best For: Solo Dining, Quick & Fun Lunch
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Expect a line during peak lunch and dinner hours; no reservations, so plan accordingly.
5. Hyoja Gukbap (효자국밥)
Serving up piping hot bowls of dwaeji gukbap (pork and rice soup). This is Korean comfort food at its finest. The broth is rich and comforting, and it’s the perfect antidote to a long day of meetings or sightseeing.
- Best For: Quick Bite, Comfort Food Fix
- Reservation Call-to-Action: No reservations needed, turnover is fast.
6. Myeongin Mandu (명인만두)
A local chain beloved for its plump, juicy mandu (dumplings). You can get them steamed, fried, or in a hearty soup. It’s incredibly fast, affordable, and consistently delicious.
- Best For: Budget-Friendly Lunch, Quick Snack
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Walk-ins are always welcome.
Elevate Your Evening: Dining for Special Occasions
For moments that call for something more, these restaurants offer exquisite food and an unforgettable atmosphere.
7. Grand Kitchen (The Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas)
One of Seoul’s most acclaimed hotel buffets. Offering a stunning array of international and Korean dishes prepared at live cooking stations. The quality is exceptional, from the fresh seafood bar to the decadent dessert spread.
- Best For: Celebratory Dinners, Business Entertainment
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Reservations are absolutely mandatory, often weeks in advance.
8. Soigné (스와니예)
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary, creative cuisine that changes with the seasons. Each “episode” or menu is a journey of unique ingredients and artful plating. An experience for the true gourmand.
- Best For: Romantic Dates, Foodie Adventures
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Booking online through their website is required.
9. Giuseppe K (주세페 케이)
An upscale and intimate Italian restaurant known for its authentic pasta and sophisticated ambiance. A perfect spot for a quiet, conversation-filled dinner with impeccable service.
- Best For: Romantic Dinner, Client Meetings
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Reservations are highly recommended for dinner service.
What to Eat at COEX Mall: Your Food Court Guide
Trying to figure out what to eat at COEX Mall? The underground food courts are a universe unto themselves. While they can be chaotic, they offer incredible variety. Here’s a quick review of the best options.
A Quick COEX Food Court Review
The main food court area, often called CJ Foodworld or simply the “COEX Food Court,” is a curated collection of popular Korean restaurant brands. It’s clean, efficient, and great for groups who can’t agree on one cuisine.
- Saboten: Your best bet for crispy, juicy Japanese tonkatsu (pork cutlet). The sets come with rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage with a delicious sesame dressing. A crowd-pleaser that never fails.
- Hancook (한국): When you need a quick and reliable Korean fix, Hancook offers classic stews (jjigae), bibimbap, and grilled fish sets in a modern, fast-casual setting.
- Auntie Anne’s / Street Churros: For a quick snack while you’re shopping, you can’t go wrong. Grab a warm pretzel or a cinnamon-sugar churro to refuel.
Family-Friendly Restaurants Gangnam Locals Love
Dining with little ones in tow? These spots are spacious, have accommodating menus, and offer a relaxed environment.
10. California Pizza Kitchen (CPK)
Located within the COEX Mall, this is one of the most reliable family friendly restaurants Gangnam has to offer. The menu of pizzas, pastas, and salads has something for everyone, and the familiar flavors are a hit with kids.
- Best For: Family Meals, Casual Group Dinners
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Generally accepts walk-ins, but you can call ahead for large groups.
11. On the Border
Another COEX Mall staple, this Tex-Mex restaurant is great for families and large groups. The festive atmosphere, sizzling fajitas, and free-flow tortilla chips make it a fun and easy choice.
- Best For: Family Dinners, Celebrations
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Reservations are recommended for weekend evenings.
Traditional Korean Food Near Bongeunsa Temple
After a peaceful visit to the beautiful Bongeunsa Temple, nourish your soul with some authentic Korean cuisine right around the corner.
12. Jihwaja (지화자)
Specializing in royal court cuisine (hanjeongsik), this restaurant offers a beautiful and educational dining experience. The multi-course meals are artfully presented and provide a taste of historical Korean flavors.
- Best For: Cultural Dining Experience, Parent’s Day Treat
- Reservation Call-to-Action: Booking is essential for their course menus.
13. Bongeun-gol (봉은골)
A humble, local-favorite spot known for its kimchi-jjim (braised kimchi and pork). It’s a simple, powerful, and deeply satisfying dish that offers a true taste of home-style Korean cooking.
- Best For: Authentic Local Meal, Casual Lunch
- Reservation Call-to-Action: No reservations needed.
Pro Tip: At many Korean BBQ restaurants like Saebyukjib, save some meat and vegetables towards the end of your meal. You can ask the staff for bokkeumbap (볶음밥), and they will use your leftovers to cook delicious fried rice right on your grill. It’s the perfect way to finish the meal!
Conclusion: Your Go-To Recommendations
I know that was a lot to take in. So, let’s make it simple. Here are my final picks from the list of the best restaurants in COEX & Samseong:
- To Impress a Client: You can’t go wrong with the impeccable quality of Byeokje Galbi.
- For the Best Authentic K-BBQ: Go to Saebyukjib for the full, lively experience.
- For a Quick & Delicious Lunch: Head straight to Gatten Sushi or Hyoja Gukbap.
- For a Memorable Family Dinner: California Pizza Kitchen is your easiest and most reliable choice.
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are there vegetarian-friendly restaurants in the COEX area?
Yes, though it requires some searching. Many Buddhist temple-style restaurants offer vegetarian courses. Additionally, you can find vegetarian bibimbap at most Korean restaurants (ask for no meat or egg), and Italian places like Giuseppe K will have pasta and salad options. Inside COEX, look for salad bars or places where you can customize bowls.
Q2: Do restaurants near COEX typically accept foreign credit cards?
Absolutely. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in almost all restaurants in the Samseong and COEX area, from high-end dining to fast-food chains. It’s always wise to carry a small amount of Korean Won for very small, independent street food stalls, but you will be fine with a card in 99% of places.
Q3: Is tipping expected in restaurants in Seoul?
No, tipping is not a part of the culture in South Korea and is not expected. In fact, it can sometimes cause confusion. Excellent service is considered part of the price you pay for the meal. You simply pay the amount on the bill.
Q4: What time do restaurants usually close in the Samseong area?
Most restaurants that cater to lunch and dinner will close between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, with last orders taken about 30-60 minutes before closing. However, some K-BBQ places and bars stay open much later, and a few spots like Saebyukjib are open 24 hours. Cafes generally close earlier, around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM.
