✅ Introduction
Seoul is filled with trendy restaurants, but some of the best food is found in small alleyways, traditional markets, and lesser-known neighborhoods. These hidden gems are loved by locals for their authentic flavors and affordable prices. In this guide, we’ll explore Seoul’s best secret restaurants that most tourists never find — but definitely should.
서울에는 유명한 맛집도 많지만, 진짜 맛집은 골목과 시장 안쪽에 숨어 있습니다. 이 글에서는 관광객들은 잘 모르는, 서울 사람들만 아는 로컬 맛집 10곳을 소개합니다.
✅ Hidden Restaurants in Seoul Loved by Locals
➖ 1. Gwanghwamun Jip (광화문집)
Menu highlight: Kimchi Jjigae
A legendary spot famous for thick, flavorful kimchi stew.
➖2. Hadongkwan (하동관)
Menu highlight: Gomtang
A traditional beef soup restaurant operating for over 70 years.
➖3. Naju Gomtang (나주곰탕)
Menu highlight: Milky beef broth
Perfect for travelers who want mild but rich flavors.
➖4. Jokbal Alley in Gongdeok (공덕 족발골목)
Menu highlight: Jokbal (braised pig’s feet)
A must-visit street for late-night local dining.
➖5. Manjok Ohyang Jokbal (만족오향족발)
Menu highlight: Five-spice braised jokbal
Popular among locals for soft texture and deep flavor.
➖6. Chungmu Gimbap Alley (충무김밥 골목)
Menu highlight: Simple gimbap with spicy radish
Best enjoyed with odeng soup.
➖7. Woo Lae Oak (우래옥)
Menu highlight: Naengmyeon
A historic Pyongyang-style cold noodle restaurant.
➖8. Ttukbaegi Jip (뚝배기집)
Menu highlight: Doenjang Jjigae
Affordable, homemade-style flavors.
➖9. Hwangsaengga Kalguksu (황생가 칼국수)
Menu highlight: Hand-cut noodles
Rich broth and soft noodles make it a local favorite.
➖10. Euljiro Nogari Alley (을지로 노가리 골목)
Menu highlight: Dried pollack + beer
A lively alley full of standing bars loved by office workers.
✅ Extra Local Tips: How to Discover Hidden Restaurants in Seoul
✔ Follow Office Workers During Lunch (Best Hack!)
One of the easiest ways to find truly local restaurants is simply following where Korean office workers go during 12:00–1:00 PM.
If the line is long → food is fresh and loved by locals.
✔ Avoid Places With Empty Seating at Peak Time
If a restaurant is empty during lunch or dinner peak hours, Koreans usually consider it less reliable.
This tip alone helps avoid disappointing meals.
✔ Search for Korean-Only Menu Boards
Restaurants that don’t translate menus into English are often true local spots.
Don’t worry — most will help you choose if you ask.
✔ Try Side Alleys, Not Main Streets
The best restaurants in Seoul are often found:
- Behind buildings
- In narrow alleys
- In back streets of busy neighborhoods like Jongno, Euljiro, Mangwon, and Yeonnam
Tourists often miss these areas entirely.
✔ Ask for the “Best-Selling Menu”
You can simply ask:
➡ “What is the most popular dish here?”
Korean staff will happily tell you what locals usually order.
✔ Eat Dinner Early in Local Areas
Some hidden restaurants sell out quickly — especially:
- Naengmyeon spots
- Gukbap places
- Jokbal restaurants
✔ Explore Markets for Cheap & Authentic Food
Markets like Gwangjang, Tongin, Majang, and Mangwon offer cheap and delicious hidden gems tourists rarely find.
✔ Be Ready for Cash-Only Restaurants
Small local restaurants sometimes accept cash only.
Bring at least 10,000–30,000 KRW just in case.
✔ Don’t Expect Fancy Interiors (Flavor > Design)
The best Seoul restaurants often look simple, old-fashioned, or small — but the food quality is exceptional and trusted by locals.
✔ Try Late-Night Spots for a True Korean Experience
Many hidden places open until 1–2 AM.
Nighttime is when you can experience true local food culture with the warmest energy.
✅ Conclusion
These hidden restaurants prove that the best food in Seoul often isn’t the most famous. If you want to eat like a local, explore these secret spots and experience authentic Korean flavors. Add a few of these locations to your itinerary for an unforgettable food adventure.
서울의 진짜 맛집은 숨은 골목에 있습니다. 여행 중 위 리스트의 몇 곳만 가도 현지인처럼 맛있는 식도락 여행을 즐길 수 있습니다.