All your bags are packed and you’re ready to go to your very dream city, Seoul. As a devoted K-hallyu enthusiast, you certainly don’t want to miss all the immersive experience you can enjoy in the country, just like what you’ve seen in those Korean dramas and variety shows. And one of the very places you certainly cannot miss is Korean BBQ. Since there are just too many places you can find in Seoul, it will best to try out some of the recommendations from Korean celebrities on their favorite Korean BBQ and restaurants.
So, ready to dive into the smoky and savory flavor of Korean BBQ and beyond? Let us dive deeper into some of these best selections from Korean top celebrities.
Korean BBQ and Restaurants in Seoul: Recommendations from Celebrities
1. Nariuijip (Nari’s House) in Hannam-dong
When it comes to iconic recommendations of Korean BBQ resturants, Nariuijip always makes the list.
Tucked away in Hannam-dong, this unassuming eatery has been spotlighted on shows like “The Must Try Restaurants 2” and “You Quiz on the Block.” Its specialty is frozen samgyeopsal (pork belly), priced at around 16,000 KRW (11 USD) for 150 grams, and grilled on a metal plate lined with foil instead of over charcoal. This unique approach ensures your pork belly cooks quickly and evenly, delivering that perfectly crispy, yet juicy bite.
Despite its mouthwatering pork, regulars often rave even more about the cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew), which delivers a deep, savory taste that feels like a comforting home-cooked meal. The attention to detail carries over to the complimentary sides like cucumber kimchi.
Over the years, Nariuijip has earned multiple Blue Ribbons, and it’s easy to see why both locals and celebrities return for its reliably delicious fare.
Nariuijip (Nari’s House), Itaewon, Hannam-dong
- Address: 245 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 2 793 4860
- Opening Hours: 2 PM to 12 AM (every day)
2. Namsan Makchang in Bogwang-dong
Wondering where Davichi’s Kang Min Kyung goes to satisfy her craving for indulgent Korean BBQ? Look no further than Namsan Makchang. This small, six-table spot is famous for garomaksal, a rare pork cut from the diaphragm, served at 19,000 KRW (13 USD) for 130 grams. It’s prized for its tender, chewy texture and smoky depth of flavor.
Besides grilled meat, another menu highlight is deulgireum gul sotbap (perilla oil oyster pot rice). The combination of creamy oyster and nutty perilla oil packs a punch, while the doenjangjjigae (soybean paste stew) with seasonal shepherd’s purse adds a refreshing twist. Lines often stretch up to three hours, so arrive early and bring your appetite — you’ll quickly understand why locals and celebrities can’t resist this hidden gem.
Namsan Makchang, Yongsan
- Address: 81 Jangmun-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
- Opening Hours: 5 to 11 PM (every day)
3. Hong Byeol Gam Ne in Junggok-dong
Hong Byeol Gam Ne might not be as flashy as some of Seoul’s trendier restaurants, but it has a dedicated following, especially among culinary professionals.
After chef Ahn Sung Jae of Mosu praised it on his YouTube channel, fans and foodies flocked here to try its famed fresh-cut samgyeopsal, priced at 15,000 KRW (10 USD) for 180 grams. Diners love the rotating selection of six different banchan (side dishes), so you never quite know what delightful new flavor you’ll experience on each visit.
Its charm lies in its commitment to quality, from the melt-in-your-mouth pork to the house-made kimchi. Chef Ahn also gave a nod to the restaurant’s duruchigi (stir-fried spicy pork) and doenjangjjigae, making Hong Byeol Gam Ne among top celebrities recommendations for savoring a “true taste” of Korean BBQ in Seoul.
Hong Byeol Gam Ne, Gwangjin
- Address: 245-22 Junggok-dong, Gwangjin District, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 2 466 9486
- Opening Hours: 5 PM to 2 AM (Mon – Sat)
4. Dongmyo Galbi, Sungin-dong
For fans of BIGBANG’s G-Dragon, his tvN variety show “Good Day“ has offered a glimpse into his Seoul hangouts. In the first episode, he reunites with comedian Jeong Hyung-don at Dongmyo Galbi, located near the bustling Dongmyo Flea Market.
Here, you can feast on a hearty spread of Korean-style BBQ, including beef brisket, yukhoe (Korean beef tartare), and marinated pork ribs. The old-school vibe and selection of sides like bibimbap and savory stews make this a spot worth bookmarking.
Dongmyo Galbi, Jongno
- Address: 227-7 Sungin-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 2 2238 5621
- Opening Hours:
- 2 to 11 PM (Tue to Sat)
- 1 to 8 PM (Sunday)
- 4 to 11 (Monday)
5. Dongdaemun Gopchang, Near Norunsan Market
NCT’s Doyoung has garnered a reputation for being a major foodie, revealing a few of his favorite dining spots on the show I Live Alone. The unassuming tteokbokki cart across from Norunsan Market won fans’ hearts after the singer showcased its spicy rice cakes, fries, and fishcake, causing a surge of visitors eager to taste K-pop’s favorite street food.
Nearby, Dongdaemun Gopchang is another gem Doyoung frequents. Known for dwaeji gopchang (pig intestines) and dakbokkeumtang (spicy braised chicken with optional crab), this place is a neighborhood staple.
If you’re feeling adventurous, gopchang — often grilled or stewed — is a dish that can open your palate to the unique flavors of Korean offal cuisine.
Dongdaemun Gopchang
- Address: 37, Ttukseom-ro 27-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
6. Tipsy Taco in Haebangchon
Even a city devoted to classic Korean flavors can embrace a global twist. In one episode of ITZY’s YouTube show “2SDAY,” members Chaeryeong and Yuna visited Tipsy Taco in Haebangchon.
This cozy spot serves up fusion tacos with distinctly Korean flavors, such as bulgogi or gochujang-based fillings. Complete your meal with nachos or guacamole, and you’ve got a flavorful break from traditional BBQ.
Tipsy Taco, Yongsan
- Address: South Korea, Seoul, Yongsan District, Sinheung-ro, 99-1 팁시타코 신흥시장 내부 1층
- Phone: +821083425187
- Opening Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM (Tue – Sun)
Taste the City Through the Eyes of Korean Celebrities
Finally, Seoul’s dynamic food scene offers more than enough for any traveler — from time-honored barbecue joints recommended by top chefs, to hidden stalls revered by your favorite K-pop icons. These star-endorsed spots will undoubtedly enrich your Korean adventure, especially if you want to track down the same spicy street food your idol loves, or simply taste classic samgyeopsal at a busy local mainstay.
Yes, the lines might be long, but that’s all part of the authentic experience — and the payoff is a feast that you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.
No matter when you decide to visit, these recommendations from Korean celebrities will always guide you to most satisfying Korean BBQ restaurants in Seoul.
So, pack your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and, most importantly, your appetite. The smoky grills, sizzling meat, and comforting stews are waiting to greet you with open arms in the lively city of Seoul.
Safe travels and happy feasting!
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