5 Must-Try Michelin Bib Gourmand Restaurants in Seoul

Seoul is a paradise for food lovers, offering endless options to satisfy your Korean cuisine cravings. The city is home to its very own Michelin Bib Gourmand in Seoul, featuring 61 exceptional restaurants in 2022. This prestigious Michelin award highlights eateries that serve high-quality, delicious meals at affordable prices. In Seoul, these Bib Gourmand restaurants offer three-course meals for under 45,000 KRW (approximately $32 USD).

Many of these top-rated establishments are conveniently located in the city center, making them easily accessible from Travelodge Asia’s hotels in Seoul – Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro, Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan, Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall, Ve Travelodge Dongdaemun. Whether you’re exploring traditional Korean flavors or contemporary twists, staying at these hotels puts you just minutes away from Seoul’s Bib Gourmand gems.

Myeondong Kyoja (명동교자) 

Established in 1966, Myeongdong Kyoja is a family-run eatery renowned for its Kalguksu (hand-cut noodle soup), a dish they claim to have pioneered. This humble restaurant, featured in the Michelin Bib Gourmand in Seoul, offers just four menu items: Kalguksu, Bibimguksu (spicy noodles), Mandu (dumplings), and Kongguksu (cold soybean noodle soup).

Each dish is accompanied by their signature garlic-rich kimchi, fermented for over three years to achieve its bold flavor. Highlights include their silky, plump dumplings, filled with a juicy mix of pork, leeks, and vegetables, perfectly paired with the soft noodles in a thick, flavorful chicken broth. Myeongdong Kyoja is a must-visit for an authentic and affordable Korean dining experience in Seoul.

Chungmuro Jjukkumi 

Just a stop away from Myeongdong, Chungmuro Jjukkumi Bulgogi has been serving its famous webfoot octopus since 1976. Nestled in a side alley, this family-run eatery is celebrated for its signature Jjukkumi – octopus marinated in a sweet and spicy red sauce, then grilled over charcoal alongside bulgogi. The charcoal grilling process infuses the dish with a smoky aroma and rich flavor.

A standout feature is the use of makgeolli (Korean rice wine) during preparation, which tenderizes the octopus, removes any fishy aroma, and leaves a subtle sweetness. The experience doesn’t end there. Finish with fried rice cooked in their secret sauce, paired with crunchy kimchi for the perfect ending to your meal. Add a bit of soju, and you’ve got a quintessential Seoul dining experience.

Pildong Myeonok 

For an authentic taste of Pyeongyang-style naengmyeon – icy cold noodles in a delicate broth – head to Pildong Myeonok, a must-visit spot featured in the Michelin Bib Gourmand in Seoul. Known for its mild, beef-infused broth, the flavors may seem subtle at first but gradually reveal a satisfying depth. For those who enjoy bolder flavors, a dash of vinegar and mustard can enhance the experience.

If you prefer something spicier, try the bibim naengmyeon, served with a flavorful spicy sauce and a touch of sweetness. Pair your meal with tender, buttery pork slices and dipping sauce for the perfect complement to the chewy buckwheat noodles.

Situated near Mount Namsan, Pildong Myeonok is an excellent choice to wrap up a serene nature stroll with a refreshing and satisfying culinary experience.

Imun Seolnongtang (Seolleongtang)

If you’re curious about the oldest restaurant in Seoul, Imun Seolnongtang is one of the most iconic, serving hearty seolleongtang for over a century since opening in 1908. Featured in the Michelin Bib Gourmand in Seoul, this historic eatery is a beloved destination for traditional Korean cuisine.

The name “Imun Seolnongtang” holds historical significance, with “Imun” derived from Imun-gol, the original location, and “seolnongtang” being an older term for seolleongtang. Generations have cherished this spot, including Gijeong Son, the marathon gold medalist at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

Their signature dish, seolleongtang, features a rich broth made from ox bones, organs, and meat, simmered for 17 hours. Served with soft wheat noodles or warm rice and topped with minced green onion, it’s a timeless dish that continues to delight diners.

Pirinç Üzerinde Bir Çiçek Çiçeği 

If you’re seeking a hearty and healthy meal in Seoul, Pirinç Üzerinde Bir Çiçek Çiçeği is a must-visit spot, celebrated in the Michelin Bib Gourmand in Seoul. This charming restaurant specializes in wholesome vegan and vegetarian meals, crafted with certified eco-friendly and organic ingredients sourced directly from farms. One standout feature is their handmade jang, prepared traditionally without any chemical seasoning, ensuring a pure and authentic flavor.

Set in a cozy hanok-style interior with warm wooden accents, the restaurant offers a welcoming ambiance. Their signature dish, Bojagi Bibimbap, features steamed rice and five assorted vegetables elegantly wrapped in a crepe-thin egg layer, tied with a seaweed ribbon, and topped with a delicate flower.

Due to its intimate size, reservations are highly recommended to secure your preferred dining time at this eco-conscious gem in Seoul.

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