Restaurants in Gangnam-gu (Seoul)

HwaSooMok

The name HwaSooMok means water, wood, fire, and a graceful garden situated along a stone wall of the restaurant is decorated with these three natural elements. The clean white color scheme is brightened by numerous antiques on display. The menu is extensive and varied. The seafood is highly recommended, while bingsoo (an iced bean and fruit dessert) is very popular in the summer months. For something different, try the chonbokjook (Clam Porridge), or the Italian Chongtong Razana. Plenty of cool drinks are also on offer. The restaurant's basement sometimes features a live jazz music show.

Puccini

Puccini offers fine original Italian cuisine and an interior beautiful enough to have served as a setting for several Korean television soap operas. With the entrance, terrace and some rooms surrounded by glass, guests can enjoy warm sunshine during the day, and glittering city views at night. The live piano music contributes to the serene and elegant atmosphere. The menu is extensive--try the Puccini Special Spaghetti with parmesan cheese ripened for three years, or the delicious Lasagna al Forno. Alternatively, indulge in one of several set menus available.

Kraze Burgers

For real American burgers, and friendly service, you would be crazy not to go to Kraze Burgers! Expect superior service from the staff, as they undertake training courses every two weeks. The green interior has a clean, natural and healthy feel. The walls are mainly glass, and afford as much of a view of the street outside as is possible. The most popular items on the menu are the Matize and Philly burgers. Alternatively, try the Tuna Melt or the Grilled Polish Dog.

Tastevin

This romantic and classical restaurant is for those who want to enjoy the taste of genuine French cuisine. Beside this restaurant is a cafe with the same name, so drop by the cafe for a slightly different experience. Tastevin's interior is complete with modern and cosy furniture. The kitchen is within view of the customers, so enjoy watching the chef prepare your meal. Sample menu items include Braised Beef with red wine (KRW22,000), Duck Meat Tart (KRW20,000)and salmon with potato (KRW20,000).

Gia Pasta

Gia Pasta, as the name suggests specialization in fresh and authentic Italian pasta. However, other non-pasta dishes are available too. The majority of the tables are located outside of the restaurant, so on a nice day, enjoy the sunshine. The restaurant is not that large, but the New York-style decorations give a 'big city' feel. Special recommendations include Clam and Mussels Pomodoro, Seafood Salad or Chicken Pomodoro.

Il Mare

Il mare means "the sea" in Italian. True to its name, this restaurant specializes in pastas with seafood. It is known to the younger Korean generation as the best place around to have delicious pasta. The interior of the restaurant sets a casual mood since the majority of the customers are young. On the walls, there are many pictures of famous Italian actors and actresses. Special recommendations include calamari (KRW8,000), Zuppa di fungi con pomodoro (KRW7,000) or Lu mache al fratti di mare (KRW18,000).

Deung Na Mu Jip

This restaurant specializes in Korean pork barbecue, especially using samkyubsal (pork belly) from Jin Island. Roasted pork with specially blended Korean sauces and broiled rice is a wonderful combination. This comes with a Korean broth soup. All the foods harmonize well. Prices are not expensive, considering what you get for your meal. A popular Korean-style soup made with seafood, dumpling, rice cake and kimchi is recommended. Another good choice is handmade Korean noodles (kalguksu) cooked with hot sauce. The atmosphere here will make you feel revitalized. A wide selection of alcoholic drinks is available.

Bizbaz

This restaurant is for gourmet food lovers, with plenty of succulent international cuisine available. The best chefs from many different countries (including Japan, China, Italy, French, and India) create high-quality dishes in pleasant surrounds. Clean brown wooden floor, big hall, comfortable lights, and nice looking tables and chairs create a noble mood. In addition, every night, there is live jazz music. Special recommendations include veal steak, Korean-style soup with seafood and kimchi, and sushi.

Samwon Garden

This first-class restaurant, is the largest one in Korea, serving up to 1,200 people at a time. It has hosted distinguished guests from different countries because of the excellent food and distinctive Korean character. The decor is reminiscent of an old Korean house. All around the walls there are Korean antiques and everyday articles, while the wooden tables and chairs are made to look like traditional style furniture. Special recommendations include Bulgogi (braised meat with traditional sauce and various seasonal vegetables), Kalbi (roasted ribs) and Naengmyun (cold noodles).

Pavilion

The Pavilion has been in operation for a dozen years and is renowned for its clean, modern decor and lively atmosphere. Quality food is provided at a low price, so the restaurant is always bustling, with patrons ranging from youngsters to business-people. Try the Spicy Shrimp Pasta, Napoleon's Chicken Teriyaki or Mushroom With Shell Fish Pasta. Three Express Lunch menus are available especially for business-people, with the promise of extra-prompt service or a free meal. Periodically, the restaurant holds diverse and interesting events such as poem-writing competitions and lotteries with undergraduate or graduate school scholarships as prizes.

Siena

At this traditional Italian restaurant, the atmosphere is homely and relaxing. Not only is the food delicious, but good wine is also available. The harmony of furniture, pictures, and the building creates a rural Italian mood. In addition, night-lights make this a comfortable and peaceful place. An experienced Italian chef, who uses only the freshest ingredients, cooks the food. An example of one of the menu courses is Cozze alla adriatica, Ribollita alla toscana, Insalata mista, Saltinbocca alla romana, tiramisu and coffee.

Privee

Privee's motto is luxurious atmosphere but delicious food at a low price. The interesting mix of inexpensive Asian and American cuisine, makes this restaurant particularly popular with young Koreans. The decor, is not fully luxurious, but all the chairs are extremely soft and comfortable. In addition, the low lighting, creates a relaxing mood. There is a large variety of dishes to choose from, with chicken cacciatore, sirloin kebob and Breaded Chicken Pasta.