Korea's 10 Popular Japanese Restaurants in Itaewon

A hidden counter that rewrites expectations with a chicken focused omakase where the aroma of hot oil and charcoal drifts over crisp katsu spheres and juicy skewers. Loved by locals and travelers alike, it is intimate and paced, with English explanations that make each course feel personal. Expect premium pricing for a compact tasting and aim for the bar if you enjoy watching every brush of tare and final seasoning.

• Order this: Chicken ball katsu and the full omakase flow for contrast in texture.

Charcoal smoke rises and fat crackles as chicken hearts, neck and beef intestine skewers reach that glossy point where salt and tare turn fragrant. Both regulars and nightlife wanderers drop in for Suntory highballs that stay crisp to the last sip and side dishes that demand one more round. Prices suit a casual evening and seats fill quickly after eight in the evening.

• Order this: Mixed yakitori plate and a Suntory highball for balance.

A contemporary izakaya where the light is warm, plates are thoughtful and seafood arrives clean and gently aged for depth without heaviness. It draws both residents and visitors who appreciate a chef that explains each composition while pouring a sake that matches the mood. Expect mid to premium pricing and reserve for peak hours as late comers beyond fifteen minutes may be treated as no show.

• Order this: Seasonal sashimi set with a recommended sake pairing.

Soft lighting, tidy spacing and a menu that blends Cheongdam style aging with comfort dishes that encourage one more pour. It is popular with both locals and guests thanks to easy access from Itaewon Station and a bill that stays reasonable for the quality. The room is compact so advance booking is smart for weekends and holidays.

• Order this: Sashimi moriawase for two and purple sweet potato makgeolli to share.

A lively spot where the welcome drink sets a playful tone and platters land with gleaming sashimi and monkfish liver that melts with nutty richness. Both groups and date night duos enjoy the energy although the signature platter can feel modest for the price so balance the table with warm dishes and noodles. Late evenings are busiest and seats work well for celebrations.

• Order this: Signature seafood platter and squid with aged kimchi spicy noodles.

A discreet counter without a sign where rice is warm, fish is seasoned with quiet precision and service reads the guest with care. It is beloved for anniversaries by locals and visiting diners, with chef guidance that remembers preferences from past visits. Pricing is premium and punctuality matters because seat and chef assignment are fixed with a strict refund window.

• Order this: Dinner omakase and allow the chef to pace sake pairings to your taste.

A serene course that blends Japanese technique with French sensibility using an irori to reveal smoky perfume and delicate char. Wine service is a highlight and the team guides you through seasonal Korean ingredients reframed with modern finesse. It suits celebrations and business dinners and the experience is premium so plan ahead for room availability.

• Order this: Full tasting with beverage pairing to follow the chef’s seasonal arc.

A small counter where skewers leave the grill glistening and the room smells of soy, citrus and smoke. Loved by a mix of locals and curious travelers, it serves a two hour omakase that feels personal and focused which suits intimate dates and quiet catch ups. Seats are limited and alcohol is part of the experience so punctuality is essential.

• Order this: Omakase course with Asahi on draft then add a small sake to stretch the finish.

At the steel, butter hisses and aromatics bloom while seafood and beef receive a measured sear that keeps juices bright and clean. It appeals to hotel guests and city diners alike, especially for birthdays and anniversaries where the team adds quiet touches. Pricing is premium and there are clear policies like no children under seven and a firm refund window.

• Order this: Tasting menu to follow the progression from ocean to farm with a noodle finish.

A cheerful place for platters of sashimi, kimbap and fried bites that pair with ice cold beer until late. It attracts groups and casual dates and the seasonal large prawn special is a crowd pleaser as heads return to the grill with butter. Weeknights are easiest for walk ins and prices are moderate for the variety with occasional portions feeling light on the signature set.

• Order this: Sashimi set and chicken gizzard karaage then ask for the grilled prawn if in season.