Korea's most searched restaurants in Itaewon, Seoul (With CATCHTABLE GLOBAL Data)

Loved by both locals and travelers on CATCHTABLE GLOBAL, this bright corner spot evolves through the day. At lunch the room hums with coffee and citrusy aromas while plates arrive crisp and colorful, then after five the glow of the hearth leans savory and smoky as bottles of Australian natural wine pop. It’s the kind of place where a window seat turns a casual date into a small celebration.

• Order this: Daytime brunch favorites; after 17:00 switch to wood-fired mains with a bottle of natural wine.

A favorite for both locals and visitors, Maru presents a serene, seasonal Korean set that unfolds like a well-paced story. Aromas of toasted sesame and gently simmered broths set the tone while the staff suggests traditional liquor pairings that lift each course. The room is calm and date-friendly, perfect for anniversaries and intimate gatherings.

• Order this: The full course with a guided flight of traditional liquor for a complete experience.

Popular among locals and travelers, this quiet Gyeongridan omakase folds Korean sensibilities into Japanese technique. Textures are the point of pride, from a delicate castella crafted with egg and shrimp to croquettes that land crisp then creamy. It is intimate, gently lit, and especially nice for bringing parents or out-of-town guests.

• Order this: Omakase with evening pairings; ask about the castella course and seasonal bites.

A beloved counter for both locals and visitors, this one-person sushi-ya near Sinyongsan is all about focus and flow. The rice is warm and seasoned with intent, the brush of sauce precise, and the pacing tuned to the chef’s rhythm. Seats are limited so planning pays off.

• Order this: Chef’s omakase with a light beer or sake on Fri–Sat evenings.

Equally adored by locals and travelers, WUI brings Hong Kong comfort and polish to Yongsan. Wok aromas drift from the kitchen while tea-led and spirited pairings complete the table, making it an easy choice for small celebrations. The space is moody yet welcoming, with attentive staff who guide pairings well.

• Order this: Ask for a tea pairing with signatures and add a bottle if you prefer something stronger.

Loved by locals and visitors, JADEN is an open kitchen dining room where the night flows from aperitif to nightcap with ease. Expect a confident course that fuses Japanese and Korean sensibilities, with standouts like deeply flavored braised short ribs and an Iberico octopus trio. Hospitality is warm and knowledgeable, perfect for introducing friends to the neighborhood.

• Order this: Dinner course with a bottle of sake; finish with a crisp highball.

A small, charming Italian run by two chefs that both locals and travelers keep returning to. Octopus carpaccio meets a refreshing sparkle, shrimp pasta comes kissed with smoky zucchini, and classics like lasagna and pork ribs are deeply satisfying. The tiramisu ends the night on a high, in a room that feels quietly celebratory.

• Order this: Octopus carpaccio, shrimp pasta, and tiramisu for a perfect arc.

Beloved by locals and overseas visitors alike, Borgo Hannam checks all the boxes for a special evening. The room is bright and elegant, service is thoughtful, and the menu balances comfort with precision, especially the pastas and fish which draw consistent praise. It is an easy recommendation for meeting friends or hosting visiting family.

• Order this: A pasta and fish pairing, then let the team guide your wine.

A house where both locals and travelers find French technique expressed with Korean ingredients. The mains shine, from quail to lamb rib steak to Korean beef sirloin, in portions that feel generous for fine dining. Service is kind though the pace can be brisk at peak times, so settle in and enjoy the ride.

• Order this: Single course menu; let the team pair a glass that suits each chapter.

A hybrid experience popular with both locals and visitors who want conversation-friendly spacing and the feel of a night out at the movies. Portions and drinks are approachable, though diners have reported that steak seasoning can run salty and some desserts arrive too cold. If you like a quiet, comfortable setting, ask the team to season lightly and enjoy a relaxed pace.

• Order this: Lighter starters and a latte to finish if you prefer gentle flavors.