Korea's must-book restaurants in Itaewon, Seoul (With CATCHTABLE GLOBAL Data)

Bright neon glows on chrome and checkerboard floors while the scent of griddled butter and tomato sauce drifts from the pass. States reimagines the American diner with playful plates that feel familiar yet new, from dinosaur lasagna to crisp tater tots with a creamy dip. It is an easy win for mixed groups of locals and travelers in Itaewon thanks to a cozy bar vibe and friendly service.

• Order this: Dinosaur Lasagna, a thick shake, and a side of golden tater tots for the table.

Since 2011 this two level pub has poured pints that taste like a flight home for some and a trip abroad for others. Expect a lively hum, polished wood, and the malty aroma of well kept ales alongside British bites and a world tour of beers. It is the kind of place where conversations stretch and the second round feels inevitable.

• Order this: A British classic with an ale or two and settle into the upstairs for a view of the buzz.

Sunlight washes over leafy greens and layered cakes while the room carries a faint citrus and spice from fresh herbs. Plates are colorful and clean tasting, from hearty bowls to indulgent vegan bakes that do not feel like a compromise. If you love dessert, come hungry because the display case will test your resolve.

• Order this: A signature grain bowl followed by a slice of cake you will promise to share and then keep to yourself.

Eel meets glowing charcoal and the aroma turns nutty and sweet as the skin gently blisters. The kitchen sources domestic Japonica eel and grills with patience for a springy bite and a clean finish that lingers like butter. Call ahead at dinner for parking guidance and plan a relaxed meal with time to savor.

• Order this: Charcoal grilled eel with simple sides and take your time between bites to enjoy the texture.

The room hums softly while plates arrive crisp, saucy, and shareable with aromas of citrus peel and gentle heat rising from the wok. Signature snacks like boiled pork fry, chili shrimp with eggplant, and yuzu yurin gi pair naturally with a smooth house made spirit that carries a vanilla scent and a clean finish. It feels like a place you could drop into any night without effort and leave a little happier.

• Order this: Pork fry and yuzu yurin gi, then a highball or the house Soowooga spirit for pairing.

At the bar the chef lays out glistening cuts of aged sashimi that smell like clean ocean and sweetness rather than brine. Plates weave Japanese technique with Western comfort, from sea urchin pasta dotted with mullet and salmon roe to a tomato menchi katsu that crackles before spilling juices. The team guides sake selections gently, making it an inviting stop for dates and anniversaries.

• Order this: The assorted aged sashimi and sea urchin pasta, paired with a carafe of sake that staff recommends.

By day gentle light and greenery set the tone for leisurely plates and by evening the room glows with Namsan views and warm lamps. The cooking leans generous and comforting with careful seasoning that loves a glass of wine. Weekends can be spirited and seating is cozy so come ready to soak in the energy.

• Order this: A pasta to share and a bottle for the table, or plan a daytime brunch with sunlight and coffee.

A staircase delivers you to a serene room of wood, porcelain, and the gentle fragrance of warmed cups. Tea is poured with care and paired to petite sweets that highlight texture and season, turning ninety minutes into a pocket of calm in busy Hannam. Every detail feels thoughtful from utensils to pacing which makes it an easy choice for a reflective afternoon.

• Order this: The tea course in the small tea room and let the staff guide pairing to seasonal snacks.

Charcoal and smoke set the stage for a menu that nods to a Yardbird trained chef with a distinctly Seoul accent. Smoked mackerel sashimi arrives silky and perfumed while a sweet shrimp potato pave brings crisp edges and soft layers. Traditional Korean liquors are paired with care so flavors feel amplified rather than masked.

• Order this: Smoked mackerel sashimi and the shrimp potato pave with a curated traditional liquor flight.

Some One Very Special is more than a motto as warm plates and an upbeat room make simple pastas and shareable mains feel celebratory. Lunch catches soft light while evenings fill with energy and clinking glasses. Walk ins are welcome and reservations cover popular times which makes it an easy anchor for a Hannam stroll.

• Order this: A bright salad and a pasta for two at lunch or settle in after eight on weekends when drinks are the norm.