Top Tables in Korea by Culinary Class War Chefs

Loved by locals and travelers alike, this Sichuan spot from Culinary Class Wars’ cartoonist-chef Cho Kwang Hyo sets out a lacquered Dongporou that shines like mahogany and trembles at the touch. Aromas of soy, rock sugar, and ginger rise as the fat turns satin and the lean stays plush, the kind of bite that quiets a table mid-sentence. Reservations are exclusively through CATCHTABLE and the most-coveted dishes sell out, so early dinner is your friend.

• Order this!: Dongporou when available; follow with seasonal Sichuan plates and rice to catch every glaze.

A few subway stops away, a dark, intimate bar counter glows around a 9-seat stage where Mexico’s hidden culinary grammar is whispered in moles, masa, and mezcal. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the tasting moves from crispy abalone inflada to horse mackerel aguachile, then a trio of moles that paint sweet, savory, and smoke in layers. Seats are limited and pacing is immaculate, so arrive with time and let the pairings carry you.

• Order this: The full dinner course with cocktail pairings to follow the kitchen’s rhythm from aguachile to mole.

Slide into Seongsu’s after-hours hum for a chef-led izakaya that punches above its weight, a sub-brand linked to a Culinary Class Wars alumnus. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the kitchen leans into single-dish specials, clean-cut sushi, and sake picks that make flavors pop without heaviness. It is easygoing but focused, great for a casual date or a spirited catch-up.

• Order this: Follow the seasonal recommendations and pair with the staff’s favorite sake.

If Escondido is a hushed theater, Yongsan’s Yido is an intimate soundtrack of sizzling pans and clinking highballs by a CIA and Michelin-seasoned chef. Loved by locals and visitors alike, plates like mentaiko potato pancake with a honey gloss, gochujang beef tartare with black sesame aioli, and a soothing doenjang ramen keep the night warm and unhurried. Bar seating faces the open kitchen for easy conversation and a front-row view.

• Order this: Mentaiko potato pancake, gochujang tartare, and finish with doenjang ramen alongside a classic highball.

In the glassy calm of IFC, a Culinary Class Wars chef with Michelin and Spanish experience cooks Korean food that honors rice, seasonal banchan, and quiet detail. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the spread feels soothing yet precise so lunch meetings turn into second helpings and family dinners feel celebratory without fuss. Private rooms have defined time limits, so plan your agenda and savor every course.

• Order this: Seasonal set with steamed rice and banchan; ask staff for today’s best-run vegetables and soups.

When the city softens after midnight, Sage pours warm light over Okinawan-style plates and friendly drinks that invite one more story. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it has the feel of a neighborhood standby with a side of TV fame, the kind of place where crispy bites and brothy noodles reset your night. Arrive on the earlier side if you prefer a quieter seat.

• Order this: Start with a crisp fried snack and a light highball, then follow with their noodle special.

A few blocks from the neon rush, Mimiok simmers a clear, fragrant broth layered from chicken, beef, and mushrooms, then lifts it with Korea’s aromatic bang-a leaf. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the shabu is clean yet satisfying, with crisp pancakes and soft rice noodles that complete the table. If you like a calmer room, aim for just after the afternoon break.

• Order this: Shabu-shabu with Korean pork and the crisp water dropwort pancake; end with porridge or rice noodles.

Morning light, good coffee, and plates that look like a day well started. Loved by locals and visitors alike, Yumd’s brunch runs wholesome and stylish with portions that satisfy and a genuinely warm team. There is even a menu for four-legged friends, so bring your pup and take your time.

• Order this: A signature egg dish and salad, plus a house coffee; ask about the dog menu if you are bringing a pet.

Bright, friendly, and instantly festive, this taco specialist brings South American spices and easy-drinking beers to Songdo’s family crowds. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the flavors are bold but approachable so everyone at the table finds a favorite. If you are driving, parking is straightforward and the shop is steps from the escalator.

• Order this: A trio of tacos with fajitas on the side; add a cold beer for the complete vibe.

A sunlit pause near Dosan Park where Greek pita breads meet an easygoing cafe rhythm inspired by a family farm in Crete. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the food tastes clean and generous, perfect for a late breakfast, a post-walk coffee, or a light lunch before wandering the boutiques. Valet keeps the arrival smooth.

• Order this: A warm pita with a bright salad and a freddo-style coffee for a gentle, Greek-leaning afternoon.