Top Michelin Restaurants in Seoul

Korean cuisine is a vibrant expression of the nation’s deep cultural roots and its evolving culinary landscape. In Korea, food is more than just sustenance; it is a symbol of history, custom, and creativity, from the shared delight of preparing kimchi to the elaborate artistic design of royal court feasts. As the hub of this vibrant culinary scene, Seoul provides a wide variety of dining options that embrace contemporary cooking methods while drawing inspiration from its rich history. Of them, Michelin-starred eateries are the pinnacles of quality, constantly pushing the limits of skill and flavor.

This guide showcases the best of Seoul’s Michelin scene, including the notable 2-star restaurants and the one 3-star gem that represents the Korea’s culinary prowess.

2-Star Michelin Restaurants in Seoul

• La Yeon | Korean

Perched on the 23rd floor of The Shilla Seoul, La Yeon offers diners panoramic views of Namsan Mountain and the city skyline. The restaurant specializes in traditional Korean cuisine, meticulously crafted with contemporary techniques to honor the nation’s rich culinary heritage.

Under the leadership of Executive Chef Kim Sung Il, who has been with The Shilla since 1988, La Yeon has garnered significant acclaim. In 2025, the restaurant was awarded two Michelin stars, and Chef Kim received the prestigious Mentor Chef Award for his contributions to Korean gastronomy. 

La Yeon’s commitment to excellence is further evidenced by its consistent recognition in La Liste, where it has been ranked among the top 200 global restaurants since 2017. 

Diners frequently praise La Yeon for its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, highlighting the delicate flavors and impeccable service. The dining experience is elevated by the restaurant’s elegant ambiance and the stunning vistas it offers.

Location: The Shilla Seoul, 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul.

Nearby Landmarks: Namsan Seoul Tower, Dongguk University

• Soigné | Innovative

Soigné offers a narrative-driven dining experience where menus, referred to as “Episodes,” evolve every three months, each centered around a distinct theme to create a poetic culinary journey. This approach reflects Chef Lee Jun’s philosophy of crafting dishes that evoke emotions and memories, seamlessly blending global techniques with Korean ingredients. Chef Lee, an alumnus of The Culinary Institute of America, honed his skills at renowned establishments like Per Se before founding Soigné in 2015. The restaurant has been recognized with two Michelin stars since 2023. 

Patrons appreciate the “thought-provoking courses” and “artistic presentation,” noting the restaurant’s ability to evoke emotions through food. The open kitchen design allows guests to observe the chefs at work, enhancing the immersive dining experience.

Location: 2F, Sinsa Square, 652 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06027, South Korea.

Nearby Landmarks: Seorae Maeul (French Village), Express Bus Terminal Station.

• Evett | Innovative

Evett offers a modern reinterpretation of Korean ingredients, crafting dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. Australian-born Chef Joseph Lidgerwood, with experience at renowned establishments like The French Laundry in Napa and The Ledbury in London, delves deep into Korea’s diverse produce. He employs techniques such as fermentation and foraging to unveil new dimensions of flavor, exemplified by creations like the “Meju Donut”—a deep-fried glutinous rice dough filled with cream, anchovy dalgona, and black garlic. In August 2023, Evett relocated near Dosan Park in Apgujeong, Seoul, to further explore Korean ingredients. The restaurant has been recognized with two Michelin stars in the 2025 Michelin Guide. 

Diners often describe the experience as “a journey through Korea’s terroir,” praising the “inventive use of local ingredients.” The Michelin Guide notes that Chef Lidgerwood takes foraging to an art form, handcrafting traditional meju (fermented soybean blocks) and brewing his own sauces. 

Location: 1F, 10-5 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06021, South Korea. 

Nearby Landmarks: Dosan Park, Garosu-gil.

• Jungsik | Contemporary

Pioneering the “New Korean” cuisine movement, Jungsik offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional flavors, earning its place among Seoul’s culinary elite. Chef Yim Jung-sik, with experiences spanning New York and Seoul, seamlessly fuses Korean ingredients with global techniques. The restaurant has been recognized with two Michelin stars, reflecting its excellence in modern Korean fine dining.
Diners laud the “innovative courses” and “meticulous attention to detail,” often highlighting the restaurant’s ability to “redefine Korean dining.” The set menu features primary ingredients ranging from abalone to duck, beginning with impressive banchan; there’s also the option of adding supplementary courses. An extensive wine list is available, with well-judged suggested pairings.

Location: 11 Seolleung-ro 158-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06014, South Korea

Nearby Landmarks: Apgujeong Rodeo Street, Le Chamber, 10 Corso Como

• Kojima | Sushi

Located on the sixth floor of Boon the Shop in Cheongdam, Kojima offers an authentic Edomae sushi experience, emphasizing the purity and freshness of its ingredients. Chef Kim Woo-tae, trained in Edomae traditions, curates omakase menus that showcase Korea’s wild seafood, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese techniques with local flavors. The restaurant features an intimate eight-seater hinoki wood counter, providing a serene ambiance that enhances the dining experience. Kojima has been awarded two Michelin stars, underscoring its excellence in sushi craftsmanship.

The omakase experience includes a selection of seasonal appetizers, grilled dishes, and approximately 16 pieces of nigiri sushi, with standout items such as mirugai, yellow sea bream, and Hokkaido sea urchin. Chef Kim uses rice from Niigata, seasoned with red vinegar and a touch of salt, and is attentive to adjusting portion sizes to suit individual preferences.

Patrons frequently commend the impeccable quality of the sushi and the serene ambiance, noting it as a must-visit for sushi aficionados. One reviewer described it as the best sushi experience they’ve had, highlighting the amazing service, exclusive sake selection, and the quality and freshness of the fish.

Location: 6F Boon the Shop, 21 Apgujeong-ro 60-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06016, South Korea.

Nearby Landmarks: Cheongdam Fashion Street, Dosan Park

• Kwonsooksoo | Korean

Kwonsooksoo offers a modern reinterpretation of traditional Korean cuisine, seamlessly blending innovation with deep-rooted culinary heritage. Under the guidance of Chef Kwon Woo-joong, the restaurant emphasizes the beauty of Korean culinary traditions, presenting them with contemporary elegance. Chef Kwon’s dedication is evident in his meticulous approach, sourcing rare seasonal ingredients from across Korea and crafting dishes that transform even the most mundane components into extraordinary creations. 

Notable Features:

• Kimchi Cart: A distinctive offering showcasing a selection of 10 different types of seasonal kimchi, highlighting Korea’s iconic dish in a sophisticated fine dining setting.
  
• Signature Dishes:
  
  • Truffle bean noodles made with special soybeans from Mount Myeongjisan.
    
  • Abalone with caviar, topped with 44-year-old seed soy sauce.
    
• Special Kitchen Tour Dinner: An exclusive experience offering a curated menu accompanied by a variety of homemade soy sauces, available by advance reservation.
  

Kwonsooksoo has been recognized with two Michelin stars, reflecting its excellence in cooking and dedication to culinary artistry.

Diners frequently commend the restaurant for its “meticulous presentation” and “harmonious flavors,” describing the experience as a “culinary journey through Korea.” The combination of traditional techniques with modern innovation results in dishes that are both authentic and inventive.

Location: 4F, 37 Apgujeong-ro 80-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Nearby Landmarks: Cheongdam-dong Luxury Fashion Street, Galleria Department Store, Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), COEX

• alla prima | Innovative

Alla Prima captivates diners with its inventive fusion of Japanese and Western cuisines, presented in a modern and whimsical style. Chef Kim Jin-hyuk, trained in Japan, brings a unique blend of culinary traditions, emphasizing creativity and precision. His reverence for seasonal ingredients, attention to balance, and delicate yet assertive sauces come together like a symphony that pairs well with both wine and sake.
Alla Prima was awarded one Michelin star in 2017 and 2018, and received two stars from 2019 to 2025.

Guests praise the “artistic dishes” and “exceptional flavor combinations,” noting the restaurant’s ability to “surprise and delight.” The L-shaped counter with ample seating, the gleaming open kitchen, the spacious dining hall, and the private dining room each contribute to a comfortable dining experience.

Location: 13 Hakdong-ro 17-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

Nearby Landmarks: Hakdong Park, Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil.

• Mitou | Japanese

Mitou, translating to “yet to arrive,” encapsulates the ongoing quest for culinary perfection by chefs Kwon Young-woon and Kim Bo-mi. Established in 2018, this esteemed restaurant specializes in authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine, meticulously prepared using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Notably, many components, such as chicken, eggs, rice, and vegetables, are sourced directly from Chef Kwon’s family farm, underscoring their commitment to quality and seasonality. 

In recognition of their dedication, Mitou was honored with its first Michelin star in 2021 and achieved a second star in 2024. Diners consistently praise the restaurant’s meticulous attention to detail, seasonal creativity, and the intimate dining atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. 

Location: 24 Dosan-daero 70-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06064, South Korea

Nearby Landmarks: Apgujeong Rodeo Street, Dosan Park

• Restaurant Allen | Contemporary

Restaurant Allen offers a sophisticated dining experience in Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam district, harmoniously blending French culinary techniques with Korean traditions. Established in 2021 by Chef Allen Hyunmin Suh, the restaurant showcases his extensive international experience, including a tenure as sous chef at New York’s three-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park.
Chef Suh emphasizes the use of local, seasonal ingredients, crafting dishes that reflect the essence of Korea’s four seasons. The menu evolves every three months to celebrate new flavors, with offerings such as the lunch tasting course priced at 180,000 KRW and the dinner tasting course at 300,000 KRW. Techniques like fermentation and aging are employed to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
In 2024, Restaurant Allen was honored with two Michelin stars, recognizing its exceptional cuisine. 

Patrons have praised the restaurant for its “artistic presentation” and “harmonious flavors,” highlighting the effective fusion of French and Korean culinary elements. The attentive and knowledgeable staff, as well as the thoughtfully curated wine pairings, have also received commendation.

Location: 2F Centerfield EAST E205, 231 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Nearby Landmarks: COEX Mall, Bongeunsa Temple

The Only 3-Star Michelin Restaurant in Seoul

• Mingles | Korean

Mingles, led by Chef Kang Min-goo, offers contemporary Korean cuisine that harmoniously blends traditional flavors with modern techniques. In February 2025, it earned its third Michelin star, making it the only restaurant in Seoul with this distinction.

Chef Kang Min-goo trained under renowned chefs, including Martin Berasategui in Spain, and brings a wealth of experience to Mingles, focusing on innovative interpretations of Korean classics. 

Diners frequently praise the “innovative dishes” and “exceptional service,” describing the experience as a “journey through Korean culinary heritage.” Mingles has been recognized as the Best Restaurant in Korea by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2025. 

Location: 2F, 19 Dosan-daero 67-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

Nearby Landmarks: Cheongdam Fashion Street, Dosan Park

If you want more, here are some more Michelin Restaurants you can Find in Korea

Beyond these distinguished establishments, Korea boasts a total of 186 Michelin-rated restaurants, offering a diverse array of cuisines, including French, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian. This rich culinary landscape reflects Korea’s openness to global flavors while honoring its own gastronomic traditions. For a comprehensive list, visit the Michelin Guide’s official website.

Seoul’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, each providing a unique window into the city’s dynamic culinary scene. Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a traveling gourmand, these establishments promise unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate both Korean heritage and global gastronomy.

FAQs

1. How can I make reservations at these Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul?
Most of these restaurants accept reservations through their official websites or via trusted platforms like CatchTable, TableCheck, or Naver. For high-demand spots like Mingles or La Yeon, it’s recommended to book several weeks in advance.

2. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Some restaurants offer vegetarian tasting menus upon request, but it’s important to notify them in advance. Due to the nature of Korean fine dining, vegan options may be limited, especially at sushi or traditional establishments.

3. Do Michelin restaurants in Seoul have dress codes?
Yes, most fine-dining Michelin restaurants maintain a smart casual to formal dress code. Avoid casual attire such as flip-flops, shorts, or sleeveless tops. When in doubt, you can go for business casual.

4. Are English menus or English-speaking staff available?
Many Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul cater to international guests and provide English menus. Staff at most of these venues have a working proficiency in English, especially in internationally recognized places like Jungsik or Evett.

5. What’s the tipping culture in high-end restaurants in Korea?
Tipping is not customary in Korea, even in Michelin-starred restaurants. Excellent service is given as a part of the dining experience and is already reflected in the price. That said, leaving a small gratuity isn’t discouraged and will be appreciated.