Hello! I’m a Korean student currently studying to become a developer. In my free time, I enjoy discovering new restaurants and pairing my meals with a drink. As a way to practice my English and share some of my favorite spots, I’d like to introduce you to some of the best places to eat in Sinsa-dong, one of the trendiest areas in Seoul (home to the famous Garosu-gil). While these aren't fancy high-end restaurants, they are beloved by locals who don’t mind waiting in line to eat. I’ll also explain how to get a waiting ticket and share the must-try dishes. Most of the spots I’m introducing are perfect for enjoying dinner paired with Korea’s signature spirit, soju. These restaurants are highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience authentic Korean flavors.
1. Sinsajeon
Hours: 10:30 AM – 1:00 AM
Location: 18 Dosan-daero 11-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul
Sinsajeon is a restaurant specializing in Korean traditional pancakes (called jeon) and traditional rice wine (makgeolli). On weekends, expect a line—there’s no ticket system, so you’ll need to physically wait your turn. Jeon is a type of Korean pancake made by dipping various ingredients in a flour batter and frying them. It’s a popular dish during holidays in Korea and is often paired with makgeolli. I recommend ordering the assorted jeon platter (modeumjeon) and the tofu with kimchi (dubu kimchi). For drinks, try the signature "Sinsa-dong Makgeolli" or "Beoljipggul," a honeycomb cut straight from the hive. Add a piece of the honeycomb to your makgeolli for an extra sweet twist—it’s delicious!
2. Ondaljip
Hours: 5:00 PM – 5:00 AM
Location: 30 Gangnam-daero 152-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul
Ondaljip is a popular spot for Korean-style charcoal-grilled chicken (sutbul gui). While the chain has expanded to other locations, the Sinsa-dong branch is the original and always crowded. You can get a waiting ticket from the kiosk and wait for your turn. The interior is styled like a traditional Korean street food stall (pojangmacha), giving the place a warm and casual vibe. The grilled chicken thighs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—absolutely delicious! Don’t miss out on their late-night udon or soy sauce mayo rice (ganjang mayo bap), which pair perfectly with the spicy chicken.
3. Sinsa So-gopchang
Hours: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Location: 62 Apgujeong-ro 2-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul
Sinsa So-gopchang is a restaurant specializing in grilled beef intestines (gopchang). While this dish might seem unfamiliar to some, it’s a beloved food in Korea. Gopchang is known for its unique chewy texture and rich, savory flavor, made by grilling the small intestines of cows. Even though it’s an acquired taste for many foreigners, it’s very popular among Koreans, and Sinsa So-gopchang is one of the best places to try it. To get in, write your name and phone number on the waiting list at the entrance, and they’ll call you when your table is ready. I recommend ordering the assorted gopchang platter (gopchang modeum), which comes with a variety of intestines to try. Be sure to add the grilled potato side (gamja sari) for a perfect pairing. After you’ve finished your meal, don’t forget to try the fried rice prepared on the same grill as the gopchang—it’s a must! The kimchi stew that comes out as an appetizer is also fantastic. For drinks, you can’t go wrong with soju or beer, but they also serve whiskey and vodka highballs if you want something different.
4. Kkuptang
Hours: 3:00 PM – 10:50 PM
Location: 615 Gangnam-daero, Seocho District, Seoul
Kkuptang is a Korean BBQ restaurant that’s already been recognized by the Michelin Guide, but it’s so good that I have to mention it again. Specializing in grilled pork belly and shoulder, this place is a must-visit. Not only is the BBQ exceptional, but the side dishes are also delicious. To get a seat, visit the restaurant and enter your phone number to receive a waiting number. I recommend trying the KOKUMI pork shoulder (moksal), KOKUMI rice, and the grandmother’s soybean paste stew (gangbyeon oehalmeoni doenjang jjigae). Unlike most Korean BBQ places where you grill your own meat, the staff at Kkuptang does the grilling for you, ensuring it’s cooked to perfection. The side dishes—perilla leaves, garlic stems, green onion kimchi, mustard greens kimchi, and more—are beautifully presented and pair wonderfully with the grilled meat.
Today, I introduced some of my favorite restaurants. If you’re ever in the Sinsa-dong or Garosu-gil area, I highly recommend starting with Sinsa So-gopchang, followed by Ondaljip. If you’re still hungry after dinner, you could even stop by Sinsajeon for a late-night snack.
