Eat like a K-drama star or K-pop idol — no paparazzi required.
When Korean celebrities aren’t lighting up stages or screens, they’re out dining in some of Seoul’s trendiest, tastiest, and most exclusive restaurants. From traditional hanjeongsik (full-course meals) to late-night comfort food spots, these places are not just Instagram-worthy — they’re celebrity-approved.
If you’re hoping to spot your favorite idol or just dine like one, here’s your ultimate guide to celebrity-loved Korean restaurants in Seoul.
🍖 1. Samgeori Butchers (YG Republique)
📍 Location: Hongdae / Itaewon
🔥 Known for: Korean BBQ with a hip, industrial vibe
💫 Celeb connection: Frequented by YG artists like BIGBANG and BLACKPINK
Part of the YG Entertainment family, this BBQ joint offers premium pork cuts, aged meats, and an upscale twist on the classic grill-it-yourself experience. Expect great vibes, loud music, and maybe a secret idol sighting.
Must-Try: Aged pork belly, truffle salt pairing, and their special kimchi fried rice.
🥘 2. Hanilkwan (한일관)
📍 Location: Apgujeong
🔥 Known for: Elegant, traditional Korean cuisine
💫 Celeb connection: A favorite of the late actress Choi Jin-sil; K-drama stars and politicians still frequent this heritage spot
Operating since 1939, Hanilkwan is all about royal court-style cuisine — timeless and refined. If you want to experience Korean tradition in a fine-dining format, this is the place.
Must-Try: Bulgogi jeongol (hot pot), japchae, and the house kimchi.
🍜 3. Tosokchon Samgyetang (토속촌 삼계탕)
📍 Location: Gyeongbokgung area
🔥 Known for: Ginseng chicken soup in a traditional hanok house
💫 Celeb connection: Reportedly visited by BTS and global figures like President Obama
Packed year-round, especially during chobok (the hottest days of summer), this historic restaurant serves rich, nourishing samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) that’s beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Pro tip: Arrive early — there’s always a queue.
🍲 4. The Place Seoul
📍 Location: Itaewon
🔥 Known for: Fusion Korean-Italian in a quiet hanok
💫 Celeb connection: Park Seo-joon, Gong Hyo-jin, and fashion-forward idols have been spotted here
This serene café-restaurant offers a stylish mix of Korean and Western cuisine, with beautiful plating and a relaxed atmosphere — perfect for low-key celeb meetups or solo reflection.
Must-Try: Bulgogi pasta, sesame panna cotta, and their handcrafted cocktails.
🍱 5. Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyeopsal (백년토종삼겹살)
📍 Location: Sinsa-dong
🔥 Known for: High-quality samgyeopsal with an unpretentious vibe
💫 Celeb connection: EXO, NCT, and other SM artists reportedly dine here after rehearsals
It’s a go-to for idols looking for comfort and consistency. The grilled pork belly here is legendary — and watching it cook right in front of you just adds to the magic.
Must-Try: Samgyeopsal (pork belly), kimchi on the grill, and garlic chive pancakes.
🍵 6. Café de One Piece (카페 드 원피스)
📍 Location: Garosugil
🔥 Known for: Dessert meets anime in a stylish setting
💫 Celeb connection: G-Dragon and other trendsetters are known to visit themed cafés like this for private hangouts
This café combines pop culture with pastry, and it’s surprisingly chic. A hit with both celebrities and influencers looking to unwind or snap a few iconic shots.
Must-Try: Their signature roll cake and omija tea served in collectible sets.
🎤 7. Kawi (카위)
📍 Location: Lotte World Tower, 81st Floor
🔥 Known for: Korean contemporary cuisine with skyline views
💫 Celeb connection: High-end and often visited by elite entertainers and execs
Chef Akira Back’s luxurious Seoul outpost combines Korean roots with Japanese finesse and modern fine dining — the kind of place where stylists, stars, and CEOs toast big wins.
Must-Try: Hanwoo ribeye, foie gras kimchi fried rice, and seaweed butter rolls.
👀 Final Tips for a Star-Studded Bite
Go off-peak (late lunch, weekday evenings) for higher celeb-spotting chances.
Stay in Gangnam, Apgujeong, or Itaewon — celeb dining hot zones.
Many idols order delivery from their fave spots — check delivery-only menus if you want the experience at home.
Be respectful — if you see a celeb, admire from afar. Seoul’s unspoken rule: act cool, even when you’re fangirling inside. 😎
✨ Final Bite
Whether you’re chasing flavors or fan dreams, Seoul’s celebrity-favorite restaurants offer the perfect mix of taste, trend, and maybe even a glimpse of K-pop royalty. So pull up a chair, order the house specialty, and dine like you’re on the VIP list — because in Seoul, everyone eats like a star.
