Myeongdong 17 Best Restaurants & Cafes (Seoul)

For Korean BBQ, you should not miss out the famous Wangbijib. It is so popular that there are 3 other branches just within Myeongdong's pedestrian-friendly zone, and all with equally good reviews. 💡If you have already tried the main store, why not check out the Yukho Branch (with nice window seats) located opposite the Embassy of China. Queues are spotted at the restaurants even at 8.30pm on a weekday. So, try to get there early if you are not a 'queue' person. If there is long queue at Wangbijib (Myeongdong Main Store), you may like to consider explore other BBQ restaurants further away from this store in other streets or come back another time/day.

With just 4 items on their menu, Myeongdong Kyoja is one of the most popular restaurants in Myeongdong. It is famous for its knife-cut, handmade kalguksu (noodle soup). Also popular are their mandu (dumplings), bibim guksu (spicy noodles) and kongguksu (noodles in cold soybean soup).​ 💡If there is a queue at the main store, you can try their branch along the same street toward Olive Young (/in the direction away from Myeongdong Station).

For fans of Naengmyeon (Korean cold noodles), there is an old established restaurant located at the back alley (behind Myeongdong Kyoja - main store). 💡Note that the restaurant is only open for lunch till 3.30pm.

A famous Dak Galbi (Korean spicy stir-fried chicken) restaurant in Korea and a recommended must-try in Seoul. There are 3 other branches within Myeongdong's pedestrian-friendly zone. 💡You can add rice or noodles too. Look at the tables round you for the popular menu options and eating styles.

Jjimdak is a popular Korean braised chicken dish originated from Andong City, Korea. You can try it at Andong Jjimdak Restaurant in Myeongdong. 💡Serving is big, best to eat with a group.

When walking along Myeongdong street, you won't miss out the cute large-sized Shinhan Friends characters. Do pop into the insta-worthy and comfy cafe with a good cause, Cafe Swith SOL. The cafe was opened by Shinhan Bank in Oct 2022 to support barista training and job creation for the hearing impaired. The Myeongdong store is decorated with Shinhan Friends and also exhibits character works by emerging artists, including those with disabilities.

If you need a break from your shopping in Myeongdong and the weather is good, check out MOLTO Italian Espresso Bar with expansive terrace seating overlooking Myeongdong Cathedral and N Seoul Tower from its 3rd floor vantage point. You can take the lift or stairs at the side of YMCA building, located opposite Myeongdong Cathedral. Its signature dessert is cannoncini (custard, pistachio and hazelnut).

This is the 2nd Bonjuk branch in Myeongdong. This store is recommended instead of its 1st store as it has bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables) on top of its popular porridge menu. Popular porridge include abalone porridge, red snow crab porridge, beef & vegetable porridge, octopus & kimchi porridge and lastly, pumpkin porridge. 💡Takeaway is a good option too as they are neatly packed.

This is an interesting find of a casual dining and fresh seafood restaurant in the middle of Myeongdong. Steamed and grilled clams are the most popular. Other menu items include sashimi, seafood soup, seafood pancakes, grilled seafood, etc.

Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory is one of largest restaurant chains in Korea and known for its signature chicken dishes. Its extensive menu also includes soju cocktails, salads, soup, snacks, steak & pizzas. 💡If the outdoor seats are full (/not available), check out its welcoming interior that spreads across 3 floors.

Located next to Chir Chir & NY Night Market, BHC Chicken ("Better & Happier Choice") is one of the most popular fried chicken and beer restaurants among the many other similar restaurants in the same row.

Located on the 2nd floor of the building across from Metro Hotel is the Gobong Samgyetang Myeongdong. The restaurant is well-known for its Korean ginseng chicken soup. It has appeared on several TV shows and featured on Michelin Guide in 2017.

This restaurant offers an interesting and unique BBQ experience as you will be grilling on the pot lid (/cover)! Cheonha Jeil Pot Lid specialises in pork belly and there are Korean-styled steamed eggs, cold noodles in chilled clear/soybean broth, etc. Also, don't missed out the fried rice on the pot lit too!

For dessert lovers, check out Cafe Poem, the dessert heaven in Myeongdong! Though the cafe is famous for its waffles, it also has an extensive menu of bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert), ice cream shakes and parfaits. Alcoholic cocktails and beers are also on the menu!

If you have been wanting to try Ganjang Gejang (Korean raw crabs marinated in soy sauce), you don't have to travel far. There is one famous restaurant, Odarijip in Myeongdong that is conveniently located within 2 mins walk from Myeongdong Station (line 4, exit 6).

The Spot Fabulous is a well-known large cafe located at the 2-storey historic building opposite Embassy of China in Myeongdong. There is a wide selection of desserts such as financiers, macarons, tarts, cheesecakes and signature cookies.

Located within 1 min walk straight from Myeongdong Station (line 4, exit 5) is the popular Isaac Toast & Coffee. It sells freshly made, affordable and delicious takeaway toasted sandwiches. 💡If the queue at this store is long, check out its nearest Seoul Myeongdong Cathedral Branch (@Myeongdong's pedestrian-friendly zone along the street between the famous Myeongdong Kyoja and Yoogane restaurants).