Essentials
Money in Korea
Best exchange rates, ATMs & how to pay
Read guide →Japanese cuisine has deep roots in Seoul, shaped by geographic proximity and a long shared history. Seoul-style Japanese restaurants range from affordable sushi conveyor belts and ramen shops to high-end omakase counters. Quality fish is flown in daily, and Korean chefs often put their own spin on Japanese classics — thicker broths, spicier condiments, and seasonal Korean ingredients woven into traditional recipes.
Nowon-gu in northeastern Seoul is a large residential district known for its community-focused dining culture. Local restaurants here serve the kinds of meals families eat daily — doenjang jjigae, guk-based soups, grilled fish — without the theatrics of trendier areas. It's a neighbourhood that rewards those looking for genuine everyday Korean food at prices that haven't been adjusted for tourists.
