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.
Seocho-gu — home to Seoul's arts corridor, the Supreme Court, and upscale residential areas — has a refined dining culture to match its address. Garosugil in Seocho is particularly known for its café-lined tree canopy street. Restaurants here tend toward the polished and premium, often with outdoor terraces and wine lists to match.
