Seoul's Hidden Michelin-Starred Gems: A Luxury Food Journey Through Gangnam's Private Dining Rooms
For an unforgettable dining experience in Seoul, Gangnam’s private dining rooms offer intimacy and luxury. From Michelin-starred Jungsik (modern Korean) to the serene Balwoo Gongyang (Buddhist cuisine), these hidden gems cater to romantic evenings, business dinners, or special celebrations. Expect elegant settings, personalized service, and exquisite menus—often requiring advance reservations via platforms like Naver Booking or hotel concierges. Dress to impress, and budget around €70–€350 per person for a taste of Seoul’s high-end gastronomy. Perfect for those seeking discretion and indulgence in the heart of Gangnam.
Here are VERTU’s picks:
Jungsik (정식당) Where Korean Tradition Meets Avant-Garde Flair
A trailblazer in modern Korean fine dining, Jungsik (정식당) redefines hanbang (traditional flavors) with Michelin-starred innovation. Think deconstructed bibimbap with truffle-infused rice or galbi reinvented as a savory-sweet dessert. The sleek, art-filled space in Gangnam offers intimate private rooms for curated tasting menus (from ~€180), paired with rare Korean wines. A must for culinary adventurers.
Slowbean’s Hidden Gem: A Cozy Culinary Retreat in Gangnam
Discover Slowbean, a charming escape nestled in Gangnam’s vibrant streets, where intimate private dining meets warm, artisanal flavors. Featured in Naver’s coveted food blogs, this understated spot specializes in slow food—think house-made fermented dishes, seasonal Korean ingredients, and delicate desserts paired with hand-drip coffee. The minimalist, wood-accented private room is perfect for quiet conversations or small celebrations. Reservations recommended, with set menus that celebrate patience and craftsmanship. A must for travelers craving authenticity beyond the glitz of Gangnam.
Dining | La Yeon | The Shilla Seoul: A Sky-High Symphony of Korean Elegance
Ideal for: Luxury seekers, milestone celebrations, and culture-rich gastronomy.
Perched atop The Shilla Seoul, La Yeon (라연) is Gangnam’s three-Michelin-starred jewel, where traditional hanjeongsik (Korean royal cuisine) meets breathtaking city views. Its intimate private dining rooms—adorned with delicate celadon and silk—set the stage for meticulously plated dishes like gujeolpan (nine-hued platter) and aged hanwoo beef. A culinary ode to Korea’s dynastic past, with wine pairings curated to elevate each course. Reserve via Michelin Guide (or your hotel concierge), and indulge in a degustation menu (from ~€200) that transforms dining into artistry.
Balwoo Gongyang: A Temple of Tranquil Tastes
Tucked in Gangnam, Balwoo Gongyang (발우공양) offers a rare culinary meditation with its elegant private dining rooms and refined Korean Buddhist cuisine. This Michelin-starred sanctuary serves seasonal, plant-based dishes—meticulously crafted to balance flavor and mindfulness. Ideal for serene gatherings or cultural connoisseurs, its minimalist décor and hushed ambiance transport guests far from Seoul’s bustle. Reserve ahead (via GAJA Seoul or concierge services), and savor a multi-course "temple feast" (from ~€70) that nourishes both body and soul. A hidden gem where every bite whispers tradition.
NOR’s unique physical space and audio-visual presentation
NOR offers a powerful fusion of storytelling, audiovisual artistry, and culinary creation designed to provoke thought, stir emotion, and spark dialogue—from personal reflections to pressing social themes.
As night falls, you will be invited on a parallel journey, where each dish intertwines with NOR’s narrative depth, curated sounds, and striking visuals (from ~€100). The space becomes a canvas, and the meal, a medium.
Service : Only at night (from 6.00pm–11.00pm, closed on Mondays) It is recommended to book in advance, as the number of seats is limited.