London’s food scene is a kaleidoscope of cultures and flavours, and Korean cuisine has become a firm favourite amongst Londoners. From the sizzling delights of Korean BBQ to the comforting warmth of traditional stews, there’s something to tantalise every taste bud. But navigating the vast and ever-changing world of Korean restaurants can be a challenge. Fear not, intrepid explorer! This guide is your compass, packed with information on 19 of the most delicious Korean restaurants London has to offer.
Korean BBQ Bliss: Sizzle and Savour
1. Kuma - Vauxhall
This vibrant restaurant offers a sizzling selection of marinated meats and seafood, all cooked to perfection at your table on a built-in grill. Don’t miss their seafood options – the perfect accompaniment to your favourite cuts of meat. Friendly staff are always happy to guide you through the menu, making Kuma a great choice for both Korean BBQ aficionados and curious newcomers.
Kuma – 305 kennington road, SE11 4QE
Price Guide: ££-£££
Website: https://www.kumarestaurant.co.uk/
Highlights: Wide variety of marinated meats, seafood options, friendly staff
2. BAPJO - Holborn
Immerse yourself in the authentic Korean BBQ experience at BAPJO. Their high-quality meats are marinated to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, offering a burst of flavour with every bite. The spacious and well-ventilated setting ensures a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience – perfect for groups or a special occasion.
BAPJO 밥조 – 55 Baylis Road, London SE1 7AU
Price Guide: ££-£££
Website: https://www.bapjo.com/
Highlights: High-quality meats, spacious setting
3. BONGA KOREAN RESTAURANT - Mayfair
For a touch of elegance alongside your Korean BBQ fix, BONGA is the answer. This chic restaurant features a stylish interior and attentive service. While the star of the show is undoubtedly their high-quality meats, BONGA also offers an enticing selection of seafood and vegetable options for grilling, alongside their classic banchan accompaniments.
BONGA KOREAN RESTAURANT – 8 Fortess Rd, London NW5 2ES
Price Guide: £££
Website: https://bongauae.com/
Highlights: Elegant ambiance, attentive service, seafood and vegetable options
Korean Street Food Delights: A culinary Adventure on Every Corner
London’s streets are alive with the vibrant energy of Korean street food culture. Here are some fantastic restaurants to tantalise your taste buds with these culinary gems:
1. Kimchimama - Victoria
Calling all Korean Fried Chicken (KFC) lovers! Kimchimama is a haven for those seeking juicy, crispy chicken explosions. They offer a mouthwatering selection of flavours, from the classic yangnyeom to the fiery “nuclear” option for the truly adventurous. But Kimchimama doesn’t stop at chicken – their menu boasts an array of Korean street food favourites like Kimbap and Tteokbokki, perfect for a complete street food experience.
- Kimchimama – 28 Upper Tachbrook Street, SW1V 1SW, London
- Price Guide: £-££
- Website: https://www.kimchimama.co.uk/
- Highlights: Mouthwatering Korean Fried Chicken (KFC) flavours, Kimbap, Tteokbokki
2. MukBap - Korean Vegan - Clerkenwell
Don’t let the name fool you! MukBap offers a delightful selection of vegan takes on classic Korean street food dishes. Their Kimbap is a colourful and flavourful adventure, featuring an assortment of perfectly seasoned vegan ingredients. They also offer vegan versions of Tteokbokki, made with plant-based ingredients and a flavorful gochujang sauce, for a guilt-free and delicious street food experience.
MukBap – Korean Vegan – 91 Worship St, London EC2A 2BG
Price Guide: £-££
Website: http://rb.gy/zvihdj
Highlights: Vegan takes on classic Korean street food dishes, Kimbap, Tteokbokki
3. Sodaeng Korean Restaurant
North West London Get ready for a fiery adventure at Sodaeng! They are renowned for their Tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes in a gochujang (Korean chilli paste) sauce. Sodaeng allows you to customise your spice level, making it perfect for both spice enthusiasts and those who prefer a milder flavour. Beyond Tteokbokki, their menu features a variety of other Korean street food favourites like Kimchi Jeon (kimchi pancake) and Korean fried dumplings (Mandu).
Sodaeng Korean Restaurant – 283 Putney Bridge Rd, London SW15 2PT
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://sodaeng.co.uk/
Highlights: Fiery Tteokbokki, customizable spice level, Kimchi Jeon, Korean Fried Dumplings (Mandu)
4. YORI Shoreditch
Hackney Craving a modern twist on Korean street food classics? YORI Shoreditch is your answer. This trendy restaurant elevates Korean street food to new heights with their innovative interpretations. Think kimchi fries, Korean fried chicken bao buns with a variety of sauces, and Bulgogi cheese rolls. Their menu also boasts a selection of Korean-inspired cocktails and craft beers, perfect for complementing your street food adventure.
YORI Shoreditch – 147 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 3QE
Price Guide: ££-£££
Website:https://yoriuk.com/
Highlights: Modern twist on Korean street food classics, Kimchi fries, Korean fried chicken bao buns, Bulgogi cheese rolls, Korean-inspired cocktails and craft beers
A Taste of Tradition: Unveiling the Classics of Korean Cuisine
Now that you’ve explored the electrifying world of Korean BBQ and street food, let’s delve into the comforting warmth of traditional Korean dishes. Here are some restaurants specialising in these timeless culinary gems:
1. Bab Bab Korean Restaurant
Charing Cross True to its name, Bab Bab offers a delightful selection of Bibimbap, a classic Korean dish featuring seasoned vegetables, meat (optional), a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chilli paste) sauce served in a sizzling hot stone pot (dolsot). The beauty of Bibimbap lies in the interactive element – just before digging in, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together for an explosion of flavor and textures in every bite.
Bab Bab Korean Restaurant – 294 High St, Sutton SM1 1PQ
Price Guide: £-££
Highlights: Dolsot Bibimbap (sizzling hot stone pot), variety of protein options, interactive dining experience
2. Co&Ko (Jeon's Kitchen)
Leicester Square This restaurant is a paradise for Bulgogi lovers. They specialise in this marinated grilled beef dish, offering various flavorful options like the classic Bulgogi and the spicy Gochujang Bulgogi. Co&Ko (Jeon’s Kitchen) also boasts an extensive selection of Bibimbap variations, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Their friendly atmosphere and delicious food make it a perfect spot for a casual and satisfying Korean meal.
Co&Ko (Jeon’s Kitchen) – 72 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 8TD
Price Guide: £-££
Website:https://www.cookandkorea.com/
Highlights: Bulgogi specialist, extensive Bibimbap variations, friendly atmosphere
3. WooJung우정식당
Soho Immerse yourself in the heart of Korean home cooking at WooJung. This restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal. Their menu features an array of traditional Korean dishes like Japchae, a stir-fried glass noodle dish with vegetables and meat or seafood. They also offer Doenjang Jjigae (soybean paste stew), a hearty and flavorful stew packed with tofu, vegetables, and optional meat, perfect for a cosy and satisfying experience.
WooJung 우정식당 – 73 New Oxford St, London WC1A 1DG
Price Guide: ££-£££
Highlights: Home-style Korean cooking, Japchae, Doenjang Jjigae (soybean paste stew)
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights: Culinary Gems for all
1. London Naru - Soho
This vegetarian and vegan Korean restaurant is a haven for those seeking plant-based alternatives. Their menu features innovative and flavorful takes on Korean classics, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Try their Bibimbap with a variety of colourful vegetables and plant-based protein options, or their delectable Japchae made with sweet potato noodles.
London Naru – 230 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8EG
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://londonnaru.co.uk/
Highlights: Innovative plant-based Korean classics, Bibimbap with colorful vegetables and plant-based protein, Japchae made with sweet potato noodles
2. CheeMC Soho
While not strictly traditional Korean, CheeMc Soho offers a vibrant fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine. Their menu boasts some interesting options for vegetarians and vegans like the Kimchi & Cheese Tostada or the Vegan Bulgogi Tacos, all bursting with bold Korean flavours.
CheeMc Soho – 32 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7LR
Price Guide: £-££
Highlights: Unique fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine, Kimchi & Cheese Tostada, Vegan Bulgogi Tacos
This carefully curated list offers a mere glimpse into the vast and delicious world of Korean cuisine available in London. From sizzling BBQ to heartwarming stews and the lively energy of street food stalls, there’s a Korean dining experience waiting to be discovered for every palate and preference. So grab your chopsticks, gather your friends, and embark on your own delicious Korean food adventure in the heart of London!
Hidden Gems and Fusion Delights: Exploring the Unexpected
3. Mukkebi - Central London
Looking for a more upscale Korean dining experience? Mukkebi delivers. This stylish restaurant offers a modern take on Korean cuisine, featuring beautifully presented dishes that are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Their menu boasts an exciting array of innovative dishes that showcase high-quality ingredients and creative culinary techniques. While they offer meat options, Mukkebi also caters to vegetarians and vegans with a dedicated selection of plant-based delights.
Mukkebi – 152A Seven Sisters Rd, Finsbury Park, London N7 7PL
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://mukkebi.co.uk/
Highlights: Authentic Korean Kimbap, variety of fillings, Kimbap sets with accompaniments
4. Bentore - Various Locations
For a quick and convenient Korean takeaway or casual dine-in experience, Bentore is a fantastic choice. With multiple locations across London, Bentore offers a variety of Korean favourites in convenient bento boxes. Choose from a selection of bibimbap, bulgogi, and japchae, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavours. Bentore also offers a selection of Korean side dishes and drinks, making it a perfect option for a satisfying and affordable Korean lunch or light dinner.
Bentore – 10 Harbour Exchange Square, London E14 9GE
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://bentore.co.uk/
Highlights: Korean-inspired Donburi options, classic Korean side dishes
Beyond the obvious: Unique Korean Dinning Adventures in London
While Korean BBQ and traditional favourites are fantastic, London offers a treasure trove of unique Korean dining experiences that push boundaries and tantalise taste buds. Here are a few hidden gems to add some variety to your Korean culinary journey:
1. KoKoDoo - Korean Fried Chicken (Camberwell)
For the true connoisseurs of KFC, KoKoDoo is a pilgrimage-worthy destination. Their twice-fried chicken boasts an incredibly crispy exterior, giving way to juicy and flavorful meat on the inside. Beyond the classic yangnyeom, they offer unique flavour options like honey garlic and curry, ensuring there’s a perfect choice for every adventurous palate. Refreshing sides like pickled radish and Korean potato salad perfectly complement the richness of the fried chicken, making KoKoDoo an unforgettable dining experience.
KoKoDoo – Korean Fried Chicken (Camberwell) – 163 Camberwell New Rd, London SE5 0SU
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://kokodoo.co.uk/
Highlights: Twice-fried chicken for extra crispiness, variety of flavours, refreshing side dishes
2. Park's Kitchen - Hackney
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Korea’s countryside at Park’s Kitchen. This restaurant focuses on dishes from rural areas, offering a taste of authentic home-style Korean cooking. Their menu features specialties like Pajeon (savoury Korean pancake) with various fillings, and Jeonju Bibimbap, a unique variation featuring fermented soybean paste and a runny egg yolk. Park’s Kitchen’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed and off-the-beaten-path Korean dining experience.
Park’s Kitchen – 24 The Grn, London W5 5DA
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://www.parks-kitchen.com/
Highlights: Home-style Korean cooking from rural Korea, Pajeon (savoury Korean pancake), Jeonju Bibimbap
3. Hankki London Chinatown
Calling all adventurous foodies! Hankki takes Korean cuisine on a global adventure, fusing Korean flavours with Chinese influences. Their signature dish is the Jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup overflowing with flavour. Hankki also offers Korean favourites like Japchae and Bulgogi with a subtle Chinese twist, creating a truly unique and delicious dining experience.
Hankki London ChinaTown – 7 Wardour St, London W1D 6PE
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://www.hankki.co.uk/
Highlights: Fusion of Korean and Chinese flavours, Jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup), Korean favourites with a Chinese twist
A Night to Remember: Romantic Korean Dining Gems
Looking to impress your date with a unique and flavorful experience? Here are a few restaurants perfect for a romantic Korean night out:
1. Taeyang Pocha Korean BBQ SOJU Restaurant - Lewisham
Escape the hustle and bustle with Taeyang Pocha’s charming and intimate setting. Their traditional Korean BBQ experience allows you and your date to cook various marinated meats and vegetables at your table, creating a fun and interactive dining experience that fosters connection. They also boast an extensive selection of Soju, a popular Korean distilled spirit, perfect for enjoying alongside your meal.
Taeyang Pocha Korean BBQ SOJU Restaurant – 125 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6QJ
Price Guide: £-££
Highlights: Charming and intimate setting, Korean BBQ experience, Soju selection
2. Donburi & co - Soho
While not strictly Korean, Donburi & co offers a visually stunning and delightful dining experience, perfect for a special occasion. Their beautifully presented Donburi bowls feature an assortment of Korean-inspired toppings like bulgogi beef, spicy pork, and kimchi, creating a feast for the eyes and the palate. Their selection of Korean side dishes and flavourful broths completes the experience, offering a delicious and shareable meal for two.
Donburi & co – 13 Artillery Psge, London E1 7LJ
Price Guide: £-££
Website: https://donburiuk.co.uk/
Highlights: Beautifully presented Donburi bowls, Korean-inspired toppings, shareable meal
So there you have it! This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the exciting world of Korean cuisine in London. From the familiar favourites to the unique and adventurous, there’s a Korean dining experience waiting to be discovered. So, with this guide as your compass, grab your chopsticks and get ready to embark on a delicious Korean food adventure in the heart of London!
2 thoughts on “Top 19 Korean Restaurants in London 2024”
Thanks, this is very useful
Great list, love Korean food