Seoul: Best Bars and Restaurants with Views

Best Rooftop Restaurants in Seoul

If you are not already familiar with Korean food culture, a simple web search or brief watch of any Korean TV channel will show you that food is a central part of the culture.

Everything from world-famous barbeque to kimchi-infused dishes, there’s really no scarcity in a variety of foods to try. Nevertheless, it isn’t always easy choosing which restaurant to try in a new city, especially a city with as many options as Seoul.

For this reason, we have taken the liberty of listing a few great options that not only showcase Korea’s delicious cuisine but also offer a fantastic view of the city. After all, why do the dinner without the show, right?

1. The 100 Food Truck

Just along the Namsan mountainside, The 100 Food Truck is a charming neighborhood spot with a rooftop view of Haebangchon’s narrow intertwining alleyways, full of colorful, older Korean houses. The postcard-like view displays a contrast between the suburban neighborhoods and the city’s skyline in the distance.

Try their signature 100 Burger which goes for ₩9,800 ($8.45) and is made with locally bred Hanwoo beef, which is described as juicy and tender. For an added bonus, have a burger while enjoying the sunset over Seoul and watch as the night falls and the stars take over. Also, if you’d rather avoid the meats, The 100 Food Truck offers a wide variety of salads as well.

Address: 45-1 Sinheung-ro 20-gil, Huam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Telephone: (+82) 10 7197 4448

2. Mmm Records

At the highest point of Itaewon district sits music cafe Mmm Records. This record shop inspired coffee shop and restaurant has a perfect view of both the Han River and N Seoul Tower. Pop in and try one of Seoul’s best Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches or an egg coffee and enjoy one of the city’s most amazing scenic spots.

Address: 145, Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Opening hours: (Mon – Fri) 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM, (Sat & Sun) 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Telephone: (+82) 70 4001 0625

3. My Sky

With colorful neon lights, pop-art decor, lively music, and plenty of hammocks, My Sky is the perfect place to pair Seoul’s evening skyline with dinner and drinks. Another one of the “My” series by celebrity restaurateur Hong Seok-cheon, this restaurant on the hills of Gyeongnidan offers the perfect place for an unobstructed view of the city.

Address: 210-6 Noksapyeong-daero, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM (closed on Tuesdays)

Telephone: (+82) 2 797 4211

4. L7 Rooftop Floating

One of Seoul’s hidden gems, L7 Rooftop Floating is one of the lesser known rooftop bars. It occupies the entire 21st floor of the L7 Myeongdong Hotel, and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Admittedly, it is most popular for its long list of wines and craft beers. Nevertheless, you will also find Korean-style fried chicken and other local food options.

Finally, if that wasn’t enough to peak your interest, Floating is also the only bar in the city that features its own foot bath. What better way to finish a long day at work than with drinks while soaking your feet?

Address: 62-12 Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Myeongdong, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: (Mon – Thu) 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM, (Fri – Sun) 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Telephone: (+82) 26 310 1096

5. More Rooftop Restaurants in Seoul

For this last section we decided to break it up into 3 of Seoul’s best fine dining establishments with a fantastic view.

The Griffin Bar

On the 11th floor of the JW Marriott in Dongdaemun Square, The Griffin offers fantastic views of the historical district below. You will have a top view of Dongdaemun’s famous Heunginjimun Gate, as well as a wide selection of Western food options including Crispy Chicken, Fish & Chips, Cajun Spiced Fries, and different tasting platters.

Mugunghwa

Described as “traditional Korean cuisine with a modern spin,” Mugunghwa is another classy option for fine dining with an amazing view. Located on the 38th floor of the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, this view is absolutely breathtaking. Meal selections change seasonally so be sure to call ahead to see what they are offering for their lunch and dinner courses.

Panorama Lounge and Bar

On the 16th floor of Namdaemun’s Fraser Place, Panorama Lounge & Bar offers a fantastic viewing angle of the historical Namdaemun Gate (arguably one of the best places for a panoramic view of this landmark), as well as the entire district down below. Pop in during the afternoon and try their famous brunch, or visit in the evening for one of their surf n’ turf style platters and select beers on tap.

Getting Around Seoul

When choosing the best way to get around Seoul, you might find public transport to be a bit hectic and taxis to be a bit difficult for communicating. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend choosing a reliable private car service that offers professional local drivers and 24-hour customer support. This way, you will be able to make the best of your time in Seoul.

Best Restaurants in Seoul

As you plan your itinerary for you visit to Korea’s capital city, and decide which restaurants you won’t want to miss, remember that Seoul is one of Asia’s cultural capitals. Not only will you find great food and great people, you will also find plenty of other options like historical monuments, museums, and plenty of shopping districts.

Whichever your main interests are when traveling to a new city, you are sure to find them and many other wonderful spots during your stay. If you have other recommendations for great scenic restaurants in Seoul, be sure to leave us a comment. Most of all, enjoy your visit! 여행 잘 다녀와 !