When it comes to a rocking food scene, not many do it better than London. Thanks to a variety of restaurants drawing inspiration from across Korea, you are spoilt for choice when you want a fix of Asian food. From a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant in Islington to an intimate romantic destination in the centre of London, whether you want Korean noodle soup or some crispy Korean fried chicken, the best Korean restaurants in London have a table for you.
No matter if you’re heading out with friends, taking that special someone on a date or enjoying some family time, you’ll never have to travel too far to find a taste of Korea. Treat yourself to some of the tastiest Korean food in the capital and book your table at the best Korean restaurants in London on OpenTable now.
Get inspired by the best Korean restaurants in London – check out the full list now
For a tabletop Korean BBQ – head over to KKINI in Tufnell Park
When it comes to Korean cuisine, not many do it better than KKINI in Tufnell Park. Rightly considered one of the best Korean restaurants London has, diners can watch fresh meat being grilled at the table. Considered a neighbourhood gem, you’ll want to book in advance to enjoy the intimate setting. The menu includes BBQ meat such as rib-eye steak, pork belly or galbi (long strips of beef short ribs marinated in a special soy sauce). There’s plenty more to choose from too: from Korean fried chicken and spicy pork to a hot pot bulgogi soup.
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For the perfect party pit stop at one of the best Korean restaurants in central London – check out Co&Ko in Soho
Ideally located for those who are heading out to enjoy the bright lights of London, Co&Ko boasts a range of exclusive Korean fusion foods. With head chef YoungPa Kim at the helm, Co&Ko uses traditional Korean techniques and the finest ingredients to portray the essence of Korean food culture. The menu is as much a masterpiece to look at as it is a delight to taste. Signature dishes include seared salmon tataki, with green chilli sauce and chogochujang, and seabass carpaccio in ponzu dressing. With a range of Korean alcohol to choose from too, such as shots of Hwayo or bottles of Cass beer, a meal at this restaurant has the makings of a great night. Due to the limited number of tables and the sheer popularity of this restaurant, make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment.
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For a stellar K-BBQ at one of the best Korean restaurants in West London – don’t miss Korean Grill Kensington in South Kensington
For a unique butcher-driven Korean grill experience, visit Korean Grill Kensington in South Kensington. Considered one of the best Korean restaurants London has to offer, diners can immerse themselves into the K-BBQ scene while sipping on Hwayo cocktails and trying out Squid Game-inspired desserts. Rather than offering a menu to choose from, chefs guide diners with a seasonal chef’s set menu. Located in a luxurious setting with a warm and welcoming vibe, Korean Grill Kensington is a great location for romantics and friends to dine out. Expect meals such as cha lim amuse bouche and a noodle soup, accompanied by individual bowls of kimchi, mushrooms, spinach and pickled salad.
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For traditional BBQ at one of the best Korean restaurants in London – visit Korean BBQ & Vegan Restaurant in Islington
If you want to enjoy the taste of traditional Korean cuisine, look no further than Korean BBQ & Vegan Restaurant in Islington. One of the best Korean restaurants in London, cook the meats to your liking with the BBQ grills on the table. Using the finest ingredients, including fully certified Halal meats and prime Wagyu beef from Australia and Chile, the food will trigger your taste buds. Add to that an extensive line of vegan Korean dishes, and this restaurant is just the place for anyone with dietary requirements. Start off with the kimchi jeon, a traditional Korean pan-fried kimchi pancake, and follow up with a chicken teriyaki with fried mixed vegetables. For the vegan menu, start with vegan kimchi seasoned in traditional red pepper paste, and move on to the vegan yaki-soba, a vegetable noodle dish in a sweet and savoury sauce.
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For tapas-style shareable plates – save your spot at Bullgogi in Notting Hill
Located in the up-market neighbourhood of Notting Hill, Bullgogi has created a traditional warm and welcoming atmosphere loved by locals. Drawing inspiration from the classic Korean dishes, Bullgogi has added a Western twist by introducing tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. Ideal for if you’re on a first date or catching up with friends, the whole culture of the restaurant encourages interaction with fellow diners. A fan-favour list of sharing dishes includes some of the all-time favourite Korean meals, like dumplings, Korean fried chicken and spicy edamame. For a more interactive experience, order the spicy BBQ platter, seasoned to perfection, and cook up a storm from the comfort of your own table.
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For Korean and Japanese specialities that will leave you wanting more – head to Bibida in Kensington
If it’s a mix of Korean and Japanese cuisine you’re in search of, look no further than Bibida in Kensington. A traditional Korean-Japanese restaurant that draws inspiration from bibimbap, enjoy delicious classics in an intimate setting. Perfect for a romantic meal or a family day out, this restaurant takes pride in ensuring that your dining experience is just as memorable as the cuisine itself. From homemade sushi to traditional mains, it’s got the lot. Start your culinary journey with a Korean starter, such as a seafood pancake, or a Japanese starter, such as miso soup. Move on to the Bibida BBQ, served fully cooked on a sizzling iron pan. Some favourite BBQ suggestions include the beef bulgogi – thin slices of tender beef marinated in a special soy sauce, or the three-layer pork belly. Top off your meal with a Korean rice spirit, such as jinro, to get the fully-fledged Korean experience.
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For one of the best Korean restaurants in Zone One of London – try Barn Ju in Holborn
When it comes to combining classic and contemporary Korean, one of the best Korean restaurants in London is Barn Ju in Holborn. Drawing inspiration from the streets of Seoul, this restaurant serves up true Korean food straight to your plate. With views directly into the kitchen from throughout the restaurant, watch the chefs work their magic while enjoying a celebratory meal. A favourite starter is the crispy seaweed rolls or Korean pancakes, with a popular main being the ramyeon, hot and spicy noodles in soup with an egg. Boasting a wide array of Korean drinks to boot, this is the perfect destination if you want to immerse yourself in Korean culture. The Korean chestnut makgeolli cocktail is one of the all-time favourites; a milky and nutty rice wine with chestnut.
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For one of the best Korean restaurants in West London – visit Cho Sim in Shepherd’s Bush
A traditional Korean diner and bar, Cho Sim‘s welcoming space is ideal for friends and families to gather and catch up. With an ethos that food not only fuels the body but nourishes the soul, this restaurant wants you to enjoy the overall dining experience and create memories while you do it. Using the freshest ingredients, Cho Sim’s menu reflects its passion for tradition and modern Korean flavours. Specialities of the restaurant include jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup, and galbi tang, a mild short beef rib soup. Add to that a selection of Korean drinks, such as Cass Korean beer or Korean pear juice, and you’ll be all set for a meal to remember.
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For an immersion in Korean culture at a trendy restaurant in East London – book a table at 3KOBROS Korean Restaurant in Docklands
A new kid on the dock is 3KOBROS Korean Restaurant in Docklands. Boasting a menu that specialises in traditional Korean cuisine, this is one of the best restaurants in East London for solo diners, family and friends. The restaurant’s very own in-house chef, Ryan Choi, created a delectable menu to allow diners to immerse themselves in Korean culture. Popular appetisers among diners include pumpkin croquettes and chicken goon mandu, which is a pan-fried Korean chicken dumpling. For mains, the jjamppong (a spicy seafood noodle soup) or the stir-fried vegetable bokkeum myun are top choices here. Finish off your experience with Korean yuja tea, which is a Korean honey and citron tea.
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For a date night around shareable dishes at one of the best Korean restaurants in North London – try Gogi Restaurant in Maida Vale
Located in Maida Vale, Gogi Restaurant is the perfect spot for romantic dates, with views overlooking the Little Venice canal. For food, you can expect all the classic Korean dishes with a modern twist. Add to that a Korean-style BBQ at your table and it has the makings of a great meal out. If you’re on a date, you can get a variety of small dishes to share, such as assorted kimchi or spicy squid. For the mains, look no further than the chef’s specials, such as slow-cooked pork belly with fresh oysters.
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The popularity of Korean food has gone from strength to strength and, with many offering an at-table BBQ, this type of cuisine offers groups more than just a meal, but an experience too. Whether you’re a Korean food super fan or a curious foodie, this restaurant selection will surpass your expectations. Find your ideal restaurant now and book a meal that ticks all the boxes.
