If you’re looking to enjoy authentic traditional Korean cuisine near Myeongdong or Seoul City Hall, there’s a restaurant that has been beloved for decades.
For 25 years, this place has operated in its own stand-alone building, serving premium charcoal-grilled Korean beef and refined Korean dishes. They only use natural, locally sourced ingredients, making it a trustworthy choice for a hearty meal.
One of the highlights is that this is the only restaurant in Jung-gu, Seoul where you can enjoy Gwangyang-style bulgogi made with premium Korean beef sirloin—a truly special offering.
📍 Arirang
Address: 72-2 Sogong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
Hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Last order 9:00 PM)
Phone: 02-752-1342
Recommended Menu: Korean Beef Gwangyang Bulgogi (₩35,000), Ttukbaegi Kimchi Stew (₩15,000)
Located in the heart of Myeongdong, the restaurant stands out with its classic architecture blending tradition and modernity.
A banner promoting new seasonal dishes was displayed outside, drawing people in.
For parking, you can conveniently use the Lotte Department Store parking tower, with free valet parking service—quite rare for Myeongdong, where parking is usually a hassle.
Inside, the restaurant has a cozy yet elegant Korean atmosphere, with warm lighting and traditional lattice wood designs. The spacious table arrangement makes it suitable for family gatherings or group dinners, and private rooms are also available for more intimate occasions such as company dinners. Traditional Korean paintings (minhwa) adorn the walls, adding cultural charm.
This restaurant was even listed in the Michelin Guide in 2017 and 2018, proving its credibility and reputation.
Every corner of the space showcases traditional details—antique wooden cabinets, classic ceramics, and Korean-style ornaments. These touches appeal to foreign visitors seeking a truly Korean dining experience.
The wine cellar features a wide selection of premium wines, creating a unique harmony between fine wine and Korean cuisine.
Even small decorative touches, like traditional folding fans used as partitions, enhanced the authentic ambiance.
Unlike many bustling Myeongdong tteokbokki restaurants, Arirang offers a more peaceful and refined dining experience.
When seated, we browsed the menu filled with various lunch specials and traditional dishes. We decided on the Korean Beef Gwangyang Bulgogi and Ttukbaegi Kimchi Stew.
The table was set with an array of neatly prepared side dishes—japchae, jeon, salad, kimchi, and more.
The marinated beef came beautifully presented, glistening with freshness and ready to be grilled right at the table. As soon as the beef hit the charcoal grill, the sizzling sound and smoky aroma instantly stimulated the appetite.
When I took my first bite, the beef was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, bursting with savory flavors. Placing the juicy slices on top of steaming white rice created a perfect harmony of nuttiness and tenderness—the true essence of Korean cuisine.
The Kimchi Stew, with its rich and spicy broth, paired perfectly with rice. Each spoonful combined pork, kimchi, and hearty flavors, delivering ultimate comfort.
It wasn’t just a meal—it was an opportunity to experience the depth of traditional Korean cuisine, perfected over decades with dedication and care.
The fresh ingredients and skillful preparation brought out both home-style comfort and refined flavors, while the elegant setting blended tradition with modern touches.
Truly, Arirang is a memorable dining destination in Myeongdong, where every detail reflects the essence of authentic Korean hospitality.
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