Around the world, Korean food has become incredibly famous, and Kathmandu is no exception. Thanks to its distinctive flavours, brilliant colours, and nutritious ingredients, Korean cuisine has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike. If you yearn for real Korean food, look no further. Here is a list of the best five Korean eateries in the city, each renowned for its delectable cuisine, warm atmosphere, and first-rate service.

Gangnam Galbi Restaurant

The name Gangnam Galbi alludes to the 2012 viral K-pop song ‘Gangnam Style’ by Psy, and ‘galbi’ refers to ribs. As hinted by their name, their speciality is in pork ribs. They use charcoal to roast, barbeque and grill the meat at extremely high temperatures, giving the meat additional tenderness and a variety of flavours and scents. Intricate stews like kimchi jjigae and doenjang jjigae, as well as classic Korean BBQs like bulgogi and galbi, are served at the restaurant.

Location: Durbarmarg, Kathmandu

Seating: indoor and outdoor

Opening hours: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm (on weekdays) and 11:00 am to 9:00 pm (on weekends) (closed on Tuesdays)

Parking: Available

Payment: Cash or card

Seoul Jib Korean Restaurant

Seoul Jib Korean Restaurant is a well-known location for fans of Korean cuisine. The eatery has a homey atmosphere and a wide variety of traditional Korean meals on its menu, including bulgogi (marinated grilled beef), bibimbap (rice topped with meat and vegetables), and their in-house kimchi (hot fermented cabbage). Take advantage of the chance to sample their mouthwatering barbeque, which you can cook on your own at the table. Plus, the welcoming ambience and helpful employees enhance the whole dining experience.

Location: Dashrath Chand Marga, Bishalnagar, Kathmandu

Seating: Indoor and outdoor

Opening hours: 11:00 pm to 10:00 pm, every day

Parking: Available

Payment: Cash or card

Hankook Sarang Korean Restaurant

Chijuman Gurung established the Korean eatery Hankook Sarang in 2002. ‘Hankook’ is another name for Korea, and ‘Sarang’ means love. Their dedication to providing healthy and authentic Korean food has made them a go-to dining destination for over two decades. They have two locations in Tangal and Thamel and provide a variety of conventional Korean meals as well as lesser-known specialities prepared using local products and traditional cooking methods. Their welcoming atmosphere and attentive service guarantee a great dining experience.

Location: Thamel and Tangal, Kathmandu

Seating: Indoor and outdoor

Opening hours: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, every day

Parking: Available

Payment: Cash, card or digital payments

Won Korean Restaurant

Won Korean Restaurant is a traditional Korean eatery inside the Hotel Ngudrup. Just ten minutes from the Bauddha stupa, they provide a delicious charcoal barbecue and many other delicacies. One can try their specially made Korean fried chicken, kimchi jiggae, kimbap, egg rolls, and many more. The restaurant’s atmosphere is pleasant and inviting as you will be treated by professional servers. Moreover, it’s also pet friendly.

Location: Shramik Marg, Bauddha, Kathmandu

Seating: Indoor and outdoor

Opening hours: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, every day

Parking: Available

Payment: Cash or card

Kimchee Restaurant and Bar

Kimchee Restaurant is an establishment that specialises in serving authentic Korean cuisine. It reflects the rich culinary traditions and flavours of Korea, offering a diverse range of dishes that showcase the unique flavours, spices, and cooking techniques of Korean culture. Upon entering the restaurant, you will be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Kimchee Restaurant focuses on attentive and friendly service, as the staff guides you through the menu, offering recommendations, and assisting with grilling or assembling your dishes, especially if you are new to Korean cuisine.

Location: Bauddha, Kathmandu

Seating: Indoor and outdoor

Opening hours: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, every day

Parking: Available

Payment: Cash or card