Traveling alone in South Korea is an incredible experience, but solo dining in Korea can sometimes feel challenging. Many Korean restaurants are designed for groups and serve food family-style, which means some places require at least two people to order certain dishes, especially Korean barbecue.
However, solo travelers can absolutely enjoy amazing meals in South Korea. During my trip, I found several restaurants that were welcoming and convenient for solo diners. If you’re traveling alone, check out these spots in Seoul and Busan that make solo dining enjoyable.
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Why Solo Dining in Korea Can Be Difficult
In Korean dining culture, meals are often shared. Many traditional dishes come with multiple side plates meant for groups, and Korean barbecue restaurants frequently expect at least two diners.
Solo travelers may occasionally be turned away or required to order larger portions. However, restaurants are slowly becoming more solo-traveler friendly, especially in major cities like Seoul and Busan. Some restaurants have private booths, solo grill stations, and easy reservation systems.
Here are four restaurants where solo dining in Korea worked perfectly for me.
1. Hongojib – Private Booth Korean BBQ in Seoul
One of the best spots I found for solo dining in Korea was Hongojib in Seoul.
This Korean barbecue restaurant is extremely solo-diner friendly because it offers private booths with your own personal grill. Instead of sharing a table grill with a group, you get your own space to cook and enjoy your meal.
Even better, ordering is incredibly easy. Each booth has a tablet ordering system, so you can place your order without needing to flag down staff.
Why it works for solo travelers:
Private booths with individual grills
Tablet ordering system
No awkwardness about dining alone
If you’ve been hesitant about trying Korean barbecue by yourself, this is a fantastic place to do it.
2. Anyway Beef – Hanwoo Steak for One
Another great option for solo dining in Korea is Anyway Beef, located in Seoul.
This restaurant specializes in Hanwoo beef, which is Korea’s cattle known for its incredible marbling and rich flavor. Think of it as Korea’s equivalent to Wagyu.
I ordered a Hanwoo steak dinner, and the service was excellent from start to finish. One thing that really stood out is that they allow online reservations for a single person, which isn’t always common in Korea.
Why solo diners will love it:
High-quality Hanwoo steak
Reservations available for one person
Excellent service
If you’re looking to treat yourself while traveling alone, this is a great place to enjoy a memorable meal.
3. Ribs of Legend – Korean BBQ with a Beach View
Another barbecue spot for solo dining in Korea was Ribs of Legend, located in Busan. This restaurant specializes in short rib Korean barbecue and is near the famous Haeundae Beach.
They offer a great lunch special, which is perfect if you’re exploring Busan during the day. The restaurant is comfortable for solo diners, plus you have a fantastic view of Haeundae Beach.
Why it’s great for solo travelers:
Delicious short rib Korean barbecue
Affordable lunch specials
Beautiful views of Haeundae Beach
After walking along the beach or nearby market, this is the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a satisfying meal.
4. Nao Sushi – Affordable Omakase in Busan
If you want a truly memorable meal during your trip, I highly recommend Nao Sushi in Busan.
This affordable omakase experience was probably my favorite meal of my entire trip. The sushi was incredibly fresh and tender. I thoroughly enjoyed the creativity behind each dish.
I honestly lost count of how many courses there were, but that’s part of the fun of an omakase experience. You get to try a variety of dishes that you might not normally order yourself.
In my hometown of Chicago, an omakase meal will set you back about $150. Nao Sushi’s omakase was around $38 USD, but tasted like a 5-star experience.
Reservations are easy to make for solo diners on the Catch Table app.
Why it’s perfect for solo dining:
Counter seating where you get to interact with the chef
Fresh, high-quality sushi
Affordable omakase lunch
Easy reservations through Catch Table
For sushi lovers, this is an absolute must when visiting Busan.
Taking a Food Tour as a Solo Traveler
If you start to feel a bit tired of dining alone, joining a food tour is a great way to try a variety of local foods. I’ve joined food tours in multiple countries and have always enjoyed the experience. You can usually count on a food tour to take you to some really great spots and it’s fun to experience some new eats with others. Check out the food tours below in Seoul and Busan.
Final Thoughts on Solo Dining in Korea
If you’re traveling solo through South Korea, don’t let the group-dining culture stop you from enjoying the country’s incredible food scene. Check reservation apps to find restaurants that will allow solo reservations. Also, don’t be afraid to walk into a restaurant and ask if they will accommodate you as a solo diner. With a little research, you will be able to find amazing meals during your trip to South Korea.
Make sure to check out my full South Korea itinerary for Seoul and Busan.