Korean Restaurants

Find the best Korean restaurants in London that specialise in tabletop barbeque as well as traditional dishes including kimchi and bibimbap.

London’s culinary landscape has embraced the bold, vibrant flavours of Korean cuisine, with an increasing number of Korean restaurants popping up across the city. From bibimbap to barbecue, these spots offer both traditional and modern take on Korean food. Here’s a look at some standout Korean restaurants in London:

Korean Barbecue (K-BBQ)

Korean BBQ is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Korean cuisine, with diners grilling their own meat at the table and pairing it with flavourful sauces and side dishes.

Koba: Located in Fitzrovia, Koba is one of the most well-known Korean BBQ restaurants in London. The sleek, modern setting and high-quality meat make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Customers can grill marinated beef (bulgogi) right at their table. It also offers classic dishes like kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and bibimbap.
Jinjuu: Jinjuu is a trendy restaurant in Soho that serves a more contemporary take on Korean barbecue, blending traditional Korean dishes with a modern twist. Founded by celebrity chef Judy Joo, the restaurant offers signature dishes like Korean fried chicken and galbi (grilled short ribs) alongside traditional BBQ options. Jinjuu is also known for its inventive beverages inspired by Korean flavours.
Yori: With several locations across London, Yori is an accessible and popular spot for Korean BBQ. The menu offers a range of classic Korean dishes like jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), but the BBQ experience is a highlight, with premium cuts of beef and chicken for grilling.

Traditional Korean Cuisine

If you’re looking for a more traditional Korean dining experience, there are several restaurants that focus on home-style cooking and classic Korean dishes.

Kimchee: Located in Holborn and St. Pancras, Kimchee is known for its stylish interiors and expansive menu. The restaurant serves all the Korean classics, from kimchi and pajeon (savoury pancakes) to doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew). The portions are generous, and it’s a great spot to try a variety of Korean side dishes (known as banchan).
Jin Go Gae: Situated in New Malden, the heart of London’s Korean community, Jin Go Gae is a family-run restaurant offering an authentic Korean dining experience. With a focus on traditional dishes like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), sundubu jjigae (spicy soft tofu stew), and naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles), it’s a go-to destination for Koreans living in London and foodies seeking the real deal.
Naru: Located in Bloomsbury, Naru is a welcoming and unpretentious Korean restaurant serving an array of traditional dishes. The restaurant offers delicious Korean staples like japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables), and kimchi dishes, as well as Korean BBQ. Naru is a great spot for those seeking authentic flavours in a relaxed setting.

Modern Korean & Fusion

Korean fusion cuisine has become increasingly popular, blending Korean ingredients and techniques with global culinary influences. London is home to several restaurants offering innovative twists on traditional Korean flavours.

On the Bab: This trendy Korean street food-inspired chain has locations in Shoreditch and Covent Garden. On the Bab offers Korean-inspired snacks and small plates like Korean fried chicken (dakgangjeong), kimchi arancini, and bibimbap. The restaurant’s casual and hip atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick, fun meal.
Soul Deli: Located in King’s Cross, Soul Deli is a modern Korean café and deli known for its creative approach to Korean food. Offering brunch dishes like Korean-style eggs Benedict with gochujang hollandaise and kimchi toasties, it’s perfect for those looking for a contemporary twist on traditional flavours.
Korean Dinner Party: This funky restaurant in Soho offers an eclectic blend of Korean and Mexican-inspired dishes. The fusion concept leads to creative menu items like kimchi-topped tacos, corn dogs, and Korean-inflected refreshments. It’s an exciting spot for a lively night out, especially for those who enjoy inventive takes on Korean flavours.

Korean Street Food

Korean street food has gained popularity in London, with many places offering fast, affordable, and flavorful snacks that are perfect for a quick bite or casual meal.

Bibimbap: Bibimbap, located in Soho, is known for serving its namesake dish, a classic Korean rice bowl topped with vegetables, protein, and a fried egg, all mixed with spicy gochujang sauce. The restaurant offers several variations, making it a great place for a quick, satisfying meal that still packs a flavourful punch.
YORI Express: YORI also has a fast-casual concept called YORI Express, serving up Korean street food favourites like kimbap (Korean sushi rolls), tteokbokki, and fried chicken. It’s a great option for those looking for a quick and affordable Korean snack.
Hankies Korean: Located in Camden Market, Hankies offers a variety of Korean street food-style dishes like kimchi fries, bulgogi wraps, and spicy fried chicken. With its market vibe, it’s an excellent spot for grabbing a bite while exploring Camden.

Vegan Korean

For those looking for vegan or plant-based options, there are a few Korean restaurants in London catering to this growing demand.

Myung Ga: Located in Soho, Myung Ga offers a wide range of traditional Korean dishes, with some vegan options available. The restaurant serves a variety of vegetable-based bibimbap, tofu dishes, and vegan-friendly versions of Korean soups and stews.
Olle: Another popular Korean BBQ spot in Soho, Olle also caters to vegans with its vegan-friendly options, including grilled vegetables and tofu-based dishes. Their menu includes plant-based versions of popular Korean dishes, ensuring that vegans can still enjoy the flavours of Korea.

Korean Desserts and Cafés

Korean dessert culture is booming in London, with several cafés specializing in sweet treats like bingsu (shaved ice) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Bunsik: This street-food-style eatery offers an array of Korean snacks and desserts, including hotteok filled with sweet brown sugar and nuts. Bunsik is also known for its Korean corn dogs, which have become a trendy street snack in London.
Café Mori: Located in Soho, Café Mori specializes in Korean desserts like bingsu (shaved ice) and hojicha lattes. The café has a cosy atmosphere, making it a perfect place for an afternoon dessert or a quick coffee break.

From casual street food to upscale dining, London’s Korean restaurants offer a wide variety of experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a sizzling Korean BBQ, a spicy bowl of bibimbap, or a creative fusion dish, the city has plenty to offer for fans of Korean cuisine.

KobaAn informal yet modern Korean restaurant specialising in marinated meats barbecued on the...

On The BabA restaurant offering Korean small plates inspired by street food eats plus anju cocktails...