Seoul’s burger scene is a delicious rebellion against fast-food monotony. Forget chain restaurants—here, chefs treat burgers like gourmet art, blending premium local ingredients with global flavors. Whether you crave truffle-infused luxury or spicy Korean twists, these 5 spots redefine burger excellence. Perfect for travelers seeking unforgettable bites!
1. Burger B (Itaewon)
Signature Burger: “B Signature” (Double Wagyu patty + gooey cheddar + caramelized onions)
Why It Stands Out: Run by a New York-trained chef, Burger B uses 100% Hanwoo (Korean beef) patties grilled over oak fire. The brioche bun is baked hourly, and their Kimchi Burger (with fermented kimchi mayo) offers a bold local twist.
Foreigner-Friendly: English-speaking staff, cozy industrial vibe, and craft beer pairings. Located near Itaewon Station (Exit 3).
2. Downtowner (Gwanghwamun)
Signature Burger: “Downtowner Classic” (Dry-aged beef patty + special sauce + crispy shallots)
Why It Stands Out: Sourced from organic Korean farms, their patties are dry-aged for 7 days, delivering deep umami richness. Try the Gangnam Style Burger—topped with bulgogi glaze and sesame slaw.
Foreigner-Friendly: Minimalist, Instagram-worthy setting. English menu with detailed ingredient origins.
3. Brooklyn The Burger Joint (Multiple Locations)
Signature Burger: “Brooklyn Monster” (Two patties + smoked bacon + bourbon BBQ sauce)
Why It Stands Out: Authentic NYC-style burgers with crunchy pickles and secret sauce. Their Seoul Heat Burger (gochujang-spiked patty + sweet potato crisps) fuses East-West flavors perfectly.
Foreigner-Friendly: Branches in Itaewon, Gangnam, and Hongdae. Laid-back diner atmosphere.
4. The 100 Food Truck (Hapjeong)
Signature Burger: “Truffle Shuffle” (Wagyu patty + black truffle aioli + wild mushrooms)
Why It Stands Out: Started as a hip food truck, now a brick-and-mortar icon. Uses Australian Wagyu and artisanal cheeses. The Seoulite Burger (with soy-marinated egg yolk) is a must.
Foreigner-Friendly: Outdoor seating, vegan options, and staff fluent in English. Near trendy cafes.
5. Mmmio (Seongsu)
Signature Burger: “Mmmio Truffle Bomb” (Angus patty + truffle cheese sauce + portobello)
Why It Stands Out: Hidden in Seoul’s “Brooklyn,” Mmmio focuses on organic ingredients. Their Kimchi Crunch Burger features house-made kimchi and lotus root chips for texture.
Foreigner-Friendly: Industrial-chic space in Seongsu’s artsy district. Pictorial menus available.
Pro Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Price Range: ₩15,000–₩25,000 (≈ $11–$18 USD) per burger.
- Etiquette: No tipping! Use cash or card. Lines form early—visit off-peak (3–5 PM).
- Dietary Needs: Most spots offer vegan/gluten-free buns (ask for “chaesik/글루텐 프리”).
Seoul’s burger joints prove the city’s culinary creativity goes beyond kimchi. Each bite tells a story of quality and passion. Grab a napkin, dive in, and taste why these handcrafted gems are #SeoulGood! 🍔✨