VisitGangnam
visitgangnam (YouTube)
On set with the VisitGangnam crew
Q. Tell us about the VisitGangnam channel.
VisitGangnam is the official YouTube channel run by the Gangnam District Office. We personally cover and produce videos on Gangnam's best restaurants, hotspots, cultural events, and more. Our goal is to uncover hidden gems and great eateries that even Gangnam residents may not know about — not just for tourists, but for locals too.
Exploring Gangnam's food scene
Q. How do Koreans see Gangnam?
For Koreans, Gangnam is the heart of Seoul and the birthplace of trends. It's where the latest fashions start, and it's a fiercely competitive battleground for restaurants and cafes. But while most people think of the well-known franchises on the main roads, the real charm of Gangnam lies in the local eateries tucked away in its back alleys.
Q. What makes Gangnam's food scene appealing from a tourist's perspective?
Gangnam is a microcosm of Korean cuisine. You can find everything here — from traditional Korean dishes and fusion cuisine to food from around the world. What makes Gangnam's restaurants special is that many of them care about the atmosphere and service just as much as the food, turning a simple meal into a memorable experience. We hope this course lets you discover that unique Gangnam dining experience for yourself.
Q. How would you define Gangnam in one phrase?
Gangnam is a "city of flavor." It's the most competitive dining district in the entire country, so the restaurants that survive here are truly proven in quality. The six spots we introduce in this course are places our team has personally visited multiple times and can vouch for — they're the real deal.
This is a curated food course by VisitGangnam, the official YouTube channel of the Gangnam District Office, featuring hidden gems discovered through hands-on exploration. From morning bagels to evening fried chicken, this course is designed to let you enjoy a full day of Gangnam's diverse flavors. Whether you're a tourist or a local, discover the taste and charm of Gangnam — from tucked-away alley eateries to beloved old-school restaurants — all vouched for by the VisitGangnam team.
Course Overview
New York Ratz O'Bagels
This is the place to get authentic New York-style bagels in Gangnam. Every morning, the dough is hand-made and baked fresh — crispy on the outside, perfectly chewy on the inside. Their signature bagel sandwich loaded with cream cheese and salmon is a crowd favorite. Stop by early in the morning and enjoy a warm, freshly baked bagel.
Tango
A hidden cafe gem in Gangnam. The coffee, brewed from in-house roasted beans, is outstanding, and every handmade dessert is crafted with care. The cozy interior makes it a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy a relaxing moment. This is a cafe our VisitGangnam team has revisited many times — truly tried and tested.
Baetgodong
A popular Gangnam restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Using ingredients sourced directly from the market every morning, their seafood stew (haemultang) and grilled shellfish are especially renowned. If you want a taste of the ocean right in Gangnam, this is the place to go.
Dosuhyang
A hidden gem for authentic Chinese cuisine in Gangnam. A chef from mainland China prepares dishes like mala tang (spicy hotpot), guobaorou (sweet and sour pork), and mapo tofu — all with the genuine flavors of China. The mala series, in particular, is a word-of-mouth favorite among spice lovers. It's like taking a culinary trip to China without leaving Gangnam.
Villa Guerrero
Authentic Mexican food right in Gangnam! Enjoy tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. The house-made tortillas and salsa are especially delicious, and paired with a margarita, it's the perfect combination. Come for an exotic atmosphere and a unique dining experience.
Maljukgeori
A legendary fried chicken spot in Gangnam. Their signature dish is old-school whole fried chicken, made with a recipe passed down over decades — golden and perfectly crispy. Paired with a cold beer, it's the ideal way to wrap up your day. Experience the timeless charm of this beloved neighborhood institution that has been keeping Gangnam's classic flavors alive.