The Best Korean Restaurants In London: A Culinary Journey With Kimchi And K-Pop
Ah, London! The city where afternoon tea meets spicy kimchi in a harmonious culinary symphony. While the UK capital is famed for its historic pubs and fanciful fish and chips, it’s also a melting pot of global cuisines. For those craving the umami-rich flavors of Korea, London offers a spicy kimchi to its curry-flavored melting pot with a variety of Korean culinary havens. Whether you’re a K-pop enthusiast or simply someone who thinks “Gangnam Style” is a great name for a stir-fry, you’ll find the best Korean restaurants in London offer something for everyone.
Jinjuu: For Kimchi Connoisseurs
Located in the bustling heart of Soho, Jinjuu shines brightly like a disco ball at a BTS concert. The brainchild of celebrity chef Judy Joo, Jinjuu offers modern Korean cuisine with a twist—think Korean fried chicken that dreams of stardom. Savour delectable bites like bulgogi beef tacos and kimchi aappetizers, which offer a delicious introduction to Korean flavors. For those who prefer their cocktails as entertaining as their dinner companions, the drink menu doesn’t disappoint. Pro tip: Pair the Korean sliders with a Soju Mojito for the full experience. You might just stay all night and find it to be one of the most fun bars in London without even meaning to!
Daebak: Casual Dining With A Taste Explosion
For a more laid-back, yet equally delicious experience, Daebak in New Malden—often referred to as “Little Korea”—is your go-to destination. It’s the kind of place where everyone from the local students to Korean grandmothers congregate, bonding over steaming bowls of jjigae and bibimbap. If you’re brave enough, try their spicy fire noodle challenge, but have a glass of milk (or two) on standby. Feeling adventurous? Pair your meal with a yogurt soju—it might sound odd, but it’s the equivalent of culinary K-pop fan service!
Olle: Grilled To Perfection
If you can’t BBQ in your own backyard (or, let’s face it, your tiny London flat), fear not. Olle comes to the rescue. This Korean BBQ joint on Shaftesbury Avenue keeps the grill hot and the servings generous. Here, you can grill your own cuts of expertly marinated meat right at your table. Pork belly, prime ribeye, and chicken galbi sizzle and char in front of your eyes as the tantalizing aromas waft through the air. With its lively atmosphere, Olle isn’t just a meal; it’s an event. By the end, you may even have learned the artful skill of flipping meat like a seasoned chef!
On The Bab: Korean Street Food Galore
For those days when you just can’t decide (or everything sounds too good)—On The Bab swoops in to save your palette. Located in Shoreditch, this establishment specializes in Korean street food with a focus on easy, tasty, and fun dishes. Enjoy the full Korean street food experience with items like Korean fried chicken wings, bao buns, and bimbimbap pots. They also serve a killer Korean beer. A casual spot ideal for both locals and tourists, it caters to anyone yearning for robust flavors with little fuss.
Close Your Meal With Bingsoo
No trip to a Korean restaurant is complete without indulging in a dessert that makes ice cream feel vanilla, pun intended. Bingsoo is a Korean shaved ice dessert topped with a mountain of tempting adornments like sweet red beans, fruits, and condensed milk. Challenge yourself and finish off the icey delight; it’s like climbing a mountain but sugar-fueled and far more achievable.
Wrapping Up Your Korean Culinary Adventure
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor diving into all the attractions in London, a trek through its culinary offerings adds an exceptional twist to the city’s multicultural experience. The best Korean restaurants in London deliver both a feast for your palate and a lively adventure for your senses, humorously mixing the age-old tractors of kimchi with the clicks and clacks of chopsticks.