An AB’s Guide to Gangnam: Where to Eat Like a Local - Part. 2

The Southwestern Area of Gangnam Station Near Shinbundang Line

The area behind the Samsung Electronics Building

If the first part of our Gangnam food guide introduced you to the area’s most iconic local favorites, this next chapter takes you a little deeper into the southwestern side of Gangnam Station. Behind the Samsung Electronics building, the atmosphere shifts slightly. The streets feel calmer, the crowds are more local, and the restaurants tend to be places people return to for quality rather than novelty. From elegant noodle spots to polished Korean BBQ and stylish dim sum, this side of Gangnam offers a more refined way to eat like a local.

Here are four upscale picks that continue the story.

1. Cheongnyubyeok 청류벽: The Perilla Oil Pasta of Gangnam

Cheongnyubyeok is one of those places that leaves a strong impression not because it is loud or flashy, but because everything feels intentional. It is known for buckwheat noodles, high quality ingredients, and a modern atmosphere inspired by traditional Korean milling culture.

• The Experience: Clean, bright, and lively without feeling crowded. One of the most memorable details is the large oil press machine inside the restaurant, where fresh perilla oil is extracted on site.

• Why You’ll Love It: The flavors are subtle, clean, and deeply satisfying. Instead of heavy seasoning or rich sauces, the restaurant focuses on balance and ingredient quality. It is the kind of meal that feels light yet memorable.

• Insider Tip: Do not skip the bossam. Many locals say it is one of the best in the city because the pork is exceptionally tender and the aged kimchi adds just the right depth.

• Signature Dish: Deul gireum Makguksu, buckwheat noodles with fresh pressed perilla oil

• Budget: ₩15,000 to ₩30,000 per person

• Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/mFaCTwgSVpgmS4k1A

2. Gogijip Yeol 고기집열: High End Pork BBQ

If you are looking for Korean BBQ with a more polished and modern atmosphere, Gogijip Yeol is a strong choice. This is a place where premium pork takes center stage, and every part of the meal feels carefully considered.

• The Experience: Sleek, comfortable, and sophisticated. Unlike the smoky and noisy mood of more traditional barbecue restaurants, this space feels calm and refined, making it suitable for both casual dinners and more formal occasions.

• Why You’ll Love It: The restaurant focuses on premium well aged pork, and the staff grills it for you with precision. That means the meat arrives at exactly the right texture and temperature, with every bite remaining juicy and flavorful.

• Insider Tip: Pay attention to the sauces and side dishes. The house specialties, especially the pickled greens, are designed to balance the richness of the pork and make the meal feel even more complete.

• Signature Dish: Aged samgyeopsal and moksal

• Budget: ₩30,000 to ₩50,000 per person

• Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/xsZHBejgxmJbQpHe9

3. Gwangpyeong 광평 평양냉면갈비: The Art of Jeju Flavor

Gwangpyeong brings together Jeju style pork and traditional Pyongyang naengmyeon in a way that feels elegant and distinctly Gangnam. Managed by a well known chef, this restaurant is often appreciated by diners who want something classic, but elevated.

• The Experience: Spacious and graceful with touches of traditional Korean aesthetics. It feels upscale and composed, but still welcoming enough for a relaxed meal.

• Why You’ll Love It: The restaurant specializes in buckwheat noodles and Jeju inspired pork dishes. The Pyongyang naengmyeon is especially notable for its deep savory broth, which is widely appreciated by people who enjoy more traditional Korean noodle flavors.

• Insider Tip: If you want something a little more layered than classic cold noodle soup, try the gol dong myeon. It offers the same elegance of buckwheat noodles with a richer combination of toppings and perilla oil.

• Signature Dish: Pyongyang naengmyeon and Jeju grilled pork ribs

• Budget: ₩20,000 to ₩60,000 per person

• Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/JSq6xNEMrSxEik4B8

4. Tien Mimi 티엔미미 Gangnam Branch: Soulful Dim Sum and Chinese Fusion

To end this part of the guide on a slightly different note, Tien Mimi offers a creative and stylish take on Cantonese cuisine. Led by Chef Jung Ji sun, often known as the Queen of Dim Sum, it is one of the most visually memorable dining spots in the area.

• The Experience: Vibrant, trendy, and cinematic, with an atmosphere that hints at Hong Kong noir. The plating is artistic, and every table seems to be enjoying both the food and the mood of the space.

• Why You’ll Love It: The dim sum is made with remarkable detail and care. The flavors respect traditional Chinese techniques while also feeling modern and fresh, which makes the restaurant appealing even to diners who are already familiar with Cantonese cuisine.

• Insider Tip: Some of the most popular dim sum dishes sell out early, so it is best to book at the beginning of lunch or dinner service if there is something specific you want to try.

• Signature Dish: Truffle xiaolongbao and eosang yookseul

• Budget: ₩30,000 to ₩60,000 per person

• Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/jqWh8igosReGtYot5

Quick Tips for Dining in Korea

• Sharing is Caring: Korean dining is often communal, so it is normal to share dishes and eat together from the same spread.

• No Tipping Needed: The listed menu price is the final price. Tipping is generally not expected in Korea.

• Tablet Ordering: Many restaurants now use table tablets with multilingual menus, including English, which makes ordering very convenient.

• The Bell: Look for a small call button at the table. Pressing it once is the standard way to ask for service.

• Water and Sides: Water and basic side dishes are usually complimentary and can often be refilled.