Amanda LimTravelling to Seoul on your own? Eating out by yourself in South Korea’s capital can feel a bit daunting, especially in a culture where dining is traditionally a social activity.
Not every restaurant welcomes solo diners equally, especially during peak hours or at venues designed for large groups. This guide offers practical tips and tried-and-tested spots to make solo eating in Seoul easier and more enjoyable.
Also read: What to Eat in South Korea: A Guide to Local Regional Food
Tips for Eating Alone in Seoul
1. Honbap is more accepted, but context matters
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The good news? Solo dining, known locally as honbap, is on the rise. From student-friendly neighbourhoods like Sinchon and Hongdae to chain eateries and even a few solo BBQ joints, there are more places where you can sit down to a satisfying meal on your own.
However, some traditional or family-style restaurants may still see single diners as less profitable, especially during busy periods. BBQ joints, for example, may expect a minimum of two people.
2. Go for places with counter seating or booths
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You’ll feel more at ease in ramen bars, Korean fast-casual restaurants, and Japanese-style eateries where solo seats are the norm. Some cafés and lunchbox spots even have individual booths or partitioned tables.
3. Time your visits smartly
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Avoid peak mealtimes (roughly 12:00–13:30 and 18:30–20:00). Staff are generally more accommodating outside of rush hours, and you won’t feel rushed or out of place.
4. Know your solo-friendly chains
From gimbap diners to quick-service noodle shops, chains are usually fast-paced and less likely to bat an eye at solo customers.
5. Use self-order kiosks or apps
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These are common at fast-casual restaurants and bakeries. They reduce language stress and make ordering feel much easier.
6. Know the dishes suited to one-person portions
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Some Korean meals naturally lend themselves to solo dining, like gimbap, noodles (ramyeon, kalguksu), jjigae (soups/stews), dosirak (lunchboxes), and bibimbap. These are often available in single servings.
Avoid dishes typically served family-style or in group portions, such as jeongol (hot pot), bossam (boiled pork wraps), large seafood dishes, or full BBQ sets, unless you’re at a restaurant that offers solo versions. Check menus for 1-person sets (il-in bun) or ask if smaller portions are available.
If you’re a big eater and confident that you can finish 2 portions, let the restaurant know and they’ll likely let you in, especially outside peak hours. Just be prepared to order both portions at once.
Also read: New Things to Do in Korea 2025: Brand New Attractions and Undiscovered Gems
Where to eat alone in Seoul: Recommended spots
Myeongdong Kyoja, Myeongdong
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Known for its handmade kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings), this famous spot runs like clockwork, and thankfully it’s also welcoming to solo diners. Seating is communal, but the fast-paced flow means no one thinks twice if you’re eating alone.
Japanese ramen spots (e.g. Menya Hanabi), Hongdae, Sinchon
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Inspired by Japan’s Ichiran-style dining, some ramen shops feature booth seating and minimal interaction, perfect if you want something quick, hot, and hassle-free.
Hongojib, Mapo
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A well-known solo-friendly Korean BBQ restaurant in Mapo, Hongojib offers personal grills at each table so you can enjoy authentic BBQ without needing a dining partner. The relaxed vibe and efficient service make it perfect for solo diners wanting a proper Korean BBQ experience.
Gimbap Cheonguk, Nationwide
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This classic Korean diner chain serves gimbap, soups, and rice dishes at lightning speed. It’s open late and affordable, perfect for a solo diner.
Convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven)
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While not glamorous, they’re extremely practical. Many offer ready-made meals like dosirak (lunchboxes), stews, and even grilled meats, with microwaves and seating areas for dine-in. It’s common for locals to eat here alone, especially students and office workers.
Also read: What to Eat in Japan: 23 Must-Try Foods Other Than Sushi
Eat to your heart’s content
Eating alone in Seoul might feel intimidating at first, but it’s entirely doable and increasingly normal. With a bit of planning, awareness of social cues, and a list of go-to spots, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying the city’s food scene on your own terms.
