By: Stefanie Kosim
Do you guys know what Michelin Guide restaurants are? Yes! It’s a famous list that are well accepted and known around the world, which acts like an award for restraurants that are exceptionally delicious! But… Let’s be real! When you hear “Michelin Guide,” your wallet might start shaking, because you might think of fancy hotel restaurants or crazily expensive fine dinings. But don’t worry, not all Michelin-approved spots in Seoul will leave you broke. In fact, some of them are surprisingly budget-friendly for students and ridiculously good. Here are three places that hit that sweet spot between affordable and special, with my honest, tried-and-tested reviews included! Yes, I’ve eaten my way through them. And as a big foodie, let me be your big sister today!
1. Oreno Ramen / 오레노라멘 (Gangnam, Hapjeong, Insa-dong, Lotte World Mall, Songpa-gu, Eunpyeong)
Price range: ₩12.000
Location: https://naver.me/G1wSL2FM
This is my personal favorite! Hearty and comforting Japanese ramen with rich chicken broth and melting marinated egg with a soft chicken topping!
Oreno Ramen also has several addresses and branches across Seoul! However, I personally would highly recommend visiting their Gangnam branch as the location is strategic (close by from Gangnam station of Line 2) and they have a spacious dining place!
As it usually takes long to wait during peak lunch and dinner time, I highly recommend visiting the branch with a larger dining area such as the Gangnam branch! Insa-dong branch is also recommended however due to the limited space and its popularity among foreign tourist, you might need to wait a little bit more time to enjoy your bowl of ramen ☺
- Menu recommendation: Tori-baitan ramen (non-spicy) & Karra-baitan ramen (spicy)
P.s. They offer free refill for the noodles!
2. Myeong-dong Gyoza/ 명동교자 (Myeong-dong)
Price range: ₩ 11.000-13.000
Location: https://naver.me/F2Zuxg9I
This one is a tourist’s favorite! Located at the heart of tourist favorite area, Myeongdong; this restaurant is worth the hype! It’s Seoul classic Michelin Guide restaurants for a good reason indeed. They only have a few basic menus such as the Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and dumplings, though you can taste the warm and dynamic taste of Korean soul food directly!
They just opened a new branch right next to Exit 10 of Myeongdong station (Line 4), so it’s super accessible. While the line outside might look intimidating, don’t freak out. They’ve got three full stories of seating, and the turnover is super fast. I went during peak lunch hour and was seated in under 15 minutes. Totally worth it for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Menu recommendation: Kalguksu & Mandu
3. Egg and Flour / 에그앤플라워 (Haebangchon, Yongsan-gu)
Price range: ₩28.000-30.000 (for pasta menu)
Location: https://naver.me/xhzCYzxK
This one’s a hidden gem for when you want to treat yourself without dropping fine dining cash. Tucked in the quiet alleys of Haebangchon, Egg & Flour is where handmade pasta meets Korean flair. The view from their terrace is unreal—especially at golden hour—and the whole place has that perfect date-night energy.
The dishes? Chef’s kiss. You can taste the quality in every bite, and it honestly feels like you’re eating at a high-end Italian place, but for half the price. Whether it’s an anniversary, a friend’s birthday, or just a romantic dinner-for-you night, Egg & Flour is one of those places that makes the moment feel special.
Special thing about this place is you can sit in the terrace area and in good weather such as Spring, you can sit outdoors and see the Namsan Tower while eating pasta!
P.s. If you are planning to come here during dinner and weekends, it is highly recommended to book a spot via Catch Table (you can download the app and search “Egg and Flour” for the reservation). And for dinner time, the restaurant has a policy of minimum order 1 dish + 1 wine drink (however glass wine & non-alcoholic wine are also available!)
- Menu recommendation: Squid-ink pasta & Butter lemon pasta
So next time you’re looking for Michelin-level food without a Michelin-level price tag, hit up one (or all) of these gems. Your stomach—and your bank account—will thank you. Because I live to eat, not eat to live; so, I would want you guys to also enjoy life through eating good foods! Remember, happy tummy happy you ☺ !
myHUBS 
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