A decade ago, it seemed almost impossible to find an authentic French restaurant in Korea. Luckily for us, a handful of gems have popped up across Seoul in recent times.
Here at 10 Magazine, we’ve compiled a list of 10 authentic French restaurants in Seoul (in no particular order).
La Planque | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
La Planque, which means “Hideout,” is managed by Chef Anton Lombard. The restaurant proposes a menu that changes seasonally and the inspiration of the Chef. The menu here constantly changes according to seasonal ingredients and the specialties of the Chef, but the beef bourguignon and ratatouille come highly recommended. Seating is limited, so especially on the weekends, be sure to make a reservation far in advance.
Address: 26, Itaewon-ro 26-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04391 South Korea
Maison de Paris | Ikson-dong, Seoul
Located in Ikseon-dong’s historic alleys, Maison de Paris exudes Parisian bistro charm with a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. The restaurant’s hanok setting and European-inspired interior create a charming and cozy atmosphere. Their specialty is classic Steak Frites, perfectly-seared steak with crisp fries paired with a curated French wine list. Authenticity is ensured by ingredients, recipes, and culinary technique true to traditional French home cooking.
Address: 33-4 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Jongno District, Seoul
Espace Francais | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Espace Français in Hannam-dong, Yongsan, is a French bistro celebrated for capturing the flavors and atmosphere of France in Seoul. The chef is French, and each dish reflects seasonal French ingredients and classic technique. Specialty desserts like tarte Tatin and rotating classic entrées are crafted fresh weekly, showcasing authentic recipes. The restaurant’s dedication to French tradition, cozy bistro ambiance, and expat-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and Francophone expats alike.
Address: Basement/1F, 9-9 Daesagwan-ro 11-gil, Yongsan-gu, Hannam-dong, Seoul
Cote Jardin | Itaewon, Seoul
Cote Jardin in Itaewon is a neighborhood French bistro known for its inviting rooftop, lively brunches, and genuine Gallic recipes. The house specialty is Duck Confit, slow-cooked to tender perfection and served with seasonal vegetables. The owner-chef’s commitment to French ingredients and cooking methods ensures real flavors of France in Seoul.
Address: 122-1 Bogwang-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul
L’impasse 81 | Mapo-gu, Seoul
L’impasse 81, located in Mapo-gu, is a French restaurant that specializes in charcuterie, a selection of meats such as sausages and hams. If you’re looking to try a different side of French cuisine, besides the typical beef bourguignon and soupe l’oignon, this is the place to go. Owned by Chef Grégoire Michot and Chef Jio Jeon, L’impasse 81’s atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and all the breads and desserts here are homemade. Chef Gregoire Michot was a sous-chef at la Tour d’Argent in Paris, the restaurant that inspired the setting of the film Ratatouille. Dishes range between 18 000 and 32 000 KRW. Try pairing your dish with one of the wines or cocktails on L’impasse 81’s extensive menu.
Address: 17-1, Donggyo-ro 30-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul 03985 South Korea
Tavern 38 | Seocho-gu, Seoul
Tavern 38, managed by Chef Go Byeong Wook, is located in a quiet residential area south of the Han river. Here, you’ll find classic French dishes such as Croque Madame, duck confit and steak tartare. In addition, the menu also includes some of Chef Go’s own creations such as the Iberico pork chop with apricot maple jus and the pan-braised chicken with vegetables and house-cured bacon. The restaurant also proposes the creations of the Chef Go Byeong Wook.
Address: 652 Gangnam-daero Sinsa Square, 2nd Floor, Units 202’203, Seoul 06027 South Korea
Comme Moa | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Comme Moa, located in Yongsan-gu, is a French Bistro managed by Chef Kim Moa, who studied culinary in France for a long time. The menu offers an extensive wine list and classic French dishes such as foie gras, pâté en croûte, and crème brûlée. Some dishes on the menu (such as Beef Wellington) need to be reserved a day in advance.
Address: 56 Sinheung-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul
Le Bistro Namsan | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Le Bistro Namsan located in Yongsan-gu opened its doors in November 2017. The restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and authentic French dishes. The menu includes seafood, meat, and fish dishes.The Traditional Cordon Bleu, the Moules Frites or La Blanquette de Veau come highly recommended.
Address:11, Noksapyeong-daero 32-gil, Yongsan-gu, Byeol-si, Seoul South Korea
Stay | Songpa-gu, Seoul
Stay, managed by the Chef Yannick Allén, is a French restaurant located on the 81st floor of Lotte World Tower. The restaurant offers a modern interior and creative and refined French cuisine. While savoring a gastronomic meal, enjoy a breath-taking panoramic view of the city. Stay is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The lunch and diner menus consist of three fixed price choices or à la carte options.
Le Chef Bleu | Jung-gu, Seoul
LE CHEF BLEU blends French fine dining with a cozy bistro feel, presenting dishes made-to-order by a chef with French culinary training. You’re seeking an innovative, chef-driven tasting experience in a stylish setting with a high attention to detail and adventurous flavor pairings. Their signature Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal seafood stew, is renowned for its rich flavors and house-made rouille. Authenticity comes from the chef’s hands-on style and classic French technique.
Address: 435-10 Cheongpa-ro, Jung District, Seoul
All photos courtesy of the restaurants. Cover photo CC courtesy of Pxhere.
