Discover the best English-friendly Restaurants in Hongdae district. From Korean BBQ to international cuisine, these restaurants offer delicious food and easy communication for foreign visitors.
Introduction to Restaurants in Hongdae
Hongdae, known for its youthful energy and artistic vibe, offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes. Whether you’re craving traditional Korean dishes, fusion cuisine, or international flavors, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate. Let’s explore some top-notch restaurants where you can enjoy great food and communicate easily in English.
Top 10 English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae
Here’s a curated list of restaurants that offer both delicious food and English-speaking staff or menus:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Must-Try Dish | Location |
| NooNaHolDak Hongdae | Korean Chicken & Beer | Oven-baked Chicken | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9 |
| Witch’s Kitchen Hongdae | Italian Fusion | Ringer Cocktail of Witch | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9 |
| Colline Cafe Hongdae | Cafe & Brunch | All-day Brunch | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 8 |
| THE TANDOOR | Indian | Tandoori Platter | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9 |
| Gangnam Pig Company | Korean BBQ | All-you-can-eat BBQ | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9 |
| Jangjak Jip | Korean Chicken | Whole Spit-roasted Chicken | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 1 |
| SF Bagels | American | Assorted Bagels | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 3 |
| Meatman Kim Chun-bae | Korean BBQ | All-you-can-eat BBQ | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9 |
| Ciuri Ciuri | Italian | Sicilian Pastries | Near Sangsu Station, Exit 1 |
| What the Burger | American | Specialty bunger | Near Hongik University Station, Exit 6 |
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae : NooNaHolDak Hongdae – Oven Chicken & Beer
This casual chicken pub is perfect for groups, offering an extensive menu of chicken dishes, wraps, quesadillas, and Korean snacks.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: Walk straight from Exit 9 for about 5 minutes. Look for a multi-story building with “NooNaHolDak” signage.
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae: Witch’s Kitchen Hongdae
Experience Halloween year-round at this uniquely themed Italian fusion restaurant. Don’t miss their signature Ringer Cocktail of Witch.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: From Exit 9, walk straight and turn left at the first intersection. The restaurant is about 3 minutes down this street.
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae: Colline Cafe Hongdae
A flower-garden cafe perfect for brunch lovers and Instagram enthusiasts. Enjoy all-day brunch, drinks, and beautiful bingsu.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 8
How to find: From Exit 8, walk straight for about 7 minutes. Look for a building with a floral exterior.
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae: THE TANDOOR
Authentic Indian cuisine in a luxurious setting. Their Tandoori Platter is highly recommended.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: Use Kakao Maps to locate “더 탄두르” as it’s slightly off the main streets.
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae: Pig Company
Pig Company offers a premium Korean BBQ experience that stands out from traditional grill restaurants. Unlike typical self-service BBQ spots, their staff professionally prepares and grills high-quality meats right at your table, ensuring a delightful dining experience for both Korean and international guests. An all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience with self-service and English menus.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: Walk straight from Exit 9 for about 10 minutes. Use Kakao Maps to locate “강남 돼지상회” for precise directions.
English-Friendly Restaurants in Hongdae: Jangjak Jip
A popular Korean restaurant specializing in dakgalbi, a spicy grilled chicken dish with vegetables. Unique features include: Customizable spice levels, Optional toppings like cheese, bacon, sausage, Traditional Korean eating style with lettuce wraps (Ssam)
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: Walk straight from Exit 9 for about 5 minutes. The restaurant is on the left side of the street, and its sign is easily visible. Hours: 11:00 – 24:00
Meatman Kim Chun-bae
A renowned meat restaurant offering high-quality grilled meats using charcoal fire. Highlights include: Quality pork and beef cuts, Charcoal-grilled meats, Private partition settings for comfortable dining, Set menus for 2-4 people, Special cuts like wagyu sirloin.
Location: Near Hongik University Station, Exit 9
How to find: From Exit 9, walk straight for about 7 minutes until you reach Hongik-ro 3-gil. The restaurant is on the third floor of a building with a large sign. Hours: 12:00 – 23:00 (last order 22:00)
Yoogane Chicken Galbi
A legendary chicken restaurant chain that has been serving mouth-watering spicy chicken dishes since 1981. Their signature chicken galbi is a must-try for spice lovers and those wanting to experience authentic Korean street food.
Location: From Exit 9.109 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
How to find: From Exit 9, walk straight for about 5 minutes. The cafe is located near a popular shopping area, making it easy to spot. Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 11 PM daily
Piggy-Bank Stone Grill
A unique dining concept where guests cook their meat on a hot stone grill at their table. The restaurant offers various meat options and traditional Korean side dishes, creating an interactive and flavorful dining experience.
Location: From Exit 7. 146-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
How to find: From Exit 7, walk straight for about 5 minutes. The restaurant is located on a corner with a bright sign showcasing their burgers.
Tips for Finding Restaurants in Hongdae
Use Kakao Maps or Naver Maps: These apps provide accurate directions and are widely used in Korea.
Look for English signage: Many restaurants catering to foreigners have English names or menus visible from outside.
Ask locals for help: Young people in Hongdae often speak English and can assist with directions.
Use landmarks for reference: Popular spots like Hongik University and the Hongdae Playground can help you navigate.
Exploring the culinary scene in Hongdae is an exciting adventure filled with diverse flavors and experiences. Enjoy your dining journey!