Seoul's 6 best brunch restaurants

Assimilating itself into Seoul’s café culture, brunch is becoming more of a staple menu option in the city. As some venues are more serious about the meal than others, this list is dedicated to finding the more satisfying brunch places in Seoul.

1. Paris Grille, Grand Hyatt Seoul

With the vast spread, quantity and option of a glass of Champagne, (₩62,000 for a glass and ₩95,000 for unlimited refills) with your meal, brunch at the Paris Grille is the most luxurious on the list. 

Pancakes, waffles, eggs and pasta dishes are made-to-order as you wait by the hotel chefs. Several freshly-squeezed juices including orange, tomato and grapefruit are available if you’re one of those people who have finally sworn off caffeine.

Brunch is served from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on every weekend and holiday. Reservations required.

B/1 322, Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu (용산구 소월로 322); +82 2 799 8161

2. Harris

A recent addition to Apgujeong, this sleek, modern restaurant is riding the trend of marketing itself as a "brunch café."

The breakfast items presented on the menu are quite standard: eggs, waffles, pancakes, bacon, sausage and potatoes. The Waffle Breakfast (₩11,000) offers a slice of fried banana and a ring of pineapple.  Unfortunately, you can't custom order the eggs, but they do come topped with pesto; an interesting twist.

598-6 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu (강남구 신사동 598-6);  +82 2 512 0542

3. Suji’s

Usually marked by a line of well-dressed Korean couples and a handful of foreigners and their families, Suji’s is the self-proclaimed epitome of a “New York-style brunch restaurant” in Seoul.

The cute venue offers solid brunch options such as the Jack and Jill (₩14,000) which is four thick slices of French toast topped with a blueberry compote, scrambled eggs, sausage, and home fries.

Another stellar choice is the Eggs Benedict (₩15,000). The only downside is that you can’t really mix and match menu items.

2/F 34-16 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu (용산구 이태원동 34-16);  +82 2 797 3698

4. Tango du Chat

If there could be one restaurant in all of Seoul that screams "class," it would be Tango du Chat. Besides having an appealing decor, Tango du Chat is probably the best deal in town. For just ₩10,000, you get a plate of fresh, handmade foods.

Those who order the Omelet Brunch will be more than happy with the robust omelet with fresh salsa, a small salad, a side of potato wedges and a stick of foccacia bread. The menu changes every 3 months to keep with the season.

The owner, who lived abroad for several years and wanted to bring back an authentic taste to Korea, keeps her store quiet because she doesn't want it "too busy all the time," but definitely welcomes your business. Open 365 days a year, Tango du Chat serves brunch on weekdays from noon-3 p.m. and weekends until 4 p.m. 

653-95 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu (용산구 한남동 653-95); +82 2 793 5912

5. The Flying Pan

The Flying Pan isn't your typical formulaic brunch spot.

Although the "Itaewon breakfast" is on the heavier side, many of the dishes will leave your stomach satisfied yet unburdened.

Some standout dishes include the Chicken and Avacado Salad with Toast (₩15,000) and Eggs Benedict (with your choice of ham or salmon) served with a wedge of tomato, spinach and potatoes in sour cream.

This airy Itaewon restaurant serves brunch all day everyday. On the weekends they get quite busy, so expect a wait. If you prefer a more laid back atmosphere, weekday visits are recommended.

123-7 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu (용산구 이태원동 123-7); +82 2 793 5285

6. Pancakes Original Story

Even without its intriguing name, this blink-and-you-might-miss-it place is utterly charming.

The chocolate chip pancakes (₩6,500) are not too heavy, and à la carte items such as bacon, eggs, sausage and of course, pickles can be ordered for around ₩2,000 each.  Waffle mania overtakes a part of the menu as diners can choose from raspberry, chocolate, apple, cream cheese and even bacon waffles.

Pancakes Original Story is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m to 10 p.m.

261-6 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu (용산구 한남동 261-6); +82 2 794 0508

More on CNNGO: 6 best bingsu to beat the heat