It’s no question that Korean cuisine is increasingly marking its space in the culinary sphere. Just a few months ago, the Michelin guide announced its very first guide to Seoul, South Korea. Here are just a few incredible chefs in the country’s capital, who are doing some serious #TheArtOfPlating.
Lee Choong Hoo, Zero Complex
Located in Seorae Village of southern Seoul – known as the city’s small French district – Zero Complex serves French neo-bistro cuisine. The chef, Lee Choong Hoo, who bears culinary roots in France, adds his own unique flair and changes the menu monthly, taking inspiration from seasonal ingredients.
Smoked beef tartare with pimentos rice crackers by chef Lee Choong Hoo of Zero Complex. Photo courtesy of Matty Yangwoo Kim.
Alex Hyeongtaek Lim, La Yeon
Located on the 23rd floor of the luxurious Hotel Shilla in Seoul, restaurant La Yeon was recently awarded the coveted three Michelin stars. While overlooking an exquisite view of the city, La Yeon offers only the highest quality, local and seasonal ingredients and an elevated experience of Korean cuisine.
Chargrilled eel with plum and gochujang (red pepper paste) by chef Alex Hyeongtaek Lim of La Yeon at The Shilla Hotel. Photo courtesy of Matty Yangwoo Kim.
Kwon Woo Joong, Kwonsooksoo
Awarded an incredible two Michelin stars, chef Kwon Woo Joong of Kwonsooksoo meticulously prepares his dishes based on the basic, core elements of Korean cuisine. Each guest is served on a dok-sang (single table), a traditional way of Korean dining on which an individual’s meal is served on individual tables.
Welcome drink and small appetizers by Kwon Woo Joong of Kwonsooksoo, Seoul. Photo courtesy of Bar & Dining.
Lee Jong Guk, Gotgan
Widely heralded as a pioneer of modern Korean cuisine, chef Lee Jong Guk of Gotgan highlights and elevates the truth and traditions of Korean cuisine . In his own private residence, you’ll find 24 refrigerators stocked with pickled vegetables, aged soy sauce, fermented seafood and more.
Photo courtesy of Michelin Guide Seoul.
Kim Byung Jin, Gaon
Chef Kim Byun Jin of three Michelin starred restaurant Gaon dedicates his culinary career to studying and developing recipes inspired by the dishes and flavors of Korea’s rich past.
Photo courtesy of Michelin Guide Seoul.
