Balwoo Gongyang
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About
Managed by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, Balwoo Gongyang is the only Michelin-starred temple food restaurant in the world. It serves traditional vegan recipes that have been passed down through monasteries for centuries, emphasizing the 'Five Colors and Five Flavors.' The dining experience is serene and educational, with each course explained in the context of Buddhist philosophy. The sensory experience is subtle, highlighting the pure taste of fermented soy and seasonal mountain greens. Experts recommend the 'Maeum' (Mind) course for a balanced introduction to monastic dining. Practical pro tip: Located directly across from Jogyesa Temple, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet lunch after visiting the temple; reservations are highly recommended for the private dining rooms.
Highlights
- Michelin-starred temple cuisine
- Seasonal Buddhist vegan dishes
- Authentic monastic recipes
- Calm minimalist atmosphere
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Jogyesa Temple
Jogyesa is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and serves as the heart of urban Buddhism in Seoul. Unlike temples tucked away in mountains, Jogyesa is integrated into the city’s fabric, neighboring the Insadong district. The main hall, Daeungjeon, is impressively large and houses three massive golden Buddhas. The courtyard is home to a 500-year-old White Pine tree and an ancient scholar tree. During the Lotus Lantern Festival, the temple becomes a kaleidoscope of color. Experts recommend visiting in October for the Chrysanthemum Festival when the entire grounds are covered in elaborate flower sculptures. Pro tip: Visitors are welcome to enter the hall for prayer, but remember to remove your shoes and walk along the sides rather than the center.
Insadong Street
Insadong is the cultural heart of Seoul, where the city’s past and present converge through antique shops, traditional paper (hanji) stores, and hidden teahouses. Historically a place for artists and scholars, it remains the best place to find authentic Korean crafts and calligraphy. Ssamzigil, a spiral-shaped shopping courtyard, offers a modern twist with local designer boutiques. The area smells of roasted corn tea and traditional incense. Experts recommend ducking into the small side alleys to find the most authentic 'Pajeon' (green onion pancake) restaurants. Pro tip: Visit on weekends when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, and look for the 'Sool Gallery' to learn about and taste traditional Korean liquors.
Imun Seolnongtang
Founded in 1904, Imun Seolnongtang is officially the oldest restaurant in Korea. It specializes in 'Seolnongtang,' a milky-white ox bone soup that is simmered for over 17 hours until the collagen and marrow are fully extracted. The broth is served unseasoned, allowing the diner to add salt, scallions, and pepper to their own taste. The interior is modest and filled with history, serving as a living record of Seoul’s culinary development. Experts recommend the 'Special' bowl which includes extra slices of brisket and ox knee. Practical pro tip: This is a breakfast and lunch favorite; the flavor is very light and clean, making it the perfect 'hangover cure' or a gentle start to a day of sightseeing in the Jongno area.
Sanchon (Insadong)
Founded by a former Buddhist monk, Sanchon offers a deeply spiritual and sensory journey into Korean temple cuisine. The restaurant is hidden at the end of a narrow Insadong alley, featuring a lush interior filled with Buddhist art, plants, and the scent of traditional incense. The meal consists of about 20 small dishes featuring wild mountain herbs, roots, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared without meat, garlic, or onions. Every evening, guests are treated to a traditional Korean dance performance. Experts recommend trying the 'Deodeok' (mountain root) dishes for their unique texture and earthy flavor. Practical pro tip: This is a fixed-price set menu; come hungry, as the sheer variety of small plates is overwhelming, and the atmosphere is very communal.
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