Brooklyn of Seoul: Top 3 Restaurants in Seongsu

Once lined with shoe factories and warehouses, Seongsu-dong has reinvented itself as one of Seoul’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Nicknamed the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” this industrial area now buzzes with creativity, housing everything from minimalist cafés and boutique fashion stores to avant-garde art spaces. Street art brightens the alleys, paying homage to its gritty past while embracing its stylish present.

The transformation began around 2011, when artists, designers, and entrepreneurs moved in, drawn by cheap rent and easy transit access. Since then, Seongsu has become a hub of cultural energy—a playground for Seoul’s young creatives. Like Mullae-dong before it, the district has grown organically into a space where concrete workshops and trendy galleries coexist side by side.

These days, it’s not just visitors but Seoul locals who flock here for inspiration, coffee, and great food. Seongsu’s culinary scene is just as vibrant as its design roots—filled with hidden gems and must-try restaurants waiting to be explored.

Nanpo (난포)

Nanpo is a beloved spot in Seongsu, known for its concise yet impactful menu. Each dish is crafted to stand on its own, offering a harmonious blend of flavors.

Hours: Lunch last order at 15:15, dinner last order at 20:45.

Reservations: Recommended via the Catchtable app.

Note: Expect a wait time of around 40 minutes on Sundays.

Signature Dishes:

강된장쌈밥: A hearty soybean paste stew served with fresh vegetables and rice, perfect for wrapping in leafy greens.

제철회묵은지말이: Seasonal raw fish wrapped in aged kimchi, offering a delightful balance of freshness and tang.

한우불고기쌈밥: Premium Korean beef bulgogi paired with rice and vegetables, ideal for making wraps.

곰국: A rich, slow-cooked beef bone soup that's both nourishing and flavorful.

새우감자전: Crispy shrimp and potato pancakes, a delightful side dish or appetizer.

Midoin (미도인)

Midoin offers a diverse menu that caters to various palates, blending Western and Korean flavors seamlessly.

Hours: Open from 11:30 to 21:00.

Tip: Visit around 2 PM to avoid the lunch rush. Most dishes include meat.

Popular Choices:

규브 스테이크 한상: Juicy cube steak served with an array of side dishes, providing a complete meal experience.

새우 로제 파스타: Creamy rose pasta with succulent shrimp, combining richness with a hint of spice.

미도인 등심 스테이크: Tender sirloin steak cooked to perfection, highlighting the quality of the meat.

큐브 스테이크 덮밥: Savory cube steak over rice, a satisfying and hearty dish.

미도인 떡볶이: A spicy and sweet rice cake dish, a beloved Korean comfort food.

Lefreak Seongsu (리프리크 성수)

Lefreak brings a taste of Nashville to Seoul with its signature hot chicken burger, all within a chic and modern setting.

Hours: Starts at 11:30. Lunch last order at 14:30, dinner last order at 20:30. Break time: 15:00-17:30.

Note: Very busy on the weekends.

Highlights:

Nashville Hot Chicken Burger: Spicy, crispy chicken sandwiched between soft buns, delivering a fiery kick.

Ep. 37 Kushikatsu: An assortment of skewered delights including long buns, chicken kushikatsu, wasabi mayo, shishito peppers, pickled vegetables, and perilla leaves.

Chat Potato: Baby potatoes fried in pork fat, served with fennel pickles, truffle oil, and scallions—a savory side dish.

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