Where to find the Best Korean food in Dublin
Hello, my name is Chef JJ, and welcome to my list of the Best Korean Restaurants in Dublin. Here, you will find my curated list of the best places to buy Korean food in Dublin.
From Korean Street Food to Traditional Korean Cuisine, these Korean Restaurants in Dublin have it all. Here is a list of some of the locations that serve the best Korean Food in Dublin.
Don’t forget to read my article listing some of the best places to eat in Dublin.
Table of Contents
What is Korean Food?
Korean food is best known for its bold and diverse flavours and emphasis on balance in each meal. Some key characteristics of Korean cuisine include:
1. Kimchi: Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radishes, seasoned with chilli pepper, garlic, ginger, and other spices, are a staple in Korean cuisine.
2. Barbecue (Gogigui): Korean barbecue involves grilling meat, often beef, pork, or chicken, at the table. The meat is typically marinated in flavorful sauces, offering a unique and interactive dining experience.
3. Bibimbap: A popular Korean dish, bibimbap consists of a bowl of rice topped with various vegetables, meat (usually beef), a fried egg, and spicy gochujang (red chilli paste).
4. Banchan: Small side dishes served with rice, providing a variety of flavours and textures. Kimchi is a common banchan, but there are numerous other options.
5. Japchae: Stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables and sometimes beef or other proteins.
6. Tteokbokki: Spicy and sweet rice cakes served in a thick gochujang sauce.
7. Hot Pots (Jeongol): Hearty stews or hot pots, often cooked at the table, featuring a variety of ingredients like meat, vegetables, and noodles.
8. Soups (Guk and Tang): Korean soups, whether clear or hearty, are often rich in flavour and may include a variety of ingredients like seaweed, tofu, meat, and vegetables.
Korean cuisine is also known for its healthful qualities. It incorporates a variety of vegetables, fermented foods, and balanced flavours.
The communal aspect of sharing dishes is a significant part of Korean dining culture.
Best Korean Restaurants in Dublin
The following is a list of some of the best places serving excellent Koren food in Dublin. Enjoy!
1. Arisu Korean Restaurant Dublin
Arisu Korean Restaurant Dublin, a culinary gem, established its roots in 2010, quickly blossoming to twice its original size within two years due to soaring popularity.
As Ireland’s pioneering authentic traditional BBQ and Sushi Restaurant, Arisu is a testament to 15 years of culinary expertise imported from Korea.
With a mission to bring the rich flavours of Korea to Ireland, Arisu goes beyond the palate, sourcing most of its furniture directly from Korea.
The lunch menu boasts an extensive selection of Korean dishes, Asian-inspired noodles, and delectable sushi. Come dinner, the experience extends with the addition of tantalizing Korean BBQ creations.
If going for dinner, order their kimchi as a complimentary side dish. I recommend their Japchae-Dup-Bap, a Korean marinated beef dish full of flavour. Their vegetarian version is just as good.
For more information, visit the Arisu Korean Restaurant website.
2. Korean Table
Nestled on Manor St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7, the Korean Table is a cherished culinary haven, notably recognized at the 2023 Food and Wine Restaurant of the Year Awards.
Highly Recommended as a casual dining Korean Restaurant, this hidden gem is celebrated for its authenticity and refusal to accept reservations, ensuring equal dining opportunities for all.
The restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, where generous and well-crafted Banchan dishes delight patrons. The friendly service includes staff explanations of the dishes, creating an immersive experience for those new to Korean cuisine.
Embracing a diverse menu, the Korean Table offers savoury delights like Stone Cauldron beef, KIMCHI stew, bibimbap, spicy gochujang bulgogi, and chicken and seafood pancakes.
This culinary journey echoes the flavours of homemade Korean meals. Transporting diners to Korea with each bite, the Korean Table in Dublin embodies the essence of authentic and delectable Korean dining.
For more information, visit the Korean Table website.
3. Kimchi Hophouse Dublin
Kimchi Hophouse, a charming fusion of Traditional Korean Restaurant and Irish Pub in Dublin, is the city’s oldest Korean culinary haven.
This lively establishment captures the essence of both cultures, creating a welcoming space where locals savour fresh pints of Guinness or Soju cocktails and international visitors relish the taste of Korea in the heart of Dublin.
Renowned for its Authentic Bibimbap, a delightful mix of marinated beef, fish, or tofu atop purple rice in a piping-hot stone “dolsot” bowl, Kimchi Hophouse beckons with culinary excellence.
The Kimchi Zigae stew, brimming with spicy pickled cabbage, vegetables, and pork or tofu, sizzles in a stone bowl, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavours. Anju Tapas, a traditional Korean drink accompaniment, unveils delights such as Korean fried chicken or wings.
With an extensive Hansik menu, offering options like the Hangsang set and a tempting sushi selection, Kimchi Hophouse promises a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Korean cuisine.
Open for lunch, dinner, and takeaway, it’s a gastronomic adventure in the heart of Dublin.
For more information, visit the Kimchi Hophouse website.
4. Chimac Korean Soul Food
Chimac Korean Restaurant in Dublin is a gastronomic oasis that pays homage to Korea’s cherished love for fried chicken, crafting a culinary experience that marries bold flavours, craft beer, and the enchantment of saucy perfection.
The name “Chimac” itself reflects the Korean passion for pairing fried chicken (“chikin”) with beer (“maekju”), a cultural phenomenon and national pastime.
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Chimac brings the spirited taste of Seoul to eager palates. Their menu boasts crispy, free-range chicken adorned with irresistibly delicious sauces, prompting contemplation of life’s culinary choices.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to its chicken burgers, crafted from twice-fried, 100% Irish free-range chicken breast, presented in Amish buns with house pickles.
The brunch menu elevates the experience with tempting options like Chicken and Waffles, Chimac Hash Browns & Eggs, and a breakfast burger featuring Korean fried chicken.
With each bite, Chimac in Dublin transforms a simple pairing into a culinary masterpiece, capturing the essence of Korean gastronomic delight in the heart of Ireland.
For more information, visit the Chimac Koren Restaurant website.
5. Han Sung Restaurant
Han Sung Korean Restaurant in Dublin is a hidden culinary gem behind a small Asian market. This off-the-beaten-track establishment offers authentic and traditional Korean cuisine and boasts a fantastic dining experience.
The entrance through the Asian market adds a unique charm, leading patrons to discover a place with fantastic food, generous portions, and a delightful atmosphere.
Han Sung is celebrated for its exceptional braised pork belly and deep-fried chicken, both reaching extraordinary levels of flavour. The pork belly’s tenderness and the chicken’s perfect crunch make it one of Dublin’s best Korean dining spots.
With reasonable prices and flavorful dishes like Lamb Ribs and Beef Bulgogi, Han Sung promises a delicious and memorable culinary journey.
For more information, visit the Han Sung website.
6. Drunken Fish
Drunken Fish in Dublin is a culinary oasis specializing in authentic and contemporary Korean cuisine. Elevating the dining experience, their signature dishes include the elaborate Hanjeongsik and healthy Bibimbap bowls alongside Korea’s renowned Bulgogi barbecue.
The bar offers a unique selection of Korean Soju-based cocktails, classic mixes, a tempting Korean wine list, and craft beers.
Dedicated to delivering the highest standards in food and service, Drunken Fish invites patrons to indulge in a unique taste of Korea.
With lunch and dinner menus and group options for six or more, it is a vibrant destination for those seeking an exquisite Korean culinary adventure in Dublin.
For more information, visit the Drunken Fish website.
7. Dalang Korean Restaurant
Dalang Korean Restaurant, nestled in Dublin’s heart, is a culinary haven delivering authentic Korean and Japanese delights. It’s renowned for its delectable BBQ, a small gem with a big taste.
Dalang Korean Restaurant offers a generous set menu for two at just 48 euros. The bento box, a delightful symphony of soup, sushi, and gyoza, provides a perfectly balanced feast for solo diners.
Dalang’s charm extends to a fantastic lunch menu deal priced at €10, capturing both the essence of Korean and Japanese flavours and the affordability sought by discerning diners.
For a gastronomic journey through East Asian cuisine in Dublin, Dalang stands as a welcoming and flavorful choice.
For more information, visit the Dalang Korean Restaurant Facebook page.
Korean Street Food Dublin
8. Korean Burrito
Korean Burrito in Dublin, crafted by Kimchimera at the BlackRock market, introduces Ireland to its first-ever fusion marvel. An innovation by this family-managed catering company with over fifteen years in the culinary arena, the burritos boast genuine Korean flavours with a commitment to freshness and daily preparation.
Operating in Dublin’s lunchtime markets, Kimchimera emphasizes health, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with vegetarian options. Renowned for its delectable Beef Bulgogi and zesty Chicken Gochujang, every bite is a burst of Korean spice.
With homemade kimchi and in-house sauces, Korean Burrito offers a compelling, fresh, and flavorful experience that marks a delightful milestone in Dublin’s diverse culinary scene.
For more information, visit the Korean Burrito website.
9. White Rabbit Capel Street
Nestled on Capel Street in Dublin, the White Rabbit offers a diverse culinary adventure within the confines of a grocery store.
The menu caters to varied tastes, from delectable noodles and burgers to standout dishes like their renowned corn dog and Korean fried chicken.
Priced reasonably, with a “special corn dog” at €5, the restaurant’s generous portions and vibrant street food atmosphere make it an appealing choice. Witness the chefs in action as you dine, although the cosy space may challenge larger groups.
The friendly and polite staff contribute to a positive dining experience, and the potato corn dog emerges as a personal favourite.
For more information, visit the White Rabbit website.
10. Pocha Korean Street Food
Pocah Korean Street Food is the go-to destination for authentic Korean street food in Dublin. Nestled on the Millennium Walkway in upper Abbey Street, Dublin, Pocha Korean Street Food is a culinary gem offering an incredible array of street delights.
The Pork Bento box stands out for its superb taste and satisfying portions, complemented by the outstanding potato corn dog.
Friendly service staff enhanced the dining experience, while the clean seating upstairs provided a pleasant view. With a reasonable price of around €40 for two, Pocha caters to diverse tastes, featuring halal chicken options, authentic Korean dumplings, and a delightful range of Korean hot dogs.
The crisp Korean fried chicken with sweet and spicy sauce is a flavorful highlight. You have to visit Pocah for an amazing taste of Korean food in Dublin.
For more information, follow Pocha Korean Street food restaurant on their Instagram page.
Asian Influecend Restaurants
11. Gushi Asian Bar & Restaurant
Gushi Asian Bar & Kitchen in Dublin is a culinary haven offering mouthwatering and authentic Asian dishes that span Japanese to Thai cuisines.
Generous tapas plates feature delectable Korean delights like Crispy Rice Bites, Fried Chili Chicken Popcorn, and Chargrilled Pork Belly. Their new simmering Japanese hot boxes are exceptional, and the menu caters to diverse tastes.
With an extensive main menu, Gushi ensures a delightful experience for all, leaving diners speechless with the culinary excellence and variety that defines this Asian bar and kitchen in the heart of Dublin.
For more information, visit the Gushi Asian Bar & Kitchen website.
12. Lao Chinese and Korean BBQ Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, just moments from O’Connell Street, Lao Chinese & Korean BBQ Restaurant promises an authentic and irresistible culinary journey.
Boasting traditional Chinese cuisine and Korean BBQ on an extensive menu, this dining gem invites patrons to savour diverse taste experiences.
A unique feature is karaoke availability, offering diners a chance to unleash their inner pop star. The all-you-can-eat buffet is a highlight, allowing guests to indulge in many meats, seafood, veggies, and desserts at an affordable price.
The buffet even features a sauce bar for crafting personalized dipping sauces. Lao Chinese and Korean BBQ Restaurant also provide a private karaoke room, creating a perfect setting for celebratory gatherings.
Renowned for its authentic hotpot reminiscent of Guangzhou or Hong Kong, Lao is a go-to destination for a delectable fusion of Chinese and Korean flavours in the heart of Dublin.
For more information, visit the Lao Chinese and Korean Restaurant website.
13. Hilan Chinese and Korean Restaurant
Nestled on Chapel Street in Dublin City, Hilan Chinese and Korean Restaurant is a culinary haven, seamlessly blending the rich flavours of Chinese and Korean cuisine.
The star of their menu is the enticing hot pot set for two, featuring both regular and spicy soups accompanied by a lavish array of vegetables, meat, and shrimp. The portions are ample, ensuring a delightful and fulfilling experience.
The restaurant’s ambience exudes an authentic Asian charm, immersing patrons in a cultural journey. With a vast menu catering to diverse tastes, including BBQ and Ho-Go options, Hilan is a testament to culinary excellence and cultural immersion.
Every dish celebrates flavours, from the aromatic and spicy hot pot to the sizzling BBQ. Booking a table in advance is wise, as this popular spot delivers excellent food and a memorable dining experience in the heart of Dublin.
For more information, visit the Hilan Chinese and Korean Restaurant website.
As you can see Dublin has a lot to offer in the way of Korean food. You could almost say you are spoiled for choice when it comes to eating Korean Food in Dublin City.
Dublin has a lot of options for food lovers from the range of amazing restaurants in Dublin Docklands to healthy restaurants in Dublin. Korean food is an amazing option for flavour-packed food and the communal dining atmosphere. Make sure to check out my list of the best Indian Restaurants in Dublin if you love to taste more spicy food.
