Looking For The Best Korean Restaurant In Dubai? Here’s 15

don’t forget to say jal meokkesseumnida before you dig in

Annyeonghaseyo! If the K-pop anthems and K-drama binges have sparked your craving for kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap, you’re in luck. Dubai’s food scene now boasts an impressive array of authentic Korean restaurants serving everything from traditional Korean food classics to modern fusion bites. Whether you’re after a Korean barbecue restaurant experience with sizzling grills at the table or a quick fix of Korean street food, the city has got you covered. That said—if you’re on the hunt for a Korean fast food chain, this isn’t that list. These are the restaurants where the vibe matters as much as the food, where banchan is plentiful, and where you’re encouraged to linger, grill, and eat with both hands. So, put down your phone, stop Googling “korean restaurant near me,” and get ready to discover the Best Korean Restaurant in Dubai options that’ll take you straight to Seoul—no boarding pass needed.

The Best Korean Restaurant in Dubai: Our Top Picks

Koreana Restaurant, Al Barsha 1

Koreana is a cozy, family-friendly spot that has quietly built a reputation as a go-to for authentic Korean cuisine in Dubai. Tucked near Al Zahra Hospital in Al Barsha, this unpretentious eatery offers a relaxed, homey ambience with simple décor. The menu covers all the traditional Korean food hits: bibimbap served in hot stone bowls, spicy kimchi jjigae (stew) bubbling away, and succulent bulgogi beef that sizzles on your tabletop grill. Don’t miss their japchae (stir-fried glass noodles)–it’s a crowd favorite among regulars. Portions are generous, and a spread of complimentary banchan (side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, and spinach) arrives with each meal, staying true to Korean dining customs. Despite its modest look, the flavor here is the real deal, delivering the kind of comfort Korean expats rave about.

Approx. cost: AED 160 for two people (around AED 80 per person)​, making it reasonably affordable.
Reservations: Usually not needed– the vibe is come-as-you-are, though it can fill up on weekend evenings.
Phone number: 04 392 9918
Instagram: @koreanarestaurant_dxb

88 Hong Kong (Al Barsha 1)

In the mood for something a little different? 88 Hong Kong is Dubai’s first Korean-style Chinese restaurant, serving up the hybrid cuisine beloved in Seoul’s Chinatown districts. Nestled in the heart of Al Barsha on the first floor of Orchid Hotel, this eatery offers a “East meets East” culinary fusion. The vibe inside is modern and casual, with minimalist furnishings and hints of both cultures in the decor (think neon lights and K-pop tunes playing in the background). Here you’ll find Korean-Chinese classics: start with yangjangpi, the addictive Korean appetizer dish, or jjambbong, a fiery red seafood noodle soup that packs a spicy punch. Their tangsuyuk (crispy sweet and sour beef) and menbosha are perfect for sharing, especially paired with a bottle of chilled soju.

Approx. cost: AED 100 for two (around AED 50 per person)​— very budget-friendly for the hearty portions.
Reservations: Accepted but generally not required; it’s a spacious venue and also offers delivery if you’re craving that Korean food delivery Dubai experience at home.
Phone number: 054 245 1567
Instagram: @88hongkong.ae

Hoe Lee Kow, Dubai Hills Business Park

 

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Wordplay aside, Hoe Lee Kow is a seriously impressive restaurant that puts a playful spin on Korean dining. Helmed by acclaimed local chef Reif Othman, this “unconventional Korean BBQ” spot has already earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its quality and value​. It’s licensed, so expect a soju cocktail or even Korean craft beer to accompany your meal. The menu “blends succulent BBQ classics with inventive Korean-inspired dishes.” You can grill premium cuts like galbi short ribs right at your table, or try their much-buzzed-about marinated grilled salmon with gochujang glaze that the Michelin Guide praised​. Traditionalists can still find comfort in the spicy kimchi fried rice and beef bulgogi, but adventurous foodies will appreciate creative touches like house-made sauces, sweet potato brulee, or unexpected sides that give classic recipes a modern twist.

Approx. cost: Moderately high– about AED 425 for two people (it’s good value for the quality, with especially great business lunch deals)​Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends, as this spot is trending among Dubai’s foodie crowd.
Phone number: 04 255 5142
Instagram: @hlkbyreif

Smoki Moto, Palm West Beach (Palm Jumeirah)

Best Korean Restaurant in Dubai: Smoki Moto

If you’re seeking a dinner with heart and Seoul, Smoki Moto is the best Korean restaurant in Dubai to splurge. Billed as “Dubai’s first fully licensed Korean steakhouse”, this high-end venue brings a slice of Gangnam-style glitz to the Palm. Located at the Palm West Beach Marriott Resort, Smoki Moto greets you with sleek contemporary decor infused with Korean flair. At each table you’ll find state-of-the-art smokeless grills, so you can char your meats without smoking out your friends. An in-house butcher dry-ages premium cuts of beef in unique ways (rumor has it techniques include butter aging and even kelp aging) to maximize flavor. The menu is all about Korean BBQ reimagined as fine dining: beautifully marbled ribeye, 48-hours soy marinated galbi chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, served with an array of artisanal banchan and sauces. Non-beef eaters can enjoy options like fresh water salmon or potato sujebi, and there’s a selection of modernized sides (kimchi fries, anyone?). The atmosphere is upbeat– on weekends you might catch a bit of a fashionable crowd clinking soju cocktails and Korean craft beers.

Approx. cost: AED 250–350 per person (it’s on the pricier side, as expected for a steakhouse experience in a resort).
Reservations: Essential for dinner; this place has been a hot ticket since it opened in early 2024​.
Phone number: 04 666 1417
Instagram: @smokimotodubai

HANU (St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah)

Best Korean restaurant in Dubai: Hanu

Hanu is the new star on Dubai’s Korean dining scene, offering a high-concept culinary journey that fuses tradition with innovation. Perched on the rooftop of St. Regis Gardens on the Palm, Hanu exudes elegance with an inviting and refined atmosphere. Backed by Sunset Hospitality Group, this restaurant only opened in 2025 and is already making waves for its contemporary approach. The menu was crafted by Chef Kyung Soo Moon, a Seoul native with 20+ years experience at upscale restaurants. Here you’ll find fine-dining Korean cuisine that still comforts: imagine Korean beef tartare topped with quail egg and caviar, or “KFC” Korean fried chicken reimagined as gourmet small plates. The dishes are as beautiful as they are flavorful– their crispy bulgogi beef, marinated 24 hours for depth, is served in artful portions that melt in your mouth​. Don’t miss the oversized hand-rolled kimbap (Korea’s answer to sushi rolls) and the delicate bluefin tuna ceviche with a Korean twist​. Each plate shows off the chef’s creativity while honoring Korean ingredients.
Approx. cost: ~AED 250–300 per person (this is a splurge, but you’re paying for a full experience).
Reservations: Absolutely– Hanu is still new and buzzworthy, so book ahead for an evening seating.
Phone number: 04 278 4844
Instagram: @hanu_dubai

Kimpo, Conrad Dubai (Sheikh Zayed Road)

Best Korean restaurant in Dubai: Kimpo

Kimpo brings the youthful Seoul street bar vibe right into Dubai’s Trade Centre district. Tucked on the ground floor of the Conrad Hotel with its own side entrance, Kimpo is a neon-splashed hangout that screams urban cool​.  This spot blurs the line between restaurant and nightlife: come early for dinner and you’ll be treated to Korean soul food classics, stay late and it transitions into a lounge with creative soju cocktails. The menu is full of indulgent Korean street eats with a twist. Their Korean fried chicken is legendary– crispy, saucy, and perfect with a cold beer. Uniquely, Kimpo serves a “Korean pizza” topped with salmon and kimchi mayonnaise, a nod to Seoul’s quirky food trends​. You can also grab kimchi bao buns, short rib tacos, and even poke bowls for a lighter bite​. Save room for the Instagram-famous dessert: “Mango on a Stick,” which is basically a fresh mango spiral that’s fun to eat after all that spice.
Approx. cost: AED 110–185 per person​ depending on your appetite (and how many soju Soju Bombs you partake in).
Reservations: Not required for small groups– it’s usually walk-in friendly, though for larger parties or event nights it’s wise to reserve a table.
Phone number: 04 444 7444
Instagram: @kimpodxb

Kiyomi, International City

@jedaxfoodtrip Affordable Korean Food! Most expensive dish priced at 35 dhs. KIYOMI 📍France R22-Shop 16, International City #koreanfood #koreanfooddubai #wheretoeatdubai #tiktokdubai #dubaitiktok #dubaifoodie #dubaieats #tiktokuae #dubaifoodguide #fyp #foryoupage ♬ original sound – Jedax Foodtrip

A true hidden gem, Kiyomi proves that you don’t need a fancy location to serve fantastic Korean food. Tucked away in International City’s France Cluster, this unassuming little eatery has quickly gained cult status among students, K-culture fans, and budget foodies. Kiyomi’s claim to fame is serving traditional Korean food at prices that seem too good to be true. Their menu is pared-down but hits the spot: think an assortment of kimbap, hearty bowls of kimchi soup, and a variety of Korean fried chicken that’s crispy and flavorful. In fact, fried chicken is a star here; they offer it in different sauces (sweet garlic, hot & spicy) and it consistently draws praise in online reviews for being “super affordable and delicious.” Portions are generous (you won’t believe how much you get for under AED 30!). For something soothing, try their soybean paste soup– the ultimate comfort dish. Despite the low prices– most dishes range from AED 20–35, with the most expensive dish around AED 35​– quality isn’t compromised. The owner and staff take pride in cooking homestyle recipes and might even teach you a Korean phrase or two. Dining here almost feels like eating at a local mom-and-pop shop in Seoul.
Approx. cost: AED 90 for two people (around AED 45 per person)​– a bargain by Dubai standards.
Reservations: They have limited seating, so at peak dinner time it could be worth calling ahead; otherwise, it’s usually fine to walk in.
Phone number: 056 783 5916
Instagram: N/A

Romantic Baka, Al Ghurair Centre (Deira)

 

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A relative newcomer, Romantic Baka has quickly become a Korean BBQ restaurant phenomenon in Dubai. If you’re on the hunt for smoky grilled meats and upbeat vibes, this is your spot. Tucked in Al Ghurair Centre’s ground floor, it combines mall convenience with a distinctly urban ambiance. The name “Baka” might be playful, but they are serious about delivering authentic flavors. The menu centers around Korean BBQ sets and an array of classic dishes. Most famous is their grill set for two to three people, which comes at a humble price of AED 189 and includes two types of marinated meats, unlimited side dishes, rice, and even a refillable drink served in a quirky kettle. It’s a fantastic deal– you get to sample beef bulgogi, spicy chicken, and more, and the banchan just keep coming. As you man the grill at your table– with helpful staff to guide novices– you’ll truly feel the interactive fun of Korean dining. Wrap the grilled meats in fresh lettuce leaves with a dab of ssamjang sauce, and crunch away. Beyond BBQ, Romantic Baka also offers dishes like bibimbap and Korean fried chicken, plus some creative Asian-fusion appetizers owing to the owners’ Filipino cuisine background​ (they’re the team behind the popular Dampa seafood restaurant). The place gets lively and packed, especially with groups of friends– it’s the new hangout for affordable, social dining. Note that it’s unlicensed (no alcohol), but they have fun Korean soft drinks and teas.
Approx. cost: About AED 75 per person for a BBQ feast (the set for 2–3 at AED 189 is a steal).
Reservations: Recommended during peak times; walk-ins might wait a bit, as the secret is out on this one.
Phone number: 04 591 4247
Instagram: @romanticbaka

Seoul Garden Restaurant, Al Karama

A stalwart of Dubai’s Korean food scene, Seoul Garden is a name that frequently comes up when longtime residents talk about the best Korean restaurant in Dubai for authentic eats. Established back in the late 1990s, this restaurant has been around for decades​, making it practically an institution. The location in Karama may seem low-key, but inside you’ll find a comforting no-frills atmosphere. What Seoul Garden lacks in flashy decor it more than makes up for in authenticity and variety. The menu is extensive, covering everything from BBQ to stews. Craving a hearty Korean hotpot? They do a bubbling Army stew loaded with noodles, sausages and spice that can easily feed four. Want to try Korean summer food? In the hotter months opt for refreshing naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodle soup) to cool you down. Grill lovers can order kalbi beef ribs cooked right at the table– the waitstaff will even help with grilling to perfection. Regulars also love the sogogi yukjeon (beef pancake) and japchae noodles here. With its long history, Seoul Garden keeps things classic– including in its service, which is polite, efficient, but very no-nonsense.
Approx. cost: AED 170 for two (about AED 85 per person)​, very reasonable given the portion sizes and extras.
Reservations: Recommended on weekends or if you need the private family room (they have a couple of traditional floor-seating rooms for groups, adding to the authentic experience).
Phone number: 04 337 7876
Instagram: @dubaiseoulgarden

Sonamu, Asiana Hotel (Al Muraqqabat, Deira)

Best Korean Restaurant in Dubai: Sonamu

For a refined Korean dining experience, Sonamu at the Asiana Hotel in Deira has long been the gold standard. This spacious restaurant, whose name means “pine tree” in Korean, is often hailed as the best Korean restaurant in Dubai by its loyal patrons, Sonamu delivers on quality and atmosphere. It’s an upscale Korean BBQ haven with a full bar (yes, you can get soju or even a glass of wine with your galbi). The menu is extensive and premium. Start off with delicacies like pan-friend mandoo (dumplings) to share or haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and then dive into the main event: BBQ. Sonamu offers beautifully marbled cuts of beef– from LA galbi (short ribs) to ribeye– and even hard-to-find delicacies. Grill it up right at your table or let the skilled staff handle the cooking while you soak in the scents. Beyond BBQ, there are bubbling hot pots and stews, sushi rolls and sashimi (a nod to pan-Asian preferences), and classic dishes like bibimbap presented in stone bowls. If you’re nearby during workdays, their business lunch (about AED 75) is one of Deira’s best-kept secrets.
Approx. cost: Around AED 400–450 for two without promotions (approximately AED 200+ per person à la carte)​– commensurate with its luxury dining tag, but many say it’s worth every dirham for the quality​.
Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner or if you want one of the private rooms. It’s popular among the Korean community and often hosts large gatherings.
Phone number: 04 608 2110
Instagram: @sonamudxb

Hyu Korean Restaurant (Jumeirah Lake Tower, Cluster O)

 

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Hyu might just be the hidden champion of Korean food in Dubai. Tucked away in JLT’s Cluster O, this low-key gem has built a loyal following, particularly among Korean expats who swear by its authenticity. Hyu specializes in Korean style food that leans traditional but never feels dated. Their BBQ offerings include all the usual suspects–bulgogi and galbi– grilled tableside and served with a generous spread of banchan. But it’s the stews and noodle dishes where Hyu really shines: their jjajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce) is hearty and topped with fresh cucumber and egg, and their cold naengmyeon is a blessing in the summer months. The staff here are also warm and always happy to explain a bit of Korean food etiquette– like which way to pass the side dishes or why the oldest eats first. It’s small, so it fills up quickly during lunch, but that’s just proof of how solid their food is.
Approx. cost: AED 250 for two.
Reservations: Advised during peak times.
Phone number: 050 227 3004
Instagram: @hyurestaurant

The Sky 2 Korean Restaurant Tecom (Golden Tulip Media Hotel, Barsha Heights)

Best Korean Restaurant in Dubai: The Sky 2 Korean Restaurant Tecom

One of Tecom’s best-kept secrets, The Sky 2 sits on the mezzanine floor of the Golden Tulip Hotel and serves up no-fuss Korean food in a casual, slightly dated but undeniably charming setting. The crowd here skews Korean, especially for dinner– a good sign you’re getting the real deal. Their menu is massive, spanning  spicy kimchi jjigae to octopus sautee, crispy Korean pancakes, and loads of soup options. But the real showstopper is their all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet– for about AED 89, you get a DIY meat fest with all the trimmings, from lettuce wraps to dipping sauces. If you’re in the mood for hearty portions, value for money, and a taste of what Seoul hotel dining used to feel like, this place delivers. And if you ask us, it’s definitely one of the best Korean restaurants in Dubai.
Approx. cost: AED 80–100 per person.
Reservations: Walk-ins usually okay unless it’s a Friday night.
Phone number: 04 448 9818
Instagram: @skykoreanrestaurant

Mannaland Korean Restaurant (Al Mina Road, Al Hudaiba)

Mannaland has been holding it down as one of the OGs of authentic Korean food in Dubai for over a decade, and there’s a reason it’s still going strong. Situated on Al Mina Road, it’s a top contender for best Korean restaurant in Dubai. The menu is vast– from bulgogi to spicy stir fried squids– and their barbecue is one of the city’s most affordable. But what makes Mannaland stand out in 2025 is its focus on low calorie Korean food and vegan options, with dishes like tofu stew, mashed potato pancake, and vegan rice cakes in hot pepper sauce that feel both light and satisfying. The banchan are plentiful and constantly refilled, and the service is quick and to the point. If you’re watching what you eat but still want to enjoy hearty Korean flavors, this place nails the balance.
Approx. cost: AED 190 for two.
Reservations: Recommended on weekends.
Phone number: 02-4466860
Instagram: @mannalandrestaurant

Social House (Dubai Mall)

 

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Technically not a Korean restaurant, but if you’re stuck in the mall and googling “Korean restaurant Dubai Mall” with a rumbling stomach, Social House is your best bet. This eclectic spot near the Dubai Fountain does a bit of everything– sushi, pasta, Asian stir-fries– but they’ve recently expanded their Korean-inspired menu. Expect dishes like Korean BB1 beef, all presented in an elevated café format.  While it is technically not the best Korean restaurant in Dubai and may not satisfy a Korean food purist, it’s a convenient, well-executed spot that scratches the itch when you’re at the mall.
Approx. cost: AED 275 for two.
Reservations: Not necessary – but prepare for a wait at peak times.
Phone number: 052 972 5541
Instagram: @socialhousedubai

Shogun (Office Park Building, Dubai Media City)

Shogun is one of those places that quietly delivers, without ever trying too hard. Though it also serves Japanese dishes, Shogun’s Korean offerings are what bring regulars back: piping-hot kimchi jjigae, tteokbokki, char-broiled mackerel, and grilled meats that arrive sizzling, minus the smoke cloud. What makes Shogun stand out isn’t speed—it’s consistency. The service is unhurried but efficient, the food always flavorful, and the portions generous. It’s a popular haunt for business lunches, group dinners, and the occasional homesick Korean expat. While you won’t find wild fusion dishes or Instagram gimmicks here, what you will find is reliable, satisfying Korean food in Dubai that keeps things traditional, and that’s what makes it one of the best Korean restaurants in Dubai.

Approx. cost: AED 90–100 per person.
Reservations: Recommended.
Phone number: 04-447-4899 
Instagram:
@shogunkorean

FAQ’s: Your Korean Food Cheat Sheet

What is the most popular Korean food?

  • Most would say bibimbap – a warm rice bowl topped with sautéed vegetables, beef or tofu, and a gochujang-laced fried egg.
  • Bulgogi (sweet-savoury marinated beef) is another crowd favorite, especially for first-timers.
  • Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) is a close third, beloved for its spice and comfort factor.

What to say when entering a Korean restaurant?

  • Greet with a friendly “Annyeonghaseyo” (안녕하세요) – it’s the universal hello.
  • Before eating, say “Jal meokkesseumnida” (잘 먹겠습니다), which means “I’ll eat well” – kind of like saying bon appétit.
  • After the meal, “Jal meogeosseumnida” (잘 먹었습니다) means “I ate well” – a polite way to thank your hosts or the restaurant staff.

What is Korean no. 1 food?

  • Hands down, kimchi.
  • It’s served with almost every meal in Korea and comes in endless varieties.
  • It’s also deeply symbolic—representing health, heritage, and flavor all in one fermented bite.

What are popular Korean side dishes?

  • Kimchi – always.
  • Gamja salad – a creamy, slightly sweet potato salad.
  • Japchae – stir-fried glass noodles with veggies.
  • Kongnamul – lightly seasoned soybean sprouts.
  • Sigumchi namul – garlicky blanched spinach.
  • Ojingeochae muchim – spicy dried squid.
  • Pro tip: these are called banchan, and they usually come free and refillable with your meal.

So there you have it, the best Korean restaurants in Dubai. From sizzling Korean barbecue restaurants where the grill is front and center, to quiet spots serving comforting stews, this city serves up Seoul in more ways than one. So next time the craving hits — you know where to go. And hey, don’t forget to say jal meokkesseumnida before you dig in.

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