Seoul is famous for its vibrant food scene, and while many come to indulge in the flavors of Korean cuisine, there’s a surprise waiting for burger lovers. Believe it or not, this bustling city is home to some of the best burgers you’ll ever taste. From hidden gems to local favorites, Seoul’s burger joints deliver a delicious twist on an American classic, redefining your burger expectations.
In this blog, I’ll take you beyond the big chains to explore Seoul’s top burger spots. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just a burger enthusiast, these places are a must-visit.
Cry Cheese: Korea’s In-N-Out Inspired Burger Joint
Quick Review: In-N-Out Copy with a Twist
Don’t Cry, Do Smile. That’s the motto at Cry Cheese, a small yet popular chain that’s sparked attention with its In-N-Out inspired design and menu. Clean, bright, and unmistakably familiar, this spot offers a simple burger menu that feels like a love letter to the West Coast favorite.
From the signature grilled onions to their “burger sauce” (reminiscent of Animal Style), Cry Cheese brings the essence of California to Korea. While it may not exactly replicate In-N-Out, it’s certainly a solid burger experience. And if you’re a fries fan, you’re in for a treat—their fries topped with “animal-style” sauce are truly killer!
Why Visit:
- Best for a budget-friendly burger craving
- Great for those who miss the In-N-Out vibe
- Try the fries with animal-style sauce!
TRC (The Real Cheese Burger): Seoul’s OG Burger Boss
Quick Review: Greasy, Saucy Perfection
For a no-frills burger experience, head to The Real Cheese Burger(TRC). Known as one of the OGs in Seoul’s burger scene, this spot doesn’t bother with flashy decor—it’s all about the flavor. The burgers are greasy, saucy, and perfectly seasoned, served on a soft sesame seed bun.
This is where burger lovers come for the real deal. Every bite packs the juicy, cheesy goodness that burger dreams are made of. It’s simple, it’s classic, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Why Visit:
- No gimmicks, just pure burger goodness
- Perfect for those who crave a saucy, well-seasoned burger
- Hidden gem vibe—perfect for foodies looking for the best local spots
Brooklyn – The Burger Joint: All-American Vibes in Seoul
Quick Review: Retro American Diner Meets Seoul
If you’re looking for an authentic American-style burger experience in Seoul, Brooklyn is where it’s at. With its retro diner vibe, thick patties, and endless topping options, this place delivers an all-American experience in the heart of Korea.
Brooklyn offers two sizes of their juicy burgers: 5 oz and 7 oz, perfect for any appetite. Pair your burger with classic fries and a thick milkshake for the ultimate diner feast.
Why Visit:
- Retro American diner vibe
- Customizable burgers with plenty of toppings
- Ideal for those craving a thick, juicy burger
One Star: The No-Frills Steakhouse Burger
Quick Review: Classic Steakhouse Burger Done Right
One Star is my all-time favorite, and for good reason. This unassuming spot serves up a simple, no-frills steakhouse burger experience that’s hard to beat. The decor is charmingly vintage, with wood paneling and cozy booth seating, evoking a nostalgic, 80s-style diner.
The star here is the burger itself—cooked to perfection (medium, which is rare in Korea), and packed with bold flavors. No extra bells or whistles, just a well-crafted burger that hits all the right notes.
Why Visit:
- Best for an authentic steakhouse burger
- Retro vibe adds to the overall experience
- Perfectly cooked burgers every time
Bonus: Full Belly Burger – An Off-the-Menu Treat at One Star
If you’ve made it this far, you clearly love burgers as much as I do. So, here’s a treat just for you: The Full Belly Burger, an exclusive off-the-menu creation at One Star. This beast features a double-smash patty, caramelized onions, pickles, and mustard—all for just 14,900 won.
Trust me, this is the burger you’ve been dreaming of. Don’t miss your chance to try it!
Final Thoughts: Seoul’s Burger Scene Awaits
Seoul might be known for its Korean BBQ and street food, but its burger scene is a hidden treasure worth exploring. Whether you’re craving an In-N-Out inspired experience, a no-nonsense steakhouse burger, or an all-American diner classic, these spots will satisfy your hunger and elevate your burger expectations.
Which of these Seoul burger joints will you try first? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this post with fellow burger enthusiasts!
