From a 122-year-old seolleongtang restaurant to a legendary chutang spot that even North Korean officials reportedly missed during inter-Korean talks…
Amid Seoul’s rapidly changing commercial landscape, is there any more reliable guarantee of taste than having maintained the same location and the same flavor for so long? The value of a single bowl, proven time and again by the passage of time.
When you want to enjoy a taste that has remained unchanged for decades—or even over a century—and feel a sense of nostalgia, as if you’ve stepped back into a past that was perhaps a little warmer, refer to this list.
Imun Seolnongtang
A leading Seollongtang restaurant in Seoul that opened in 1904 and has been passed down through four generations. It is said that historical figures such as marathon runner Son Ki-jung were regular customers here. To maintain the same flavor for 122 years, the restaurant uses absolutely no artificial flavorings or kelp, so you can enjoy its traditional, light broth whenever you visit.
Samgeori Meonjamjig Sundae-guk
Seoul’s oldest sundae-gukbap restaurant. Since 1959, it has upheld a single philosophy for nearly 70 years: affordable yet delicious food. Even with today’s soaring prices, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of sundae-guk for just 8,000 won.
La Cantina
This restaurant opened in 1967 as Korea’s first Italian restaurant. It is also famous for having been a longtime favorite of the late Lee Byung-chul, former chairman of the Samsung Group. The warm and cozy interior of a classic Italian restaurant from days gone by remains intact.
Haklim Tea House
The moment you step inside, you’ll almost forget it’s 2026—the space has preserved the authentic atmosphere of an old coffeehouse. As Seoul’s oldest coffeehouse, it has weathered the ups and downs of modern history and served as a gathering place for many writers and artists. While it’s not known for its food, it’s a spot with a great ambiance where you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee along with LP music.
Yonggeumok
“Is the taste there still the same?” This restaurant became legendary when, during inter-Korean talks, a North Korean official—unable to forget the taste of Yonggeumok Chueotang—sent greetings asking about it. Opened in 1932 and still thriving today, this restaurant offers a delicious chueotang experience that even first-time diners can enjoy without hesitation.