4 Best Restaurants in Seoul, South Korea

Up until a few years ago it was impossible to get proper New York–style pizza in Korea, but Brick Oven, along with a few other upstarts, helped change that. This establishment set the standard for crispy thin crust pies in town, and are widely considered to be the best in the game. They also offer a number of nice craft beers on tap, so if you'd like a change from Korean food, consider stopping by. 

Opened by New York transplant Eugene Kim in 2015, Gino’s NY Pizza serves authentic New York–style pizza pies. Signature pies include the Brooklyn's Best (Italian sausage, red onions, parmesan, and fresh basil on plum tomato sauce) and the New York Supreme made with roasted garlic. Their classic pies (pepperoni and regular cheese) don’t play second fiddle to the signatures, and the buffalo wings and garlic knots also on the menu make for delicious additions to any meal. There may be a wait for those waiting to dine in on the weekend, but the pizzas travel well for those looking for take-out options. Gino's also has a more spacious location in Apgujeong. 

Done up in bright red and neon in the style of a Chicago pizzeria, the Jamsil branch of this Seoul chain will scratch your itch for American-style pies. The sizes range from personal pies to big pizzas that can feed several adults. They also also serve deep dish and baked spaghetti, if you're in the mood. This establishment is take out only. 

Leading the way in introducing Korean palates to the joys of American-style pizza (instead of Korean fusion variety, which had focused for many years on toppings such as sweet potato, corn, bulgogi, and strawberry jam, often drenched in a lake of sweet sauces and mayonnaise), Maekju Deokhi Pizza Deokhu has perfected the rectangular-cut Detroit style pizza. The funky Apgjujeong restaurant also has scores of quality brews on tap that perfectly complement their pies. While a few other places get more attention, this is one of the city's hidden gems.