Buddhist temple cuisine in a clean and modern space, at 서울시종로구견지동715F. Managed by a Buddhist nun from the Choe Gae Sa Temple across the street. Reservations suggested. Set menu, though some dishes can also be ordered for an additional price. Has been awarded one Michelin Star. At the junction of Insadong-gil 5 and Ujeongguk-ro. Reported to use honey in some drinks May 2019.
조계종 불교문화사업단에 의해 운영되고 있는 깨끗하고 현대적인 공간의 사찰음식점입니다. 조계사 맞은편 템플스테이 통합정보센터 5층에 위치해 있습니다. 미쉐린 가이드 1스타에 선정 된 맛집으로 미리 예약하시기를 권장합니다. 식사는 한식 코스요리로 제공되며, 일부 메뉴는 추가 가격을 내고 주문할 수 있습니다. 가격은 1인분 3만 원 이상입니다. 영업시간은 점심 11:30~15:00, 저녁 18:00~22:00이며, 매주 일요일은 휴무입니다. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-3:00pm, 6:00pm-10:00pm.
Last order at 2:00pm and 8:45pm.
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5th floor of Temple Stay Information Integration Center, 56, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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- Reservations required
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Last update on 11 Aug 2019 by leecs
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44 Reviews
First Review by wsh79
Kathrynmike
Points +60
Lovely - Edit
After having a lovely dinner here a couple of years back, I went back for the lunch menu. Good value for a high quality meal, with great service
Read moreGuest
50%Dakini
Points +830
Outstanding and elegant - Edit
Eating here is a fine dining experience. You get a private room, beautifully presented temple food, and an aura of elegance.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2024-10-20
Guest
flightlessalligator
Points +62
Relaxing meal in a private room - Edit
Huge amount of food for the set menus. I was stuffed before I finished the final course. Several set menus to choose from. Pricey but not excessive given the quality of service, food and the private room.
Read moreMy favourite dining experience in Seoul, though not representative of the kind of food you will likely eat elsewhere in Korea. Reminded me a bit of Japanese food.
Lovely staff. I walked in to make a reservation and came back later.
Pros: Choice of set menus, Private room!, Lovely presentation
Cons: Mild flavours compared to typical Korean food
Guest
PowerVeggie
Points +854
Go on an empty stomach - Edit
I went there for a casual lunch and I loved the service and the food. They have a couple of course menu options to select from along with a la carte. The portions were generous and the food was authentic.
Read moreGuest
graceo
Points +152
unique expérience - Edit
We saw that this place had a Michelin star in the past, so we definitely wanted to check it out; so our expectations were high. The presentation was very good. Everything looked beautiful. Most everything tasted good as well. The mushrooms with gochujang sauce was the best dish by far. We had our own private room which was amazing.
Read morePros: unique experience, private dining space, wonderful presentation
Cons: a bit on the pricier side
Guest
NicoJaponica
Points +66
Beautiful Experience - Edit
A wonderful vegan experience in the heart of Korea. Give yourselves time to find the place as it sits up on the third floor of the building so at first not obvious. We asked our hotel to call on the day and we got a table for that evening which was a nice surprise. Last orders is early at 19:40 so go early. We went for the Won tasting menu and we found this more than enough food - I struggled to eat it all! The food presentation was exquisite as was the own room setting and from the Barley tea through to the sticky fried mushrooms the food was delicious, the only exception to this was the penultimate course where there were three types of greens - 2 were delicious whilst the third wasI credibly bitter so we dodged that one! Even my husband who is not a veggie and likes big portions had to pace himself! We thought overall it was very good value, although by Korean standards probably on the pricey side. The staff were friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend for a really special evening.
Read morePros: The large selection of seasonal dishes, The food was beautifully presented, The setting was very special
Cons: Difficult to find at first do allow enough time
Guest
darknew
Points +58
Fantastic - Edit
We came here because we saw this restaurant on almost every vegan recommendation website. Our expectations were very high, and the restaurant was up to it. We took the (spring) Won course, and the course was full of surprising yet delicious meals. Some were not as good, but the vast majority was incredible. There was also a lot to eat: we left more than full. Unexpectedly, every staff member seemed to speak English fluently. My only remark would be to make sure to book in advance (simply call their number). I am not sure if we would have had a seat if we hadn't done so.
Read morePros: Very very good and diverse food, Nice seating, Very cheap for what we get
Cons: Better to book, Tourist-oriented
ohzapitsjess
Hi! How much was it?
Read moreGuest
Sammyantha
Points +22
More about the experience - Edit
We unsuccessfully attempted to walk in on a Saturday night but were able to make a reservation for a few days later. We enjoyed the experience and trying something new. Overall however, this was not our favourite food in Korea. Very earthy and at 65,000 won pp by far the most expensive meal on our trip.
Read morePros: Fermented Korean plum cold tea , Interesting experience , Mung bean dumpling and pancake
Cons: Expensive
Guest
joesavage
Points +159
Just okay - Edit
Splashed out on the Hee menu and… it was okay? A great opportunity to try lots of interesting new things, but for the price didn’t quite do it for me. A bit bland and boring, though certainly with some nice elements and lovely staff.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2023-06-02
Guest
yumchadong
Points +5547
Bland and boring - Edit
I tried the Maeum menu and was disappointed by the lack of creativity and flavor. Most of the dishes were based on rice or noodles, with hardly any vegetables to add some freshness and crunch. The food tasted bland and boring, except for the dumpling and the mushrooms from the main course, which were decent.
Read moreI usually enjoy Korean temple food, but this was not satisfying at all. I would recommend Han Gwa Chae instead, if you want to experience delicious temple food. It is a buffet, but everything is fresh and tasty there, with a lot of variety.
The atmosphere was also strange. We were seated in a private room which felt quite isolated and clinical. We did manage to get a table just walking in.
In summary, this was not a terrible meal, but it was far from being a good tasting menu.
Guest
PiaKay
Points +1000
Fun and delicious experience! - Edit
I give this place a 9.5/10 ! The food wasn’t always to my liking but it was very interesting.. the whole experience was just 10/10. Everyone was very kind and welcoming and spoke English! You get seated in a both and have your privacy while you enjoy
Read moreyour menu. Some dishes were very very good!
It‘s a bit pricey but worthy it! #Veganuary
Pros: Nice atmosphere , Interesting dishes , Kind staff
Cons: Expensive
Guest
xinru_t
Points +8963
Michelin Star Temple Food - Edit
5 to 10 min walk from Anguk Subway Station Exit 6 / entrance of Insadong Shopping Street, opposite Jogyesa Temple. The first temple food restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star! Reservations are required. You are given a private room with closed doors. However there isn't a bell to call the staff, so there is quite a lot of guess-timation involved between you and the staff about when the previous item should be cleared and the next item should be served. To be honest, I didn't find most of the dishes particularly outstanding compared to the other Korean temple food I have eaten so far. However it was an interesting experience, and perhaps it depends on whether you are in the right calm and meditative state of mind. The Joy of Meditation Seon 6 Course lunch set is the most affordable (Allium-free. 30,000 won); there are other sets with more courses and higher prices. The autumn menu I had featured the following:
Read moreSuljuksim (Lip-Moisturizer)
- Gaeul-gwa-il & gwa-il cheong (Seasonal fruits with fruit extract)
Juksang (Porridge)
- Hyeonmi-danhobakjuk & Deodeok mul-kimchi (Sweet pumpkin and brown rice porridge & root vegetable watery kimchi)
Sangmi (Entree One)
- Doenjang sauce-ma-gui (Pan-fried Korean yam with fermented bean paste sauce)
- Muchae-dubu-jjim (Steamed tofu topped with julienne raddish)
- Yeon-geun-beoseot-hokeum (Stir-fried lotus root and mushrooms)
Dammi (Entree Two)
- Modeum-beoseot-gangjeong (Deep-fried assorted mushrooms coated with chilli pepper paste)
Youmi (Medicinal Meal)
- Goguma-hab (Sweet potato rice)
- Gae-feol-kuk (Soybean paste soup with seasonal ingredients)
- Namul (Two kinds of vegetable side dishes)
- Sachal-kimchi (Two kinds of temple-style kimchi)
- Sachal-jangajji (Temple-style pickled vegetable)
Ibgasim (Dessert)
- Yeonip-cha (Lotus leaf tea)
- Dasik (Traditional Korean pressed cookie)
Updated from previous review on 2022-10-25
陈俐蓉
Can’t really read the menu, need to reserve ? I went many times and was rejected entry lol
Read morexinru_t
Hi! Yeah unfortunately HappyCow decreases the photo quality, hence I wrote the menu for the Autumn 6 Course lunch set in prose in my review. But anyway the menu is seasonal and there are different sets available, so it's better for you to check the menu on the English website directly. http://eng.balwoo.or.kr/index.php Reservations are required as mentioned in my review!
Read more陈俐蓉
Thank you!
Read morexinru_t
You're welcome! If your hotel staff is friendly, maybe you can try asking them to help you make a reservation (preferably at least a week in advance as they seem to be quite popular)
Read moreGuest
Mrs_Z
Points +236
Fine Dining Temple Style Food - Edit
Definitely a great opportunity to sample temple style food in a calm setting (private rooms). We actually were able to walk in without reservation for lunch. We opted for the ‘simple’ menu (there were three other option with more dishes/courses). Each dish was interesting and flavoursome, while being light and nourishing. For Korean standards this restaurant is considered expensive, however for the quality and experience worth every penny!
Read morePros: Unique experience , Nourishing food
Guest
J..
Points +104
Worth a visit - Edit
Definitely above average but also priciest meal I had in Seoul. Lots of interesting flavours and dishes, worth a visit! Lunch sets start at 30,000 won and dinner at 45,000. A reservation is needed so do call or drop by to book a slot.
Read moreGuest
Sunkyung
Points +1430
Amazing experience with good food - Edit
It is a fancy place at least for me on a student budget, but it was worth it to try this place. They have many rooms so that diners can eat and chat in private. Servers offers explanations for the dishes and ingredients, and they all were friendly. It was overall wholesome experience and we were pretty full after finishing the meal.
Read moreMaking a reservation for dinner is challenging, but for lunch, it seems to be relatively easy.
Guest
Trambau
Points +2929
michelin stars - Edit
Course meal, required advanced booking. Great experience with Korean temple food. private rooms
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2022-03-13
Guest
ThatSurlyVegan
Points +399
So much flavor - Edit
For those who have not dined at a temple food spot, this one is not be missed. While I lost track of what the 30 dishes were on the Prix fixe, I would love to return and sample them again.
Read morePros: Helpful staff, Nice atmosphere, Food made with care
Guest
KadiHarmon
Points +8258
Exquisite experience! - Edit
Loved it. I came for lunch and ordered the set that was one step above the basic lunch and wow was it good! You get your own little room to dine and they bring in the food course by course. Everything tasted amazing and I hope to go back soon!
Read moreGuest
yebun
Points +84
Very decadent experience, wide range of dishes and tastes - Edit
Went for lunch and we had the Won option. The tables are in spacious, private booths, really adds on to the experience. The food was extremely well prepared and tasty in my (vegan) opinion, I happened to be with meat eaters who appeared a bit underwhelmed. Still, everyone agreed that the overall experience was great and the food was well worth it. I'm not a huge eater and left with my stomach comfortably full but I can imagine the portions might be a bit too light for some. I'd go back any time I had the chance.
Read morePros: Very nice atmosphere, Good service
Cons: Expensive, rather small portions
Guest
SteveH
Points +18319
Temple food for Michelin stars - Edit
I am a big fan of Korean temple food but usually stick to the more traditional budget buffet style. There are a number of higher end places in Seoul so I decided to start comparing those.
Read moreThey recommend reservations but I just walked in for lunch. Each table has a private room. The lunch set menu was KRW 30,000, which was the smallest set they had. Honestly, it was enough food. Not sure what I would do with larger set.
The standard is clearly higher than the buffet places nearby. That being said, you are also likely to get some things you dont like in a set versus a buffet where you choose. The service was excellent here! Each dish is explained by the server.
I fully enjoyed my meal here and recommend it to anyone wanting to try temple food.
Guest
JohnnyRawr
Points +299
Not-to-Miss Korean Temple Cuisine - Edit
Located in the Templestay Education Center, directly across the street from the Temple, this Michelin Star restaurant features a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Albeit expensive, the pre-fixed, multicourse meal set menu is well worth it, and features an array of special Korean ingredients based on seasonal availability, and served in specific order according to "purpose" found in Buddhist thought. Although in accordnance with Buddhist dietary principles, none of the strong herbs are used (i.e., garlic, onion, etc), in no way whatsoever is flavor sacrificed.
Read moreEver person (party) gets their own private room for dining. Reservations are necessary. Be prepared for a special experience not easily found anywhere else. Highly recommend!
Pros: Thoughtful menu, Tasty, Unique dining experience
Guest
deborahgonzalez7
Points +43
Memorable - Edit
The Korean temple food was flavourful and stirs the senses. Everything that was served was delicious, beautifully presented and the portions were perfect. It was a one of a life time experience. I ordered the set meal for 35,000 won and ordered the 45,000 won. One had to make a reservation, you cannot do walk in.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2019-03-21
Pros: Everything is tasty
Cons: Must make reservation
Guest
funniecrys
Points +63
A unique taste of exquisite Korean vegetarian cuisine - Edit
First time trying the temple cuisine. I was there with my 8-year old daughter. Initially thought there we could share one course, but the restaurant insists that everyone had to order a set, so I ordered a basic one for her and a more extravagant one for me so that we could share. Even though the portions were small, we were so full, because there was really a lot of food, from appetizers to main course. Overall, I still enjoyed the dining experience, as we sat in a private room with our own space, to enjoy the tasty cuisine.
Read morePros: Very filling at the end of the meal, Lots of different tastes of the vegetables
Cons: Definitely have to make reservations, Expensive
Guest
bongbong733
Points +14279
Fancy but hungry - Edit
The food at this restaurant was excellent. Even something as plain as a tomato salad with sesame seeds was surprisingly flavorful, owing to them using good ingredients to begin with. Other dishes were innovative and aesthetically pleasing.
Read moreHowever, after visiting the restaurant on four occasions and ordering the cheapest option on the menu (lunch for 30.000 KRW, dinner for 45.000 KRW), each time we left still feeling somewhat hungry after a multi-course meal...
The interior is neat and simple and guests are seated inside individual rooms to enjoy food in a quiet, private atmosphere.
After all, this location is certainly suitable for eating out on a special occasion. Perhaps one of the more expensive course menus will be more filling...
Updated from previous review on 2019-04-23
Pros: excellent food, quiet, private atmosphere
Cons: small portions, price
Guest
cultparty
Points +270
Incredibly fancy-feeling meal - Edit
The experience itself was more curious and interesting than the food, but the food was still pretty damn good.
Read moreYou are seated in a room alone with a closed door, and staff gradually bring and take away your meals.
I thought the flavours were great, very traditional korean staples. I loved most of what we were given, but at the same time, it didn't quite feel like it was Michelin star quality. I had some similar foods at much cheaper places.
Regardless, I think it is a unique and nice experience! I probably wouldn't go above the bottom tier price, as you get much of the same in the higher ones with only small changes.
Pros: Flavoursome meals, Nice friendly staff
Cons: Quite pricey, Food isn't THAT unique to Balwoo
Guest
itslizmiu
Points +346
Good experience on the whole! - Edit
I don't know why I didn't dig it as much as I should have! I wanted to love it, I really did!
Read moreOn the whole it was great. The staff were lovely, food was stunning and it was fun to have your own set of food with lots of little bowls. We did the 65000W and we got hungry a few hours later when we got home. I'd probably recommend the 45000W because the only difference is about 2 dishes.
I'm a little wary of temple-food experiences since the dry and mechanical Sanchon experience, so I did come with my standards lowered. Honestly it did still feel a little mechanical too, and I think I expected more from a restaurant with a Michelin star - perhaps that warped my expectations.
While I wouldn't come again, I still think you need to visit while you're here!!! It's the famous Balwoo Gongyang!
Pros: Great food, Lovely service
Cons: Left a little hungry
Guest
songsong
Points +33
Filled to the brim. - Edit
Cozy restaurant thats very generous in the servings. Tried their soy protein cutlet, seaseme noodles, and bibimbap. Totally in love with the cutlet and noodles!! Super tasty!!! Came into the restaurant feeling famished and leaving it extremely satisfied. 32000 won, worth it in my opinion (Y)
Read morePros: Generous serving, Nice dining environment
Cons: All of its spicy food contains garlic/onions
Guest
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