🍽️ 10 Best Cheap Restaurant Chains in Korea for Solo Travelers
Traveling alone in Korea is much easier than most first-time visitors expect. Eating solo is completely normal here, and you’ll often see students, office workers, and locals enjoying meals by themselves.
One question I get asked a lot is, “Can I eat alone in Korea?” The answer is yes! While some Korean BBQ restaurants are better for groups, there are plenty of affordable restaurant chains where solo diners are always welcome.
These are the places I personally recommend because they’re budget-friendly, easy to order from, and found all over Korea. Whether you’re visiting Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Incheon, Daegu, or Daejeon, you’ll likely come across several of them during your trip.
Most meals cost between ₩5,000 and ₩12,000, making them perfect if you’re looking for delicious Korean food without spending too much.
If it’s your first time visiting Korea, I also recommend checking out my Your First 24 Hours in Seoul Guide before you arrive. It covers everything from airport transportation to getting around the city with confidence.
🏨 Traveling Solo in Seoul? Where Should You Stay?
Choosing the right area to stay can make your solo trip much easier. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Seoul, check out my guide:
👉 Where to Stay in Seoul Alone (2026): Best Budget Solo Accommodation Guide
✈️ Planning Your Korea Trip?
Before you start your food adventure, here are a few helpful resources for first-time visitors.
🏨 Looking for a hotel?
Compare the best places to stay in Seoul on Agoda.
🚆 Landing at Incheon Airport?
Read my guide on How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul to compare the best transfer options.
📱 Need internet?
Check out my guide to the Best SIM Card, eSIM or Pocket WiFi for Korea before you travel.
🎁 Need help planning your trip?
Download my FREE Korea Travel Itinerary, packed with sample itineraries, travel tips, budgeting advice, and essential resources for first-time visitors.
Quick Comparison
|
Restaurant |
Best For |
Average Price |
Solo Friendly |
|
Gimgane (김가네) |
Kimbap & quick meals |
₩4,500–10,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Hansot Dosirak (한솥도시락) |
Lunch boxes |
₩5,000–8,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Hong Kong Banjeom 0410 (홍콩반점0410) |
Jajangmyeon & jjamppong |
₩6,500–11,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Ssada Gimbap (싸다김밥) |
Budget meals |
₩4,000–9,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Bonjuk & Bibimbap (본죽&비빔밥) |
Healthy meals |
₩8,000–13,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
|
Chick Gimbap (방아리김밥) |
Fresh kimbap |
₩4,500–9,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Yeokjeon Udon 0410 (역전우동0410) |
Udon & curry |
₩5,000–9,000 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
1. Kimgane (김가네)
Best for: Affordable kimbap and quick meals
If I’m looking for a quick, affordable meal while exploring Korea, Kimgane is always a reliable choice. The menu has everything from kimbap and ramyeon to rice bowls and tteokbokki, so it’s easy to find something you’ll enjoy. Many branches also have self-order kiosks, making it beginner-friendly for first-time visitors.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Nationwide throughout Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩4,500–10,000
🗣️ English Menu: Some locations
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Usually 8:00 AM–9:00 PM (varies by branch)
💡 Good to know: Kimgane is a nationwide franchise, so you’ll find it in most major cities across Korea.
🏨 Staying in Seoul?
Before booking your hotel, check out my guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors.
2. Hansot Dosirak (한솥도시락)
Best for: Affordable Korean lunch boxes
If you’re sightseeing all day, Hansot Dosirak is a great place to grab a filling meal without spending much. Their lunch boxes include rice, meat, vegetables, and side dishes, making them excellent value for money.
It’s also a convenient option if you’re short on time since you can eat in or take your meal to go.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Nationwide throughout Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩5,000–8,000
🗣️ English Menu: Some locations
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (varies by branch)
💡 Good to know: Most branches welcome solo diners, and takeaway is available.
📱 Travel Tip:
Download Naver Map before your trip, and don’t forget to check out my guide to the 15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip.
3. Hong Kong Banjeom 0410 (홍콩반점0410)
Best for: Jajangmyeon, jjamppong, and fried rice
For a hearty meal on a budget, Hong Kong Banjeom 0410 is one of my favorite picks. Created by celebrity chef Baek Jong-won, this popular chain is well known for its flavorful jajangmyeon, spicy jjamppong, and generous portions.
If it’s your first time trying Korean-Chinese food, this is an easy place to start without stretching your budget.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Nationwide throughout Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩6,500–11,000
🗣️ English Menu: Limited (varies by branch)
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Usually 11:00 AM–9:00 PM (varies by location)
💡 Good to know: You’ll find branches in shopping districts and near subway stations throughout Korea.
🎟️ Planning to explore Seoul?
Book popular attractions and day trips through Klook before your visit.
4. Ssada Gimbap (싸다김밥)
Best for: Budget-friendly Korean meals
If you’re looking for a cheap meal that doesn’t compromise on variety, Ssada Gimbap is a great choice. The menu includes kimbap, ramyeon, fried rice, udon, and Korean comfort food, so it’s easy to find something that fits your budget.
I also like that many branches stay open later than other restaurants, making it a reliable option after a busy day of sightseeing.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Nationwide throughout Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩4,000–9,000
🗣️ English Menu: Some locations
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Varies by branch (many open late)
💡 Good to know: It’s a popular choice for students and solo travelers looking for an affordable meal at almost any time of day.
🏨 Staying in Seoul on a budget?
My guide to Where to Stay in Seoul Alone can help you find affordable neighborhoods and hotels for solo travelers.
5. Bonjuk & Bibimbap (본죽&비빔밥)
Best for: Healthy meals and comforting Korean porridge
Whenever I want something lighter, I usually think of Bonjuk & Bibimbap. Their rice porridge and bibimbap are filling without feeling too heavy, making this a great choice after a long travel day or if you simply want a healthier meal.
The restaurants are clean, quiet, and welcoming, so they’re especially comfortable if you’re dining alone for the first time.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Nationwide throughout Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩8,000–13,000
🗣️ English Menu: Some locations
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (varies by branch)
💡 Good to know: Bonjuk is one of Korea’s most recognizable restaurant chains, so it’s easy to find in shopping districts and near subway stations.
💳 Travel Tip:
Wondering whether to carry cash? Read my guide to Cash vs. Card in Korea to see what most travelers actually use.
6. Chick Gimbap (방아리김밥)
Best for: Fresh kimbap and simple Korean meals
If you just need a quick meal before catching a train or heading to your next destination, Bangnari Gimbap is worth looking for. Along with fresh kimbap, you’ll usually find noodles, rice dishes, and other simple Korean favorites at reasonable prices.
It’s one of those places where you can eat well without spending much, and solo diners are always welcome.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Multiple branches across Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩4,500–9,000
🗣️ English Menu: Limited
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Varies by location
💡 Good to know: Most meals are prepared quickly, making it a convenient stop during a busy sightseeing day.
✈️ Arriving in Korea soon?
Before your trip, read my guide on How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul so you can start exploring without any confusion.
7. Yeokjeon Udon 0410 (역전우동0410)
Best for: Udon, donburi, and curry
Yeokjeon Udon 0410 is one of my favorite places for a quick, comforting meal. Their udon, curry rice, and donburi are affordable, filling, and perfect when you need a break after walking around all day.
Most branches have fast service, and many use self-order kiosks, making them a convenient option for first-time visitors.
Quick Info
📍 Locations: Multiple branches across Korea
💰 Average Price: ₩5,000–9,000
🗣️ English Menu: Some locations
💳 Card Accepted: Yes
⏰ Opening Hours: Usually 10:00 AM–9:00 PM (varies by branch)
💡 Good to know: You’ll find Yeokjeon Udon in busy neighborhoods, shopping areas, and near subway stations throughout Korea.
🎟️ Planning to explore beyond Seoul? Book day trips, attraction tickets, and airport transfers through Klook before your trip.
🏨 Need a hotel?
I usually compare prices on Agoda before booking since it’s easy to check different neighborhoods and accommodation options in one place.
Why These Restaurants Are Great for Solo Travelers
From my own experience traveling around Korea, these restaurant chains are some of the easiest places to eat when you’re traveling alone. I personally love them because they are easy to find, simple to order from, and you don’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable dining by yourself.
Most branches are located near subway stations, shopping areas, and busy neighborhoods, so it’s easy to stop by while exploring. Many restaurants also have picture menus or self-order kiosks, which makes ordering much easier even if you don’t speak Korean.
For solo travelers like me, these places are perfect because you can enjoy a delicious Korean meal, spend less money, and continue your adventure without spending too much time deciding where to eat.
Average Meal Prices
Eating in Korea doesn’t have to be expensive. At these restaurants, you can usually enjoy a satisfying meal for:
🍚 Budget meal: ₩4,000–₩7,000
🍜 Regular meal: ₩7,000–₩10,000
🍲 Larger or specialty dishes: ₩10,000–₩13,000
If you’re traveling on a budget, you can comfortably eat three meals a day for around ₩20,000–₩30,000 by choosing affordable local restaurants like these.
Tips for Eating Alone in Korea
✅ Use Naver Map to find nearby branches
Google Maps is not always accurate in Korea, so I recommend using Naver Map when searching for restaurants, locations, and opening hours.
✅ Look for self-order kiosks
Many chain restaurants have touchscreen ordering systems with English options, making ordering easier for foreign visitors.
✅ Don’t worry about eating alone
Solo dining is common in Korea, especially at quick-service restaurants, kimbap shops, and lunchbox restaurants.
✅ Visit during less busy hours
If you’re nervous about eating alone, try visiting between 2:00 PM–5:00 PM when restaurants are usually quieter.
FAQ About Eating Alone in Korea
Can I eat alone in Korean restaurants?
Yes! Solo dining is very common in Korea, especially at kimbap shops, udon restaurants, lunchbox stores, and casual restaurant chains.
Do Korean restaurants accept credit cards?
Yes. Most restaurants accept international cards like Visa and Mastercard. It is still useful to carry some Korean won for small shops or markets.
Do I need to know Korean to order food?
Not at all. Many restaurants have pictures, English menus, or self-order kiosks. You can also use Papago or show the menu item you want.
Is Korean food expensive for travelers?
Not always. Budget-friendly restaurant chains usually offer filling meals for around ₩5,000–₩10,000.
Are these restaurants available outside Seoul?
Yes. Most chains have locations across Korea, including Busan, Jeju, Incheon, and other major cities, often near subway stations and shopping areas.
What are the best Korean restaurants for solo travelers?
Kimbap shops, dosirak (lunchbox) restaurants, udon shops, and casual food chains are some of the easiest options for solo travelers because they are affordable, convenient, and easy to order from.
Final Thoughts
Eating alone in Korea is much easier than many travelers expect. You don’t need to spend a lot of money or search for fancy restaurants to enjoy delicious Korean food.
These affordable restaurant chains are perfect for solo travelers because they are budget-friendly, convenient, and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re craving kimbap, noodles, rice bowls, or a warm Korean meal after a long day of exploring, you’ll always find an easy option nearby.
🍜 Ready to explore Korean food on your own? Save this guide for your Korea trip and try at least one of these budget-friendly restaurants during your visit!
Planning your Korea trip?
Don’t forget to book your hotels, transportation, tours, and activities ahead of time to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Related Guides
You may also find these Korea travel guides helpful:
🇰🇷 Complete Korea Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
🏨 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul
🚆 How to Get From Incheon Airport to Seoul
📱 Best SIM Card, eSIM & Pocket WiFi for Korea
🚇 15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip
🍜 Best Korean Foods You Must Try
👤 About the Author
Hi, I’m Richelle, the creator of Just KTravel, based in South Korea.
I share simple and practical Korea travel guides from my own experience — including seasonal spots, transport tips, hidden places, and easy itineraries.
I started this blog after visiting Korea as a traveler myself, and now I write to help others plan their trips with less stress and more confidence.
My goal is to make Korea travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially first-time visitors.
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