10 Best Korean Restaurants in Dubai
- 10 handpicked places
- Nobody paid to be on this list
- Updated 22 Oct 2026
Best Of compares Dubai’s Korean restaurants across cooking, meat quality, banchan, barbecue technique, regional character, service, atmosphere and value. This guide covers contemporary fine dining, charcoal grilling, homestyle stews and casual comfort food. Use it to match the right room to your group size, budget and craving for spice or tradition.
Why Dubai serves Korean food well
Dubai offers a wide spread of Korean styles, from polished modern cooking to casual homestyle stews. The city supports everything from premium charcoal grilling to late-night options. This variety means you can find a specific match for your group and mood.
- Contemporary fine dining
- Charcoal grilling
- Homestyle stews
- Karaoke nights
- Casual comfort food
The shortlist: 10 Korean Restaurants
The 10 best korean restaurants in Dubai
- #1Best overall Korean
1. Hoe Lee Kow
98/100BEST OF scoreDubai Hills Business ParkModern Korean
Our verdict
Hoe Lee Kow sits at the top of this list because it balances modern Korean cooking with service that supports the food rather than distracting from it.
- Trying Korean food
- Location
- Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4
BEST OF editorial
The room feels special, yet the atmosphere never overwhelms the plate. This makes it the strongest all-round choice in Dubai Hills Business Park. It offers a polished version of the cuisine that stands apart from the casual or specific focuses of the other nine picks. Choose this place if you want a complete introduction to modern Korean dining. It suits guests who value a consistent, high-quality meal over a specific niche like barbecue or fried chicken. The setting works well for those who want a distinct environment without the noise of a group venue or the late-night energy of other options on this list.
The BEST OF brief- Best forTrying Korean food
- Don’t missVisit Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4, to find this location
Look elsewhere if: Guests wanting a casual, low-cost quick meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from our profile
1. Hoe Lee Kow
Best overall KoreanBEST OF score98/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictHoe Lee Kow sits at the top of this list because it balances modern Korean cooking with service that supports the food rather than distracting from it.
- Style
- Modern Korean
- Location
- Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4
BEST OF editorial
The room feels special, yet the atmosphere never overwhelms the plate. This makes it the strongest all-round choice in Dubai Hills Business Park. It offers a polished version of the cuisine that stands apart from the casual or specific focuses of the other nine picks. Choose this place if you want a complete introduction to modern Korean dining. It suits guests who value a consistent, high-quality meal over a specific niche like barbecue or fried chicken. The setting works well for those who want a distinct environment without the noise of a group venue or the late-night energy of other options on this list.
The BEST OF brief- Best forTrying Korean food
- Don’t missVisit Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4, to find this location
Look elsewhere if: Guests wanting a casual, low-cost quick meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from our profile
- HANU1 / 4Best Korean barbecue
2. HANU
97/100BEST OF scoreSt. Regis Gardens, Palm JumeirahKorean barbecue
Our verdict
HANU takes the number 2 spot because it serves Hoengseong Hanwoo beef, a cut The National notes is unique to this restaurant in Dubai.
- Diners seeking premium table-side Korean grilling
- Location
- St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah
BEST OF editorial
Chef Kyung Soo Moon, who has over 20 years of experience, leads the kitchen. The signature experience, Meat Me at the Grill, features this premium beef and fresh seasonal ingredients. You grill the meat at your table, which distinguishes it from the set menus at Sonamu or the casual vibe of Kimpo. The venue suits those who want a high-end grilling experience in a dark, moody setting. It opened in February 2025, so it is a recent addition to the Palm Jumeirah scene. The main dining room seats 58 guests, while the terrace holds 44. If you prefer a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, look at Sonamu instead.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners seeking premium table-side Korean grilling.
- The chef’s cooking
- A proper dinner
- Celebrations
- Homegrown
- Don’t missMeat Me at the Grill with Hoengseong Hanwoo beef
- Good to knowOpen Monday to Friday and Sunday from 6 PM to 1 AM
- Serves alcohol
- Private dining room
- Outdoor seating
- Vegetarian options
Look elsewhere if: Guests wanting a casual, low-cost Korean meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
2. HANU
Best Korean barbecueHANU1 of 4BEST OF score97/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictHANU takes the number 2 spot because it serves Hoengseong Hanwoo beef, a cut The National notes is unique to this restaurant in Dubai.
- Style
- Korean barbecue
- Location
- St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah
BEST OF editorial
Chef Kyung Soo Moon, who has over 20 years of experience, leads the kitchen. The signature experience, Meat Me at the Grill, features this premium beef and fresh seasonal ingredients. You grill the meat at your table, which distinguishes it from the set menus at Sonamu or the casual vibe of Kimpo. The venue suits those who want a high-end grilling experience in a dark, moody setting. It opened in February 2025, so it is a recent addition to the Palm Jumeirah scene. The main dining room seats 58 guests, while the terrace holds 44. If you prefer a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, look at Sonamu instead.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners seeking premium table-side Korean grilling.
- The chef’s cooking
- A proper dinner
- Celebrations
- Homegrown
- Don’t missMeat Me at the Grill with Hoengseong Hanwoo beef
- Good to knowOpen Monday to Friday and Sunday from 6 PM to 1 AM
- Serves alcohol
- Private dining room
- Outdoor seating
- Vegetarian options
Look elsewhere if: Guests wanting a casual, low-cost Korean meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- Smoki MotoBest fried chicken
3. Smoki Moto
96/100BEST OF scoreMarriott Resort Palm JumeirahChicken restaurant
- Crispy chicken fans who want a lively, interactive dinner
- Location
- Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah Road, Dubai
The BEST OF brief- Best forCrispy chicken fans who want a lively, interactive dinner.
- The chef’s cooking
- A proper dinner
- Brunch
- Breakfast
- Don’t missKorean fried chicken, wagyu, and gimbap
- Good to knowDress code is smart casual. Open daily from 5pm to 1am
- Takes bookings
- Serves alcohol
- Rooftop
- Outdoor seating
- Open late
- On the leaderboards
- Best Barbecue in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a quiet, formal fine-dining atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
3. Smoki Moto
Best fried chickenSmoki MotoBEST OF score96/100Excellent- Style
- Chicken restaurant
- Location
- Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah Road, Dubai
The BEST OF brief- Best forCrispy chicken fans who want a lively, interactive dinner.
- The chef’s cooking
- A proper dinner
- Brunch
- Breakfast
- Don’t missKorean fried chicken, wagyu, and gimbap
- Good to knowDress code is smart casual. Open daily from 5pm to 1am
- Takes bookings
- Serves alcohol
- Rooftop
- Outdoor seating
- Open late
- On the leaderboards
- Best Barbecue in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a quiet, formal fine-dining atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- Sonamu1 / 3Best traditional dishes
4. Sonamu
95/100BEST OF scoreAsiana Hotel, DeiraTraditional Korean
- Diners wanting a full traditional Korean meal with brazier cooking
- Location
- Salah Al Din Road, Deira, Dubai, 4483, AE
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners wanting a full traditional Korean meal with brazier cooking.
- The chef’s cooking
- Breakfast
- Celebrations
- Weekends
- Don’t missDolsot bibimbap in a sizzling stone pot
- Good to knowReservations by phoneLocated on the Mezzanine Floor of Asiana Hotel
- Takes bookings
- Rooftop
- Free parking
- Vegetarian options
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a late-night snack or a quick casual lunch
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
4. Sonamu
Best traditional dishesSonamu1 of 3BEST OF score95/100Excellent- Style
- Traditional Korean
- Location
- Salah Al Din Road, Deira, Dubai, 4483, AE
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners wanting a full traditional Korean meal with brazier cooking.
- The chef’s cooking
- Breakfast
- Celebrations
- Weekends
- Don’t missDolsot bibimbap in a sizzling stone pot
- Good to knowReservations by phoneLocated on the Mezzanine Floor of Asiana Hotel
- Takes bookings
- Rooftop
- Free parking
- Vegetarian options
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a late-night snack or a quick casual lunch
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- #5Best casual meal
5. Kimpo
94/100BEST OF scoreConrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed RoadCasual Korean eatery
Our verdict
Kimpo earns its spot as the go-to for a quick, low-pressure lunch.
- Quick lunches in a relaxed, casual setting
- Location
- Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road
BEST OF editorial
It sits inside the Conrad Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road, offering a casual Korean eatery option. This makes it a distinct choice compared to the dedicated barbecue pits or karaoke rooms found elsewhere on this list. The focus here is speed and simplicity rather than elaborate dining rituals. It serves the specific need for a fast meal in a busy area without the formalities of a full dinner service.
Choose this place if you want a straightforward bite during the workday. It suits those who value convenience over a long, multi-course experience. If you are planning a late-night session or a large group celebration, look at Mannaland or Kung instead. Kimpo is the practical pick for a midday break where time is short.
The BEST OF brief- Best forQuick lunches in a relaxed, casual setting.
- Don’t missChoose this for a quick lunch rather than a long dinner
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a late-night dining option
5. Kimpo
Best casual mealBEST OF score94/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictKimpo earns its spot as the go-to for a quick, low-pressure lunch.
MapSave- Style
- Casual Korean eatery
- Location
- Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
BEST OF editorial
It sits inside the Conrad Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road, offering a casual Korean eatery option. This makes it a distinct choice compared to the dedicated barbecue pits or karaoke rooms found elsewhere on this list. The focus here is speed and simplicity rather than elaborate dining rituals. It serves the specific need for a fast meal in a busy area without the formalities of a full dinner service.
Choose this place if you want a straightforward bite during the workday. It suits those who value convenience over a long, multi-course experience. If you are planning a late-night session or a large group celebration, look at Mannaland or Kung instead. Kimpo is the practical pick for a midday break where time is short.
The BEST OF brief- Best forQuick lunches in a relaxed, casual setting.
- Don’t missChoose this for a quick lunch rather than a long dinner
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a late-night dining option
- #6Best group dinner
6. Kung Korean Restaurant & Karaoke
93/100BEST OF scoreSocial Hotels, Barsha HeightsGroup barbecue venue
Our verdict
Kung is the only pick here built around a group barbecue venue.
- Groups of friends wanting to sing and eat
- Location
- Social Hotels and Resorts
BEST OF editorial
It sits inside Social Hotels in Barsha Heights, a setup that separates it from the standalone rooms at HANU or Hoe Lee Kow. The space is designed for friends who want to cook together rather than just eat. This makes it the clear choice when the table is full. You get a dedicated area for the grill and the social side of the meal. The hotel location adds a layer of comfort that street-level spots do not offer. It is not the quietest room on this list. The focus is on the shared activity of grilling.
If you want a private room for a quiet chat, look at Sonamu. If you want the fastest service, try Kimpo. Kung is for the table that wants to do the work. The barbecue is the main event, not the background. It suits groups who value the process of cooking as much as the food. The hotel setting means you have access to standard amenities. This is a place for a longer stay, not a quick lunch. The group dynamic drives the whole visit. You are there to cook, eat, and talk together. It is the social anchor of this list.
The BEST OF brief- Best forGroups of friends wanting to sing and eat
- Breakfast
- Live sets
- Performers
- Don’t missPrivate karaoke rooms with disco lighting
- Good to knowBooking is required as there is no public karaoke area
- Rooftop
Look elsewhere if: Solo diners or couples seeking a quiet meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
6. Kung Korean Restaurant & Karaoke
Best group dinnerBEST OF score93/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictKung is the only pick here built around a group barbecue venue.
- Style
- Group barbecue venue
- Location
- Social Hotels and Resorts
BEST OF editorial
It sits inside Social Hotels in Barsha Heights, a setup that separates it from the standalone rooms at HANU or Hoe Lee Kow. The space is designed for friends who want to cook together rather than just eat. This makes it the clear choice when the table is full. You get a dedicated area for the grill and the social side of the meal. The hotel location adds a layer of comfort that street-level spots do not offer. It is not the quietest room on this list. The focus is on the shared activity of grilling.
If you want a private room for a quiet chat, look at Sonamu. If you want the fastest service, try Kimpo. Kung is for the table that wants to do the work. The barbecue is the main event, not the background. It suits groups who value the process of cooking as much as the food. The hotel setting means you have access to standard amenities. This is a place for a longer stay, not a quick lunch. The group dynamic drives the whole visit. You are there to cook, eat, and talk together. It is the social anchor of this list.
The BEST OF brief- Best forGroups of friends wanting to sing and eat
- Breakfast
- Live sets
- Performers
- Don’t missPrivate karaoke rooms with disco lighting
- Good to knowBooking is required as there is no public karaoke area
- Rooftop
Look elsewhere if: Solo diners or couples seeking a quiet meal
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- Mannaland1 / 2Best late-night option
7. Mannaland
92/100BEST OF scoreLate-night Korean
Our verdict
Mannaland earns its spot as the late-night pick because it stays open until 11pm daily.
- Diners needing a traditional Korean meal after 6pm
- Location
- Shop # 5, Al Ketbi Building, Al Mina Road, Al hudaiba
BEST OF editorial
It is the only place on this list that serves dinner after 6pm without a break. The National notes it opened in 2002, making it one of the older Korean spots in Dubai. Chef Piao Zenzi, a 55-year-old woman of Korean descent, runs the kitchen. The galbugui, a stack of short ribs on a hot plate, costs Dh75 and serves two. This is a simple, savoury dish that defines the menu. It is less formal than HANU or Hoe Lee Kow, which focus on specific dining styles. The raised wooden platform with low tables creates a distinct atmosphere. South Korean television plays in the background, adding to the local feel.
It is not the most modern room, but it is consistent. Choose Mannaland if you need a meal after 6pm. It suits diners who want traditional Korean food without a strict dress code. The restaurant offers traditional cooking classes, which is rare among the other picks. Pre-booking is available for groups, so plan ahead if you are coming with more than four people. The menu includes both Korean and Japanese options, though the Korean dishes are the focus. It is a straightforward choice for evening cravings when other places have closed.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners needing a traditional Korean meal after 6pm.
- The chef’s cooking
- Groups
- Don’t missGalbugui, short ribs on a hot plate, Dh75 for two
- Good to knowOpen daily until 11pmShuts 3pm to 6pm Saturdays to Thursdays
- Takes bookings
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a modern, high-end dining atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
7. Mannaland
Best late-night optionMannaland1 of 2BEST OF score92/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictMannaland earns its spot as the late-night pick because it stays open until 11pm daily.
- Style
- Late-night Korean
- Location
- Shop # 5, Al Ketbi Building, Al Mina Road, Al hudaiba
BEST OF editorial
It is the only place on this list that serves dinner after 6pm without a break. The National notes it opened in 2002, making it one of the older Korean spots in Dubai. Chef Piao Zenzi, a 55-year-old woman of Korean descent, runs the kitchen. The galbugui, a stack of short ribs on a hot plate, costs Dh75 and serves two. This is a simple, savoury dish that defines the menu. It is less formal than HANU or Hoe Lee Kow, which focus on specific dining styles. The raised wooden platform with low tables creates a distinct atmosphere. South Korean television plays in the background, adding to the local feel.
It is not the most modern room, but it is consistent. Choose Mannaland if you need a meal after 6pm. It suits diners who want traditional Korean food without a strict dress code. The restaurant offers traditional cooking classes, which is rare among the other picks. Pre-booking is available for groups, so plan ahead if you are coming with more than four people. The menu includes both Korean and Japanese options, though the Korean dishes are the focus. It is a straightforward choice for evening cravings when other places have closed.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDiners needing a traditional Korean meal after 6pm.
- The chef’s cooking
- Groups
- Don’t missGalbugui, short ribs on a hot plate, Dh75 for two
- Good to knowOpen daily until 11pmShuts 3pm to 6pm Saturdays to Thursdays
- Takes bookings
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a modern, high-end dining atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- #8Best for first-time diners
8. Seoul Garden
91/100BEST OF scoreApproachable Korean menu
- First-time diners trying Korean food for the first time
- Location
- Zabeel Road Al Karama 27th St, Zomorodah bldg, G Floor
The BEST OF brief- Best forFirst-time diners trying Korean food for the first time
- Don’t missGo here if you are new to Korean food and want a simple start
- Good to knowLocated on the ground floor of Zomorodah bldg, Zabeel Road
Look elsewhere if: Regulars seeking complex traditional dishes or high heat
Checked 6 Nov 2026 from our profile
8. Seoul Garden
Best for first-time dinersBEST OF score91/100Excellent- Style
- Approachable Korean menu
- Location
- Zabeel Road Al Karama 27th St, Zomorodah bldg, G Floor
The BEST OF brief- Best forFirst-time diners trying Korean food for the first time
- Don’t missGo here if you are new to Korean food and want a simple start
- Good to knowLocated on the ground floor of Zomorodah bldg, Zabeel Road
Look elsewhere if: Regulars seeking complex traditional dishes or high heat
Checked 6 Nov 2026 from our profile
- #9Best spicy food
9. Shogun
90/100BEST OF scoreAl Ghurair Centre, DeiraSpice-led Korean
- Heat seekers wanting spicy Korean food
- Location
- Office Park Building, Block A, G Floor, Building #30 - Abdullah Omran Taryam St
The BEST OF brief- Best forHeat seekers wanting spicy Korean food
- Don’t missSaucy jajangmyun noodles
- Good to knowOpen daily noon to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm
Look elsewhere if: Those who dislike strong spice levels
Checked 6 Nov 2026 from our profile
9. Shogun
Best spicy foodBEST OF score90/100Excellent- Style
- Spice-led Korean
- Location
- Office Park Building, Block A, G Floor, Building #30 - Abdullah Omran Taryam St
The BEST OF brief- Best forHeat seekers wanting spicy Korean food
- Don’t missSaucy jajangmyun noodles
- Good to knowOpen daily noon to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm
Look elsewhere if: Those who dislike strong spice levels
Checked 6 Nov 2026 from our profile
- #10Best value set
10. The Korean Restaurant
89/100BEST OF scoreInternational CitySet-menu restaurant
- Groups sharing a set menu in International City
- Location
- International City
The BEST OF brief- Best forGroups sharing a set menu in International City.
- Don’t missChoose this place if you want to share several dishes
Look elsewhere if: Solo diners who prefer a la carte ordering
10. The Korean Restaurant
Best value setBEST OF score89/100GreatMapSave- Style
- Set-menu restaurant
- Location
- International City, Dubai
The BEST OF brief- Best forGroups sharing a set menu in International City.
- Don’t missChoose this place if you want to share several dishes
Look elsewhere if: Solo diners who prefer a la carte ordering
Have your say
Tried one of these? Share your experience, a tip or your own favourite in the comments.
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Know before you go
The practical things that change the visit.
BEST OF takeHow to choose your table
Pick Hoe Lee Kow for a balanced, polished meal. Go to HANU if you want premium beef grilled at the table. Choose Kung for a lively group night with karaoke. For traditional comfort food, Sonamu is the strongest polished option. If you are new to Korean food, start at Seoul Garden for an approachable menu.
Check before you bookThree details that shape the visit
- AvailabilityOpening hours, sessions or reservation slots
- Current pricePackages, minimum spends or seasonal changes
- Exact locationBranch, entrance, parking and transport
- Group fitAge rules, capacity and accessibility
Booking checksAvoid disappointing Korean restaurant choices
The best Korean meal should match your preference for barbecue, stews, fried chicken or casual comfort food.
- Choosing barbecue for a rushed meal. Table cooking takes time and works better when the group is not in a hurry.
- Ignoring side-dish variety. Banchan quality and freshness can shape the whole experience.
- Over-ordering rich dishes. Balance grilled meat and fried food with soups, vegetables and rice.
Decision StrategyCompare the right details before choosing
- Choose the occasion first
- Compare menu and price level
- Check location and booking details
- Keep one strong backup nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best Korean BBQ in Dubai?
Choose HANU for Hanwoo and Kobe beef in an elegant setting. Smoki Moto is also a strong option for a high-energy Korean steakhouse experience.
Which Korean restaurants in Dubai serve pork?
Many Dubai restaurants use halal meat, but alcohol and non-halal ingredients may still be present. Confirm directly with the restaurant for strict dietary requirements.
Are there halal Korean restaurants in Dubai?
Many Dubai restaurants use halal meat. However, alcohol and non-halal ingredients may still be present, so confirm directly for strict dietary requirements.
Which korean restaurants in Dubai serve alcohol?
Alcohol may be present in some venues. Premium licensed venues may have evening age policies, so confirm before booking.
Do I need to book a Korean restaurant in Dubai?
Yes, book for the leading restaurants, especially on weekends. Also book for private rooms, brunches and signature duck orders.
How we chose
We checked every place on this list was open on 2026-10-22. No business paid to be listed or ranked. We judged each restaurant on quality, consistency, value, service, setting and convenience. We also considered how clearly each option suits a specific reader need.
- Core quality and execution25%
- Consistency and reliability20%
- Reader usefulness and fit15%
- Service and experience15%
- Value for the category15%
- Access and booking clarity10%
- Quality and consistency. The primary factor in the ranking, ensuring reliable cooking standards.
- Value. How well the price matches the food and service provided.
- Service and setting. The atmosphere and how well the room supports the dining experience.
- Convenience. How easily the location fits into a typical Dubai evening.
- No paid placementsNo business paid to be here or to rank higher.
- Checked openEvery place was confirmed open on 22 Oct 2026.
- Official sourcesDetails come from each business’s own site and our profiles.
Credits
- Edited by
- Mark Pearson
- Checked
- All 10 confirmed open on 22 Oct 2026
- Photos
- From each business’s profile on BEST OF and its own website
- How it was made
- Our editors choose and rank every place. Our own AI tools help draft and check the words; an editor approves every guide.
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