Gigas

Second of our starred meals in Seoul. A unique location, nested in the heart of a landed housing residential area in Namdaemun: definitely not where one would expect to find a starred restaurant. The interior architecture was elegantly informed by a minimalist-Korean mood board with ebony furniture that matched the walnut flooring and sleek white paint with faint pinkish hue. The restaurant was kind to assign us the private room as we had young children along, which featured a dramatic full height-length window providing a natural backdrop of the serene landscape beyond. An interesting farm-to-table proposition offering Mediterranean cuisine with ingredients largely sourced from the chef’s farm just 40km out. However, we personally felt the food fell slightly short of a Michelin star restaurant as the courses were fairly plain throughout without any creative elements and the uninspiring crockery did not help either, though this is definitely not to say that the food was ‘bad’ by any means. Additionally, the flavor profile most dishes – bar perhaps 2-3 savory dishes and desserts – tended on the sour/acidic/zesty side with herbaceous notes, presumably to showcase the diversity of produce from the farm. Portions were small too, though it was partially balanced by the more-than-average number of courses served. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that our limited cognizance on the various plants/herbs used (one of the primary selling points) in part attributed to us not being able to fully appreciate all the courses as the chef had intended. Service was professional as expected but lacking personal touch for most parts. However, I would like to give a special shout out of appreciation to the chef, who personally corresponded directly months prior to customize arrangements and menus to accommodate our young children. The chef also served selected dishes personally and was meticulous to a fault. All in all, though the food did not meet my (high) expectations, I’d still gladly recommend Gigas to anyone looking to try something different in a gorgeous environment with a highly dedicated chef.

This hidden gem in Seoul offers an exceptional culinary experience in a cozy setting. Located in a small building, it’s the perfect place to enjoy fine, delicious, and healthy meals. The focus here is on quality, with every dish carefully prepared, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The cuisine is mostly European, with a strong Italian 🇮🇹 influence, but with a unique touch, using mainly local, seasonal ingredients, many from the restaurant's own garden. Each course arrives as a delightful surprise, enhancing the overall dining experience. While the dining space is not large, it is well designed to accommodate a small number of guests, prioritizing quality over quantity. The staff, like most in South Korea 🇰🇷, are incredibly kind, highly professional, and pay close attention to every detail, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Vegetarian 🥑 and vegan 🌱 options are available upon prior request, and since the restaurant is very popular, booking in advance is highly recommended. Sit back🪑relax🧘‍♀️and enjoy 😋 this wonderful dining experience 🙏😎

The food there really surprised me with the fresh vegetables they served from their own garden. Service is good as well. Recommend

Food was very fresh, from the chefs farm apparently. However, it took way too long and by the time we were done I couldnt tell if I wasnt full or I had already digested the food.

This little restaurant is tucked away on the third floor of what appears to be a residential building in the middle of nowhere. Despite its unassuming location, I must say the food is truly exceptional—absolutely divine! A real treat for the senses.

What a beautiful location, only elevated by a wonderful menu that was delicious, calming and restrained. A reason to visit Seoul

搭餐選酒很優秀，整餐花草系清新路線，適合口味清淡的我，洗手間空間不理想，應該要調整一下～

평소 고기를 좋아하는데 야채, 해산물이 이렇게 맛있다니! 디쉬 하나하나가 세심하게 맛있어요. 재료 수급부터 조리까지 신경을 많이 쓰셨더라구요. 아쉽게도 와인 페어링을 못했는데 다음엔 꼭 해보고 싶어요. 피크닉에 있는데 통창이라 분위기도 좋고 가구도 하나하나 멋스러웠습니다. 네명 정도 같이 가면 딱 좋을 것 같아요!