The Gwanghwamun area in Seoul is known as a prominent office district, housing government offices like the Seoul City Hall and the headquarters of various newspapers, along with the buildings of major corporations. During lunchtime, numerous office workers can be seen heading out to grab a meal.
The underground shopping areas beneath these large buildings offer a variety of dining options. One such place is the Royal Building underground shopping mall, conveniently located near Exit 1 of Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5. Here, you’ll find Furato Shokudo.
“Furato Shokudo in Seoul’s Royal Building, Specializing in Gyukatsu”
Furato Shokudo, previously located somewhere in Seochon Village, has now found its home in the Royal Building underground shopping mall. As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine, with a notable focus on “gyukatsu” or beef cutlet. Renowned for its popularity, it’s common to see long lines during lunch hours.
While the evening hours are relatively quieter, patrons may still find themselves waiting briefly for a table.
“A Restaurant Where You Grill Your Own Individual Plates”
Similar to the gyukatsu experience in Japan, Furato Shokudo provides individual grilling plates. Diners can ignite solid fuel, place the meat on the grill, and enjoy grilling it to perfection.
Some of the menu items available at Furato Shokudo include:
- Gyukatsu: KRW 18,000
- Steak Set: KRW 18,000
- Steak Donburi: KRW 18,000
- Woo Samgyeop Donburi: KRW 14,000
- Ebikatsu-don: KRW 13,000
- Japanese-style Omurice: KRW 12,000
- Yamagata Minchi Curry: KRW 13,000
- Niku Onudon: KRW 10,000
- Furato Cold Soba: KRW 10,000
“Gyukatsu and Steak Set: KRW 18,000”
During our visit with three people, we ordered one gyukatsu and two servings of the steak set. Since the restaurant specializes in gyukatsu, we opted for more steak set orders as grilling steak seemed more appealing.
Although the portion of meat wasn’t extensive, the charm of grilling meat on a small individual plate adds to the overall experience. Watching the meat slowly sizzle on the grill may stimulate one’s appetite.
“Interior with a Japanese Ambiance”
The interior is designed to evoke the atmosphere of a Japanese restaurant. It feels like a small Japanese eatery you might come across in the Gwanghwamun area of Seoul.
Given the nature of the gyukatsu menu, it might be a bit challenging to visit during lunch hours due to the crowds. However, it’s an excellent place to enjoy grilling meat on an individual plate during the more relaxed evening hours.
“Furato Shokudo in Gwanghwamun, Seoul”
- Address: 63-1F, 19 Saemunan-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: 02-730-7090
- Operating Hours: (Daily) 11:30 – 22:00
- Daily Break Time: 15:00 – 17:00
- Website: Furato Shokudo