Buddha's belly is a well-known Thai restaurant located in the heart of Itaewon, Seoul. More than just a place to eat, it offers a cultural experience. From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed by warm lighting, Thai-inspired décor, and calming music. The restaurant’s authentic atmosphere and detail-oriented interior create a peaceful break from the city's usual bustle.
- What Makes Buddha's belly Special?
- Top 5 Recommended Dishes at Buddha's belly
- Menu & Pricing Overview
- Tips for Visiting & Reservations
- Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying
- Getting to Buddha's belly in Itaewon
- After Dinner Plans – What’s Nearby?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Thoughts: Discover Thailand in Seoul
What Makes Buddha's belly Special?
1. Authentic Thai Ambience
The space blends traditional Thai design elements with modern comfort. Wooden panels, Buddha statues, and soft yellow lighting set a relaxing tone, perfect for both casual and romantic dining.
2. Real Thai Flavors, Made by Local Chefs
Buddha's bellys' dishes are prepared by Thai chefs using ingredients imported from Thailand. Every dish reflects Thailand’s balance of spice, sweetness, and freshness—offering an authentic, flavorful experience.
3. Flexible Seating for All Occasions
Whether you're dining solo, on a date, or meeting friends, the restaurant offers diverse seating options. Choose from private corners, window seats with natural light, or group-friendly tables.
Top 5 Recommended Dishes at Buddha's belly
- Tom Yum Goong
A bold, spicy-and-sour shrimp soup with lemongrass and Thai herbs. - Pad Thai
Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind sauce, crunchy peanuts, and fresh bean sprouts. - Pu Nim Phad Pong Kari
Soft-shell crab in creamy curry sauce—rich, slightly sweet, and savory. - Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)
A refreshing mix of shredded green papaya, lime, chili, and peanuts. - Mango Sticky Rice
Sweet mango slices served over warm sticky rice with coconut cream.
Most dishes allow spice level adjustment. Vegetarian options are available.
Menu & Pricing Overview
- Main dishes range from ₩18,000 to ₩25,000
- Set menus for two or three start at ₩39,000
- Special course menus are available upon reservation
- Takeout and delivery options are available
For the quality of food, ambiance, and service, Buddha's belly offers excellent value. Portions are generous, and presentation is thoughtfully done.
Tips for Visiting & Reservations
- Best times to visit:
Weekdays before 6 PM or weekends between 2–4 PM for a quieter atmosphere. - Reservations:
Highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. You can book via Naver or by phone. - Language Support:
Staff are friendly and speak basic English. International guests are welcome. - Celebrations:
For birthdays or anniversaries, ask in advance for a simple dessert plate or table setup.
Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying
With an average rating of 4.8/5 on Naver and positive reviews on KakaoMap, Buddha's belly has gained a loyal following.
Guests frequently praise the “authentic taste,” “calm ambiance,” and “friendly service.”
“Best Tom Yum Goong I’ve had in Korea.”
— Alex, UK
“Perfect date night spot. Delicious food and beautiful lighting.”
— Jenny, Canada
“Reminds me of my trip to Bangkok.”
— Sophia, Singapore
Getting to Buddha's belly in Itaewon
- Address: 200 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- By Subway: 4-minute walk from Exit 3 of Itaewon Station (Line 6)
- By Car: No private parking, but public lots are nearby
Use KakaoMap or Naver Map for accurate directions.
After Dinner Plans – What’s Nearby?
Make the most of your trip to Itaewon by visiting:
- Leeum Samsung Museum of Art – Modern & traditional Korean art
- Noksapyeong Overpass – Great for cityscape photos
- Gyeongnidan Street – Cafes, dessert shops, and small boutiques
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is all the food spicy?
No. Spice levels can be customized. You can request mild, medium, or hot.
Q2. Are vegetarian options available?
Yes. Ask the staff for vegan or vegetarian menu options.
Q3. Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. The space is quiet, and staff can offer kid-friendly meal suggestions.
Q4. What drinks are available?
Thai beers (Singha, Chang), cocktails, and Thai iced tea are on the menu.
Q5. Is it a good date spot?
Definitely. The ambiance is cozy, intimate, and photo-friendly.
Q6. What are the hours?
Open daily 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM.
Break Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Final Thoughts: Discover Thailand in Seoul
If you’re craving Thai food in Seoul—or simply want to enjoy a calm, flavorful dining experience—Buddha's belly is worth the visit.
With authentic dishes, warm hospitality, and a tranquil setting, it offers a perfect blend of taste and atmosphere.
Want to explore more international flavors in Itaewon?
Check out our review of another gem: Petra – Authentic Middle Eastern Dining in Itaewon
