Another Michelin-starred restaurant in Seoul that proved challenging to find was Solbam. Hidden on the second floor of an unmarked office building with no signage, it almost feels like a secret destination—you may even find yourself relying on the kindness of strangers, few of whom speak English, to guide you there.
The evening begins in a softly lit drawing room where guests are served drinks and light snacks before being escorted into the main dining area. The minimalist space, featuring calming white and neutral tones, blond wood floors, and artful decor, exudes quiet sophistication. The music is gentle and well chosen, setting an elegant yet relaxed mood. An open kitchen reveals a large, focused team, while the dining room, seating about 24 guests, is attended by staff dressed in black jackets and ties. Interestingly, diners in Seoul tend to dress casually even at fine-dining restaurants, a contrast to the more formal style seen in Japan.
Chef-owner Taejun Eom, whose restaurant name comes from his hometown, trained at the Culinary Institute of America and honed his craft at Eleven Madison Park in New York. His cuisine can best be described as contemporary Korean fine dining—refined, innovative, and deeply rooted in seasonal ingredients. Each course reflects his meticulous attention to detail and flair for presentation.
The multi-course tasting menu masterfully blends texture, fragrance, and umami through a modern interpretation of traditional Korean flavors. Highlights included caviar atop sweet shrimp with dill, abalone with mushrooms, red-eye scallop, and lobster. A refreshing sorbet of pear, ginger, and cinnamon served as the perfect palate cleanser. The young chicken with chestnuts and mushrooms, and the Korean Hanwoo beef with mustard leaf and sweet potato were also exceptional.
Dessert was a trio of delights—fig rice, caramel and sweet pumpkin, and a vibrant apple, orange, and pineapple creation—followed by Solbam’s signature tea. The thoughtful wine pairing complemented each course beautifully, and guests can return to the drawing room afterward to enjoy a refined selection of wine, whiskey, or champagne.
Solbam offers a truly memorable dining experience—artful, innovative, and worth seeking out. Recommended!
Happy dining
Shanea
12/18/2025
