Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Seoul

Balwoo Gongyang is celebrated for its authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine, offering a serene dining experience in private rooms. The Michelin-starred restaurant emphasizes healthy, vegan-friendly dishes prepared with seasonal, organic ingredients. While some diners note the portion sizes may be modest, the overall ambiance and culinary experience are highly praised.

Discover Balwoo Gongyang: Seoul's serene sanctuary for authentic Buddhist temple cuisine.

Nestled in the heart of Seoul's Jongno District, Balwoo Gongyang offers an extraordinary vegetarian dining journey inspired by traditional Korean Buddhist temple recipes. This Michelin-starred gem invites food lovers and mindful eaters alike to indulge in a tranquil, private-room setting that embodies peace and culinary purity.

Balwoo Gongyang specializes in authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine, emphasizing seasonal, organic, and vegan-friendly ingredients. Diners can expect a thoughtfully curated multi-course meal where each dish reflects sincerity and purity without the use of garlic, meat, or fish. The culinary artistry transforms humble ingredients into innovative, aesthetically pleasing plates that satisfy the palate and nourish the soul.

Guests enjoy a unique privacy experience, as each table is located in a separate, quiet room, perfect for deep appreciation of the flavors and peaceful ambiance.

Balwoo Gongyang offers lunch and dinner with carefully prepared courses that highlight the delicate flavors of temple food. While portion sizes may be modest, the quality and artistry of each dish more than compensate, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or culinary exploration.

 ensure an intimate and peaceful meal experience.

 highlight the freshness and authenticity of every dish.

 crafted with Buddhist culinary traditions.

 perfect for mindful dining and group occasions.

Guests consistently praise Balwoo Gongyang for its authentic and heartfelt approach to temple cuisine, highlighting the meticulous preparation and the unique experience of dining in private rooms. Many appreciate the quiet, serene environment that allows full immersion in the subtle and innovative flavors. However, some note that portions can feel light and that service timing might be brisk, especially during peak hours. Overall, the community sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, celebrating Balwoo Gongyang as a must-visit spot for vegetarians and those interested in Korean culinary traditions.

What is the dress code at Balwoo Gongyang?

 The restaurant maintains a casual dress code, allowing guests to dress comfortably while enjoying their meal.

 Yes, parking facilities are available for guests at Balwoo Gongyang.

 Yes, reservations are recommended to ensure a dining experience at Balwoo Gongyang.

Asia

South Korea

Nestled in the historic heart of Seoul, Balwoo Gongyang offers a serene escape into the world of traditional Buddhist temple cuisine. This renowned vegetarian restaurant, located at 71 Gyeonji-dong in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea, is celebrated for its delicate flavors, tranquil ambiance, and authentic culinary experience that transports diners to a place of spiritual and gastronomic harmony.

Explore reviews and learn more about the experience at Balwoo Gongyang

https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyMDlXOGNnEAE!2m1!1s0x357ca2c278fa6e67:0xb14e8c1d1b864d74

Read reviews from visitors like Girish Nair

https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100377424059442365046/reviews

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyMDlXOGNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZ276eMKifDURdE2GGx2MTrE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyMDlXOGNnEAE

A great joint to visit in Seoul. Great for vegetarians. Each table is set in separate room with great privacy.  The ambience is quiet and peaceful. Highly recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREcGRMbHRBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZ276eMKifDURdE2GGx2MTrE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREcGRMbHRBRRAB

This is the most authentic vegetarian restaurant in Korea. Each and every piece is touched with sincerity. It was very delicious^^

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1dmJ1dG5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZ276eMKifDURdE2GGx2MTrE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1dmJ1dG5BRRAB

The food at this restaurant was excellent. Even something as plain as a tomato salad with sesame seeds was surprisingly flavorful, owing to them using good ingredients to begin with. Other dishes were innovative and aesthetically pleasing.

However, after visiting the restaurant on four occasions and ordering the cheapest option on the menu (lunch for 30.000 KRW, dinner for 45.000 KRW), each time we left still feeling somewhat hungry after a multi-course meal...

The interior is neat and simple and guests are seated inside individual rooms to enjoy food in a quiet, private atmosphere.

After all, this location is certainly suitable for eating out on a special occasion. Perhaps one of the more expensive course menus will be more filling...?

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNod0phMm93RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZ276eMKifDURdE2GGx2MTrE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNod0phMm93RRAB

Having seen some of the negative reviews, I was hesistant. However this resto was on my buckets list for 5 years, popped up in a recent article and I decided I must try it. I wanted to know what Buddhist food tasted like.
(The resto is on the top floor of a building dedicated to buddhist causes.)
Without a reservation, I walked in and they seated me in a room by myself. I choose the middle of the 3 lunches at the price of 45,000.
The first dishes that came out were ok. The smallest like an amuse bouche size was interesting. Pat juk is never my favourite and yes is a bit bland. But I still appreciated it’s traditional and pure taste. Next 3 dishes stepped it up. I was surprised I enjoyed their version of chapchae noodles. The spicy mushroom dish was tasty and while I usually refrain from fried foods, I devoured the pan fried wrap of veggies.
Next highlights for me was trying their natural version of sweetened radish danmooji, and the pan fried korean cabbage leaf. Utterly delicious! I loved the homemade mushroom mandoo dumpling and the chewy fried mushrooms! How could they come up with a mushroom that was fun to eat! The texture was lovely to chew. I was not a fan of their bibimnaengmyun spicy noodle. It was too sweet for me.
Last dishes came out and I was shocked. They made a vegan version of meeyuk seaweed soup that had umami and tasted delicious. I couldn’t stop eating. I loved their grain rice as well. I admit, I am not a fan of vegan kimchi and while this is probably the best vegan kimchi I have tasted, it still didn’t make the mark for me. I need that salted shrimp and garlic boost from regular kimchi.
The meal finished with a small dessert and tea. I was happily satiated. I would definitely come here again. But to others, I would give a caution. This is Buddhist temple food, and they do not use many ingredients like garlic, meat, fish, etc. So come here to explore this unique and delicate taste and keep this in mind as you review it. It’s a lot of food and I packed whatever I could not finish in my stainless steel takeaway box and ended up eating it for dinner. Also make reservations - I just happened to get lucky!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ5LUtlUV9BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZ276eMKifDURdE2GGx2MTrE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ5LUtlUV9BRRAB

We had high expectation of the place but we’re a little disappointed with the service. The service timing was too rush to fully enjoy the flavours of the food. Halfway through our meal, we were told that they close at 2.50pm and we have 20mins left for our entree 2 and desserts, so they will be served together. When the last two courses were served, we were told that they close in 10mins, hinting that we got to finish everything in 10mins. While they did explain to us during the booking, the time allocated for each serving is way too rush for people to enjoy the food. It doesn’t feel like fine dining towards the end, but military style dining were you just chuck food down your throats. That was rather disappointing. A couple commented that the time was too rushed and the staff explained that they did explain and share about the time during the booking process. However, we felt that it is not about the timing. We paid KRW70,000 to enjoy food, not to swallow food. This time may be more suitable for the cheaper menus with less dishes.

We expected this place to be much better since it once had Michelin star.

Discover Balwoo Gongyang: Vegan Fine Dining in Seoul

Balwoo Gongyang, established in 2009, is a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine. Operated by the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism, it offers a unique dining experience that emphasizes healthy, vegan-friendly dishes prepared with seasonal, organic ingredients.

Established in 2009, Balwoo Gongyang is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an authentic experience of Korean Buddhist temple cuisine.

The restaurant is operated by the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism, emphasizing healthy, vegan-friendly dishes prepared with seasonal, organic ingredients.

Since its inception, Balwoo Gongyang has been a beacon of Korean Buddhist culinary tradition, earning a prestigious Michelin star in 2017.

Today, Balwoo Gongyang continues to serve as a cultural hub, showcasing the delicate and unique flavors of Korean Buddhist temple cuisine, which is rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Balwoo Gongyang is a culinary gem in Seoul's Jongno District, offering a unique dining experience rooted in Buddhist temple cuisine. The restaurant features a serene atmosphere and meticulously prepared dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients, making it a sanctuary for the senses.

Balwoo Gongyang

Experience authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine with our meticulously crafted course menus, each offering a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and seasonal ingredients.

Seon Course

Won Course

Maeum Course

Hee Course

Balwoo Gongyang Course Menus

Nestled in the heart of Seoul's Jongno District, Balwoo Gongyang invites you to embark on an exquisite culinary journey through authentic Korean Buddhist temple cuisine. Each of their thoughtfully composed course menus highlights a delicate balance of traditional flavors and carefully selected seasonal ingredients, tailored for visitors seeking a serene and reflective dining experience.

The meal begins with a comforting millet porridge, setting a nourishing and gentle tone. Fresh vegetables paired with cilantro deliver a crisp and aromatic freshness, awakening the palate as an ideal introduction to the courses ahead.

At the core of Balwoo Gongyang’s offerings are their four signature course menus — Seon, Won, Maeum, and Hee — each providing a unique meditative dining experience through a series of thoughtfully curated dishes.

Seon Course: Enjoy wholesome millet porridge, vibrant vegetables with cilantro, deep-fried mushrooms in chili pepper paste, refreshing cold buckwheat noodles adorned with shiitake mushrooms, and sticky rice delicately wrapped in lotus leaf. The meal is rounded out by soybean paste soup, traditional rice cakes, and soothing tea.

Won Course: Featuring the same rich array of millet porridge, vegetables with cilantro, and mouthwatering deep-fried mushrooms in chili pepper paste, this course also offers cold buckwheat noodles with shiitake mushrooms, lotus leaf-wrapped sticky rice, soybean paste soup, rice cakes, and tea for a harmonious taste of temple tradition.

Maeum Course: This elevated menu continues to showcase the signature millet porridge and cilantro-infused vegetables alongside the signature deep-fried mushrooms in chili paste. Complemented by cold buckwheat noodles with shiitake mushrooms, sticky rice in lotus leaf, soybean paste soup, rice cakes, and tea, it offers a fuller, more enriching experience.

Hee Course: The most comprehensive selection, the Hee Course brings together millet porridge, fresh vegetables with cilantro, deep-fried mushrooms in chili pepper paste, cold buckwheat noodles with shiitake mushrooms, sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf, soybean paste soup, rice cakes, and tea, delivering a profound and delicate harmony of textures and flavors.

Each course concludes with a selection of traditional rice cakes, offering a subtly sweet finish that pays homage to Korean culinary heritage. Complementing the courses is a calming cup of tea, perfect for savoring the meditative atmosphere and cleansing the palate.

 offers a tranquil dining setting with private rooms that emphasize calm and privacy, ideal for reflective diners and food enthusiasts eager to explore vegetarian and Buddhist temple cuisine. The menu is purely vegetarian and carefully crafted to exclude ingredients like garlic, meat, and fish, delivering a unique and authentic taste experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

Savor exquisite temple cuisine at Balwoo Gongyang in Jongno, Seoul. Immerse yourself in culinary tranquility today!

Balwoo Gongyang: Exquisite Dining in Jongno, Seoul

Jongno Municipality

Enjoy a serene dining experience in private rooms, each designed to provide a peaceful and intimate atmosphere.

Private Dining Rooms

Savor dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, reflecting the essence of Korean temple cuisine.

Seasonal Menus

Balwoo Gongyang: A Serene Escape into Korean Temple Cuisine in Seoul's Jongno District 71 Gyeonji-dong Location 

Nestled in the heart of Seoul's vibrant Jongno District, Balwoo Gongyang offers a distinct culinary journey for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Korean Buddhist temple cuisine. Located at 71 Gyeonji-dong, this restaurant is a sanctuary of tranquility and refined flavors, perfect for vegetarians and anyone eager to explore a unique dining experience that is deeply rooted in tradition.

Private dining rooms for peaceful enjoyment

One of Balwoo Gongyang’s standout features is its thoughtfully designed private dining rooms. Each table is situated in its own serene space, creating an intimate environment that allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the meal without distractions. This setup is especially appealing to those who value privacy and a quiet atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for special occasions, reflective dining, or simply savoring every bite in peaceful solitude.

Seasonal menus showcasing fresh Korean temple ingredients

Balwoo Gongyang’s culinary offerings are guided by the rhythms of nature, with seasonal menus crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the essence of Korean temple food. Expect a harmonious blend of subtle flavors, artful presentation, and wholesome ingredients that honor Buddhist culinary principles—meaning no meat, fish, garlic, or onions. The dishes celebrate purity and simplicity, offering a delightful challenge to the palate with innovative interpretations of traditional recipes.

What to expect from the dining experience

Guests praise the restaurant for its sincere approach to vegetarian cuisine, where each dish is carefully prepared to please both the eyes and the taste buds. Favorites include delicately pan-fried vegetable wraps, savory mushroom dumplings, and a surprisingly umami-rich vegan seaweed soup. While the subtle flavors may differ from conventional Korean fare, the experience is uniquely rewarding for those eager to explore Buddhist culinary traditions.

 – Perfect for vegetarians seeking authentic temple cuisine.

 – Your own peaceful space to savor each course without interruption.

 – Fresh ingredients create a menu that changes with the seasons.

 – To secure your private dining experience, booking ahead is advised.

Balwoo Gongyang does not serve alcohol or coffee, focusing fully on the purity of the temple dishes. Payment by credit card is accepted, making your visit seamless. While takeout is available, the true magic of Balwoo Gongyang lies in its dine-in atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy multiple courses at your own pace. Note that the menu does not cater to children, emphasizing a refined and contemplative dining experience for adults.

District

Experience serene dining at Balwoo Gongyang in Seoul's Gyeonji-dong. Indulge in authentic temple cuisine with organic, seasonal ingredients.

Balwoo Gongyang Seoul - Authentic Korean Buddhist Cuisine

Discover the unique flavors of Korean Buddhist temple cuisine at Balwoo Gongyang, Seoul. Book private rooms and enjoy healthy, seasonal dishes today!

Balwoo Gongyang Seoul - Explore Vegan & Temple Food Delights

Opening hours for Balwoo Gongyang, Seoul. Find opening hours for Balwoo Gongyang, Seoul on 71 Gyeonji-dong - novacircle.com

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Myomi

The Green Table