Advertisement

Korean Restaurants in Sao Paulo

If you’re craving Korean food in Sao Paulo, you’re in luck. The city’s Korean scene is more than just a couple of restaurants in Bom Retiro – though that neighborhood is a great place to start if you want authenticity at lunch prices.

Places like JinJin or Big Namu bring solid barbecue, and you can’t go wrong with a charcoal grill on your table. I personally love heading to Liberdade’s Korean spots in the evening when the light fades and the streets feel cooler. The kimchi here tastes different than the jarred stuff you might find back home, fresher and with a real punch. I always order bulgogi or bibimbap with a side of mandoo (Korean dumplings) to share.

A quick tip: On weekends, try to show up early or make a reservation if you can; these places fill up fast with locals who know their spicy soups and BBQ. Also, don’t overlook Myeong Ga – tucked away near Santa Cecilia, it’s less touristy and perfect if you want to eat where the Korean community does after work. Trust me, Sao Paulo’s Korean food scene has layers – and some tasty surprises waiting for you.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Tips from someone who’s eaten it all

If you find yourself wandering around Bom Retiro, make sure to pop into Restaurante Ttak Gui – the spicy pork bulgogi there is something else, and the lunch specials won’t break the bank.

Also, don’t hesitate to explore side dishes. Korean restaurants in Sao Paulo usually serve a ton of banchan, which are little plates of kimchi, pickled radish, and other surprises. They might look small but they’re full of flavor and will keep you engaged throughout the meal. And believe me, it’s worth ordering soju or a Korean beer to get that full experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about Korean food spots in Sao Paulo? Here’s what I often get asked.

Bom Retiro and Liberdade are your go-tos. Bom Retiro has a more authentic lunch vibe, while Liberdade offers a wider range of Korean dishes with a local twist, especially at night.

Yes! Check out JinJin or Big Namu if you want the classic experience where you grill your own meat at the table. Just plan ahead because they get busy, especially on weekends.

Some dishes pack a punch, but not everything is fiery. Bulgogi and bibimbap tend to be milder. If you’re unsure, ask for less spice – restaurant staff are usually happy to adjust.

Definitely! Liberdade’s street markets sometimes have vendors selling things like hotteok (sweet pancakes) or spicy rice cakes. It’s a nice way to sample without sitting down to a full meal.

It really depends. Lunch spots in Bom Retiro are quite affordable. Dinner, especially at BBQ spots in Liberdade, can get pricier, but portion sizes are generous. Sharing helps keep costs down.

Some do, but it’s hit or miss. Bibimbap without meat and certain vegetable sides work well if you’re vegetarian. It’s always good to ask before ordering because many dishes use anchovy broth or sauces.

Explore Restaurants Categories

Brazilian (70 places) Finding good Brazilian food in Sao Paulo isn’t hard, but knowing where to go can make all the difference. Some places keep it simple and homey, like Casa do Porco in Centro which is famous for its pork dishes, or Bar da Dona Onça in Sé, where the pastéis and feijoada feel just right after a long day. If you’re… Explore
Italian (59 places) If you’re heading to Sao Paulo and Italian food is on your radar, you’re in luck. The city is packed with places where grandma’s recipes still rule. Forget your typical tourist spots,some of the best joints are tucked away in neighborhoods like Bixiga, home to decades-old trattorias that serve hearty lasagnas and… Explore
Seafood (57 places) If you’re craving seafood in Sao Paulo, you’re in for a treat, but maybe not the one you expect. Sure, the city’s not on the coast, but thanks to efficient fish markets and a love for fresh ingredients, places like Mercado Municipal and Vila Zelina make it feel like you’re dining right by the sea. Try a moqueca with a… Explore
Japanese (39 places) Sao Paulo is a surprising place for Japanese cuisine , not just because it has the biggest Japanese community outside Japan, but because the food here is seriously good. You’ll find everything from casual ramen joints tucked into the Liberdade neighborhood to sleek sushi bars in Jardins where chefs slice fish with… Explore
Pub (24 places) Sao Paulo’s pub scene is surprisingly diverse. You won’t just find the usual bars serving beer , some spots feel like your neighborhood hangout in London or Dublin, with dark wood, dartboards, and local bands playing. Head over to neighborhoods like Vila Madalena or Pinheiros if you want that laid-back atmosphere… Explore
Buffet (23 places) Explore
French (21) • Sushi (21) • Chinese (18) • Fine Dining (15) •

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide ColombiaMy Guide Trinidad and TobagoMy Guide Barbados

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again