In the bustling Jamsil area near Lotte World Shopping Mall, there’s an overwhelming array of restaurants to choose from. With so many options, it can be a challenge to pinpoint the best dining experience. Allow me to simplify the choice for you. I highly recommend the Japanese restaurant named “Sapporo”. It offers an authentic Japanese culinary experience, subtly fused with Korean influences, all set within a luxurious ambiance. It’s a dining experience you won’t want to miss when you’re in the vicinity.

Also, one reason I find myself returning to this place is its unique seating arrangement. They offer tables in separate rooms, accommodating a range of group sizes. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking to have an uninterrupted conversation with friends or even for family gatherings. In fact, my most recent visit was for my father’s birthday. The setting provided the perfect blend of privacy and top-notch service, making our celebration all the more special.

While each dining area is in a separate room, it’s always easy to get a server’s attention when required. Each table is assigned its own attentive server, and if you need assistance, there’s a button right on the table to call for help. During our visit, our server took the time to explain every dish as it was served, even detailing the type of fish and naming each dish (all in Korean!). 

We opted for the ‘Type C’ lunch set during our weekend visit. While there are three options – Type A, Type B, and Type C – we went for the most economical choice. But let me assure you, it felt anything but budget. Our server explained that the distinction between the sets lies in one of the fish-based side dishes, not the main sashimi. Hence, we didn’t see the need to splurge on the pricier options. 

Having frequented this place, we’re well aware that the Type C lunch set is incredibly fulfilling – and I say this without a hint of exaggeration. Priced at KRW 40,000 for the weekend, I find it to be great value, especially when you factor in the quality of the food on offer.

Another noteworthy aspect of this restaurant is the presentation of their dishes. While I haven’t uploaded photos of every dish from our course on this blog, believe me when I say their food is Instagram-worthy! If you’re on the hunt not only for delicious cuisine but also for visually stunning plates that’ll make for great photos, this place has got you covered.”

To be honest, my photography skills leave much to be desired. I’m certain you could capture far more captivating shots at this restaurant.

Above all, the food here is simply sublime. Their sashimi stands out – it’s not the typical thin and inexpensive variety, but rather thick slices of incredibly fresh and chewy fish. This is followed by an array of dishes, from sushi to fried vegetables and shrimp. Every dish was nothing short of magnificent.

In Korea, course meals traditionally conclude with cooked rice and soup. This restaurant is no exception. There have the option to choose between a spicy soup, called ‘Mae-un-tang’, or a non-spicy version, known as ‘Ji-ri’. As seen in the picture, I opted for the Ji-ri.

The rice is topped with cooked small fish eggs and a few other ingredients, the specifics of which I’m not entirely sure

If you frequent the Jamsil area, or if you’re planning a visit and are keen on trying a Korean-inspired Japanese restaurant with some privacy and a pleasant ambiance, this is the spot for you. It’s easily accessible from Jamsil Station. Also, This restaurant is part of a franchise, so you can find many other branches throughout Seoul.