Bium

Tucked away in Seoul’s upscale Cheongdam neighborhood, Bium offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Gangnam district. This refined restaurant has mastered the art of Korean temple cuisine, proving that plant-based cooking can deliver profound satisfaction without relying on meat or heavy flavors. The atmosphere is contemplative and unhurried, setting the stage for a dining experience that feels as much like a meditation as a meal.

The evening unfolds with an elaborate King’s breakfast spread that immediately signals the kitchen’s intentions. Earthy danja rice cakes anchor the opening courses alongside an array of pickled vegetables bursting with color and vitality. But it’s the seaweed porridge that delivers the revelation—a bowl of pure minerality that demonstrates how depth and richness can emerge from the simplest ingredients. This moment crystallizes what makes Bium special.

Throughout the meal, banchan takes center stage in ways that honor Buddhist culinary traditions. Soy-marinated greens develop complexity over each bite, while seasonal vegetables are thoughtfully tied to elemental themes. The standouts include an impossibly airy vegetable fritter and generous mandu stuffed with a silky blend of burdock root, mushrooms, carrots, glass noodles, peanuts, and chili peppers. Each dish reflects restraint and intention rather than excess.

Bium is ideal for special occasions when you want to celebrate with something meaningful rather than merely impressive. It rewards diners who appreciate subtlety and craftsmanship, offering a window into a centuries-old culinary philosophy that feels remarkably relevant today.