A legendary name in Singapore’s Korean culinary scene is preparing to scale new heights. On March 15, 2026, the team behind the long-running Seoul Restaurant will unveil its sister concept, Seoul & So, a sophisticated modern steakhouse located on the fifth floor of the National Gallery Singapore. This move transitions the brand from its famous buffet roots into a refined, à la carte dining experience set against the backdrop of the city’s most historic architecture.
A Legacy of Quality
For nearly three decades, Seoul Restaurant has been a cornerstone of local K-BBQ culture. Founded as a family business in 1997 at the Amara Hotel food court, it later found its rhythm at the Conrad Singapore Orchard (formerly the Regent Hotel). Its reputation for high-quality meats garnered international praise, most recently earning official recognition from the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs as one of the city’s standout Korean dining destinations.
Now, the second generation of the Rhee family is taking the reins. While the original branch remains a go-to for indulgent value-for-money buffets, the siblings are steering Seoul & So toward a more curated, elevated approach to the Korean chophouse.
What to Expect at Seoul & So
Moving away from the all-you-can-eat model, Seoul & So will focus on premium tasting sets and sharing plates. The menu is a globe-trotting selection of elite proteins, featuring:
- Japanese and Australian Wagyu: Known for intense marbling and buttery texture.
- Hanwoo and Handon: Rare, recently approved Korean beef and pork imports for an authentic taste of Seoul.
- Iberico Pork and USDA Prime Beef: Gold-standard cuts for the discerning carnivore.
The dining mechanics have also been reimagined for the Gallery’s sophisticated atmosphere. To ensure guests can enjoy their conversations without the intrusive heat or smoke of a tabletop grill, the restaurant will utilize dedicated grilling stations positioned near each table. This allows diners to witness the culinary technique of the chefs while maintaining a seamless, smoke-free social environment.
A Refreshing Addition to the Arts District
The opening of Seoul & So is a key pillar of the National Gallery’s ongoing culinary transformation. The museum has recently aggressively expanded its F&B portfolio, welcoming diverse concepts like Gilmore & Damian D’Silva to bolster its status as a lifestyle hub as much as an art institution.
For those looking to sample the new menu without the evening price tag, the restaurant is launching with a highly accessible weekday set lunch starting at $35. While dinner rates and specific operating hours are still under wraps, the combination of heritage expertise and a prime heritage location suggests this will be one of the year’s most anticipated openings.
Seoul & So
Location: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, National Gallery Singapore, Level 5, Singapore 178957.
Opening Date: March 15, 2026.