Seemor
Seoul TokyoB+Worth Trying
168 Borough High St, London SE1 1LB
· Korean restaurant, Korean barbecue restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1333 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Korean spot near Borough with hearty stews, KBBQ, and value-packed lunches; excellent food but service can feel rushed with strict 90-minute limits.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Seoul Tokyo delivers excellent food quality—particularly in hearty stews and KBBQ—with generous portions and strong value that earn solid neighborhood standing. However, inconsistent execution on seasoning and cooking, combined with uneven service during peak hours and the enforced 90-minute table limit, prevents a higher grade. The bustling Borough Market location and loyal following reflect solid execution, but the tight space and service friction keep it competitive rather than exceptional.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels bustling and casual, a narrow space that hums with conversation, sizzling grills, and quick table turns near Borough Market. Diners rave about the stews and grilled meats, with one noting, "The broth was deep and the oxtail slid off the bone." Service ranges from warm to brisk depending on the rush, and the 90‑minute limit is enforced, which some find rushed at peak times. The cooking leans classic Korean with a few Japanese touches—think bentos, teriyaki, and katsu alongside gamjatang, jjigae, and KBBQ—so the approach is elevated traditional rather than experimental. Fried chicken, kimchi pancakes, and bulgogi are easy wins, while soups are a standout if you want something hearty. Expect generous portions and good value for central London. Families can do well here thanks to approachable dishes like chicken katsu curry, teriyaki, dumplings, and corn cheese. That said, the room is tight and busy, and the time limit can challenge leisurely meals with kids. If your crew is picky, stick to the simpler bento options and milder KBBQ cuts for a low-stress family order.
At a Glance
- Deeply satisfying stews and solid KBBQ
- Generous portions and strong lunch value
- Strict 90-minute table limit feels rushed for some
- Service can be uneven during peak hours
- Gluten-free knowledge appears inconsistent based on one report
What Sets It Apart
- hearty_korean_stews
- value_lunch_bentos
- tabletop_kbbq_with_helpful_guidance
What People Love
- Comforting, richly flavored soups
- Crispy, shareable pancakes
- Helpful grill guidance during KBBQ
- Prices that feel fair for central London
- Big portions ideal for sharing
Points of Concern
- Service can feel rushed and inconsistent, especially with the 90-minute limit during busy periods
- Occasional order mix-ups and billing/service charge disputes reported
- Isolated hygiene and ventilation complaints suggest room for improvement
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (staff name repetition, templated responses) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£20-28 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lunch: Bulgogi or La Galbi bento (£8-10) plus a shared Kimchi Pancake (£9) for two
- Starters: Vegetable or Galbi Mandu (£6) when you want a small shareable
- Value add: Corn Cheese (£7) for a kid-friendly side
Perfect For
- Casual group KBBQ nights
- Hearty soup cravings on a cold day
- Value-focused lunch near Borough
- Pre- or post-Borough Market meal
Location Insights
Area: Central, mixed-use corridor linking London Bridge and Borough with heavy foot traffic from offices, residents, and Borough Market spillover.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit main road with steady pedestrian flow; typical central London bustle.
Nearby: Steps from Borough Market and London Bridge stations; offices, hotels, and bars nearby drive peaks at lunch and evenings.
SouthwarkVibrant and historically significant area blending modern development with historic character, featuring diverse dining options, proximity to cultural landmarks, and excellent public transportation
Borough Market AreaRenowned food destination with artisanal markets, gourmet restaurants, and a thriving food culture that attracts culinary tourists and local gastronomes
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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