Kokkiri Sushi Gwanghwamun: A Refined Sushi Sanctuary Near Kyobo Bookstore
There is a unique kind of tranquility found in wandering through the aisles of Kyobo Bookstore, the literary heart of Seoul. But the perfect afternoon doesn’t end with a new book; it ends with a meal that matches that sense of quiet quality. Located just steps away in the KT Gwanghwamun building, Kokkiri Sushi (코끼리 초밥) offers exactly that—a masterful lunch experience that stands out in the competitive Gwanghwamun dining scene.
Whether you are a local professional or a traveler exploring the historic Sejong-daero, this spot delivers premium-grade sushi with an approachable charm. It is proof that a “quick lunch” can still be a deeply satisfying culinary journey.
Location
- –Address: B1, KT Gwanghwamun Building, 178 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- –Access: Located right in front of Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), Exit 2.
- –Parking: Underground parking at the KT building is available, but often crowded. Using public transport or nearby Kyobo Bookstore parking is recommended.
- –Google Maps: B1, KT Gwanghwamun Building, 178 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- –Taxi (Korean): 서울 종로구 세종대로 178 KT광화문지사 지하1층 B109-5호
Hours
| Day / Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Daily | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Break Time | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Last Order | 8:30 PM |
The Space: Modern Zen Meets Casual Comfort
The interior of Kokkiri Sushi is an exercise in clean, warm aesthetics. Bright wooden accents and a long, open counter create a welcoming atmosphere that feels both professional and cozy. Watching the chefs meticulously assemble each piece adds a layer of performance to your meal, making it an ideal spot for solo diners seeking a focused experience or colleagues looking for a refined break.
The layout is thoughtfully organized, providing enough space to breathe even during the bustling lunch hour. It’s a space where the frantic energy of Seoul fades away, replaced by the rhythmic clinking of ceramic and the subtle aroma of seasoned rice.
A bright, airy space perfect for a focused and high-quality lunch.
Taste Notes: From Deep Sea to Tender Beef
Kokkiri B-Set: The 12-Piece Journey
The B-Set is a symphony of 12 pieces accompanied by a bowl of warm udon. The journey begins with the Tuna (Maguro) and Fatty Tuna (Otoro)—pieces so buttery they seem to dissolve on contact. The Sea Bream (Madai) follows, offering a sophisticated, clean sweetness that defines high-end white fish.
What truly surprised me were the “hidden gems” often reserved for omakase menus: the Ankimo (Monkfish Liver), which provides an oceanic creaminess that is pure decadence, and the Steamed Abalone, which carries a deep, savory umami. The Futomaki is a grand finale in itself, packed with diverse textures that create a literal explosion of flavors in one bite.
The Perfect Sides: Karaage & Gyoku
To round out the meal, the Juicy Karaage offers a satisfying crunch with a tender, flavorful interior. But the true star of the side menu is the Gyoku (Sweet Egg Cake). It is airy, cloud-like, and perfectly balanced in sweetness—easily one of the best I’ve had in Seoul. Pairing the savory karaage with a bite of the delicate gyoku creates a beautiful contrast that lingers long after the meal is over.
Price Range
- –Range: Moderate (Mind-Blowing Value!)
- –Finding omakase-level ingredients like Ankimo (monkfish liver), Otoro, and steamed abalone in a standard lunch set is almost unheard of in the center of Gwanghwamun.
- –You are getting a high-end, meticulously crafted sushi experience for the price of an everyday office lunch. It’s an absolute steal that will leave both your palate and your wallet incredibly happy! Wow!
Ordering & Tips
- –The Winning Combo: Order the B-Set to experience the true range of the chef’s skills, and absolutely do not leave without trying the cloud-like Gyoku and crispy Karaage on the side.
- –Solo Friendly: The long, open counter seating makes this one of the most comfortable and visually engaging spots for solo dining in the area.
- –Fast Turnaround: Even if there’s a small queue during the busy 12:00 PM lunch rush, the service is remarkably efficient. Don’t let a line discourage you.
- –Parking Hack: Instead of struggling with the KT building’s crowded underground lot, use public transportation or park at the nearby Kyobo Bookstore if you plan to shop.
Who I Recommend It For
- –Book Lovers & Solo Travelers: The perfect quiet, high-quality meal to enjoy after a peaceful afternoon browsing the aisles of Kyobo Bookstore.
- –Busy Professionals: When you need an elevated business lunch that doesn’t require a two-hour omakase commitment.
- –Sushi Purists: Those who appreciate clean aesthetics and well-aged, premium fish cuts without the pretentious atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Kokkiri Sushi Gwanghwamun is a rare find that balances speed, price, and uncompromising quality. It treats the “lunch set” not as a compromise, but as a showcase of the chef’s skill. If you find yourself in the Gwanghwamun area, do your soul a favor—grab a book, then grab a seat at Kokkiri. Sharing a piece of high-quality sushi is, after all, one of the finest forms of positive energy we can share.
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