Discover how to use Naver Map like a true Korean local to find the best restaurants. Step-by-step guide for searching, filtering, and reading reviews—plus pro tips for tourists.
Why Naver Map Is a Must for Finding Korean Restaurants
When visiting Korea, many tourists default to Google Maps—but here’s the catch: Google Maps in Korea is often incomplete and lacks local review data. Koreans themselves rarely use it for finding food.
Instead, Naver Map (네이버 지도) is the go-to tool for locals to discover popular eateries, hidden gems, and trending cafés.
This guide will walk you through how to search, filter, and read reviews like a native, so you can eat where the locals eat.
Step 1: Download and Set Up Naver Map
- Download Links:
- Language Settings: After installation, you can switch the interface to English, Japanese, or Chinese in
Settings → Language.
Pro Tip: Even if the interface is in English, some place names remain in Korean. Learning basic Hangul reading helps you search better.
Step 2: Search for Restaurants
- Tap the Search Bar and type:
- Korean name (e.g., “김밥천국” for Kimbap Heaven)
- Food category in Korean (e.g., “삼겹살” for Korean BBQ)
- Or use English keywords (less accurate)
- Enable Nearby Search: Tap the location arrow icon to find restaurants near your current location.
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Step 3: Filter Like a Local
Naver Map offers powerful filters:
- Category Filters: Korean BBQ, Café, Seafood, Dessert, etc.
- Ratings & Reviews: Sort by user ratings or number of reviews.
- Opening Hours: Find places open now or late at night.
Local Insight:
Koreans often trust “네이버 평점” (Naver Rating) over Google’s ratings because the user base is local. Ratings above 4.3 usually indicate high quality.
Step 4: Read Reviews and Photos
- Review Section:
Click the restaurant listing → Scroll down to see reviews (리뷰).
Even if you can’t read Korean, look for:- Photo uploads (actual dishes)
- Peak hour crowd shots
- Repeated mentions of certain dishes
- Translation: Tap and hold the text to use Naver Papago or Google Translate.
Pro Tip: If multiple reviewers mention “웨이팅” (waiting), expect a line—popular with locals.
Step 5: Use Map Layers to Explore
Naver Map offers extra layers:
- Street View (거리뷰): Check the exterior before visiting.
- Subway & Bus Lines: Perfect for planning how to get there.
- Walking Distance Circles: Helps choose spots within 5–10 min walk.
Step 6: Save and Organize Your Finds
- Bookmark (
저장) restaurants you want to try. - Create lists by category: “BBQ”, “Street Food”, “Desserts”.
- Sync with your Naver account to access on multiple devices.
Extra Tips for Tourists
- Payment: Many Korean restaurants don’t accept foreign credit cards. Carry some cash or get a T-money transportation card with a top-up function.
- Peak Times: Avoid 12:00–13:00 and 18:00–19:00 for shorter waits.
- Menu Translation: Use Papago’s camera feature to read menus instantly.
Why This Method Works Better Than Google Maps
- Local Data: Naver pulls its reviews from a Korean user base—more accurate for local tastes.
- Real-time Crowds: Some listings show how busy a place is now.
- Photo-Rich Reviews: You’ll see actual dishes, portion sizes, and plating.
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Final Thoughts
If you want to eat like a local in Korea, skip the tourist traps and use Naver Map.
By mastering its search functions, filters, and review system, you’ll uncover restaurants that even travel guidebooks miss.
On your next trip, open Naver Map, search in Korean, filter by rating, and enjoy the authentic flavors Korea has to offer.
Call to Action
Planning your trip to Korea? Bookmark this guide and start building your own restaurant list in Naver Map today.
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