The story
Crafted with passion, served with love
America's Steakhouse, Now in Seoul
Smith & Wollensky opened its doors in Manhattan in 1977 and has since become one of the most recognized names in American steakhouse dining — famously known, among other things, as the venue for Warren Buffett's charity lunch auctions. After decades of expansion across the United States and successful launches in London and Taipei, Seoul became only the second location in Asia. The restaurant occupies the 7th and 8th floors of a building in Hannam-dong, one of the city's most sought-after dining neighborhoods.
The Steak, Done Seriously
What sets Smith & Wollensky apart is its commitment to the entire process, not just the cooking. All beef is flown in directly from the United States — USDA Prime grade, placing it in the top 2% of American beef — and handled entirely in-house through one of Korea's largest dry-aging facilities. Temperature and humidity are controlled with precision equipment, ensuring that every cut reaches the table at the standard the brand has maintained for nearly five decades.
The menu's centerpiece is the Swinging Tomahawk: a 1.2-kilogram American Wagyu ribeye, torched tableside and served with side dishes. The Porterhouse, dry-aged for 28 days and roasted to a crisp exterior, delivers both tenderloin and strip in a single cut. For dessert, a ten-layer Gigantic Chocolate Cake with Baileys Irish Cream and chocolate ganache closes the meal with the same sense of occasion.
A Wine Program Worth the Recognition
Wine Spectator awarded Smith & Wollensky Seoul its Best of Award of Excellence in 2025 — a distinction that reflects the depth and curation of a list exceeding 600 labels. The focus is firmly on American wines, and a dedicated sommelier team guides guests through pairings with the kind of knowledge that makes the selection feel personal rather than overwhelming. A highlighted bottle is the 2017 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from one of California's most respected appellations.
Space for Every Occasion
Beyond the main dining room, Smith & Wollensky Seoul operates a rooftop terrace on the 9th floor — an event space available year-round for private gatherings, banquets, and celebrations of all scales. Valet parking, private rooms, and catering services round out a venue that handles both intimate dinners and large group events with equal ease.
Recognition
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