L’Amant Secret: A Romantic Vision of Modern Western Gastronomy in Seoul

L’Amant Secret: A Romantic Vision of Modern Western Gastronomy in Seoul

While Seoul is globally celebrated for its vibrant Korean culinary scene, it also hosts some of the world’s most sophisticated Western dining rooms. At the absolute forefront of this movement is L’Amant Secret, a one-Michelin-starred gem located within the ultra-chic L’Escape Hotel in Myeongdong. For travelers and locals in 2025 seeking a departure from traditional Korean flavors without sacrificing world-class quality, L’Amant Secret offers a poetic and whimsical journey into modern Western cuisine.

The Vision of Chef Jongwon Son

The creative force behind the restaurant is Chef Jongwon Son, who also helms the kitchen at the renowned Epocha. Chef Son’s background is a tapestry of international experience, having worked at legendary institutions like Noma in Copenhagen and Quince in San new york delicatessen Francisco. At L’Amant Secret—which translates to “The Secret Lover”—he brings a playful yet precise approach to cooking. His philosophy is one of “Glocal” cuisine: using the finest local Korean ingredients to create dishes that are firmly rooted in Western culinary techniques.

A Sensory Culinary Narrative

The dining experience at L’Amant Secret is designed to feel like a theatrical performance. In 2025, the restaurant continues to captivate diners with its “Storytelling Menu.” Every course is accompanied by a narrative that explains the inspiration behind the dish, often involving personal memories of the chef or seasonal observations of the Korean landscape.

Signature elements often include:

• The Bread Service: Often cited as the best in Seoul, the sourdough is served with house-churned butter and a variety of seasonal salts.
• Innovative Seafood: Such as caviar-topped scallops or local fish prepared with delicate French-inspired emulsions that highlight the freshness of the East Sea.
• The Signature Caviar Rose: A visual masterpiece that has become an Instagram icon, combining delicate floral aesthetics with the luxury of premium sturgeon roe.

An Atmosphere of Parisian Glamour

The restaurant’s interior is a breathtaking homage to Belle Époque Paris. Designed by the world-renowned Jacques Garcia, the space is draped in deep crimson velvets, adorned with ornate mirrors, and lit by the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. It is arguably the most romantic dining room in Seoul, making it the premier choice for anniversaries, proposals, or intimate celebrations. Despite the opulence, the service remains warm and engaging, avoiding the stiff formality often associated with high-end French dining.

Reservations and Planning

As a centerpiece of the L’Escape Hotel, L’Amant Secret is a high-demand venue. In 2025, it is essential to book your table via the CatchTable Global app or the Michelin Guide Seoul portal.

For the discerning diner looking to experience the cosmopolitan side of Seoul’s food culture, L’Amant Secret provides a “secret” escape into a world of elegance, creativity, and impeccable Western flavor.