Hello again! It’s Min. After the explosive start of Culinary Class Wars Season 2, the biggest question in Seoul right now isn’t “Who won?” but “Where can I eat their food?”
As someone with a background in Korean cuisine and baking, I can tell you that these five “White Spoon” masters represent the absolute peak of technical skill in Korea. They aren’t just chefs; they are architects of flavor. Let’s look at where they create their magic.
1. The Dual-Star Visionary: Son Jong-won
Chef Son Jong-won is a rare gem in the culinary world, successfully leading two completely different Michelin-starred concepts. He is known for his “poetic” approach to ingredients—treating every plate like a canvas.
- The Vibe: At Eatanic Garden, you get a futuristic, high-end “New Korean” experience with a stunning view of Seoul. At L’Amant Secret, it’s all about the romantic, classic Parisian soul with a modern twist.
- Signature Dish: The menu at Eatanic Garden, which reinterprets traditional Korean roots.
- Restaurant Info:
- Eatanic Garden (이타닉 가든): 36F, Josun Palace, 231 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
- L’Amant Secret (라망 시크레): 26F, L’Escape Hotel, 67 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul.
- How to Book: CatchTable is essential. Since he appeared on Season 2, weekend slots are booked out months in advance!
2. The Chef of Presidents: Cheon Sang-hyun
Imagine being the man responsible for the meals of five South Korean presidents over 20 years. Chef Cheon Sang-hyun brings that “Blue House” prestige to Chinese-Korean cuisine. He is a legend who proves that even familiar dishes can reach the level of high art.
- The Vibe: His restaurant, Cheonsang, offers a grand yet approachable atmosphere where you can taste the “Secret Recipes” once served to national leaders.
- Signature Dish: Presidential Jjamppong – It’s rich, clean, and has a depth of flavor that earned him his reputation.
- Restaurant Info:
- Cheonsang (천상현의 천상):6F, La Citta della Moda Mall, 16 Maeheon-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul.
- How to Book: Naver Maps reservation or phone. It’s a popular spot for family gatherings and business meetings, so don’t just show up—call ahead!
3. The Soul of Modern Hansik: Kim Hee-eun
Chef Kim Hee-eun has a magical way of making traditional Korean flavors feel incredibly trendy. Her work at Soul has redefined what “fine dining” means to the younger generation in Korea.
- The Vibe: Soul is sophisticated and intimate, located in the hilly, cool neighborhood of Haebangchon. If you want something more casual but equally delicious, Egg & Flour specializes in incredible fresh-made pasta.
- Signature Dish: Traditional Alcohol-paired Courses at Soul and the Red Shrimp and Squid Ink Capellini at Egg & Flour.
- Restaurant Info:
- 35 Shinheung-ro 26-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (B1 for Soul, 2F for Egg & Flour).
- How to Book: CatchTable. Soul is perfect for a special anniversary, while Egg & Flour is a local favorite for a “sunny afternoon” lunch.
4. The Japanese Technical Master: Kim Geon
If you like precision, Chef Kim Geon is your man. He is a master of Japanese cuisine who manages to stay humble while delivering world-class flavors. His two spots offer very different ways to enjoy his craft.
- The Vibe: Goryori Ken is an exclusive, high-end “Omasake” (small plate) experience where you watch him work with ninja-like focus. Ichie is a legendary Izakaya—always bustling, loud, and serving the best sashimi in Sinsa-dong.
- Signature Dish: The Sashimi Moriawase (assorted sashimi) at Ichie is famous for its freshness and perfect cuts.
- Restaurant Info:
- Goryori Ken (고료리 켄): 2F, 15-3 Eonju-ro 152-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
- Ichie (이치에): 2F, 23-3 Seolleung-ro 155-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
- How to Book: CatchTable.Ichie is notoriously difficult to book because it’s a favorite among local celebrities and foodies alike.
5. The Culinary Storyteller: Jun Lee
Chef Jun Lee is the mastermind behind the “Episode” concept at Soigne. He doesn’t just make a menu; he builds a narrative that changes with the seasons. He is widely considered one of the most innovative chefs in modern Korea.
- The Vibe: Soigne is one of the most prestigious dining rooms in Seoul (Michelin 2-star status!). If you prefer something more casual and laid-back, Rudbeckia, a well-loved brunch spot in Gwanghwamun, offers a comfortable alternative.
- Signature Dish: Soigné’s signature is its seasonal tasting menu that reinterprets Korean flavors through modern fine dining, with a strong focus on fermentation, traditional jang (soy-based sauces), and zero-waste philosophy.
- Restaurant Info:
- Soigne (스와니예): 2F, Sinsa Square, 652 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
- Rudbeckia (루드베키아): 1F Annex, KT Gwanghwamun Building West, 178 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
- How to Book: CatchTable (Global). Soigne is one of the hardest reservations to get in Korea, so plan at least two month ahead.
📊 Min’s Local Tip: Managing the “Reservation War”
According to 2026 data, the “Culinary Class Wars effect” has caused a 400% increase in searches for these specific chefs.
Local Hack: Most reservations open at midnight or 11:00 AM on the 1st or 15th of the month. That said, after Black and White Chef Season 2, each restaurant follows a different reservation schedule, so be sure to confirm the exact timing on CatchTable. If you fail, keep checking the “Waiting” or “Cancel Notification” feature on the CatchTable app. Cancellations happen more often than you think!
Ready to follow the White Spoons?
These five masters have set the bar incredibly high for Season 2. Visiting their restaurants isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing the “Authority” of Korean gastronomy.
♣ Go to related article
Culinary Class Wars Season 2 Review
Culinary Class Wars Season 2: The 8 Black Spoon Heroes and Their Soulful Kitchens
A certified Korean chef and baker. Min shares authentic tastes of Korea, from hidden local gems to traditional recipes and everyday lifestyle.
