Marguerite’s take on gnocchi carbonara is a satisfying mix of disparate flavors in Seoul, South Korea. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes)
Marguerite, an Italian restaurant in western Seoul, South Korea, may take a moment to find, but its handmade pasta and intimate atmosphere make a strong first impression.
This eatery near Magok Station’s Exit 3 is a good option for diners willing to travel for something more polished than a casual pasta stop.
The space is warm and intimate, with soft lighting and details reminiscent of a small European restaurant. It works well for a date, quiet dinner or leisurely meal after a long week.
Marguerite in Seoul, South Korea, is a good option for diners willing to travel for something more polished than a casual pasta stop. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes)
Founded by two chefs, Marguerite builds its menu around handcrafted Italian food, including homemade pasta, charcuterie and house-made cheeses.
The gnocchi is particularly distinctive. Rather than relying solely on traditional potato dough, Marguerite makes several versions using different base ingredients.
The standout during my recent visit was the gnocchi carbonara. This 21,000 won dish — about $15.60 — is boiled and then lightly seared, creating a toasted exterior and contrasting texture before it reaches the sauce.
It arrives atop the carbonara rather than mixed in, allowing diners to taste the gnocchi on its own first. Once folded into the sauce, its toasted, nutty flavor balances the carbonara’s richness and salty cured meat.
The New York steak at Marguerite in Seoul, South Korea, arrives medium rare with a deeply seared crust and juicy interior. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes)
The New York steak was equally impressive. This 58,000 won dish arrived medium rare with a deeply seared crust and juicy interior. The preparation was straightforward and didn’t need embellishment.
Marguerite isn’t quick or inexpensive, but for handmade gnocchi, a properly cooked steak and a cozy Italian setting, it gives diners a compelling reason to make the trip to Seoul.
Marguerite in Seoul, South Korea, is a good option for diners willing to travel for something more polished than a casual pasta stop. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes)
Marguerite
Location: 1F, 10 Magokjungang 6-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday to Monday.
Prices: Most dishes cost between 9,000 won and 58,000 won.
Dress: Casual
Directions: A 5-minute walk from Magok Station in the capital’s western section.
Information: Online: instagram.com/marguerite.seoul
