top of page

Best Restaurants in Daegu: My Personal Picks for Sandwiches, Thai, and Indian Food

Updated: 5 hours ago


Cityscape at night featuring a tall, illuminated tower in the foreground. Buildings and streets with glowing lights fill the background.
Daegu from Apsan Sunrise Observatory. ⓒKorea Tourism Organization Photo Korea - Anginho Film

Why These Are My Go-To Best Restaurants in Daegu


If you’re searching for the best restaurants in Daegu, these are my personal go-to spots that never disappoint. I’ve been to each one more times than I can count, and they’ve become my comfort food destinations whenever I’m craving something beyond Korean cuisine. From freshly made sandwiches to flavorful Thai dishes and rich Indian curries, these places always deliver a satisfying, memorable meal. Whether you’re new to the city, visiting for a weekend, or just in the mood for something different, this list will help you find your next favorite bite in Daegu.



Two stacked burger halves on a wooden board, filled with lettuce, tomatoes, and beef patty, wrapped in brown paper. Marble surface background.
Photo Credit: Sunny's Sweet Tooth

Sunny’s Sweet Tooth – Sandwiches, Sweets, and a Whole Lot of Heart


대구 남구 대봉로 182 1층


Sunny is a friend of mine! We got to know each other back when we were both in the restaurant life. These days, I just visit her shop often because her sandwiches are amazing!

Rows of assorted sandwiches with various fillings like lettuce, ham, and cheese in paper wrappers on a table, evoking a fresh, vibrant mood.
Photo Credit: Sunny's Sweet Tooth


She also makes cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and so much more. I've honestly never seen a business owner work as hard as she does. I’m so proud to call her my friend, and I’m always happy to recommend her absolutely delicious sandwiches and sweets.


Check out my Instagram reel at Sunny's Sweet Tooth and follow me for more recommendations and Korean language learning tips.




Colorful noodle dish topped with fried seafood and green onions in a patterned bowl. Beer bottles and an orange can are in the background.
Photo Credit: Ari Thai

Ari Thai – Flavor-Packed Thai Food in Daegu


대구 중구 대봉로 240 107호


This one is special because it’s run by the former chef of HiThai. My husband and I knew him back when we had our own restaurant just a few buildings away. I was so excited to find out that he decided to open a place of his own!


A bowl of spicy seafood soup with shrimp and herbs, held in a spoon over the bowl. The vibrant orange broth is garnished with greens.
Photo Credit: Ari Thai

The food is packed with flavor and always hits the spot when I’m craving Thai. I've had the Pad See Ew and a few other dishes so far, and I can’t wait to work my way through the whole menu.


Here is my reel from my visit to Ari Thai. I am already planning my next visit.







Plates of curry, yellow rice, salad, grilled chicken, and sauces on a marble table. Vibrant colors and appetizing presentation.
Photo Credit: Varanasi

Varanasi – Authentic Indian Cuisine in the Heart of Daegu


📍 대구 중구 동성로5길 85 2층


This is a new addition to the Daegu food scene, opened earlier this year (2025). I was so happy to find out it’s located in downtown Daegu, much closer to me than the other Indian spots I used to visit.


Fried chicken pieces on a white plate with colorful pickled vegetables. The chicken is golden brown, creating a vibrant contrast.
Photo Credit: Varanasi





The curries are rich and full of flavor, and the naan is warm, soft, and absolutely delicious. It’s the kind of meal that’s always satisfying and keeps you coming back for more.







Where to Eat in Daegu When You’re Craving Something Different


No matter what you’re in the mood for, these Daegu restaurant recommendations are places I truly love and trust. I know how overwhelming it can feel to find reliable, delicious food, especially when you're far from home or just in the mood for something different. That’s why I’m sharing the spots I personally keep going back to — not just random names on a list, but restaurants that consistently make me happy to dine out in Daegu.


And this is only the beginning! I’ll keep sharing more of my favorite places, so the next time you’re wondering where to eat in Daegu, you’ll always have somewhere worth trying. Make sure you are following me on Instagram to get all my updates and also to see my tips to help learn Korean.


More Places to Eat and Explore in Daegu: Food & Travel Resources


If you’re hungry for more than just this list of my personal favorites, these Daegu food and travel resources will help you dive deeper into the city’s vibrant dining scene and cultural experiences. From taco shops and Vietnamese pho to official city guides and video food tours, this curated list gives you even more ideas for where to eat in Daegu and what to explore while you’re here.



Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for new spots to add to your regular rotation, these guides, blogs, and videos will help you uncover some of the best restaurants in Daegu and make the most of your time in the city. Bookmark this list so you’ll always have fresh ideas for your next meal or adventure in Daegu.


Culture, Language & Local Life in Korea


Curious to go beyond where to eat and explore what living in Korea is really like? Here are some of my other favorite articles that dive into everyday life, language, and cultural insights. Whether you're trying to blend in at a Korean restaurant or finally get comfortable with reading Hangul, these posts are your go-to guides.


Why These Posts Matter


These articles add layers to your experience in Korea—from speaking like a local to easing into daily life with fewer surprises. Whether you're visiting, starting to learn the language, or thinking about making Korea home, these stories share warmth, practical advice, and insight.




Plate with a ham and lettuce sandwich and a chocolate chip cookie. Background has a blurred plant and chair. Cozy cafe setting.
Photo Credit: Sunny's Sweet Tooth

Frequently Asked Questions about Restaurants in Daegu


Q: What are the best restaurants in Daegu for international food?


A: Daegu has a growing selection of international restaurants offering flavors from around the world. Some favorites include Sunny’s Sweet Tooth for sandwiches and sweets, Ari Thai for authentic Thai dishes, Varanasi for flavorful Indian cuisine, Goddess Taco for L.A.–inspired street tacos, Lai Chen for fresh Vietnamese dishes, and Wokster for comforting Chinese-American classics.



Q: Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan options in Daegu?


A: While not every restaurant caters to vegetarians or vegans, places like Thai, Indian, and some Mexican restaurants often offer plant-based dishes. It’s best to ask the staff or check the menu in advance.


Q: Where can I find more Daegu restaurant recommendations?


A: In addition to this guide, you can explore more dining options in Daegu through local food blogs, United on the RoK Magazine, and city-specific resources like the official Daegu tourism website.


2 Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating
Guest
5 hours ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Like

Guest
14 hours ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Like
United on the RoK logo

Copyright Notice
© 2025 United on the Rok. All rights reserved. All content, including but not limited to text, images, logos, and graphics, is the exclusive property of United on the Rok and is protected by copyright laws. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or modification of any materials from this site or publication, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from United on the Rok. Any violation of these terms will result in legal action. For permission inquiries, please contact unitedontherokmag@gmail.com

Content of United on the RoK Magazine are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the United States Government, the Department of Defense, or Oriental Press.

All content within United on the RoK Magazine and website are written by non-paid, volunteers within the military-connected communities across the RoK. Articles within United on the RoK Magazine are written independently and non-sponsored, with no monetary compensation or products received in exchange for author's opinions, reviews, or mention in the magazine or website.

FOLLOW US

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

LEGAL

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Cookies Policy

bottom of page