DRINK, DINE AND BE FILLED AT THESE NIGHTSPOTS IN SEOUL, SAYS INVETERATE BARFLY ROSS WALLACE
JS TEXAS
What it is As the name suggests, JS Texas is a little slice of America in Seoul — but with a vast selection of world beers to choose from.
Crowd pleasers Western-style pub grub favorites like wings, fish and chips and chili are the main draws here, but the menu also offers a few nods to Korean cuisine. Steamed sweet potatoes are eaten like fruit throughout the country and are also one of the main ingredients in the JS Texas quesadillas. It’s fusion bar food at its best.
Tried and tasted “The range of beers, from like 20 countries, is impressive. I try a new one every time I’m here.” Jack Lee
Where to go 1F, Horyung Bldg, Mukyodong 1, Chung-gu, tel: +82 (02) 774 0804 (open 11am to 1am).
INSADONG TRADITIONAL LIQUOR BAR
What it is Old-fashioned in offerings but modern in ambience, this watering hole overlooks the Insadong heritage locale.
Crowd pleasers Sure, you could simply enjoy a pitcher of beer, but why opt for the ordinary when there’s a long and exotic list of uniquely Korean beverages to choose from? Most are derived from brewed or distilled rice, with the lineup including the sweet dongdongju, which is consumed with vegetable-rich pancakes or pajeon.
Tried and tasted “I was a bit wary of traditional liquors when I first got to Korea, but it turns out they’re really good.” Scott Fisher
Where to go Insadong 3F, 197-4 Kwanhun-dong, Chongno-gu, tel: +82 (02) 723 6364 (open 1pm to 1am).
OLIVE & VINO
What it is This wine bar cum Italian restaurant is located right in the heart of the tourist-friendly Itaewon shopping district.
Crowd pleasers As with other parts of Asia, the popularity of western-style wines is growing in Korea, and Olive & Vino is one of the best places to enjoy a fine vintage paired with a plate of bruschetta, calamari or prosciutto. Wine by the bottle and glass is available, and selections include reds and whites from France, Italy, Chile and Australia.
Tried and tasted “The vongole (linguine with short-necked clams) is what I go for when I’m in the mood for seafood.” Theresa Carney
Where to go 1F, 119-10 Itaewon-dong, tel: +82 (02) 793 3433 (open 10.30am to 1am).
SAGWA
What it is This bar’s name is Korean for “apple”, which is so appropriate since the drinks menu is all about fruit flavors
Crowd pleasers Soju, a sweet and highly alcoholized spirit that is Korea’s national drink, can be an acquired taste for newcomers. But this casual but well-appointed “fusion dining bar” eases the transition by serving up soju “cocktails” with fruit flavors like strawberry, kiwi and, of course, apple. Fruit “punch”, indeed.
Tried and tasted “I love the Fruit Tower Salad topped with blueberry sauce and stringy fried potatoes.” Kim Dong Hee
Where to go 2F, 1-65 Tongsung-dong (open 5pm to 5am).
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