Here's another addition to the Restaurant Menu Series.

Yaletown has a great array of bar and comfort foods. Everything is made in house by Chef Jason. It's a great place to chillax with friends over a cold pint or a shot of Russian Vodka.

I am an Apple Fanboy. I mean I've only used Apple computers while I have lived in Korea. They simply fit me. They are elegant, the operating system is visual and stable, and they are powerful enough to do all the multimedia things that I have always wanted to do.

Now I really want the iPad. I think that it will really be great for all the work that I do. Most of my work involves working with clients, writing, and creating. Even though I would love to be able to pull out my laptop and just work anywhere, I feel that a laptop needs a desk. I feel like with the iPad, I could walk around and work. With all the food that I eat, I think this great for my health. I love to walk and work. I know this sounds weird, but I like to walk while reading books.

Anyway, I think that this product will be useful for cooks and restaurants as well. At this price point, I could see these products becoming the ordering consoles for restaurants and even menus. I could see chefs using these in the kitchens to write down recipes, keep inventory, and many other functions.

This product is going to be a game changer, but I think more for business and retail applications.

Sure, I would like an external camera (I don't want one for visual chat) and I would like an SD slot, but...at this price point, I can't complain. It's a thousand times better than a netbook. I had an MSI wind in the past and I got rid of it after a couple of months. You can read about it here: http://www.seouleats.com/2008/08/msi-wind-for-blogging.html


I can't wait until this product comes to Seoul.

Dan

Good morning!

B(one) if you want loud fashionable music.

Wolfhound if you want a chill cheers- like atmosphere.

Roofers if you want freestyle hiphop.

Naked Bar and Grill if you want cheap drinks for ladies and good bar food.

Helios is dead.


- Posted from my iPhone

Guys, picking the right restaurant for Valentine's Day is very important to your romantic wellbeing. Be sure to make a reservation. If you don't have a reserved, this is the equivalent of forgetting her anniversary, birthday, or name. You don't want to be that guy. It is not enough to just pick the right restaurant. The café or bar afterwards is just as important.

And girls, it's 2010. You are more than welcome to make reservations and give hints on the places you would like to go. If you would like, you can have this page opened to this article and just strategically circle the restaurants, bars, cafes, you would like to go. A heart or a star would be a good hint.

The restaurants on this list have a good mix of atmosphere and taste. In general, I am staying away from franchise places. I am staying away from hotels as well, but I have to say the hotel restaurants are perfect for Valentine's day. My main criteria are that I'm focusing on places that have good atmosphere and service. Of course food is important, but I'm not picking places just for that alone. There are plenty of places in Seoul that have great food, but the restaurants look like they are out of a third world country. I am also staying away from Korean food simply because there are so many high-end Korean restaurants. Adding them would simply overload the list. Go to the Korean Tourism sites for Korean restaurant recommendations.

The list is divided by regions and with prices; I'm assuming that you are drinking alcohol.

*One special thing to consider. This year, Seollal (Lunar New Year) falls on Valentine's Day so some restaurants will be closed and many people will be traveling for the holiday. Please check restaurants are open and consider celebrating a day early.*

$= expect to pay under 15,000 per person (but most cafes will be under 10) $$=expect to pay 20-40,000 per person.
$$$= expect to pay 50,000 or more per person.

Apgujeong and Gangnam Where to Eat

Antonios
Antonios in Apgujeong has authentic Italian food and the charming piano playing host will make you feel very special. The whole salt baked sea bass is enough for a family and the thin crust pastas are just like out of the old country. $$. 3443-4333.

dear chocolate 
dear chocolate has the perfect atmosphere for whispering sweet nothings into your love's ear. The chocolate truffles and hot chocolate are superb. The modern styling with avant-garde furnishings make it a great place to get a light meal followed by a hearty helping of dessert. $$. 3446-7251.

Gazen 
The idea of sushi and sashimi is sexy. It must be the fact that it's naked. Gazen near Gangnam Station has great Japanese style food. Signature dishes include Okonomiyaki (10,400) and the Tuna and Avocado Maki Roll (8,400). $. 532-4428. http://www.gazen.co.kr

Lugo
The high ceilings and stylish décor is the perfect romantic atmosphere to impress your date. The large sign that says, La Dolce Vita, evokes the vibrant vibe necessary for a great evening. The attention to detail in their food is top-notch. The mozzerella is made to order and topped with figs, the spaghetti is made in house, and the panna cotta dessert is heavenly with the rich flavor of real vanilla bean. $$$. 514-0578.

Ristorante EO
Chef Eo studied Italian Cuisine in Rome for 10 years before returning to Seoul to bring the authentic Italian experience to Seoul. His gnocchi is divine and so is his foie gras. Inside the house, you'll feel right at home in the warmly lit rooms and you will be impressed with his Grand Prix menu. Outside in the covered patio, you'll get simpler fare, but just as delicious. $-$$$. 02-3443-1970

Sideway Wine
Located near Gangnam Station is a fabulous winebar that is owned by a French Sommelier. Here you will find perfect pairings of wine and food. There is a mix of Italian and French influences for the food, and you'll find a good value-for-money in the wine menu. The sheik atmosphere has several private nooks for conversation. $$$. 555-9925.

Sushi Hyo
"Omakasi," is the keyword for getting opulent sushi that tests the mettle of the chef. We are talking toro that melts on your tongue and scallop tops minced so fine that it feels like velvet in your mouth. Be sure to ask for Chef Ahn. $$$. 545-0023.

Star Chef
The menu is playful Asian fusion and the taste is mind-boggling. If you want a meal to excite the appetite then this is your place. I recommend the Beef and Mushroom Salad and the Whole Fried Fish. Go to Maebang Exit 5. $$. 529-8248.

Tutti Matti
Is it a bar? Is it a club? Is it a café? Is it a restaurant? Yes, it's all of the above. Tutti Matti in Garosugil has the premier Resto-Lounge in the city and it's a concept that others have tried to copy and have failed. Here you will get great food and wines in a sheik atmosphere and then you can mosey on down to the club in basement after your meal. 511-0334.

Zen Hideaway
This is a place with a great sense of style. It has a very Asian upscale aesthetic to it. The lighting, the menu, and atmosphere make it great place to have a quiet evening contemplating thoughts of romance. The menu is Asian fusion and they have range of choices from noodles to sushi rolls. It is located near Designer Club in Apgujeong. $$. 541-1461. www.zenhideaway.com

Coffee, Wine, and dessert in Gangnam, Apgujeong

Gustimmos
The one on Rodeo was the first and I still think their gelato is the best in Seoul. Get a cup and go for a walk or get takeout to cool off later. $. www.gustimos.com

느리게 걷기 This slow food café is a great place to relax after your meal. They have coffee, tea, spirits, and wine. The high ceilings and servers that are actually models. It is a great place to relax and gawk at the beautiful surroundings. $$. www.walkingslowly.co.kr. 02.544.3082.

Hongdae and City Hall Areas Where to Eat

Primo Bacio Baci
It means "kiss, kiss" and it has been a long time favorite of university students. The food is creative and inexpensive and they have a nice selection of wines that won't break the bank. I can't promise there won't be a line out the door, so be sure to get there early. $. 323-0098.

Kunstbe
It's an upscale steak, wine, and pasta place that has fondue. I think fondue is perfect for Valentine's day. If you agree I think is the place to go. They also do an excellent steak. $$. www.kunstbe.com 335-1139.

Spannew
It's a decent Italian place that has chocolate pizza. Yes, chocolate pizza that is topped with cheese, pistachios, and cashews. The pasta is not half bad either. $. www.spannew.com 757-0817.

Coffee, Wine, and Dessert

Aa Design Museum
Aa Design Museum is great for coffee and dessert. The coffee mugs are even well designed. Go there to see what I mean. $. www.aadesignmuseum.com 3143-7311.

Cacao Boom
Cacao Boom has…I think I should quote my friend… "chocolate that makes me want to squeal." The Belgium style confectionaries are aphrodisiacs. $. www.cacaoboom.com. 3141-4663.

플로랄 고양이 N∀I If you are looking for a wine bar with a cat in a fuzzy bathtub, then you need to go to IAN. It is near Hapjeong Station and the wine bar is very kitsch. $$. www.andthewine.com 3143-1975.

La Four
On Hapjeong's Café Street, you'll find a French Bakery where you can rent the oven, use the equipment, and have the space to make your beau your own cake. $. http://cafe.naver.com/lefour. 02-326-6218

J's Kitchen
Samcheongdong seems to be the place to go for coffee and dessert and my favorite place is J's Kitchen. The cakes are homemade with all natural ingredients and the setting is delightful. $. www.jscake.com 742-4810.

Itaewon and City Hall
Where to Eat

Bon et Beau Over by the Cheil building is a new upscale French restaurant whose authentic cuisine has quickly found a rich following. They make a Caesar salad that Caesar would be proud to eat. My favorite so far has been the Glavlax Salmon Blini and the Lamb. $$$. 3785-3330.

Chef Meili There are so many options at Chef Meili. You could pick out some house-made artisan sausages or cold cuts and make your date a delicious dinner or you could go inside and enjoy a candlelit dinner especially made for Valentine's Day. $$. 794-7024.

Gecko's Garden
Hidden behind the Hamilton Hotel is where this gem has been for years. Another mainstay of Itaewon that has been giving its patrons refined fare in a legal setting. I recommend the lamb, the salmon, and the fresh baked bread. $$. www.geckosterrace.com/garden_english/home.htm 790-0540.

Macaroni Market
The beautiful interior has large windows that overlook the dreary street. Now for some strange reason it makes the street look optimistic. This restaurant is a market and upscale bistro that is bold with flavor combinations. There is Spicy Pork Belly with chili jam, a wasabi and steak sandwich, and even a banana, cranberry, and maple syrup sandwich on the menu. $$. 749-9181.

Le Saint-Ex Behind the Hamilton Hotel you will find this unpresumptuous French Restaurant that has the most amazing dessert tray in Itaewon. The desserts looks so well sculpted that the only utensil that seems fitting to eat it with should be a golden fork. The menu changes depending on available ingredients- a good sign that the chef is proficient. $$. 795-2465.

OK2 Kitchen
This has become of Seoul's most popular restaurants because it sticks to its principles. They make almost everything in-house and they place very high importance on service and quality. The atmosphere has an artist's touch and everything about the place will leave a deep and lasting impression. I recommend the coursed menus. www.ofoodart.com 02.797.6420

Suji's They have 3 locations: Itaewon, COEX, and Bundang always has great American-style food in an upscale atmosphere. If you are tired of eating French, Italian, or Korean- this is a great place to go. I heard that their New York Style deli sandwiches are scrumptious. Phone: (02) 797-3698

Top Cloud
What a view. Seoul from the 33rd floor is pristine. You are paying a premium for the view and the food is not too bad either. If you are worried about what to order, just get the Australian Filet Mignon coursed meal and just sit back and enjoy the sparkling skyline. $$$. www.topcloud.co.kr 2230-3000.

Villa Sortinos
Villa Sortinos has quickly established itself as the top upscale Italian place in Itaewon that usurped the original Sortinos across the street. Sortinos has been consistent with its quality and service for a long time. The new venue has matched its sophistication with atmosphere.My favorites are the white pizza, the pork chop, and the risotto. $$. www.sortinos-seoul.com 553-9000.

Vin Vino
This classy wine and tapas bar has a wide selection of wines and foods to choose from. The lamb lollipops are a treat and so is the cheese plate. The romantically lit atmosphere, wine, and large selection of finger foods are a great foreplay for a Valentine's Night. $$. 02-711-9171.

Zelen
The authentic Bulgarian dishes in an atmosphere that reminds of a garden is a perfect romantic place to go on Valentine's day. The spinach rollada dish is the perfect starter and they have many couple sets of meals so you can share. The wine prices are reasonable, so have a bottle or two, and finish your meal with homemade yogurt topped with honey. $$. 02 749-0600

Coffee, Wine, and Dessert

Tartine
Strawberry Rhubarb pie. Blueberry, Cherry, Pecan, and Lemon Meringue Pie. Oh, pies with a crisp crust that snaps under the weight of a fork. Oh, pies that hang over my head like a halo. Pies. Pies. Pies. Get a pie and take it home because the café is always packed. Actually, get two. 3785-3400.

Chef Meili
Gluhwein is spiced mulled wine and Chef Christian Meilinger makes a great mug of it. And although he won't say so himself, his desserts are divine. $. 794-7024.

19st. Neal's Yard
This café looks like it belongs in Apgujeong, but I'm glad it is in Itaewon. They make good coffee and they have a wide range of dessert and brunch selections. $. 794-7278.

Above
Behind the Hamilton Hotel, this candle lit bar has a wide wine selection and some excellent desserts. I recommend the chocolate muffin. I think all chocolate cakes should be warm and oozing. $$. 749-0717. Passion 5 It is the headquarters for the Paris Croissant and Paris Baguette Empire. The shop below has a chocolatier, bakery, deli, and café. $$. 2071-9505.

This is a question I often get from readers and I wanted to repost it. 

It's best to find a local butcher. You'll find them around in each neighborhood, but it really depends on the kind of meat that you would want and the cut. You would go to the chicken guy to get chicken. Most of the fish you can get fairly fresh at a market or you can go to noryrangjin: the fish market. For pork and beef, you'll find a separate shop and it's just important you know what cut you are looking for. Here's a list of cuts of beef and they are applicable to pork as well.

갈비 Short Rib/Plate
갈비본살 Boneless Chuck Short Rib
갈비심 Rib Eye Roll
곱창 Small Intestine
긴 혀 Tongue Long Cut
꼬리 Ox Tail
꾸리살(전각살) Chuck Tender
대창 Large Intestine
도가니 Leg Cartiledge
뒷사태 Hind Shank
등갈비 Back Rib
목갈비 Chuck Short Rib
목심 Chuck Roll
보섭살 Rump Round
볼살 Cheek Meat
부채살(서대살) Top Blade(Flat Iron)
뼈사태 Bone-in Shin Shank
사분도체 Quarter
사태 Shin Shank
살치살 Chuck Flap
설깃 Outside Round
설도상 Top Sirloin Butt
설도하(도가니살) Knuckle
소간 Liver
스지 Tendon
안심 Tenderloin
안창살 Outside Skirt, Thin Skirt, Diaphragm
알목심 Chuck Eye Roll
앞다리(대분할) Chuck
앞다리(소분할) Shoulder Clod
앞사태 Fore Shank
양(1위) Tride Intestine
우둔상 Round Top, Inside
우둔하 Round Bottom
우설 Beef Tongue
우족 Beef Feet
이분도체 Side (Half Carcass)
잡육 Trimming
정선 혀 Tongue Swiss Cut
제비추리 Neck Chain(Rope Meat)
중간 혀 Tongue Square Cut
짧은 혀 Tongue Short Cut
차돌백이 Brisket,,Deckle off
차돌양지 Brisket,Flank
채끝(채끝등심) Striploin (Striploin)
치마살 Thin Flank
토시살 Hanging Tender, Thick Skirt
홍두깨살 Eye of Round

In Korea, the cuts near the bone are more expensive. Galbi is quite expensive, but other cuts such as brisket and flank are not. Also the bones are expensive because they are used for soup.

There are kosher butchers in Itaewon as well.

Thank you so much for reading! And I hope this helps!

Dan

Go Saints and Colts! (that's who are playing right?)

I received this message from my buddy James:

Hi Daniel,

Before I ask google, I was hoping you can help me with something. I was wondering if there are places in Seoul that will be showing the Superbowl live. It would be a Monday morning for us here in Korea (about 8~9am) so I'm not getting my hopes up... just a spot where I can possibly get a coffee and nurse a short stack of pancakes for 4 hours while I watch the entire game. HA!

Thanks,

James

So, I decided to send out a couple of e-mails and the first person to respond was the Wolfhound. Yes, they will be celebrating the Superbowl and kickoff is at 8:25am and they'll be serving their entire menu.

Here's Wayne from the Wolfhound:

We are planning on being open for it.  This will be our third year in a row showing it.  It kicks off at 8:25am Monday morning if I am correct.  Our full menu will be open however most people order the breakfast.  If they do order the breakfast expect a wait!

We plan on doing a bloody mary special.

Wayne

Beer O'Clock in Sincheon will be doing something that evening. Here's Clark from Beer O'Clock.

Hey Daniel,

We won't be showing the game live but will be showing it in the evening. For the Super Bowl only we will be offering our customers CHILI!!! That means...chili dogs, chili nachos,chili fries and....well just chili!

If you can pass this on to your readers we would really appreciate it! The game should start around 8:30.

Thanks!

Clark

I just found out that Yaletown in Sincheon will also be holding a Superbowl Party.

Part of my work involves doing research on the perceptions of Korean food by non-Koreans. There was a controversy about the spelling of Makgeolli and how the spelling could lead to mispronunciation. Watch the video to see how people pronounce the suggested spellings of makgeolli.


My position is that the current, standard spelling is fine and that the Korean government shouldn't spend money on changing the spelling. Instead, they should work to get the drink overseas and to have people try it.

Here's Tony: 

A U S T R A L I A  D A Y Tuesday 26th Jan. 8pm @ my place of course! See you here!!

http://www.tonysitaewon.com/ 

We started out with some pelmeni which are little dumplings made with lamb meat.

Selyodka pod shuboj is like a layered smoked salmon and lox dish. It has beets on top and then a layer of mayonnaisse, potatoes, I believe onions and then a smoked fish on the bottom. The flavors all together merge into a very pleasant medley of flavors. The subtle potatoes are sweetened with the tart beets and then you get that smokey fish pop.

Solyanka is a slightly sour soup with sausage, olives, cucumbers, and paprika and topped with sour cream and green onions. Delicious as well.

Farshirova niij perets- stuffed pepper dish.

Sorry, for the quick post, but I have to get ready for work. Thanks for reading and does anyone know of any Ethiopian restaurants in Korea? I've heard there is one. I just don't know where it is.

Dan