This was published in the Friday, March 12th 2010 issue of the Korea Herald. Italian food isn't hard to find, but popularity doesn't mean that just any spaghetti would be something that an Italian would find palatable.  Of course, there are the reliable standbys such as Sortinos in Itaewon, Seoul, Antonio in Cheongdam and Primo Baci Baci in Hongdae. But for every reliable Italian restaurant, there are at least three duds. So are there any good new Italian restaurants in Seoul? I was determined to find out. I chose three: Dam Dam in Hongdae, J and T Trattoria near Seoul National University and Lugo in Apgujeong. Each has positives and negatives, and since they are different price ranges, there's one for everyone's budget. Dam Dam 2595 In a hidden Hongdae back alley is a cute little restaurant. It has a brick exterior with moss growing between the cracks - appropriate for a good first impression. Its two-syllable name, "Dam Dam," is a holler to every...

Dam Dam in Hongdae is owned by a friend of Hoya's. It's a little hidden away restaurant that serves well-prepared food at unbelievably low prices. I mean have you seen good Pomodoro pasta go for 7,000 won? You can get the Spicy Pescatore for only 7,000 as well (plus VAT) The place is kitchy, so it's a great place for a casual dinner or a first date for University Students. Here is my friend Hoya. She got the pasta vongole and it was a sizable portion. I got the Shrimp Tempura with Indian Curry. The curry is well spiced and thick. I was quite shocked because I expected the yellow abomination that you normally find at a 7,000 won price point. Be sure to check it out They have Pasta and Curry. If you get a set, you get salad and coffee included. There is a 10% VAT added Address: 서울시 마포구 상수동 312-4 #:  070-8848-2595 Directions: Go out Sangsu Station exit 1 and walk until you see the Hongdae Parking lot. Make a right and go down the first alley. It'll be on your...