Bottoms Up - VB Cafe

VB Cafe, a healthy cafe in Sinsa-dong of the Garosugil street is the one place to go to for a drink and healthy eats without feeling guilty of a splurge. VB is a cafe on the first floor and a diet lab on the second floor, offering products and services for guests. 

In the VB Cafe, the drinks are all made of healthy ingredients, with the most popular being red ginseng. It is extremely strong and overpowering taste if you are not a fan of ginseng, I do not suggest going for it. The VB fruitade is a suggested drink that is recommended for anyone looking for a cool refreshing drink. 

The best part is the healthy desserts VB Cafe offers which include a strawberry roll cake and a green tea soy cake. Made of all healthy ingredients and even vegan, VB Cafe is the one place to go to for anyone on a strict diet or looking to maintain beauty.

Straight from exit 8 of Sinsa station on line 3, take a left when you reach Tous Le Jours bakery on the corner. Go straight along the famous Garosu-gil shopping street until you reach the corner where VB cafe is on the left.

Phone Number: 080-023-5454

My Current Obsession - Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer

When I went home to America, I went on a huge splurge at Sephora and picked up the Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer which is Oil Free and great for sensitive skin. With a base of shimmer, it is the one product that provides great coverage and blends extremely well with my skin. It's a bit difficult to find a color for a mixed base, but Illusion is able to fill in the gaps. This light and gentle product is one thing I am obsessed with and will recommend to anyone with sensitive skin and psoriasis. The coverage on this product is amazing! Because it is a moisturizer with color, it saves on the amount of time you need to pile on the extra moisturizer. It is definitely great for hot summer days or humid spring days when you just don't want to pile on the extra moisturizer but need to keep your skin's elasticity! 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Bens Cookies

Ben's Cookies is a new store that recently opened in Itaewon serving soft freshly baked cookies. Soft is emphasized because Koreans do not believe in soft cookies (even those at Subway are over baked compared to those back in America). All cookies are baked daily on the premises with traditional flavored cookies and new mixes. It is the one recommendation to be made for anyone looking for a hot cookie fresh from the oven with melted chocolate chips, yes it is that good. It is totally worth paying $3 a cookie because it is impossible to find soft baked cookies in Korea! Cookies are rather thick compared to those found in America which is why they are soft. It is the closest thing to an under baked cookie so settle for the thickness of it!

This small shop is baking up goodies right behind the cashier, attracting all guests with their open window display of cookies and red interior. Soft, fluffy, crispy on the outside, they are all worth a taste. Straight from exit 2 of Itaewon station, go straight for about three blocks and it will be on your left.

Update: There is now a small shop right outside exit 9 of the Hongik station on line 2. Bear a left at the exit and you will see it on your left!

Hidden Treasures - Casablanca

Casablanca is probably hands down, the best joint in Seoul. This hidden treasure is the one recommendation to anyone for a special meal that is not only cheap, but delicious. What is there to know? You're paying $4-5 for a Moroccan sandwich that is made fresh from scratch, including the bread. Baked fresh everyday, the small restaurant opens at 5PM and closes when the bread sells out. Exactly that, the bread sells out as early as 8pm. 

The two brothers bake up a fresh crispy and flaky bread on the exterior and soft and fluffy on the interior. The fresh bread helps to accentuate the taste of the sandwich that is made with maokooda (a special spiced fried potato patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, olive, and pickles). Although the restaurant is known for their chicken sandwich, the lamb chili is the one recommendation to be made. If possible, buying the bread should be an option, but too bad it's not. 

It is totally worth it to make a travel up a hill just to grab a sandwich from the two brothers. Although the restaurant is extremely small in size, they try to serve up the goodies as fast as possible and take out is the way to go if there is no seats available. In addition to the amazing sandwiches, there is a small menu of cheap goodies which includes side salad and a small soup. This quick stop restaurant is the place to go to grab a bite and be on your way for drinks elsewhere in Itaewon.

From the Noksapyeong station on line 6 of the brown, take exit 2 and go straight to the light. Take the hill up on your left and go straight. Go all the way up and after a long 5 minute walk, you will see an international market on your left. Past the market, you will see Casablanca on your left. 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Sugar Daddy

Everyone knows I have the craziest sweet tooth, especially for cupcakes. I have been on the search in Seoul for forever now to find the best cupcakes and constantly let down each time. Sugar Daddy is definitely the only one that comes close, almost the perfect cupcake. Sugar Daddy is an extremely small shop in Itaewon where the baker is in the store baking and decorating as she sells cupcakes from the same table. This extremely small and cozy spot is filled with all things delicious which are not only cupcakes! 

Sugar Daddy offers cupcake sized pies, mini cheesecakes, fudge bars, cookies, and cupcakes of traditional flavors as well as all things crazy. Many of the ingredients used in the recipes are ordered from foreign markets and online stores which explains the quality of the baked goods. Furthermore, the owner (Yumi Jung) tries to incorporate all things crazy that Americans love into her baked goods which provides her with another bonus thumbs up.

I am absolutely in love with Sugar Daddy for the amazing service for starters. Yumi had two stools in front and offered seating for us to consume our root beer cupcake and key lime pie. She then proceeded to offer us a cup of tea, Australia's T2 tea which she allowed us to choose from a wide selection of flavors. Halfway into our baked goods, she then offered us a freshly baked cookie from her cooling rack. 

In terms of her baked goods: the root beer cupcake is definitely a special kind of cupcake which is a fun eat. The root beer kick to the cupcake takes it to a whole new level. I'm personally not a fan of root beer, but this cupcake definitely changed my mind. Topped with a "scoop of icecream" and a "straw" for consumption, this cute it is a blast of flavor with a fluffy cake base, whipped fondant-icing like cream, and a drizzle of deliciousness. 

The mini key lime pie, made of a graham cracker base that is topped with a key lime filling is also on point. The tart key lime is not overpowering and it is the perfect blend with the crust, definitely a recommendation for anyone looking for something tangy but not too sour. The cookies are made of all things crazy as well, but like most Korean cookies, they are all hard and not soft-baked, but still delicious in taste!

For my cupcake hunt in Korea, I think I have found the best and closest thing. I definitely recommend Sugar Daddy to anyone who is looking for that perfect cupcake. With so much to choose from, you may be spending a little more than anticipated. Cupcakes and baked goods average at $4.50 a pop, cookies priced at $1 and totally worth every penny of it!

From the Noksapyeong station on line 6 of the brown, take exit 2 and go straight to the light. Take the hill up on your left and go straight. Go up the hill and you will see the small shop of Sugar Daddy on your right. This location in Haebangchon is actually closed.

updated
For the Itaewon Sugar Daddy shop that recently opened in replacement of the location above in Haebangchon, take exit 4 of the Itaewon station on line 6 and go straight by the McDonald's.

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Rotiboy

Rotiboy is a bakery that originated in Malaysia and made its way to Seoul, bringing the signature rotiboybun with a butter filling and coffee flavored topping over a freshly baked round bun. For just a measly $2, this delicious bun is the perfect snack or even meal taken fresh from the oven with a soft and moist interior, crispy coffee topping. It is one of the most recognized coffee buns that has made its way into the hearts of Korean and a bun that many Korean bakeries incorporate in their menu as well. Rotiboy is the original and nothing can compare to the fresh delicious coffee bun that you can find in a Rotiboy shop so be sure to stop in the next time you see one of these franchises around!

Makeup Review - Clio Perfection Make-Up Fix Mist

I previously blogged about the Nature Republic Botanical BB Fixer which is like the Korean version of Urban Decay's Make Up setter. Since then, I have found a brand that is known for clubbing and makeup, Clio. Clio has their own take on the makeup setter spray to keep your makeup on all night and the size is a lot bigger than the Nature Republic's. The Perfection Make-Up Fix Mist is a moisturizing Vitamin C spray that helps to hold your makeup through the day. Light and gentle to the skin, simply spray on after your makeup has been applied.

It doesn't have a great smell, but for the most part, it is something that helps to keep the makeup on. It is perfect for daily use, but not during the hot summer day because you'll feel as if you have too much on your skin. For the Fall season that is approaching and winter days, it is the perfect makeup setter that I will purchase again.

Korean Traditional Eat - Jjim Dalk 찜닭

찜닭 is a spicy dish that originated in Andong. It is composed of chicken chopped into pieces, boiled in a simmering sauce made of whole garlic, onions, ginger and a green chili pepper (not the original red in Korea) called Cheongyang gochu 청양고추.  It is then served with glass noodles and vegetables like potato, carrots, and cucumbers. The spicy level of this Korean traditional eat can be altered to the taste buds of guests. If tolerable, going for the spicy kick leaves you with a more traditional taste of this dish. This family style dish is commonly served in a big plate with scissors allowing for you to cut the long glass noodles and bigger chunks of vegetables. 

Restaurant Review - Clinton Street Baking Co & Restaurant

Clinton Street Baking Co. & Restaurant

4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002 

The Clinton Street Baking Co is the place to be. Known for serving up breakfast goods and brunch delicious everything, the Clinton Street Baking Co has been featured on a handful of magazines, newspapers, and television shows, including Throwdown with Bobby Flay. What is so special about this spot? Everything. 

Do not take that with a grain of salt. The restaurant is a tiny, I mean tiny spot that constantly has a line, even before doors open! With a menu that caters to all breakfast goodies: pancakes, waffles, omlettes, toast, they even make their own homemade jam that is to die for. Clinton Street Baking Co. & Restaurant definitely lives up to their title to have the best pancakes in town. They are made with the freshest ingredients and the seasonal recommendations are worth trying as well. They cater to the best ingredients of each season, incorporating it in the best way possible.

The best part is probably being able to get breakfast foods at any time of the day for many. From 9am to 6pm, breakfast is served fresh and practically the perfect early dinner, 7 days a week. Making a trip to Lower East Side is definitely worth it and it is recommended to be there before doors open, thats if you don't want to wait outside with the many locals and tourists that come around the world to sample their goodies. At the very minimum, staff comes out from time to time with goodies to hold your stomach as you wait for your seat inside. 

Bottoms Up - HOW 何友 Tea House

HOW 何友 Tea House is a location that is recognized for their architectural concept. With two floors of seating and a mini garden along with an outdoor patio, it is one of the most recognized locations internationally amongst architects. The concept of the tea house is built around traditional Korean tea with an urban twist. The owner reconstructed a two floor building to create a first floor of traditional Korean sit down tea areas that are separated into rooms for privacy and a second floor of old English inspired seatings with vintage collections of decoration and furniture. The second floor consists of open spacious tables and seatings for guests to enjoy, even a large private room in the back for those who are looking for a private setting. 

The concept of the tea house is based around organic foods and a healthy life style. Although this is not a popular place for lunch, it is a perfect place for brunch, tea time, and even wine enjoyment. The owner customizes a small menu of all organic food, with very simple ingredients to promote healthy eating. This includes both wester (sandwich sets, salads, and cheese platters) and traditional Korean eats like the glutinous rice 찹쌀. It is the perfect place for a relaxing talk with friends, even a date setting.

Removing your shoes upon entrance is a must to keep the facility clean and it is a way to maintain traditional Korean concept of no shoes in the house. They provide guests with slippers for the outdoor patio if needed to be used. This outdoor patio is constructed as a place to enjoy the view of plants and flowers, with window panes that shines light into the second floor during the day. There is also an outdoor location for those guests who are looking to enjoy a smoke. 

Although this is a hidden location, it is extremely popular among local businessmen and women and those who are looking for more a traditional way to enjoy their time. How Tea promotes a relaxing and healthy diet for all guests, serving radish tea that helps to cleanse the system. They are not only recognized for their architectural efforts, but also the efforts to maintaining good health and service. Staff is extremely friendly and warm in providing their best efforts, making the time at How Tea that much more enjoyable.

Fresh on the Market - A'Pieu Apple Acid Perfect Salt Scrub

One of the newer cosmetic stores to open in Korea is A'Pieu and I couldn't help but to pick up a goodie. I was in need of a new face scrub and found the Apple Acid Perfect Salt Scrub which is perfect for those with sensitive skin and psoriasis! Totally in love with the product that is gentle to the skin and smells exactly like green apples. This scrub is extremely mild in chemicals and it is an extremely light scrub that will not scratch or harm the skin. It is a definite recommendation for anyone who thinks that scrubs with exfoliations are too rough for the skin.

Korean Twist - Omelette

This dish is similar to the Korean Traditional Eat of omelette rice, the only difference is that this restaurant twists up this traditional eat with an extremely LONG sushi board and fills with egg with cheese and a handful of vegetables. It is the Korean take on the omelette, definitely something that blows the traditional breakfast food out the door! This is a dish that must be shared between a group of people!

Bottoms Up - Caffe Pascucci

With so many coffee shops in Korea and everyone having their own favorite, it's difficult to distinguish one from another because the menus are relatively the same. One thing that sets Cafe Pascucci from the rest is the fact that their frappes are topped with a ball of ice cream rather whip cream. It doesn't help you save on the calories, but its definitely perfect for someone looking for an Affogato without having to sacrifice a cup of blended coffee, definitely perfect for a hot summer day. 

Product Review - Clio Diamond Rose Foundation

Clio is one of the rising brands in Korea and I am totally obsessed with their Kill Slim eyeliner. I decided to give their products a try, especially their liquid liner, but I wasn't too impressed. This review on the Clio Diamond Rose Foundation may be of another disappointment as well. I was extremely excited to finally find a color in Korea that matches my darker skin tone, but for some reason, this just wasn't it. 

The color compliments my skin tone, but the foundation does not stick to my skin the way I want it to. With use, you are able to see the lines on along the face left by your brush, not matter how it is applied. It does not stick on the way I want it to so I definitely do not think it is worth the investment. I barely have negative reviews, but this is one that I am not actually happy about.

Traditional Korean Eat - Fish Cake 오뎅

This Korean traditional eat is usually a street food yum, but some restaurants take it indoor for those who are looking for a more special kick and an upgrade on the dish. Restaurants specialize in making a spicy radish soup base and serve it boiling with sticks of fish cake 오뎅 for your enjoyment. The best part about eating this street food yum indoors is that you're sheltered from the cold and you are able to sit down and enjoy it. 

Such restaurants also have other dishes to add with this meal and for most Koreans, the most important is the option of alcoholic beverages to enjoy with a group of friends. Side dishes and other snacks can be ordered for those who are looking for more of a filling meal, but definitely one of my favorite street food yums and I just can't get enough of. Price differences of course is extreme, considering a stick of fish cake from the streets can cost you a measly 50 cents for the very least, average at a dollar a stick, but in restaurants, look to pay at around $20-30 for a bowl with about 10 sticks. 

Traditional Korean Eat - Pigs Feet 족발

One of the weirdest sounding, but extremely tasty and popular eat amongst the locals is pigs feet, literally. 족발 is one thing that a lot of Koreans go crazy for, I mean crazy. Although it is not a popular dish amongst foreigners, it is definitely something to try. When served, pig's feet doesn't look as bad as you may think it is. It is quite appealing and looks like regular pork meat. Pig's feet is usually used for making broths for all kinds of soups, but Koreans sure know how to put a twist on this ingredient and make it something spectacular. Cooked full of flavor, the pig's feet is sliced and served with a dish of vegetables. To be enjoyed like BBQ meat, you can wrap and dip in a special sauce that it is served with. Because it is pig's feet, it is served with the full on fat, crunchy pieces of cartilages and occasionally, a few pieces of bones. The bones are one thing to look out for, but this dish does taste a lot better than it sounds. 

In addition to being served as whole, sliced up, pigs feet is also incorporated with a handful of other meats, usually sea food, stirred up for your enjoyment. When stir fried with other ingredients, it usually includes a ton of spice, a level beyond imaginable for many foreigners so be careful when ordering!