Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Maman Gateau 마망갸또

Maman Gataeu is a dessert cafe as well as a baking academy that actually specializes in all things caramel. With a dessert menu that averages at $5 a plate and caramel for almost $1 a piece, it is honestly a must visit. They obviously offer other things on the menu, being it is a well-recognized baking school in Seoul. Maman Gataeu bakes up all things sweet which includes cheesecakes, roll cakes, layered cakes and more. They also offer a wide range of coffee selection and drinks for guests to enjoy, catering to the season and speciality items of that very season.

With two locations, one out in Hongdae and another in Sinsa, it is a must visit for anyone who is looking to enjoy some good dessert away from the busy streets. The location in Hongdae is closer to the Hapjeong station, where the quieter street of restaurants and coffee shops are in Hongdae. Although the Sinsa location is by the busy streets of Garosu-gil, you can definitely find peace at this dessert cafe.

Hongdae Location: 02-3141-9664 Opened from 12-11PM
서울시 마포구 서교동 395-113 (Mapo-gu, Seogyo Dong, 395-113)
Sinsa Garosu-gil Location: 070-4353-5860
서울시 강남구 신사동 524-27 1F Cafe, 2F Baking School (Gangnam-gu, Sinsa-dong 524-27)

Restaurant Review - Kyochon

Kyochon is one famous Korean chicken joint back in America because it is practically the one branch that made its way to the States. Ironic enough that I have never had Kyochon back in America, but my first time was actually in Seoul, Korea. Catering to both the American and Korean taste buds, Kyonchon is actually one of the better Korean fried chicken chain restaurants in town. The fried chicken served at Kyochon differs from the other restaurants, being mostly there are a limited number of choices. 

Kyochon offers a few more flavors and different types of chicken which makes it that much more amazing of a chain restaurant. For starters, Kyochon is the one of the very few fried chicken restaurants that actually serves chicken strips. Best part is they actually have three different dipping sauces for you which include a honey mustard, sweet and sour and a more traditional BBQ sauce. In addition to this, you can find deep fried chicken that is not too heavily battered embedded in sauce. With a handful of different sauces to choose from, eating at Kyochon is difficult with a few people only because there is so much to choose from. Nonetheless, it is a spot that I will visit back home. Unfortunately for me, the prices just won't be the same because everything is cheaper in Korea.

Fresh on the Market - Cafe J BROWN

One of the newest chains to make its way over to Korea is the Artisan Chocolatier Cafe J BROWN.  Coffee shops are all over Korea and there's nothing special about a lot of the new ones. It is definitely great to find a new cafe that is specializing in all things chocolate and sweet, all desserts and drinks are paired with some kind of chocolate made fresh in store. With a new branch that opened in the Hongdae Hapjeong area, Cafe J BROWN is a must visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. 

As you pass this store on the corner, you may think it is just a storefront that sells desserts packaged to go, but in fact, there is a cafe downstairs. The concept is a little different where you pay separately for your dessert and drinks at the two different floors. Entrance is where all the dessert goodies are where you pay for your piece(s) and they will bring it downstairs to decorate and plate for your enjoyment. When you go downstairs, you will be given a drink menu where you pay again for your drinks. 

Desserts and drinks vary in price, on average costing about $6 a piece, a cup. Quite a splurge on an afternoon dessert, but this is actually average for drinks in Korea. The one good thing is that you feel as if you are getting more for your money because of the fact that they are dedicating a lot of effort into presentation. You may think that you are getting some kind of regular drink or dessert, but in fact you are in for a surprise. Desserts are decked out with some kind of chocolate addition, macarons included. The best part about the drinks is that they are all served with some kind of chocolate which makes your drink that much more amazing. Because many do not know about this, you can practically skip out on the dessert if you are consuming alone.

The one complaint to make about Cafe J BROWN is the fact that their Napoleon dessert is nothing like the traditional Napoleon that is made with layers of chocolate and cream. The Napoleon, like many other desserts in Korea is made their own way, with their own twist. Rather than using layers of flakiness, it is an actual cake. This cake is in fact great in presentation, but definitely not something I recommend for someone who is looking for more of the traditional cake. On another note, although this cake concentrates on chocolate, its cream and cake layers are overpowering to the point where you cannot really taste the chocolate, not the best splurge for $6.

Address: 298-10 Mapo-gu, Seogyo-dong
마포구 서교동 298-10
Phone: 02-324-7676

Product Review - Missha Creamy Matte Lip Rouge

Missha's Creamy Matte Lip Rouge in PK03, a pink that I have been dying to get for a while now for the very reason that is light on the skin. The matte color works extremely well with my lip except the fact that there is not enough moisture in the lipstick. There are a handful of other lipsticks that Missha and Innisfree carries that are not as dry as this one. Because of the dry feeling, the lip color does not glide on perfectly.

I would probably not buy the Creamy Matte Lip Rouge again because the line is dry. It would be best if the color blended well, especially with lip balm underneath. Although the color is amazing, the lipstick itself tends to fall apart too easily for my liking meaning I would probably not recommend this line from Missha.

Restaurant Review - Bonjour Hawaii

Bonjour Hawaii is a new restaurant in Hongdae that is bringing the concept of Hawaii to Korea. It is one of the cutest concept serving French and Pacific food over three floors of indoor and outdoor seating. Even with indoor seating of air conditioned space, it is the one restaurant where outdoor seating is more preferred. With colored beach umbrellas and plastic school-like seating, the best time to visit Bonjour Hawaii is  during the day where you are out in the sun, but an evening at Bonjour Hawaii to enjoy the food is recommended as well.

With dishes averaging about $15 a plate and topped with a flower, it is the perfect date spot to go and enjoy a few BBQ dishes. Almost all dishes are served with a side of fries, salad topped with sweet dressing and an American corn on the cob. That's right, it's not the Korean chewy corn on the cob, but a yellow buttered BBQ corn. Although the taste isn't amazing because it is a little on the dry side, it is the only places in Korea that serves actual foreign corn on the cob. Another recommended dish is their meat loaf that is topped with gravy and two sunny side up eggs that is the perfect dip for your fries immersed in their gravy. 

The concept of Bonjour Hawaii centralizes around tiki and outdoor seating with coconuts that you can enjoy a drink with friends. Because of this, it is more recommended to visit if you're looking for a place to lounge out and enjoy a drink. With a menu in English as well, ordering is extremely easy. When entering the premises, you simply order before going upstairs to the seating area. Paying first, they provide you with a buzzer that will ring when your food is ready. Simply pick it up from the second floor along with utensils and enjoy your meal. Once finished, someone will clean up after you so you don't even have to worry about putting things back.

Bonjour Hawaii is in a hidden area in between Hongdae and Hapjeong station off of the main street which may make it difficult to find. Be sure that once you see the Castle restaurant, you take a right into the smaller streets and another right after that. 

Address: "Rainbow Street" 395-112 Seogyo-Dong Mapo-gu, Seoul

마포구 서교동 395-112  

Phone Number: 010-9756-5406

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Lady M Crepe Cake

Lady M is known for her cakes made of crepe, twenty thin layers of crepe combined to form a perfect cake. The Lady M Green Tea Mille Crepes uses green tea powder infused into every layer. It is something worth trying to understand the complexity behind piling together 20 sheets of crepes. Luckily for those who are not in the New York area to enjoy this sweet, you can order it online for satisfaction and sharing maybe not in your household. The cake is extremely light in taste and a limited amount of sugar is used. Therefore, it can be enjoyed for those of all ages. 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - La Eskimo

La Eskimo is a small bakery serving up some amazing desserts and bagels on the second floor of the famous Garosu-gil shopping street. They are well known for the number of tart choices they have that is filled with all things from cremes to fruits. In adition to that, there are pound cakes and laof cakes that are over the top and filling.

My one favorite from La Eskimo is their bagel section. This is one of the very few places in Seoul that offer different kinds of fruits, nuts and toppings baked into the bagel. Toasted and served with a homemade cream cheese without the extra charge, it is my recommendation for just $2.80. In addition to the many good dessert choices, there is a wide selection of drinks from coffees to refreshing lemonades.

The seating of La Eskimo is extremly fun and opening to guests. They offer a long table seating that can be shared with a group of people or just between strangers. In addition to that, there are round tables for bigger groups which is usually not available in Seoul. There are also seating for smaller number of guests and date settings as well.

Directions: From the Sinsa station on line 3, take exit 8 and go straight until you reach Tous Le Jours bakery on your left. Take a left at the corner and go straight along the Garosu-gil shopping street until you see a sign for La Eskimo on your right, leading up to the second floor.

Address: Apgujeong 12 Gil 27
압구정로 12 길 27

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Mango Six

Mango Six is the one place in Korea that allows for you to get mangoes in everything. They offer choices of drinks and desserts that incorporate this all time favorite. Using mangoes, they make drinks paired with tapioca, coconut, banana, kiwi and even served as a dessert with fruits and shaved ice. They do not skimp out on the amount of mangoes used and it is the place to go to for any mango lover.

For those who are not looking to indulge in the mango fruit, there are other options as well. Mango Six offers fresh fruit juices that can be served hot or cold after whipped up. Being that they are a cafe, they offer Kona bean coffee from Hawaii along with other small options of foods of soup bowls, and baked goodies.

Another signature mark of the Mango Six franchise is the concept behind their Kuki six dessert options. The six dessert options of choc chip cookie, double choc cookie, coconut cookie, orange cream cheese muffin, earl grey white chocolate muffin and the brownie all comes from the recipe from the famous girl group KARA. Nicole is known for her baking and Mango Six is the only place that you can find these baked goods.

Regardless of what your favorite is, Mango Six is the one franchise that is a must visit for all things good. Of course, it would be smart to go for the mango choice, but there's definitely something to satisfy everyone's taste buds! Be sure to visit a store that is practically located in all of the tourist areas of Seoul.

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Palazzo del Freddo

One of my favorite gelato spots in Korea is Palazzo that has branches all around Seoul with quick stops in the famous shopping areas. A quick pick me up can have you going with a variety of flavors that you cannot find elsewhere. Their flavors vary from day to day with flavors that cater to the taste of foreigners as well as Koreans. The textures of the gelato depend on the flavor that they use with some being extremely thick and others that just simply melt in your mouth.

My ultimate favorite is sesame. Whipped up fresh, it is a full blast of sesame flavor and is so smooth that it just melts in your mouth. For just $2.50 a cone or to be neater to have it in a cup, you definitely can't go wrong with a quick sweet tooth pick me up! One of the most popular ones is Stracciatella among the locals which is another flavor that will melt with each bite. For those who are looking for something more flavorful and thick, definitely go for their chocolate. It is a darker infused chocolate with a taste so creamy and thick that you do want to savor every bite!

Fresh on the Market - Brew 3.14

Brew 3.14 is a cozy spot in a hidden street by the famous tourist area of Jong-ro where all the traditional Korean locations are. The only thing is, Brew 3.14 is not so traditional. Serving up fresh pizzas and calzones to order, it is the perfect place to grab a drink as well as a bite without splurging your wallet. Pizzas are made on a fresh pizza base that is thin and crispy like a flat bread, topped with fresh ingredients. 

This small bar opens at 5pm, catering to the foreigners in town that live in the nearby hostels and hotels. It is the perfect place to go to for a drink that ranges from beers to their twist on bombs. Incorporating fruits, beer, and alcohol, it is a way to satisfy a big kid's stomach in a way that keeps you lingering around. 

Address: 서울 중로구 인사동 95-1번지

Jongno-gu Insadong 95-1

Phone Number: 070-418-3014

Bottoms Up - Cafe Organic

Cafe Organic, a two floor location in Hongdae is one of the recommended places to go to for all things organic. Being that there are so many coffee shops and different places that offer food and snacks, it's difficult to find those that are green and healthy. Cafe Organic offers something different by having organic coffee beans, teas and fresh juices. 

Being that they are using all things organic, the price of Cafe Organic is not like many other coffee shops that can average at $5 a drink. Cafe Organic averages $7 a drink, but service is extremely efficient. It is a recommended location if you are looking for a relaxing, open area to enjoy the quieter streets of Hongdae and a relaxing seating area. 

Directions: Take exit 8 of Hongik University station on the green line 2. Take a right at the exit, go straight pass the curved road to the back alleys. Take a right at the dead end and a left at the next block. Go straight for two blocks and Cafe Organic will be on the corner on your right. 

Address: 마포구 서교동 339-1
339-1 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Phone: 02-332-4650

Restaurant Review - Japanese Kitchen 미카

Japanese Kitchen is a small cozy restaurant located in Sinsa behind the famous shopping street of Garosu-gil that is stirring up a lot of tasty Japanese dishes that range from udon noodles to curry dishes. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating that allows for guest to enjoy a cherry blossomed theme view with an interior that is based around a cherry blossom tree. The concept is extremely traditional, but offers a more modern and classic look. 

Japanese Kitchen serves a food menu up until 5pm where they switch over to a Hof-like location, serving dishes with their wide selection of sake bottles and Japanese beers. Being that it switches over to a Hof, you must order a small dish to consume. Dishes are rather pricey, ranging from $15 to $30, but it also has to do with location. Although it is a bit more expensive, their fried chicken is actually an amazing side dish to enjoy with your drinks. Fried crispy and topped with a sweet and salty soy sauce, it is an amazing combination. 

The one recommendation for Japanese Kitchen is to go during their regular lunch hours for authentic Japanese food. Going later in the night is perfect if you are looking to enjoy a drink with a group of friends. 

Directions to Japanese Kitchen: Directions: Straight from exit 8 of Sinsa station of the orange line 3, take a left when you reach the Tous Le Jours bakery on the corner. Take a left and a right at the following block to walk parallel to the Garosu-gil shopping street. Go straight to the very end and you will see Japanese Kitchen at the four way intersection in front of you. 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Cafe Etonne

Cafe Etonne, located in Hongdae, is probably one of the cheapest places to get amazing desserts that actually caters around presentation. In Korea, presentation of food is extremely important, but with that comes a big price> Cafe Etonne offers desserts that are appealing to the eye without splurging on the wallet. They are pretty on point with taste and they try to whip up desserts and drinks that are unique to the menu.

Of course, Cafe Etonne offers the regular desserts of cake slices, tarts, macarons and all, but the one thing that definitely stands out on the menu is their bing su, shaved ice. They are the only place by far that offers a Sangria Bing Su which is infused with a ton of fresh fruits, piles of ice, drowned in red wine and topped with a ball of ice cream. The only weird thing to this dessert is the chunks of cottage cheese. Koreans have something for cheese that is just explainable, but it is easy to remove and enjoyed. Better yet, tell them to take out the cheese which saves you the trouble of picking!

Cafe Etonne is definitely one place recommended for a date setting as well as girl time. They have a spacious open area with a variety of seating and open windows for you to enjoy the quieter streets of Hongdae. This is one place you do want to visit for cheap desserts in Seoul, Korea.  

Directions: Take exit 8 of Hongik University station on the green line 2. Take a right at the exit, go straight pass the curved road to the back alleys. Take a right at the dead end and a left at the next block. Go straight for two blocks and Cafe Etonne will be on the left upstairs from one of the shopping stores with an entrance at the corner.

Address: 344-14 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Telephone: 070-7583-6432

Cheap Eats - Monster Pizza

Monster Pizza located in Hongdae is probably the only spot in Seoul that serves their pizza by the slice. It may sound a little ridiculous, but this small shack resembles the quick stop pick up that New York is known for. It definitely reminds me of the dollar pizza that can be found in St Marks with seating for about 10. This quick pick up is the place to go for a quick bite that is satisfying for just $3.50 a slice.

This is not the place to go and sit around to chit chat. Monster Pizza has the atmosphere of stand up eating where you just grab your pizza, sprinkle on some pepper flakes and go, just the NY style. Opened late hours into the night, Monster Pizza also caters to the boozed and intoxicated locals and foriegners. There's been a few times that I've seen my friends go back for a second round through the night. The popular of course is the Spice Girls which is topped with pepperoni, olives, jalapeños, bacon, and ham, but they also offer the traditional pepperoni slice!

Directions to Monster Pizza: From Hongik University station on line two, take exit 9 and go straight until the light. Make a left and go straight for two blocks. You will be facing the university with gray buildings. Take a right at the light and go straight. Monster Pizza will be about two blocks down where Club NB, Harlem and Phantom is.

MOOTTA giveaway

As a celebration of my last post being the number 500, pairing up with MOOTTA for a Korean giveaway of a bracelet and surprise beauty products! MOOTTA is actually doing random giveaways via their blog comments and random followers throughout their outlets of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For this two week randomly selected giveaway ending on September 30, simply:

1. Follow this blog cunggie publicly 
2. Like the cunggie facebook page
3. Follow on Twitter
4. Instagram (if possible)
5. Comment below about the one thing you like about Korea!