Life in Korea - Take Out

Living in Korea is pretty amazing for a variety of things, especially in comparison to the states for the very reason that it makes life easier and more convenient. One of the amazing things in Korea is of course, the food. It's a little crazy how the same chains that we have back in America are here, but a lot more amazing here. In fact, because of these amazing differences, it is the one reason why I probably eat out here than in back in the states.

Because food in Korea is never a disappointment, eating out all day and grabbing food to go is a common thing. It's also amazing when you are able to get takeout packaged in a special way. There’s a handful of things that is frustrating about getting takeout back at home because the food can get sloppy messy, or simply difficult to handle on the way home. 

Ironic to say the least though, that living in Korea, I’ve definitely learned a handful of new ways and tricks to package takeout which just might come to use when moving back to America. For starters, they always plastic bag everything for you which makes it easy for you to carry it. Utensils are also wrapped in plastic packaging (straws included) which makes it extremely sanitary and you'll always get some kind of utensils, even from Baskin Robbins.

Baskin Robbins is actually amazing in Korea for amazing flavor combinations and a new flavor every month. In addition to this, Baskin Robbins offer actual ice cream cakes that are the cutest thing and made with different flavors. They even slice cakes of different ice cream flavors and piece them together for the ultimate ice cream cake, without an actual cake bottom like back at home. Last rave about Baskin Robbins in Korea is that when you get ice cream packaged up, you actually pick the flavors that you want, not the ones that are fridge packaged already. It is extremely common for families and friends to get buckets to go or enjoy within the ice cream shop. For anything to go, they will offer utensils and candles for cakes, along with dry ice to keep the ice cream from melting.

In addition to my favorite place in Korea, real food takeout in Korea is also amazing. Mini cakes and desserts are always packaged up in palm sized boxes that keeps the cake from sliding around and smashing the cakes against the walls of boxes. Pizza takeout is even more amazing with handles that help to balance the box when walking. This definitely makes it easy to hold a pizza pie without having to burn your hands.

 

The one last thing to rave about is combination takeouts. When ordering a mix of dishes, they will separate the two to prevent any sauces from spilling over. This goes for fried foods as well. When paired with a salad, crispy chicken is separated from the veggies and dressing is on the side (even for doggy bags). It's pretty amazing that Koreans actually care about their food tasting good outside of the restaurant. That's definitely the total package there.

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Bonespe

Bonespe is bakery, a Lotte trade that is in almost all of the Lotte Department stores of Seoul. There is a Bonespe bakery located in Cheonho, along Cheonho Rodeo, a popular drinking and eating street. With freshly baked pastries and breads, Bonespe offers a handful of delicious goodies to be purchased while you're shopping around for everything else. Furthermore, they offer packaged goodies that are extremely popular among Koreans to give as gifts and cakes to enjoy in a group setting.

It is one of the Korean favorites to bring home to enjoy with the family as well as a quick bite while shopping. The best part is the sale price that Lotte Department stores offer for their baked goodies. On average, pastries range from a little over a dollar to two, but they can be picked up as a lot for under a dollar. This is a deal considering breads and pastries are extremely popular in Korea, especially as a snack to share with co-workers. Like many other Korean bakeries, Bonespe offers the same kinds of pastries, but of course with their own twist as well. Be sure to pick up a freshly baked pastry to enjoy with your family or to refuel for a day of shopping!

Bottoms Up - Bubble Beans

It is almost impossible to find a bubble tea spot in Korea that is centered around it being a real cafe for locals to hang out at and enjoy a good drink. Bubble Beans is the one place that offers an indoor and outdoor seating for guests to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere for bubble tea. The best part is that they offer a take out menu that provides discount to guests, even at their already low price of less than $4 a cup. 

With free wifi and brunch on the menu, Bubble Beans also offers desserts and deliciousness that allows guests to stay all day at the cafe. It is definitely different to have bubble tea served in a refreshing cup that is styled in a way that you want a continuing refill. Bubble Beans offer a stamp coupon that allows for guests to get a free drink after a number of visits which is always popular for bubble tea.

Take exit 8 of the Hongik University station on line 2 and take a right at the block. Follow the road straight down past the curved road on your left. Go straight to the dead end and take a right at that block. Take a left at the following block and go straight for almost 3 blocks. Bubble Beans will be on your right, right before the next intersection.

Story of My Life - Nami Island Travels

Namiseom (also known as Nami Island) is the perfect place to visit as a one day trip for it's fall colors. Although the weather is getting colder, it is worth the travel to Chuncheon (north of Seoul). This moon shaped island is known for the popular Korean drama, Winter Sonata. It is the ultimate couple's spot with rental houses by the water to vacation.

Although the island is extremely small and you can walk the whole thing within 30 minutes, there are a ton of activities. A handful of concerts have been held on the island, which includes Jason Mraz. There are also a handful of group activities and many photo friendly places to visit. There is even a map to guide you to each recommended photo locations and a handful of signs with Winter Sonata memorable locations.

A few of the must sees are the "wild ostriches," the "foe hawk" chipmunks, the fat lady naked statue, and of course the Winter Sonata statue. You'll definitely find a handful of other things along the way, but make sure you have a little scavenger hunt for these things!

One of my ultimate favorite thing about Namiseom is the recycle project they have. They are extremely green and try to recycle as much as they can. In addition to this, there is also a UNICEF building. I am a big fan of this because it has been difficult to find UNICEF in Korea, but I'm glad I found one in an unexpected place!

It is easy and cheap to get to Namiesom, but a little time consuming. Depending on which part of Seoul you are coming from, it can take at an average of two hours. Simply hop on the train and take a ferry boat over to the island. When getting off the subway, it is recommended to walk to the ferry which is 15 minutes away because everyone is waiting to grab a cab and hop on the bus. Worse part is, there's probably a bunch of traffic heading that way so you can beat the rush.

Plan accordingly on the time to leave the island because the wait for the ferry boat can stretch from the beginning to the end of the island (we were nearly at the end), but because the ferry holds a lot, the wait was roughly 30 minutes. There will be a handful of people cutting in as well, it's going to happen!

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Hans Cafe and Patisserie

Being that I am always running around from cafe to cafe, trying out all the desserts Seoul has to offer, expectations for those in the fancy shmancy area of Apgujeong are high. Unfortunately, I cannot praise Hans Cafe and Patisserie for much other than their drinks and chocolate muffin. That's quite the bummer with such a wide selection of desserts that are extremely appealing in appearance.

Maybe it is because I have the sweet tooth that I do, I expect a lot out of their desserts. The tarts and "cake in a cup" concept are extremely captivating which makes you want to eat everything. Unfortunately, they are not sweet enough for my taste buds and do not hit the spot. The most appealing factor of the chocolate tart was the fresh scrapes of chocolate on top and the "cake in a cup" is literally all crème. There's not much to rave about there.

Unexpectedly, the chocolate muffin was the best of all desserts maybe because I didnt' expect much from a chocolate muffin, but they were able to make that perfectly fine. In fact, it probably had a little bit more of a chocolate taste in a muffin than expected. If you’re looking to visit Hans Café and Patisserie, be ready to spend roughly $15 for a drink and a dessert. My suggestion is to definitely go for a drink only. Then again, you can practically find the drinks at another spot for cheaper. The one recommendation to order is their tea which is actually served in a small tea pot, giving you more for your money’s worth.

The environment at Hans Café and Patisserie is recommended for a date setting. It has sort of an elegant touch which fits the Apgujeong area. It is a place to enjoy a nice and relaxing chat with bright lights and open windows that allow for you to look out to the side streets of Apgu.

There are a few other locations in town, but this is the Apgujeong branch's information:

Phone:  02-515-4677

Address: Gangnam Gu, Sinsa Dong 570

강남구 신사동 570 (압구정 직영본점, 1F)

Restaurant Review - School Food 스쿨푸드

School Food 스쿨푸드 is a restaurant that takes Korean school food for the young as an upgrade for the adults. School Food offers a fun play on traditional Korean foods of kimbap, ddukbokki, ramen, and naengmyeon, and other fried goodies. With an upgrade on the kid's menu, School Food offers more variety and a mix of deliciousness in the traditional eats. 

On average, dishes at priced at $8 a plate. Served with a cup of soup along with radish, the dishes are filling but it is always an option to order a large quantity to share. Anything on their recommended list is definitely recommended, especially with the sushi list. Kimbaps in Korea are so typical that it's hard to find good tasting kimbaps.

School Food offers you the next closest thing to Japanese sushi rolls, especially with their fried shrimp roll. It is definitely great to be able to find sushi rolls outside of a real Japanese restaurant. The food is simple, yet fun to eat, a big kid's version of lunch.

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - De Chocolate Coffee

De Chocolate Coffee is a Korean chain that is definitely different from the many coffee shops in Korea. Because there are so many coffee shops in Korea, it is good to break from the norm by offering something else. De Chocolate Coffee is a cafe that centers around all things chocolate. The main sellers is the hot chocolate which offers you a variety of options to find the perfect combination for yourself. Themed around the Callebaut Chocolate, there is the choice of milk, dark and white chocolate which can be served hot, iced or as a blend. The best part is that you can select your own chocolate topping for your drink which include shaved, chunks, or chips of chocolate.  

In addition to the amazing chocolate drinks, De Chocolate Cafe also offers handmade chocolate thats vary in different types.  They also offer a handful of desserts which include cakes, brownies and such. With so much to offer on the menu, it is the perfect place to go to for anyone with a chocolate addiction like myself. 

Bottoms Up - Coffeeyah

Coffeeyah is one of the local coffee shops in Gwangjin-gu that caters to those who live in the area. With that said, drinks are extremely low in price which is great for the Korean community that is always looking for a cup of coffee to chat over with a friend. Coffeeyah offers a wide range of drinks which are not limited to caffeine beverages, but also teas and fruit drinks as well. The best part about Coffeeyah is the environment. The setting differs from the classic coffee shops like Starbucks and other Korean chain interiors. With a garden setting, wood based furniture is used along with an area for plants and an outdoor patio with street view. It is one of the recommended cafes to visit for a different atmosphere, even on rainy days. 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Cafe Goodovening

Cafe Goodovening is a cafe that is themed around cupcakes. This was on my list for quite a while as one of the must check out cupcake shops in Seoul, what I thought would be the best cupcake in Seoul. There was just so many people raving about the cupcakes that I was dying to dry. With so many branches around Seoul, finding one wasn't too difficult especially because you can pick it up at the major shopping complexes as well. Nonetheless, I still wanted to check out an actual shop and the newest opening is the one in Myeongdong. 

On the second floor off the main shopping street in Myeondong, Cafe Goodovening is themed just like the other stores with a black and white interior. This simple but classic touch is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee break with a friend, especially after shopping. It has an awesome window view of the main strip of Myeongdong shopping and it's across from an awesome H&M that has a creative entrance. They are extremely popular with guests coming in to buy boxes for take out that they even run out of flavors.

Luckily for myself, they had an extra red velvet stacked in the back and of course, because of presentation, I had to go for the early grey tea cupcake. The only thing is the cupcake was not that amazing. For my taste, being that I am so critical with cupcakes, these were a little on the dry end. The flavors aren't as strong as the many other bakeries in Seoul, so there's not too much hype there. I will probably not return again which is a shame to say because it does remind me of Gentle Lady cupcakes.

Hidden Treasures - Kung Fu Tea

Kung Fu Tea is one of my ultimate favorite bubble tea spots back in New York. You don't understand when I say I crave for this thing so for those of you who have the advantage of drinking it, DRINK UP. For the rest of you who are living in Korea, they finally opened a small branch in the Gangnam train station. It was about time that this international brand was going to make its way to Korea because of all the other popup and crazy bubble tea joints like Gong Cha, Share Tea, Cha Time, Quickly, and the rest of the bubble tea knock offs like Bubble Pong. Moral of the story is shop til' you drop in the Gangnam station on line 2 and get some bubble tea! You'll find it right next to the Gong Cha. 

The only thing is that there's a slight difference with the taste. Unlike the New York versions that I always get, there is less of a milk flavor here. Koreans just do not believe in milk. They would prefer to have more of an actual taste of the beverage. On another note, the bubbles are a tad bit smaller and chewier, just not cooked the same way. Basically what I'm saying is do not go for the traditional milk tea because it tastes nothing like the one back at home. Go for their fruit flavors and opt for their jelly drinks, you won't regret. You will also notice that it's not filled to the top, really Korea? This is definitely not the first time it's happened to me, and this is the smaller size!

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - La Pomme

La Pomme, a dessert and furniture cafe is captivating just for the name. Because it is labeled as a furniture cafe, there are random pieces of furniture that range in price from hundreds to thousands of dollars. La Pomme was recently opened as a second branch of the Be Sweet On dessert cafe in Hongdae. Serving up practically the same dessert options that are oh so mouth watering, it is the best addition to the Garosu-gil shopping area in Sinsa.

Currently with a menu that caters to only dessert, it is more than enough to bring us in.  As mentioned before in the Mille-Feuille Chocolat Au Lait is amazing, although pricey, but worth the splurge. All desserts are pretty much worth the splurge, but if going with a group, go for the Green Tea Patbingsoo set which is easier on the wallet and offers a wide variety.

Served with an overload of shaved ice (patbingsoo), the set is paired with a green tea roll that is full of flavor. In addition to this, La Pomme includes a small pitcher of fresh green tea, mochi balls and extra green tea flavoring for the dessert. Honestly, the shaved ice tower is amazing to look at, but if you are not a fan of green tea and red bean shaved ice, do not order this. Even though it is paired with an amazing green tea roll, you are better off splurging on their other amazing desserts, trust me!

La Pomme is an interesting place, full of fun furniture that provides a great environment of bright lights and attractive colors. It is the place to go to with a group of friends and even on a date setting. With a semi-open kitchen that allows for you to see your dessert come together, it is definitely worth making a splurge on the goodies.

The owners of La Pomme is starting to branch from just the dessert option by providing a small selection of baked goods which includes sandwiches and actual small eats. Opened earlier in the day, they are hoping to bring in a larger crowd with more choices and filling options for shoppers of the Garso-gil area. Be sure to be on the look out for that!

Foreigners and tourist tips: There's someone that speaks English!


Address: 534-8 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

서울시 강남구 신사동 534-8
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 and you will see La Pomme Furniture Cafe on your right on the second floor.
Phone :  02-545-4508

Cute Eats - Noodle Box

One of the famous Korean chain restaurants in Seoul is Noodle Box, a fast food joint that whips up Thai food. It is probably one of the cutest eats in the world because your meal is actually serve in a replica of a Noodle Box. The concept is fun and makes it that much more appealing to enjoy your food, minus the metal bar that always gets in the way. For anyone who actually follows tips from buzzfeed, you'll know the real way to eat out of a noodle box is not from the opening at the top. The concept of Noodle Box is that the box can be opened into a flat plate so you're not digging into an extremely hot base of food. 

On average, a dish at noodle box costs $7. The dishes range in spicy levels, but they do have a wider selection that is not offered in a lot of Thai restaurants. One of the popular choices of course is the traditional Pad Thai, but the Mongolian is also great for those who are able to tolerate a bit of spice. Because this is a Korean chain restaurant, you have to keep in mind that the taste will differ from location to location. Nonetheless, it is a great place to go to grab a quick bite in a cute box. It probably wouldn't be the best place to take a date, but there are a lot of couples who visit Noodle Box anyway!

Kongdae location:

Product Review - K LAC

One new line created by a handful of scientists in Korea is KLAC, a brand that focuses on inner and outer beauty with products to consume as well as to soak into the skin externally. Scientists concentrate on create products that adapts to those with sensitive skin, even recommended for those with problem skin. With three applications of products that include a peel, serum, and mask, the products are only recommended to be used once or twice a week to achieve soft and clear skin. 

For starters, the peeler is used to remove dead skin from the surface. Just 30 seconds is needed to remove a large amount of dead skin. For those with sensitive skin though, it is not recommended to be used too often and it may leave your skin a little red and sensitive after use, but it actually removes all of the dead skin imaginable. Made with natural extracts from calendula and chlorella to nurture the skin as well as with vegetable lactic acid bacteria, this product is to help keep the skin moist after use.

The LTA Multi Boosting Ampoule Effecter is equivalent to "100 bottles of yogurt" for the skin by showing immediate results of smoother skin. Made of grapeseed oil and rosemary extracts, it helps to increase brightness in the skin through its sticky consistency which is different compared to other products. This sticky texture is their selling point and known to help reduce wrinkles by keeping the skin intact.

Although it is a little sticky, the product actually works well with the skin. It absorbs rather quickly and doesn't cause any reaction at all. The only problem is probably having to use more than anticipated because it is a bit sticky. Nonetheless, the product is actually amazing and blends extremely well with the skin.

The K LAC LTA Revital Mask Effector is a product made with green tea, pomegrante, and glasswort which is nourishing for the skin, helping to retain moisture with a glossy finish. The mask is extremely thick and infused with an extremely hydrating touch that can be left on the skin for longer than the recommended time of 15 to 20 minutes. The smart thing to do is after the 15 or 20 minutes on the skin is to drape it around the neck so you can absorb more of the product onto your skin. It works extremely well with sensitive skin and leaves the skin hydrated and smooth right after use.

Candy forms of the LTA Collagen Troche Candy is full of collagen that helps to maintain elasticity and retaining moisture. Not only does it taste good (just like peaches), it is made of Vitamin and Xylitol which also helps with controlling cholesterol, managing stress, increasing in energy and of course, prevents wrinkles. A bottle has 60 tablets and the recommended dosage is 2 to 6 a day. Its extremely tasty and chewable so you don't have to worry about washing it down.

Overall, the products work well with sensitive skin, but it will take a while to see the effects of the LTA Collagen Troche Candy. I can say, though, that they are extremely tasty and I can't get enough of it. Controlling myself to not consume the whole bottle at once is the one thing that I have to do. It definitely helps that I am tasting something yummy with extra benefits. Although there may not be some direct correlation, my psoriasis has been getting a little better though.

For those who are looking for an actual sales job with this line, they are in search for the top gun sales people. Selling this product internationally, they are looking for representatives all over, but the company is based in Korea. For those interested, contact Michael McCarthy, the immediate supervisor at  MichaelMC13@gmail.com and mention this blog for a free product to sample yourself!

Restaurant Review - Shy Bana

Shy Bana is the one restaurant in Seoul that's been around since 1997 offering Southern Comfort food that is actually pretty amazing. Their motto is "Eat Today Diet Tomorrow!" which is probably the story of my life as well! Shy Bana is probably the the closest you get to Soul Food with the traditional eats of biscuits and gravy, fried steak, Jambalaya, steak tips soaked in applesauce, grilled pork chops, and amazing vegetables. With so much to choose on the menu, finding the right option might be a little difficult.

For starters, two pieces of biscuits and gravy costs almost five bucks, but the biscuit is baked up fresh. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it actually melts in your mouth. The golden texture allows for the biscuit to break apart which you can drown in the gravy sauce that some actually love and dunk practically everything in, but I am personally not a big fan of only because I was never a fan of white sauces to begin with. The gravy is extremely creamy, a little too milky for my tastes but it is a great dipping sauce, just not too much.

On the flip side, their entrees are something that must be raved about. They have speciality dishes depending on what's fresh. The grilled pork steak served with a side of mashed potatoes and coleslaw is one of the must raves about. Marinated to perfection and grilled where it is cooked evenly, the pork steaks are served with an amazing mouth watering mashed potatoes. With chunks inside and melted cheese, it is something to die for, a must order.

Another dish that is worth visiting Shy Bana for is the pork chop steak that is topped with applesauce. Yeah, applesauce. Chunks of pork are sliced and topped with a sauce that compliments the meat extremely well. This sweet tangy drizzle is dripped over steak that is cooked to perfection and served on a hot sizzling pan which keeps the meat tender and warm. Paired with a side of crispy vegetables, it is the ultimate reminder of American home cooked meal that hits the spot.

In addition to the chopped steak, a famous Souther comfort food is country fried steak, also known as fried chicken steak for the reason that it is deep fried batter. This country fried steak is topped with the same gravy served with their biscuits, but also with a side of tomato sauced rice. This is definitely the staple of Southern comfort food. The very last thing on the menu that brings me back is the Jambalaya. This seafood mix is served in a hot sizzling pan and topped with chunks of hot dog as well. Although this doesn't quite taste like the traditional Jambalaya, it is something that satisfies the cravings for the time being. 

Dishes at Shy Bana may be a little small in size in regards to Southern Comfort food, but it is filling for the Korean taste buds. Dishes range from $15 to $20 which is a little pricey for a home cooked meal. Nonetheless, it is a temporary satisfaction and I will revisit for the different steaks they have. With six branches in town, finding good food is not too far away. Ordering is made easy with an English menu that is broken down into different options.

Address to Garosu-gil Branch: 525-23 Gangnam-gu, Sinsa-Dong, Seoul

서울시 강남구 신사동 525-23

Phone Number: 02-545-4281

서래마을, 강남역, 광화문, 청주, 판교