Daily Refreshments - Brick Pop

Brick Pop, located inside the Shinsegae department store of the Express Bus Terminal in Gangnam is the a unique stand that is stirring up things for summer. The reason for this is that Brick Pop is infusing all things flavorful and ice to give you a refreshing treat for a hot summer day. On average, brick pops are about $4 with a full blast of flavor, everything wonderful on a stick.  Although it seems to be a little pricey, it is definitely worth the splurge for the ice pop. They are constantly changing their menu options, offering pops that cater to the season and the fresh fruits and seasonal goodies. They even offer specials when you purchase a large amount of pops which makes it easy to share with others, or not. Because it's just that amazing, sharing might not even be on the option's list, totally understandable!

Take exit 8 of the Express Bus Terminal station that intersects with the line 3, 7, and 9 towards the Shinsegae mall. Take the escalators downstairs to the basement and explore all the other food options before you make your way over to Brick Pop for dessert. If you're looking to take out, they have ice packs that they can package for you, keep the pops frozen for up to 30 minutes. 

Address: 19-3 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu Seoul

서울특변시 서초구 신반포로 176

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - ChouChou

The main attraction at ChouChou is the Japanese hot cakes. It is a soft warm and fluffy cake and pancake-like pastry that can be topped with both sweet and salty goodies. Of course not both mixed together, but you can definitely get two different orders, a lunch and a dessert in one store. For my selection, I went with the seasonal blueberry yogurt hot cake. A freshly cooked Japanese hot cake is served next to a bed of yogurt cream, blueberry cream, and a sweet blueberry jam. There is also a jar of maple syrup or honey, but I don't think it is necessary for the simple fact that the creams and jams are sweet enough.

Hot cakes are a little expensive for what many can consider a simple pancake at an average of $8 per plate, but it is definitely worth trying. It is different than the other desserts that are available in Korea and being able to try a pancake with a twist can be satisfying from time to time. 

The cafe also offers a wide selection of drinks to consume with your hot cake. It is the perfect place to lounge out on a date or even hang out with a group of friends who share the hot cake. With three floors of seating and open seating at the very time, the cafe is opened 24 hours which is perfect for anyone who is out partying late in Gangnam. With bright lights, it is an attraction that you can see from down the block, but the best part is being able to sample Japanese goodies all year around. 

Take exit 9 from the Gangnam station on line 2 and go straight when you exit to the street of food.After walking three blocks down, chouchou will be on your right past the Starbucks.