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

Hidden Treasures - ONE CHU

ONE CHU is a small modern looking spot in Sinsa behind the streets of Garosu-gil that is serving a  creative churro with their coffees. Koreans sure love their coffee, but it's always the same baked goods over and over again. ONE CHU is a place that whips up fresh churros when ordered topped with all things amazing.

ONE CHU offers different flavorings for the churros they fry up, the best one may be having ice cream paired with your churros. Regardless of what flavor you choose, whether it be sweet or plain, it is the one place that guarantees freshly hot churros. They are definitely authentic to taste and not just the quick sprinkle of cinammon on top since they serve it with a variety of dipping sauces.

The drink menu varies from coffee to juices to alcoholic beverages. Their fresh sangria is one well-recognized thing on the menu that a lot rave about. The environment is extremely classy and spacious, allows for a great date setting and meeting for chit chat. They have a small outdoor patio that guests can sit, just a short walk from the main shopping street. Drinks and churros will set you back roughly $10.

ONE CHU Address: 서울시 강남구 신사동 551-1
Sinsa-Dong 551-1 Gangnam-Gu Seoul, Korea 135-890
Phone: 02-516-3202
Closed Mondays, Open Tuesday-Sunday 1pm-11pm

Restaurant Review - Vapiano 바피아노

The concept of Vapiano definitely brings it back to New York with quick service and ordering to eat at different stations within the same restaurant. This Italian specialty restaurant cooks up everything Italian which includes pastas, pizzas, salads, sweets and more. Simply order from each station that you desire, creating your own dishes by swiping a card that is your "bill." When ordering, you will be given a buzzer that allows for you to pick up your orders when ready. 

Vapiano offers two floors of seating as well as an outdoor patio that has picnic style benches. It is the perfect place to go to enjoy an Italian meal with high benches and a different style of seating. The atmosphere is welcoming to the busy businessmen during lunch hours and a romantic atmosphere into the later hours at dawn. It is such a popular place that foreigners and Italians themselves go to Vapiano to enjoy a true meal. The difference of Vapiano and many other Italian restaurants is the fact that there are foreigners cooking up the goodies. 

With an open kitchen, you can see everything being made by a true chef. Dishes average at a price of $15 and portions are fairly large. It is definitely recommended to be shared between guests, but not recommended for foreigners because the Italians were able to down a few sample platters themselves. 

There are two locations in Seoul, the address and phone number is as follows:

Samsung 945-27 Daechi-dong Gangnam-gu, Seoul 02-554-7257

Dongdaemun 591-53 Jeonnong-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02-3707-1708

Fresh on the Market - Dunkin' Donut's New York Pie Donut "Cronut" 뉴욕파이도넛

So the fad in America, which originated in New York is the "cronut" and the rest of the world, everyone and their mother is copying this thing. It wasn't going to be long before the Cronut reached Seoul. Who would have ever thought that Dunkin Donuts would be the first to replicate the Cronut and name it the "New York Pie Donut" 뉴욕파이도넛.  Although the lines aren't as ridiculous here in Seoul as they are back in New York, there are people lined up for the New York Pie Donut 뉴욕파이도넛. They only have it in a select number of Dunkin Donuts around town which include, but are not limited to: Jamsil, Myeondong, and Gangnam. Be sure to check the list (get a Korean friend to do it to expedite the process) and keep in mind that they are serving it during certain hours.

Lucky for me, I did not have to wait to try this "Cronut." To be honest, I probably wouldn't be so happy if I had to. I assume this is nothing like the original for the simple reason that it is not topped with icing. Koreans definitely do not have a sweet tooth like us foreigners so sprinkled sugar is enough for them. Nonetheless, although the New York Pie Donut 뉴욕파이도넛 has been out for a while, it is still flaky and I think the best way to eat it is by peeling. 

Honest to say, the top layer was the best and although there was a 2 per person limit, I'm glad I didn't go for the second one. I enjoyed the layer by layer texture of a croissant, but for the simple fact that it wasn't topped with icing was a downer for me. I would definitely have it again, just wouldn't stand in line for it. So I suggest if you must go, go on a weekday!

For the Jamsil location: take exit 3 of the Sincheon station. Go straight following the path for about four blocks and you will see Dunkin Donuts on the corner. 

Address: 송파구 잠실본동 242-9

Songpa-gu Jamsil 242-9

Hidden Treasures - Pain de Papa

Pain de Papa "the bread your father made for you" is one of the most established French bakeries in Seoul and is recognized for being different and better than the rest. Using wild (natural) yeast which can take up to five times longer than the traditional ways leaves you with fluffy and moist breads that have a hint of sourdough flavors. Topped with a handful of different vegetables and flavors, it is definitely something to die for. The freshly baked bread is so fluffy in texture that you just cant help but to keep biting into it. There are a variety of breads that cater to the French menu, perfect for making sandwiches with.

In addition to the amazing breads and pastries the, they offer freshly baked pretzels that owner Lee Ho Young bakes up, he also incorporates American tastes with pretzels and cookies. The one special thing in the bakery to pick up is their rusk which is a twice-baked bread. This established and unique pastry involves taking chunks of dough mixing it with sweet potato and dried fruits, a second oven topping the pastry with butter gives it a crunch. It is then rolled in powdered sugar and costs less than $2 a ball. 

Although the bakery is small in size, there is a small seating area for you to enjoy your baked goodies as well as a few magazines to read to kill some time. As service with your bread, they offer olive oil to be drizzled or dipped with. Be sure to get there early if you are looking to sample a good portion of their menu. Opened from 9AM to 9PM from Mondays to Saturdays, it is located a straight walk from exit 5 of the Apugjeong station on line 3. Walk straight for about 6 blocks and take a left at the intersection. Pain de Papa is located on your left with a small parking lot in front of their yellow bannered building. 

Address: 548-5 Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu

서울 강남구 신사동 548-5

Phone: 02-543-5232

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Bonne Nouvelle

Bonne Nouvelle is a patisserie, boulanger, cafe, and chocolatier that is stirring up all things delicious with a wide range of French pastries. From the main location in Sinsa-dong, it is located in the lobby of a hotel. Upon entrance to Bonne Nouvelle, you are welcomed with breads and pastries and a handful of samples for you to try before actually picking up what you want. 

With so many goodies to choose from, it can get extremely difficult. Baked goods cater to all tastes, incorporating new flavors into each and every recipe. You can even get full by taking a sample of everything that they have. The extremely generous samples are so welcoming, you can't help but to love everything you taste. 

In addition to freshly baked breads and pastries, there is a fridge of all things amazing which includes tarts, cakes, pies, and macarons. There is just too much to choose from. When you do find yourself struggling, go for the best sellers because you won't be upset with that choice! For those looking to enjoy your selections, there is a small seating area to the right of the shop where they take your goodies, decorate, cut and serve it to you. Of course, you can make the purchase of a drink to wash those goodies down.

With three locations, the most popular is the one located in the Apgujeong area of Sinsa-dong for the spacious seating area that guests can enjoy their pastries from. There is also another in the Gyeongi-do province, north of Seoul where Ilsan is. Lastly, the small shop in the Express Bus Terminal that allows for guests to pick up goodies to bring home and enjoy with their families or as gifts.

Location in Apgujeong: 서울시 강남구 신사동 641-1

Seoul Gangnam-gu Sinsa-dong 641-1

Phone: 02-549-7055

Address in Express Bus Terminal: 서울시 강남구 대치동 937

Seoul Gangnam-gu Daechi Dong 937

Phone: 02-531-2066

Location in Ilsan: 경기도 고양시 일산동구 마두동 753-4

Gyeonggi-do Goyangsi Ilsan-dong 753-4

Phone: 031-908-5580

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

Hidden Treasures - Salt and Butter

Coming from New York and experiencing amazing burgers like Shake Shack, finding a good burger in Korea is extremely difficult. Of course, there's always that one spot that all the foreigners know about, the real deal where you can get a real burger. Salt and Butter, one of the top casual American restaurants on the list, except this has a special terrace that overlooks Apgujeong rodeo, perfect for the warm season to enjoy outdoor food without pollution passing you buy and hitting your food. 

With so many options on the menu, there are a handful of suggested ones which include their legendary Dallas Burger, Salmon Burger, Sliders, Fried Chicken Thigh Burger, Sweet Potato Fries, pretty much everything on the menu. Many rave about the burgers and travel distances for it.

With a focus on hand crafted homemade burgers, Salt and Butter also offers pastas, steaks, and salads which takes this all American restaurant over the top. Although the burgers are to die for, their seafood pasta if extremely light in taste and uses big chunks of shrimp. What does that mean? The full on taste of actual seafood in your meal and not the small coin size ones which enhances their seafood pasta that much more.

The ingredients from Salt and Butter are extremely fresh and unique to taste. The reason for that is that they have their own smokehouse for the restaurant, whipping up their own batch of bacon every two weeks using Korean pork which is more expensive than the imported meats. With so much tender, love, and care that comes with their bacon, the rest of their ingredients are not ignored. Salt and Butter actually has a farm where they grow a lot of the herbs they use for their menu, which includes parsley, basil, lettuce, tomato, cucumber and even sweet potatoes for their fries!

Another special touch the restaurant offers is their homemade aioli sauce which is a lemon garlic mayonnaise mix that they serve with their burgers and fries instead of ketchup. The reason for that is the amazing combination and flavor that it gives to the fries, making it that much better. Speaking of fries, they also offer truffle oils that it used after salting their freshly batch of fries. Salt and Butter goes for ingredients to be the core of their menu, but not too much of a flashy pile high burger, accentuating the taste to the max.

Pair your meal with their variety of drinks which include the milkshakes, the Rogue draft beer which is extremely popular in Itaewon and even a freshly squeezed Strawberry Basil Lemonade that is over the top and true to taste. They don't use Sprite like many other restaurants in Korea which helps to give you that refreshing kick needed. 

The one thing that I am absolutely in love with, other than the food of course, is the environment. A chill place for you to enjoy a meal  not only over a terrace, but with open windows for you to overlook the busy street and the many people that passes by. In addition to this, the restaurant is one of the very limited with an open kitchen in the heart of the restaurant, centered where customers can see their food being cooked up. Their industrial interior with dimmed lighting matches the more urban and modern touch which makes it the perfect setting for any lunch or dinner. 

Hours of operation currently fall under Monday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and reopening at 5:30PM. Friday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM with a change in schedule to open until midnight within the next month or two. 

Directions to the restaurant: Taking Apgujeong Station exit 2, it is roughly an 8 minute walk to the Galleria Department Store. Take a right at the Paris Croissant into Rodeo STreet and the restaurant will be on your left above the NBA store. There are also many buses that go to the Galleria Department Store Station that leaves you right in front of the Paris Croissant. 

Address: Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Sinsa-dong 663 (right above the NBA store building)
서울 강남구 신사동 663
Phone: 02-512-2667

Restaurant Review - Buccella

Buccella in Sinsa-dong right off of the famous Garosu-gil shopping street in the Apgujeong area is my favorite place to go to for a good sandwich. The most basic sandwich is decked out and paired with a cibatta bread that is absolutely amazing. It takes the sandwich to a whole new level by incorporating the most basic ingredients of fresh vegetables and cold cuts. 

The best part about the sandwiches is that it is paired with a small salad for a measly price of $9 which is no splurge at all. The one recommendation to make is the steak sandwich which has a little more of a salty taste, bringing more flavor to the sandwich that is topped with an over the top mustard. 

It is hands down, one of the best sandwich places in Seoul which you want to avoid during peak hours when traveling with a big group. Because seating is limited, there is almost always a wait. Simply put your name down on the list, shop the Garosu-gil shopping street and you will get phoned when it is your turn in line. 

With two locations in town, be sure to visit one at the very minimum!

Apgujeong address: 534-22 Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Phone: 02-334-7334

Hongdae address: 330-19 Seogyo-dong Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Life in Korea - Cat Cafe

A cat cafe, which is similar to the dog cafe that I previously blogged about is a cafe with cats running around. You’ll find cats hiding in your shoes, jumping on the tables, running around, and sleeping in all hidden places. Upon entrance, you are required to change into a pair of slippers (cats are indoor animals after all) and clean your hands with a sanitizer before being allowed to interact with the animals.

Once you walk in, you will find a handful of toys to play with and cats everywhere, literally. They are not shy and they will jump around, maybe even go through your things. Some will even snuggle against your legs, but they do not have a habit of scratching so there is no need to worry about that. Like a dog cafe, the cat cafe requires you to purchase a drink that covers the entrance fee. Depending on the cafe, there may be a wide range of menu options. 

There are more cat cafes than dog cafes because cats are easier to manage so it is pretty easy to find one. Simply look for a huge cat sign, they'll point you in the direction of the cat cafe. The one I visited was in Myeondong, but you can also find a handful of other ones in the many other popular tourist areas. Gangnam, Hongdae, Sinsa are a few of the many in town. You should definitely make your way to one to experience what they have to offer, something a little more different. 

Bottoms Up - Mug for Rabbit

This two floor tea and coffee shop in Hongdae has an outdoor seating that is perfect the fall weather for guests to enjoy their cup of tea and a cupcake. With cupcakes and cakes made fresh, it is a perfect match for anyone looking to relax and enjoy. The concept of the coffee shop is "go green" with recyclables in store. In coordination with the concept, they look for ways to promote energy saving techniques.

The drinks are spot on and freshly made. In addition to the drinks, the suggested to order is the carrot cake. There are also a handful of baked goodies and cupcakes that is a vanilla based cupcake topped with a cream icing. It is not as sweet as other cupcakes so it is definitely suggested for those who are looking for something on the less sweeter side, especially if you are counting calories.

Drinks and cupcakes are a bit costly compared to other coffee shops, but it is worth it to lounge out in their open area. With drinks at an average of $6.50 and cupcakes for $5, it is a must try for anyone who is in the area. There is a set menu which combines dessert and drinks for a cheaper price which is suggested for anyone who is here on a weekday. There are also two other locations in Sinsa, Gangnam for those who are a bit far from Hongdae. 

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.

Restaurant Review - Mad For Garlic

Mad for Garlic, a restaurant chain in Korea that is known for their Americanized dishes which includes pasta, seafood, and steaks. It is definitely my one favorite Korean chain restaurant for Italian and steak. The decor is like those back in America, a great meal that brings me back home. The food is delicious, but it is one of the pricer chain restaurants in Korea.

One of my ultimate favorite appetizers is garlic bread. The garlic tower, which is a half loaf of freshly baked bread topped with garlic and cheese, is brought to the table standing and served by a waiter. The tower of garlic and cheese goodness on top is stuffed into the loaf of bread. It is then ready to be cut up and enjoyed. 

Their entrees are also extremely tasty. With dishes that average at $20, it is definitely worth every penny. The Mushroom Risotto is one of my ultimate favorite dishes. Topped with a freshly baked chicken, it all blends and compliments each other. For those who are looking for a pasta dish, their Alfredo sauced pastas are comfort food as well. There are a handful of choices, but none with tomato sauce. A recommendation is the seafood pasta or shrimp and lobster that is served with linguine pasta.

For those who are dining in, it is suggested to order a bottle of wine rather than going for a cup of soda at $8 a cup. If you are on a budget, you can definitely share sodas with your significant other. It is common among locals so they know to provide you with two straws.

Overall, the experience was great, they even have an English menu for those who cannot read Korean. It definitely helps to make a pit stop for Korean foods every now and then, especially for those who are living in Korea for quite a while. Mad for Garlic is a restaurant that is highly popular with locals as well!

Restaurant Review - Butterfingers

For those who live in Korea, you know how impossible it is to find home comfort food, especially diner food. Most of us miss the after clubbing diners and home comfort breakfast foods in waffles, pancakes, eggs, and home fries. One of the ultimate popular spots in Korea for almost all foreigners is Butterfingers. With a few locations around Seoul which include, but are not limited to Gangnam and Bundang, it is the one place to go for the best diner foods.

Although it can be a bit pricey compared to the prices we are used to back at home, it is definitely worth a visit every once in a while to satisfy those cravings. The suggested is their waffles (we are in Korea after all), the Butterfingers shake, their pumpkin walnut pancake and their breakfast platter. The platter is a little big, recommended to be shared between two. In addition to the breakfast goods, there are a handful of other home comfort foods which include salads and burgers. I have yet to try those, but it will probably be on the menu next time!

Upon ordering breakfast goods, there is a choice for syrup which include honey or maple, and the choice of a sweet or regular butter. Korea is a bit fan of all things sweet so do not find these things peculiar, it's just the cultural differences but the sweet butter is recommended for pancakes and waffles! There's a crystallization of sugars that just melt in your mouth. 

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - cocobruni

cocobruni, a relatively new barista and chocolatier that opened in Gangnam, is a must visit spot for it's open space and modern interior. Known for their decorative chocolates and specialty drinks, it is a short walk from Gangnam station, exit 11 to the right off of the main road. There is also one in Hongdae and a few other tourist spots.

It is the perfect place to visit to chit chat and even solo just to enjoy a cup of coffee and a few sweets which include their wide selection of cake slices, chocolates, and a few baked goodies. With soothing American music constantly playing, this place is one of the few in Gangnam that provide a more relaxing feeling compared to the other busy coffee shops. 

Catering to the more urban and modern taste of locals, desserts average at a price of $5 a slice, chocolates at $2.50 per piece and specialty drinks that range from $3.50-6. There is a set menu with a drink and baked good combo for $7 which is a recommendation for those who are on a budget. In addition to food and beverages, souvenir goods can be purchased which includes planners, notebooks, and cups for a take home gift.

It is definitely a place to stop by during the day or at night. The open window is a great attraction with sunlight during the day, and bright lights of the cafe that attracts anyone passing by. The only problem is the bathroom is far from the building, it is actually located in a regular building so a heads up for that would be great!

Restaurant Review - Brick Oven Pizza

One of the most popular spots for all foreigners in Gangnam is Brick Oven Pizza which is located out of exit 11, a right from the CGV movie theaters. The concept is taken straight from Brooklyn, baking up fresh pizza when ordered with the right ingredients and everything that you can find from a Brooklyn pizzeria. Yes, this includes pepper flakes, tobasco, garlic, parmesan cheese, garlic knots, and a handful of other Italian delicatessens.

Because some goodies are more popular than others, they can be sold out from time to time. This includes the garlic knots so it can be a bit sad, but there are a variety of other things on the menu that will leave your stomach satisfied. Pizzas average at a price of $25 which can be shared between two or more. 

Baked fresh, it is one of the foreigner's favorite pizza spots. Unlike many other locations in Korea that incorporates their own flavors and cultural flavors, Brick Oven Pizza is authentic from New York. The best part about the restaurant is being able to speak English and being served by those who are native to your language. It definitely takes you away from Korea and provides a "homey" feeling. When you're craving that pie of pizza, be sure to check out Brick Oven and bond with the staff who is extra friendly!

Korean Traditional Eat - Galbi Jjim 갈비찜

This delicious beef stew consists of extremely soft and delicate beef short ribs that glides off of the bones. It is one of my favorite traditional Korean eats for its extremely soft texture and perfect mix of meat and vegetables, a great home cooked meal. Boiled up with clear noodles and a handful of vegetables, this stew can be made in a variety levels of spice which includes none to very spicy. It is a perfect dinner to have when the weather is chilly which is currently starting to take a turn.

My ultimate favorite galbi jjim restaurant is Masizzim (마시찜) in Gangnam, the center of Seoul. This restaurant has the cutest interior design, but I am a big fan of the more modern take of Korean food. They allow for you to "make" your own rice balls which is a literal translation of fist balls. It is a way to have some fun with your food and make it just the way you like!

Pamper Me Pretty - 나무그늘 Dr Fish

Dr. Fish is a different kind of cafe in Gangnam, Seoul. It is by far my favorite place to have a cup of coffee and a quick Pamper Me Pretty session. Although the prices are a little higher than other cafes in town, it is the best place for a bunch of girls to bond and share thoughts over. I suggest going to visit with a  group of girls and sharing the experience of this unique cafe. To make up for the prices of drinks, they offer a free self service of bread and jams that you can heat up. 

They are known for their fish pool where you dunk your feet in and the fish will eat the dead skin. For just an extra two dollars with the purchase of a drink, you can have a semi-pedicure without having to visit a nail salon. The best part about this cafe is that there is no wait to dunk your feet in the pool of fish. Simply finish your drinks and let a staff know that you are ready for your 15 minutes of dead-skin-vanish!

The experience is definitely one that stands on its own. For starters, it is extremely ticklish for those who have sensitive feet or a small amount of dead skin. It is recommended to start out at the baby pool and make your way over to the bigger fish. The size of the fish is beyond ten times the size of the smaller fish so the amount of skin they eat is a lot more. It is almost a frightening experience to dunk your feet in the pool. I know for sure my girls and I were not able to do so immediately, we had to gradually stick our feet into the pool of fish. 

In regards to the menu, all drinks are worth trying. The priority of the cafe caters to their beverages and other snack dishes. With freshly baked waffles, gelatos, bingsu, and other baked goodies, a great amount of time can be spent here. They even have a book room that is strictly for studying, a quiet room that many people can concentrate in. In addition to magazines that can be found at any other cafes, Dr Fish also has a wide selection of books in their book room. It is a great variety to have something else to look forward to other than typical magazines. The spacious cafe is the perfect place to lounge out with cushioned couches and tables everywhere. 

Nonetheless, these dead-skin-eating-fish is a popular treatment in Asian countries and it is definitely  worth trying out. You can't go wrong spending another two dollars on an immediate dead skin treatment. Depending on how thick your callus is, you can see an immediate smooth texture, but of course results vary from person to person. Straight from exit 10 of the Gangnam station on line two, the Dr. Fish cafe is located upstairs across the street from the CGV movie theatre. Although it is a bit hard to find, it is definitely work the travel for.