Korean Traditional Eat - 뻥튀기

Ppeongtwigi 뻥튀기 is the Korean take on the Western popcorn which is just popped grain. It comes in all different shapes, sizes, and colors which makes it a heck of a lot of fun. Watching people on the street make Ppeongtwigi is a full blast of fun and loud of course (the more traditional kind) If you ever pass a truck that is selling 뻥튀기 and see how it is made, you'll see that a frisbee like rice grain is literally popped out of a metal machine. It's quite a bit of fun to watch them make it and consuming it fresh is just as good. This cheap eat can usually be picked up for a measly price of $2 for a whole big bag that will last you quite some time. 

It is extremely common to be served in bars and hof restaurants for guests to enjoy drinks with (as shown in the photo). The smaller and bite sized 뻥튀기 is usually served in restaurants just so you can pop them in your mouth. As always, this is served as a "service" which means free with your drinks and an unlimited amount of refills. They all range in texture depending on where you go, but for the most part, they are all made of rice grain and it is the perfect snack with your beer. This extremely cheap street food is popular among children as well and it's extremely light in calories which makes it that much better. This Korean traditional eat takes it to a new level of fun, something to share with everyone in the family. 

Bottoms Up - Prost

A popular and semi-fancy, yet casual spot in Itaewon with outdoor seating which is perfect for this kind of weather is Prost. The name comes from the German equivalent of "cheers" and the concept is to look someone in the eye and say "prost" when clinking the glasses together. The reciprocated guest should say "prost" or he or she will be deemed bad sex for the rest of their life. An interesting concept that just makes drinking a bit more fun. 

With 14 beers on tap, there is a wide selection of drinks and a great menu of fries, pastas, and steaks. It is a great place to go and hang out for dinner before the restaurant turns into a night club. Aside from the beers, there are a handful of other drinks and shooters that average $9 a glass. The selection of wine is wide, yet it must be purchased as a bottle unless consuming house. 

It is recommend to visit Prost for drinks only because service on food can be a bit slow. Heck, waiting for drinks can even take a great amount of time, but is a great area to lounge out with friends and enjoy an afternoon drink. Just be sure to seat yourself upon arrival and flag down one of the very few waiters that are around. The best option is also to order at the bar and tell them where you're sitting. This pub and grill is located from the Itaewon stop, exit 2, directly behind the Hamilton Hotel.

Bottoms Up - Woo Bar

Woo Bar, a high class spot associated with the Walker Hill Casino and Sheraton Hotel, is the location to go to for fancy drinks, good view of the water, superior service, and fun and games with foosball, foot long Jenga blocks and an actual kids size chess set. It is the best location to enjoy a drink with a date after a late night dinner and even just as a hangout.

The decor is beyond amazing with a clean white interior and open space that is leveled off with stairs for private and intimate seating. The best part is the open windows view that allows you to overlook the water and enjoy the sun set.

With a recognized bartender hired specifically to create specialty world class drinks, the cocktails served at Woo Bar are phenomenal. There are a variety of selections that can be made which include test tube shots, world class margaritas, and even drinks paired with scents that enhances your intake of alcohol. Only at Woo Bar would you find a cocktail paired with a smoking glass of relaxing sensations.

Along with the high class cocktails and service comes a higher cost. Look to spend roughly $20-30 for each cocktail, some nonalcoholic drinks included. It is not a recommended place for those who do not drink because Woo Bar is known for their alcoholic beverages. Unless you are willing to pay for the view and enjoying a weekend night with many locals, this bar may not be the best choice. Be sure to dress up because it is a bar on the higher end, especially on a Friday and Saturday night. All other times, casual is accepted. I definitely recommend visiting Woo Bar at least once if you are in town.