In the last few decades, Seoul has not only risen as the shopping mecca of the East, it has also evolved into a hotbed for innovation and creative institutions. Mixology is one bracket of travel which has progressed with meticulous thought, graceful precision combining tradition and modern methods. Here are some of the best cocktail bars in Seoul, get ready, it’s a long one and rightfully so.

 

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Bar Cham is incredibly unique in its setting in a traditional Korean house, aka: hanok. Guests can taste all sorts of local Korean spirits and liqueurs, ranging from soju to white wines. There are blends even with green tea that one cannot miss. The idea is to integrate contemporary mixology approach with Korea’s authentic flavors. Check out the Cheongnyang Refresh, which mixes: Sonbi Gin, Fino Sherry, Korean Spice Tonic, Fig Leaves and Carbonation.

Le Chamber is a classic speakeasy, hidden behind a secret bookshelf. This is one of the more elegant cocktail bars in Seoul that came to life, thanks to world champion bartenders: Eom Do-hwan and Lim Jae-jin. Leather seats, live music, and glamorous chandelier constitute the luxurious setting for passionately concocted cocktails that arrive at each table with elaborate presentations.

For whiskey lovers, there are 200 varieties to choose from!

Alice Cheongdam is, evidently, inspired by Alice and Wonderland’s whimsicality and vibrant imagination. Presentation is also key, as every cocktail unveils a fascinating story. Try Nutty & Bitter (Balvenie 12 year, Cacao Nibs Infused Banana Liqueur, Chocolate bitter, Tonka Tincture. Demerara Syrup, Banana Leather and Vanilla wood chip smoke) which unfolds in front of guests like a storm of mystic smoke. For traditionalists, there are the modern twists on old favorites like Negronis and Old-Fashioned.

Bar Tea Scent stems from the appreciation of tea culture, while fusing it with Seoul’s growing cocktail culture. Set in a stylish interior space, guests can opt for Tea Omakase which revolves around five courses of various teas that begins with matcha then finishes with lapsang souchong (black tea consisting of Camellia sinensis leaves that are smoke-dried over a pinewood fire)-infused scotch.

If that’s a little too much, there are signature tea cocktails available with or without alcohol, by glass or bottle.

Pussyfoot Saloon is all about luxury train travel, thanks to its throwback interior decor that appears as a vintage carriage adorned with visuals of destinations flashing by as guests sit back and indulge in the moving train during 1920’s Prohibition era. The cocktail menu reflects upon its travel theme, like Sunset Orange (Orange Infused Monkey Shoulder, Lime Juice, Zero sugar Hazelnut Syrup, Soda.) Open from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. everyday, there are delicious snacks paired with cocktail of choice.

Zest was founded by a group of skilled mixologists: Demie Kim, Sean Woo, Jisu Park and Noah Kwon. The idea was to foster zero-waste in the evolving landscape of cocktail bars in Seoul. Situated in Cheongdam district, Zest upcycles vegetable and citrus peels while sourcing local ingredients and produces its own fruit stocks. The sustainability initiative can even be seen in the aprons fashioned by bartenders as they are made from recycled materials.

Nestled in university quarter, d.still carries an expansive collection of whiskeys, which means that in midst of youthful energy, this popular bar even appeals to those beyond school days. The intimate speakeasy setting is cozy, subdued. Ideal for a romantic date or lowkey solo time. Cocktails stem from seasonal ingredients, and often made with outstanding whiskeys, including: Rittenhouse straight rye 100 proof, Knob Creek rye.

Pine and co refers to pine trees as a symbol of longevity in Asian culture, while pineapple is emblematic of generous hospitality. As one of the most innovative cocktail bars in Seoul, Pine and co utilizes avant-garde techniques that translate to unique flavors. The bar might be difficult to find, but upon entering, the experience unveils as a sterile lab, even using recycled coffee grounds from collaborating with a local café.

Marque d’Amour is located on the 26th floor of L’Escape Hotel where guests are transported back to 19th century France, designed by French architect Jacques Garcia. With opulence bursting from every corner, a melting pot of Korean and French cultures. Cocktails comprise of botanical themes, relishing on plants and flowers as bases for 15 alcoholic drinks as well as two additional mocktails on the menu.

kissk means “foot of a mountain” quite literally signifies its direction facing toward Bukhan Mountain – Seoul’s highest peak. Starting from its menu which encourages creativity as it is meant to be folded into a paper plane. Tasty cocktails are categorized into: Easy Drinks, Kissk Party Drinks and Shooters. All inspired from the disco-era, zesty and imaginative. For a cool concoction, sip on Bang Bang Summer Denim.

찰스 H Charles H. dashingly sparkles from the glitzy Four Seasons Hotel, a total standout as one of the most glamorous hotel cocktail bars in Seoul. It prides on drinks named after cities, like: London, Mexico and NYC Flight. The bar is an homage to Charles H Baker Jr. – an American author known for his culinary and cocktail writings from 1920s to 1950s.

Polestar very much derives from Japan’s meditative premise, from its choices of drinkware to bar snacks, like its well-known katsu sando (Japanese cutlet sandwich.) Situated near Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Polestar’s smaller space somehow makes a chic ambiance for a posh crowd, indulging in cocktails like: Aviation (Tanqueray, Maraschino, Parfait Amour, Lemon Juice.) Or, just a classic Cosmopolitan which matches its rouge interior.

MIXOLOGY has long been one of Gangnam’s fan favorites, with its celebrated masterclasses that hone in on crafting cocktails and carving ice. The sophisticated basement bar serves premium drinks, in midst of interior design reminiscent of 90’s films. Leather couches, high-vaulted ceilings. Mixology is also the go-to bar to collaborate with fashion and beauty brands, such as: Farfetch, La Prairie, The Conran Shop…and more.

Bar Musk – 바 머스크 isn’t a new kid on the block, but this speakeasy without a sign outside has been attracting whiskey lovers for a long time. Its popularity has remained high, it’s even hard to find an open seat on week nights. Its wide array of whiskeys is excellently impressive, hence both High Balls and Old Fashioned are the way to go. Bar Musk has made a name for itself over the years that it’s now a favorite even among travelers, making it an approved pin in Seoul’s vivacious nightlife.

Cobbler was opened by Robin Yoo, a trailblazer in the scene of cocktail bars in Seoul. Perched in a traditional hanok (Korean house,) Cobbler sets up a cozy environment underneath glowy lights and a wooden bar. Once sitting down at a table, bites of blueberry cobblers are served. The bar doesn’t feature a menu, without pretense, every customer’s preference is delivered with utmost elegance and veracity.

Southside Parlor is meant to exude Texan barbecue delight to the rooftop scene in Seoul. Opened in 2013 by expats from The Lone Star State, there are tons of games to keep bar crawlers entertained: dartboards, arcade consoles, even hookahs. Cocktails are made with freshly pressed juices, not to mention the syrups are also homemade. The urban setting is accompanied by the skyline of South Korea’s capital city, while hungry guests can snack on tacos paired with craft beers.

BAR SOKO is another one of those cocktail bars in Seoul that melt both Western and Eastern cultures into one, though its spin rolls back to the 1920s with jazz music playing and cocktails served by waiters dressed in suits. It’s no surprise that it often welcomes fashionable guests. For whiskey lovers, make sure to order Mr. Peanut (Whiskey, Amaro Cordial and Peanut.)

Miners Cocktail Bar is an underground speakeasy giving full on steampunk energy. Denuded brick walls and laidback vibes bring guests back to a retro period of time. Try the Penicillin (Islay malt whisky, scotch single malt whisky, ginger honey syrup, lemon,) delivered in a smokey treasure box accompanied by a rose. Can’t go wrong with a Coconut Espresso Martini (Vodka, Kahlua, Coconut Cream, Espresso, Sugar Syrup.) Need a spot right before hitting the hay, Miners gets the job done.

keepers’ bar 강남구 is a stylish basement bar that goes through a makeover every three months, in order to sustain a refreshed image. Through each revamp, both menus and décor change to attain a different theme. This is also one of the best places to taste various soju, from traditional fermentations to contemporary cocktail interpretations. Along with a delicious drink, Keepers also serves popular Korean dishes, like the all-time favorite: pork barbecue.