Seoul at night has a charm that’s entirely different from its bustling daytime vibe. Especially when you’re with friends, savoring a bottle of soju paired with delicious anju (snacks to go with alcohol) is one of those unique experiences you can only find in Korea. Today, I’m here to introduce some of the best places in Seoul where you can make those nights even more memorable. These spots elevate your soju experience with their exceptional dishes!
Located at 88-16 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Hanpo is a trendy reinterpretation of the old-school pojangmacha (street tent bars). If you're wondering, "Is it short for Hannam Pojangmacha?" you'd be right. Just a 400m walk from Hannam Station Exit 1, it’s super accessible. Here, you can enjoy charcoal-grilled spicy chicken, cheesy corn, and fresh beef tartare, among other delectable options. The combination of classic and trendy anju here truly left an impression on me. One standout dish was the nakji tangtangi (chopped raw octopus, $25). Its chewy texture and sweet-and-spicy sauce were unforgettable. They offer a variety of soju, like Maehwasu ($8) and Jinro ($5), allowing you to enjoy your drinks in a variety of atmospheres. In a neighborhood where fancy spots dominate, Hanpo offers a unique twist, making it a must-visit if you’re in Hannam.
Food has a way of bringing people together, right? At Byeolmi Gopchang Branch 2, located at 32-gil Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, you’ll experience just that. Known as one of the top spots in the bustling eatery alley, it’s a place you must visit at least once. Their assorted gopchang (beef intestines, $25) platter includes not only gopchang but also daechang (large intestines), makchang (abomasum), and yeomtong (heart). The dish comes with fresh chives and a flavorful seasoning that’s both sweet and mildly spicy — a perfect match with gopchang. And the complimentary odeng tang (fish cake soup) they serve is just heartwarming, with a touch of cheongyang gochu (spicy green chili) for that refreshing kick. Out of their three branches, the second one seems to have a special charm that keeps drawing crowds.
For an international flair with your drinks, head to Itaewon Soju House on the 2nd floor of Seungjin Building, 40-gil Noksapyeong-daero, Yongsan-gu. Open until 5 AM on weekends, it’s a lively spot where people from all over gather. One of my most unforgettable experiences was enjoying their Dakbbong Tang (spicy chicken soup, $28) while overlooking the night view of Itaewon. The broth is both rich and spicy, with a blend of seafood flavors that adds depth. It's similar to a spicy chicken hotpot but with a refreshing twist. Adding udon noodles to the pot elevated the dish to another level. The prices might seem a bit high, but the generous portions make it worth every penny.
I can’t wait to hear about your own special nights in Seoul! What memories will you create at these incredible spots? Feel free to share your stories, and let’s connect over our love for great food and even better company!
