A city in perpetual motion, Seoul is a futuristic metropolis where the skyline soars ever higher, neon signs flicker relentlessly, and hospitality never ceases to amaze. Wandering its streets means stepping into a world of contrasts: from hyper-modern districts dominated by towering glass and steel skyscrapers to narrow alleyways lined with “hanok” , the traditional two-story houses that now conceal intimate restaurants and refined cocktail bars. In the realm of mixology, Seoul reveals its most sophisticated side.
Zest and Its Sustainable Philosophy
The journey begins in Gangnam, before the queue outside Zest grows too long. Ranked ninth in The World’s 50 Best Bars, this minimalist gem has sustainability as its signature, crafting drinks that leave no trace of waste. Its large street-level window offers a glimpse of the bar’s heartbeat, while inside, a warm glow envelops the essential yet elegant space, where stone and wood create a natural harmony.
The bar showcases artisanal gins and house-distilled spirits, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Every element is used to its full potential: zest, pulp, and juice of the same fruit find their way into different cocktails, while the tonic for the signature Z&T is made in-house, minimizing environmental impact. A curated selection of spirits and liqueurs pays homage to Korea’s rich drinking culture, featuring soju, makgeolli, yakju, sikhye, and gosorisul.
Alice Cheongdam
A few steps away, behind a secret door, lies Alice Cheongdam, a bar inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. A sophisticated retreat, it welcomes guests with dark wood paneling and plush armchairs that invite lingering at the counter. Here, mixology blurs the line between reality and fantasy, with theatrical drinks and a “Millennium Cocktail” menu that reinterprets classics using bitters, amaros, sherry, and vermouth.
The Best Cocktail Bars in Seoul: Le Chamber Speakeasy
Just across the way, another hidden speakeasy awaits — Le Chamber — where entry is granted by moving a secret book on a shelf. A haven for cocktail lovers, it features a long counter and leather chairs that invite guests to unwind to the sound of live music. The spotlight is on whisky, with over 200 labels from around the world, while the cocktail menu offers bold twists on classics, infused with tropical notes and rare teas. Trusting the recommendations of bartender and entrepreneur Louis Eom is part of the experience, leading guests to discover some of Le Chamber’s most daring creations.
Between Cocktails and Design at Villa Records
For those seeking a more experimental approach, Villa Records is an essential stop. Run by bartender and co-owner Yeongjun Jo, known as Felix, this retro-inspired bar is home to a molecular mixology menu where each drink is served in both classic and avant-garde versions. The Molecular Margarita, for example, blends mezcal with a Tabasco shrub and house-made basil liqueur, offering a multi-dimensional tasting experience.
The Best Cocktail Bars in Seoul: From Bar Cham to Cobbler
Those drawn to a more intimate setting will find solace at Bar Cham, nestled in a traditional Korean house in Seoul’s oldest district. Inside, the warmth of wood creates a homely atmosphere, while each cocktail tells a story of Korea’s heritage through native ingredients and artisanal soju.
Finally, for a nightcap in an elegant setting, Cobbler is the place to be. Housed in a 1970s villa, the bar unfolds over two levels, with twin counters, a terrace, and a lush garden. Here, time slows down between a sip of vintage whisky and the slow ritual of a fine cigar. From hidden speakeasies to cutting-edge bars, mixology in Seoul is a fine art — where innovation and precision intertwine, elevating the drinking experience to new heights.
The article first appeared on Coqtail – for fine drinkers. Order your copy here
