Seoul is not only a prime location for shopping, history and the arts. It is also a great place for a night out. Beer lovers will find plenty of opportunities to try Korea’s ale culture. Here are some of the best places to grab a beer in the city.
Sikmool
Cocktail Bar, Contemporary, Cocktails, Wine, Beer
Sikmool, literally translating to “plant”, is a cafe during the day and bar at night. Opened by two Seoul fashion designers, Sikmool was the first location to transform Ikseon-dong into a haven for local artists, musicians and designers. The venue is an art piece itself, a modernized Korean hanok house with an old tiled roof, vintage furniture and tall windows. Come here and you will probably never want to leave again.
Bar, Bodega, Beer, Wine, Cocktails, American, Steakhouse, $$$
Goose Island Brewhouse offers upscale beers at this premier brewhouse in Yeoksam-dong. The beers are high quality, the staff professional and the food delicious. You can choose between five drafts, 12 bottled beers and various cocktails with and without beer. The food menu is first class as well with beer calamari, salads, chicken wings and more offered at reasonable prices.
Big Rock is a haven for expatriates missing home. The cozy atmosphere is ideal for hanging out with friends and playing a game of cards. The menu is extensive with premier brews from North America as well as domestic Korean ales. The best part is that prices are reasonable and service is first class.
Pizzeria, Restaurant, North American, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Korean, $$$
If an expat feels homesick in Seoul, they most likely head to Bonny’s Pizza Pub. The North American atmosphere and delicious food help everyone overcome their gloomy days. This place does not only offer amazing pizza pies but also focuses on beer. The pub offers over 70 varieties of Korean and international craft beers, so you can be sure there’s something for everyone.
Magpie is a local craft beer brewery in Seoul and runs its own successful pub in the city. Magpie offers three flagship beer varieties: porter, pale ale and copper ale. On top of that, they also put seasonal brews on their menu to keep things interesting. However, Magpie Brewing Co. is not only a place to drink with friends. The pub also offers delicious meals at great prices. Try their pizzas and you may find your new favorite pizza place in Seoul.
For beer and ale lovers, Reilly’s Tap House has become the hotspot in Itaewon. The place offers over 20 different international and Korean beers on tap, as well as delicious food. Try the beer varieties Peculiar PDA and Jeju IPA and this place might become your new hangout.
Bar, North American, Korean, Cocktails, Wine, Beer
This craft beer bar and pizza kitchen in the heart of Seoul is a popular hangout among local and foreign crowds. Originally from Busan, when Neighborhood opened its first location in Seoul, it quickly caught the attention of the local hipsters and is now a hotspot for nightlife and pub lovers in the city. The place offers ales from the Galmegi Brewing Co. and makes delicious pizzas. We recommend the Galmegi IPA and Gorgonzola pizza.
