Plant in Itaewon

Grilled Tempeh Reuben Sandwich and Kale Salad

Hummingbird cake (pineapple, banana, coconut), Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter cake, with black coffee.

What I really loved about the cakes were that they were dense and not super sweet. I have yet to try a Korean cake that is dense. The only ones I have tried are light and airy, which aren't so bad, but sometimes I am in need of a rich, dense, cake. The Hummingbird cake was very strong with spices, which we enjoyed because it's quite uncommon to find cakes rich in spices in Korea. The chocolate peanut butter cake was not too chocolatey as I kind of wished it would be, but I was still satisfied nonetheless.

Another cool thing about this place is that the owner (at least I think she's the owner), is Korean but from the states so she speaks fluent English. AND the menu changes everyday, which I think is awesome so you'd never get bored of trying this place.

I already want to go back again... too bad it's far from me. But maybe it's a good thing so I don't burn a hole in my wallet at this place.





Snapshots on Garosukil

 Garosukil is one of my favorite streets to walk on in the Gangnam area because of the endless and unique fashion trends some people have that walk about here. Generally, Koreans are very fashionable and up to date with the newest trends, but I noticed walking down this street, there were a lot of locals with bold fashion choices that caught my eye. I like to come here for inspiration and it's great for having a cup of coffee, eating, or shopping (if you want to splurge).

Apparently this is a very famous street where many famous people come and go and it's a little more on the upper class side. Judging by the type of cars parked on this street and the overpriced boutiques and clothing stores... The only two places I shop at on this street are Forever 21 and H&M. Everything else is a bit too pricey for me.

In addition, I really love the many unique building facades of the stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. They're not at all like what I am used to seeing from my small suburban city back in Michigan.

My friend and I wandered about in the side streets that go off from Garosukil (which are many) and discovered there are a number of great cheap places to eat. Basically, I learned that wandering about can do a lot of good. That's how I learn where everything is located and discover new places to eat.   



Discoveries in Itaewon

 

Fulfilling my pancake craving at Autumn in New York

This place is where I didn't have my camera on me, as you can clearly tell... Anyway, my friend and I were looking for a place to have tacos and searched up this place. The staff is very friendly and many of them are foreigners. As soon as I walked in, I felt like I was back home because there were many nonKoreans in the restaurant. It was actually diverse... Even the way the waiters serve the food and walk around is just like back home. They aren't even getting paid tip, but they still go around to make sure everyone is satisfied with big smiles on their faces. I really love this place mainly because I was satisfied with the service, but also because the burger I had with seasoned fries was delicious. I've had pretty unsatisfying burgers here in Korea but this place won my heart. It is a bit overpriced here, but I am willing to pay for it because it is a rare commodity in Korea.



I love walking around Itaewon, especially this back street that is filled with little bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. To the right of Loung Ocean is The Old Stand, which serves Italian food.

The interior is a nice homey, cozy feeling with candle lit tables, which made the overall mood of the place feel very relaxing. I don't remember what I got because this was taken awhile ago, but I remember I didn't think the food was fantastic. I realized this area had quite a few Italian restaurants, so it seems like the place to go if anyone is feeling Italian food. I wouldn't have high expectations though.

Radio Garden, bar and lounge

Les Deux Plats, restaurant & lounge

Prost, pub and grill

   

Next to the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park subway station

Art made from recycled items
In front of the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park

 Looking over the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park

Shrimp and Pork soup dumplings at Fashion Mall (across the street from the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park) food court

Hello Kitty Cafe in Hongdae (Hongik Uni), Seoul

 

Hello Kitty Tiramisu

Hello Kitty Green Tea Latte

During my solo trip to Seoul, I decided to find and try this Hello Kitty cafe that I've only seen on blogs and youtube. I went in the early afternoon so when I got there, no one was there, which was perfect since I love the absence of human beings (sometimes). My inner child was jumping up and down when I saw all the pink glory and sparkly chandeliers. This is a little princess' heaven here.

I wouldn't recommend going to this place to have coffee/dessert, but for anyone who's a Hello Kitty lover as myself, it's a fun place to try at least once just for the experience.



Strolling around the Hongdae area