Foodie to the Rescue!

FOOD: New Years Eve & Day Food of Japan - OSECHI RYOURI

2012-01-10T15:58:00.000+09:00

Happy New Year to foodies all around the world! We went to Japan to spend time with family for new years. In Japan, new years is a time to quietly reflect on the year and pray for a prosperous following year with family. A week (or two) before New Years, the preparation for OSECHI RYOURI begins...this year, my mother wasn't around so my 85-year-old grandmother prepared a few things and ordered many of the OSECHI RYOURI from Kyoto which is most famous for traditional Japanese food. They are easily recognized by their special boxes called JUBAKO, which is like an elaborate bento box. They are kept stacked before and after use.

Every little food symbolizes good fortune, and it is tradition to eat all of it until all is gone(sort of like Thanksgiving in the US). OSECHI is a work of art & showcases the detailed beauty of Japan.

IKURA(salmon roe, caviar).

These are a special kind of chopsticks used only for New Years Day...both ends are pointy.

OSECHI RYOURI is Japanese, however this is the Chinese style of OSECHI RYOURI courtesy of the restaurant HEICHINROU. Most of the food items in these are Chinese such as the charsiu(pork barbecued meat), jellyfish, etc. Heichinrou Osechi Ryouri can be ordered months in advance and is very popular in Japan.

HEICHINROU Osechi #2

HEICHINROU Osechi #3

ZONI - Japanese mochi(rice cake) soup. This is tradition to eat every New Year's holiday. However, every year there is a report on an elderly choking on these mochi's...so beware!

TOSHI KOSHI SOBA - This is soba(buckwheat noodles) eaten on New Year's Eve. TOSHI KOSHI means "year crossing" and all must be eaten before it hits midnight on January 1st, otherwise it is considered bad luck. The soba symbolizes long life & health for the upcoming year. The soba is dipped into the dashi soup, mixed with fresh grated wasabi.

Can't wait to eat you again next year OSECHI RYOURI!

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FOOD: Korean Shabu Shabu Restaurant in Dongducheon

2011-10-20T17:49:00.000+09:00

Shabu Shabu is one of our all-time favorite Japanese foods especially during the cold season. "Shabu Shabu" is a Japanese onomatopoeia, derived from the sound of meat 'swishing' in the hot pot. It consists of thinly sliced meat(usually beef and occasionally pork) with lots of various vegetables. Once the meat & vegetables are cooked in the hot pot, you then dip it into two different sauces(one or the other...or both!): Ponzu(yuzu & soy sauce) or Goma(sesame sauce). It is very healthy and it seems like it is catching on in the US since I saw Lady Gaga on a Japanese popular variety show recently saying, "I loooove shabu shabu! It's my favorite!"

The Korean shabu shabu is very similar except for the ingredients. Koreans use their local vegetables, mandu(Korean dumplings) and have different dipping sauces. The two sauces they use are: soy sauce / wasabi & Korean red pepper / sweet & sour.

We were introduced to Korean shabu shabu by a Korean soldier who is from Jihaeng. It seems to be a local favorite spot!

If you want something healthy that will fill you up on a cold winter day, you will definitely want to warm up with some shabu shabu.

"CHAE SUNG DANG" Restaurant located on the 2nd Floor.

Floor seating. Family friendly.

Dipping Sauces

You can order from different types of set(no english on menu). We got Set A which was more than enough for the 2 of us. Set prices range from 7,000-10,000 won per person.

WEBSITE: www.chaesungdang.co.kr

PHONE NUMBER: 031-867-5006

ADDRESS: 679-2 Jihaeng-dong, Dongducheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

HOW TO GET HERE: Jihaeng Station(104) Line 1, Exit 2. It's about a 10 minute walk from the station.

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DRINK: Makgeolli(막걸리), Korean Rice Wine

2011-10-09T17:10:00.001+09:00

I am not the biggest fan of Soju, the distilled beverage native to Korea. If you feel the same way about those 1,000 won(less than a $1!) 300 ml green glass bottles, you may wanna try their other drink of choice Makgeolli(막걸리 - sounds like "MAK-GOAL-EE").

Makgeolli is made up of wheat and rice which gives it an off-white color. It is easier to drink than soju since it has only about 6-8% alcohol by volume compared to soju's 16-45%. It is a very popular drink especially among women because of its sweetness. They also come in different fruity flavors.

The Makgeolli sold in supermarkets are very different from the Makgeolli's that are homemade. I would highly recommend NOT getting the cheap ones at Lotte Mart and try the many bars that specialize in Makgeolli.

For starters, we went to a Makgeolli Bar in Apgujeoung called MoonJar(달빛술담).

They cater to many Japanese customers which was obvious from the entrance banner hanging on the wall. The Japanese banner reads, "A place where you can have a conversation with the moon, light and alcohol."

Their menus are written in Korean, Japanese and English.

The Makgeolli's under "Luxury Rice Wine" are served in aluminum teapots & cups:

The Makgeolli's that are fruity come in a glass jar like this one. So far our favorite has been the YUZU(YUJA in Korean) Makgeolli. It was the smoothest & blended with the rice wine very well.

WEBSITE: http://www.moonjar.co.kr/
HOURS: 5:30pm-2:00am
TEL: 02-541-6118/9

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 3, Apgujeong(#336) Station, Exit 2. 10 minute walk from the station.

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FOOD: My Favorite Soup Dumplings(Xiaolongbao) Spot in Hong Kong

2011-08-04T22:37:00.000+09:00

There's definitely not enough Chinese restaurants that serve xiaolongbao...at least WELL anyways. Xiaolongbao is a soup dumpling, steamed in small bamboo baskets. It is heaven melted in your mouth. If done right, the piping hot juices will flow throughout your whole palette giving you this warm fuzzy feeling inside - sounds amazing right? It's probably one of my favorite Chinese dishes :)

My favorite soup dumplings place in Hong Kong is DIN TAI FUNG. Din Tai Fung is a chain restaurant originated in Taiwan but don't let that deter you of the quality of their dumplings. They specialize in xiaolongbao and exist worldwide in places like Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, US, Thailand and even here in Korea. However, every chain is different and unfortunately the one we went to in Seoul Gangnam was not as good as the one we went to in HK(they have their original 'kimchi' xiaolongbao which we didn't try). I guess every chain is different but I hear the original ones in Taiwan are the best. I can't wait to go there one day!

DIN TAI FUNG in TSIM SHA TSUI(Silvercord Branch)

We had to order these cucumber pickles twice - they were fresh and crispy!

DELICIOUS BITES. Steamed Pork Dumplings(I hear the black truffle dumplings are one of the best too which we didn't know until we left...)

Sticky Rice w/ Pork

ADDRESS: Shop 130 & Restaurant C, 3/F Silvercord 30 Canton Road Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

PHONE: 852-2730-6928

WEBSITE: http://www.dintaifung.com.tw/en/product_a_list02.asp?CategoryNO=2

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FOOD: For ALL the Ippudo Ramen Fans...

2011-07-14T14:24:00.002+09:00

My previous Ippudo Ramen entry is getting a lot of traffic so thought I'd share the little goodies I got from Japan.

Japan is a genius when it comes to 'instant food'...this includes 'instant ramen'...and this also includes 'instant Ippudo ramen'!! Yes, they have 'instant food' for just about everything. Curry, Spaghetti, Macaroni Gratin, Beef Stew, any kinds of Chinese food, cake and so so much more.

You might think, 'how can an Ippudo instant ramen come even close to the real thing?' Well you'd be surprised. They come VERY close. In fact, the soup broth in these instant ramen taste like they've been cooking for hours. I don't know how they do it, but it is really just that good. Of course the fresh vegetables and meat on top is not comparable but everything else is. You can always chop up your own vegetables too and add it later to get the full effect!

There are FOUR separate soup packages inside which have specific instructions on when and how to prepare the soup.

You can usually find these at a 7 Eleven in Japan. However, don't get more than two since the people of Japan need instant foods in case of an emergency due to less production.

These are the two that I savored :)

"WHITE(SHIRO MARU)"

"RED(AKA MARU)"

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FOOD: Beard Papa's in Seoul!

2011-06-27T17:55:00.000+09:00

I was walking around Yongsan Station, and stumbled upon a sign that read "BEARD PAPA'S"...could it really be the Beard Papa's that I love?? YES, IT WAS!!!

For those who don't know Beard Papa's, it is an international chain of choux cream(cream puffs) started in Japan in 1999. Beard Papa's has over 250 stores in Japan, and 300 worldwide including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and all over Asia.

The choux cream puffs are made fresh daily and are filled with whatever available cream there is for that particular chain. The one in Yongsan only had vanilla and strawberry, but other stores may have custard, chocolate, green tea, nutella, lemon cream pie, coffee and many other flavors. My personal favorite from the Beard Papa's in New York was whipped cream custard which unfortunately the Seoul chain didn't have. I recommend vanilla if you get a chance to go :)

From Left: Donut Choux, Cookie Choux, Original Choux

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 1, Yongsan Station(135). I'Park Mall - Westreet - 7th Floor

HOURS: 9am-11pm

WEBSITE: http://www.muginoho.com/english/

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FOOD: Haemultang(해물탕), Spicy Seafood Soup

2011-06-19T09:38:00.000+09:00

Haemultang(해물탕) is a spicy soup with different types of seafood Korea has to offer. On top of a bed of bean sprouts, they lay shrimp, squid, clams, octopus, fish, oysters and things I have never seen or eaten before. Did I like everything in the pot? No, but it was definitely an interesting experience! We really enjoyed the soup base which had just the right amount of spiciness.

We chose to go to this Haemultang spot, WEON MI HAEMULTANG(원미 해물탕) because it was featured in this book written by Koukentetsu(Korean name is Ko Hyun Chul), a famous celebrity cook who has a popular cooking show in Japan.

WEON MI has been in business for over 30 years, and that's no surprise. The owner will make you feel right at home by greeting and serving you food with a smile.

WEON MI HAEMULTANG(원미해물탕) in MAPO

PAJUN(Korean Pancakes) and other side dishes

HAEMULTANG - 28,000 won for 2-3 people

I've heard some HAEMULTANG places come with live seafood cooked right in front of you...fyi, this place did not do that.

HOURS: 11:30am-10:30pm, 7 days a week

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 5, Mapo Station(528), Exit 1: 5 minute walk

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FOOD: Dak Hanmari(닭한마리), Whole Chicken Soup

2011-06-03T23:11:00.002+09:00

Dak Hanmari(닭한마리) was not high on the list of things I wanted to try because it looked a lot like Samgyetang(Chicken & Ginseng Soup) and that tends to be the more popular dish...but I'm glad my out-of-town visitors suggested trying Dak Hanmari. Dak Hanmari is a more simple soup, made by boiling a whole chicken in water and garlic. Welsh Onions, Kalguksu(칼국수 - Korean noodles), Potatoes and Garaetteok(가랱떡- Korean Rice Cake in a Cylinder Shape) are usually in the mix as well.

We went to Dongdaemun where Dak Hanmari is known to have originated in the 1960's. With a little bit of digging, we found a street nicknamed "Dak Hanmari Alley" and went into a place called "Jin Halmeoni Weonjo Dak Hanmari"(진할머니 원조 닭한마리). Good thing we had the guidebook, because we would have never found this place let alone remember the name...

"Dak Hanmari Alley" in Dongdaemun

"Jin Halmeoni Weonjo Dak Hanmari"(진할머니 원조 닭한마리)

Seats over 200 people

Dak Hanmari(닭한마리) - Light, Simple and Tasty. The waiter(or you) can cut up the chicken with a scissor and tong.

They will make this sauce for you at the table which you can then dip the chicken, etc. in. This sauce consists of soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, red chili pepper paste(they leave a plate of this if you prefer spicy), sliced up cabbage and green onions.

I liked their broth - it was light yet full of flavor. The sauce was good too, but I think it takes away the natural flavor of the broth so don't forget to try the broth first! The chicken was not as soft and tender as it is in Samgyetang which I'm not sure if it was just this place or that's the way Dak Hanmari is cooked. Guess I'll have to try another Dak Hanmari place to find out...

HOURS: 7 days a week, 10:30am-10:30pm

PHONE: 02-2275-9666

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 1 or 4, Dongdaemun Station(128 & 421), Exit 9 - 5 minute walk. We were walking all over this marketplace with our book trying to find this place. This ajumma(old woman) selling socks motioned us towards her because clearly we were lost. The only thing we were able to communicate to her was "Dak Hanmari(pointing book)" and she knew right away...so if you're in the Dongdaemun marketplace area, this place is famous so just ask the best way you can!

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FOOD: Ippudo Ramen Grand Opening in Seoul!

2011-05-30T17:13:00.003+09:00

Ippudo comes to Korea!! If you've been to the Ippudo in New York, the Seoul chain has a very similar menu. Ippudo is a Japanese ramen restaurant chain originally started in Fukuoka, which is in the southern part of Japan. They use TONKOTSU as their broth - made by boiling pork bones, fat and collagen over high heat for hours. Unlike the SHOYU(soy sauce), it has a very hearty flavor with a bit of creaminess. It is SO good...I highly, highly recommend if you've never had Japanese ramen before. Japanese ramen is definitely one of my favorite comfort foods, although since I am from Tokyo, my favorite is SHOYU(soy sauce) broth.

Ippudo Seoul just opened on May 28. The main floor is the restaurant(choice of table or counter), and the second floor is a Japanese Sake Bar/Lounge area.

Entrance

Organic Salad with Renkon(Lotus Root) chips on top

Pork Buns. I like the Pork Buns in NY better since they use thinly sliced scallions, rather than the iceberg lettuce they use here.

They have one of our favorite Japanese beers on draft, Suntory Premium Malts, a very rare thing outside of Japan. They do not sell this beer in the US and unfortunately they were all out of the draft so we settled for the bottle. 13,000 won(worth every drop!)

Ramune: Japanese throwback drink. This drink has been around since the late 1800's, and is famous for the bottle shape with a signature marble inside. It was quite entertaining to see the Korean waiters open these since they tend to squirt everywhere :)

SHIRO("white") MARU with ALL TOPPINGS. 15,000 won. The egg was a little bit more cooked than I like. In Japan, the egg is usually soft boiled("hanjuku"), sliced open in the ramen so you can see the egg yolk blending in with the broth.

AKA("red") MARU with ALL TOPPINGS. 15,000 won. This one is special outside of Japan....only served overseas. It's a bit heavier and heartier but tends to be the more popular one.

Click here to read about Ippudo Instant Ramen! Awesome.

WEBSITE: www.ippudo.co.kr

PHONE: (02)512-2644

PARKING: Valet Available

STATION: Line 3 Apgujeong Station(336), Exit 2, 10 minute walk.

Once you get out of Apgujeong Station Exit #2, you wanna turn around and go on the "Apgujeong-Ro", the main street. Not the street you are facing when you exit #2 but the one perpendicular.

You're going to walk on this "Apgujeong-Ro" for 10 minutes or less...you'll pass Baskin Robbins on your right, apartments on your left...keep walking. You will hit an intersection where there is an "S-OIL" gas station. You wanna make a right when you see this gas station. Walk on the side of the gas station(gas station on your left). You will pass a big tall LG Fashion Building.

2 blocks after the LG Fashion Building, you will make a left. Walk 2 blocks from there, and the Ippudo should be on your right hand side on the corner.

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FOOD: Vietnamese Restaurant in Jihaeng / Dongducheon Area

2011-05-23T20:10:00.000+09:00

Dongducheon has a lack of other ethnic food restaurants, so when I saw the sign "Coming soon: Pho Bien" banner a few months ago, I was thrilled. Now I can at least get my Pho fix here without having to go all the way down to Seoul...

Pho Bien (포비엔)

Interior

Serving Vietnamese Beer

Summer Rolls - it definitely tasted more like a Korean GIMBAP(rice substituted by rice vermicelli)

Pho with Brisket

Pad Thai - don't ask me why they serve a signature Thai dish at a Vietnamese restaurant! WARNING: This dish was fine but tasted NOTHING like Pad Thai! Tasted more like pho noodles sauteed in oyster sauce...like Chinese Lo Mein.

HOW TO GET HERE: Jihaeng Station, Line 1, Exit 3 (1 minute walk, can't miss the orange awning)

PHONE: 070-4403-0955

WEBSITE: www.phobien.co.kr

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FOOD: Ganjang Gejang(간장게장), the Rice Killer!

2011-05-09T14:26:00.002+09:00

Ganjang Gejang(간장게장) was our first exposure to a Korean seafood entree dish. It is salted and fermented, made by marinating fresh raw crabs("ge") in soy sauce("ganjang") or a sauce based on chili pepper powder. According to Korean traditional medicine, crabs are known to cool one's body temperature so this cuisine is believed to be good for driving away spring fever.

Ganjang Gejang(간장게장) is salted for about six hours in a earthenware crock. The sauce is made by a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, scallions, garlic, ginger and shredded red chili pepper. This is poured over the salted crabs, and an hour later the sauce is removed and reheated. It is then poured over the crabs and this is repeated several times. The dish can be eaten once the sauce is chilled.

This dish is also known as the "rice killer" or "rice robber", and you'll know why when you're ordering your fifth bowl of bap(rice)!

We really enjoyed the Ganjang Gejang, although the large quantity of raw fermented crab was a bit overwhelming after we stuffed our faces. I felt it to be more of a side dish than an entree but there's no denying the sauce was very tasty & addicting! Definitely worth trying especially if you love seafood.

We went to PRO GANJANG GEJANG(프로가장게장) in Sinsa. Their menu is also written in English if needed.

My favorite part? Tomalley(the hepatopancreas/crab miso - the mustard colored part) known as the delicacy of a crab. The orange part is roe.

SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO EAT: Take a bite of the crab meat and enjoy the creamy melting taste in your mouth. Then, start digging the rest of the meat to put on top of your rice and eat. Save the best for last by grabbing the crab shell(see below) and putting rice inside to mix with the tomalley leftover.

PRICES: Pricier than other Korean dishes. Give or take 40,000 won($35) per person depending on how many crabs you want.

HOURS: 24 hours, 7 days a week.

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 3, Sinsa Station (#337), 3 minute walk from Exit 4. Take a right after you walk two blocks, and you should see the big building to your left.

It is "A" on the Google Map below. The train station on the map is SINSA.

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FOOD: Spicy Chicken Galbi AKA Dak Galbi(닭갈비)

2011-04-27T22:06:00.002+09:00

I'm always excited when I find a good place to eat nearby outside of Seoul. I found this place on one of the Korean food websites(www.wingspoon.com) my Korean friend recommended. The place is in Uijeongbu, and called "DAKK I BONG"(닭이봉) and specializes in Dak Galbi. Dak Galbi is made by stir-frying marinated diced chicken in chili pepper paste, then mixed with sliced cabbage, sweet potato, scallions, onions, tteok(rice cake) on a hot stone plate. The restaurant only has a wall menu(no English or picture menu). There's the regular dak galbi, young chicken dak galbi, and dak galbi with cheese. We just got the regular one(I think it's the first one on the list but don't quote me on that), and it was quite addicting...definitely puts your mouth on fire after a few bites but it was totally worth it!

DAKK I BONG(닭이봉 - on yellow neon sign)

Wraps, Sides, Miso based sauce

Dak Galbi

Ask for rice(bap) at the end, and they will make you "bokkeumbap" which is the Korean version of fried rice. They will mix the rice with seaweed, vegetables and the remainder of whatever is left on your hot plate.

HOURS: 11am-12am

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 1, Uijeongbu Station(#110). Exit 2. Pass the movie theater(THC9) on your left. Make the first left onto the main busy road(신흥로). It's about a 7-10 minute walk from your first left, and will come up on your left. This restaurant looks almost identical(look at the yellow neon part on the sign) to another DAK GALBI place right across the street. We almost went in there, until we realized the slight difference in the name...plus, the place we went had much more customers!

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SIGHTSEEING: Enjoy the lively scene in Hongdae.

2011-04-16T13:30:00.001+09:00

Hongdae is an area located in the Mapo-gu district, in central Seoul famously known to be the home of Hongik University. The name comes from the abbreviation of Hongik Daehakgyo(Hongik University). It is best known for their youthful nightlife, artsy atmosphere, cute cafe's and boutiques. If you're into the indie music scene, it is also known to have live music available throughout the clubs and bars in the area.

Hongik University(left)

Buttercup Cafe w/ a life-size Lego man!

The famous "Coffee Prince"(Korean Drama) cafe. We went in there for a cup of coffee & dessert which was OK. However, if you're a fan of the drama, it is def worth the trip to be inside!

Soju Wall!

Who knew there's a shop for cat ladies??

Koreans love Hello Kitty.

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 6, Sangsu(상수) Station(623) / Line 2, Hongik University(홍익대학교) Station(239), Exit 5.

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FOOD: Budae jjigae(부대찌개) Street in Uijeongbu(위정부)

2011-04-07T22:52:00.007+09:00

Budae jjigae(부대찌개) is a popular dish w/ many different aliases. I've seen it called "Army Base Stew", "Johnson Stew", "Junk Stew" among others. Meat was scarce after the Korean War so people made use of surplus foods such as hot dogs, canned ham, good ol' SPAM, beans, and macaroni from the US Army bases around the Uijeongbu and Pyeongtaek area. They incorporated these American ingredients with spicy red chili paste and kimchi. It is also common to see instant ramen being topped off in the jjigae.

My Korean friend informed me that Uijeongbu is THE place for Koreans to eat Budae jjigae, even though it is served throughout Korea. She recommended me a particular place so we went in search of this place with my smartphone map. It's a miracle we found it! And we also found out that there is an actual street called BUDDAE JJIGAE with a gate at the entrance!

As we entered this street, many budae jjigae shop owners were motioning us to enter but we remained focused on our mission. It wasn't hard to find this place once we started walking because there was a long line outside this hole in the wall. None of the other budae jjigae shops had this many customers. We knew we came to the right place and were pumped to eat our first budae jjigae!

ODENG SHIGDANG(오뎅식당) - the long line goes pretty quickly. There's no menu so they will start the budae jjigae as soon as you sit down.

Before the boiling/steaming process...

Voila!

7,000 won per person($6.50)

HOW TO GET HERE: Take Line 1 to Uijeongbu Station(110) or Ganeung Station(109). The shop is about equal distance from both stations. We went from Uijeongbu Station and it was about a 10 minute walk. Click on zoom or view larger map below.

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SIGHTSEEING: Traditional Korean Homes in Bukchon Hanok Village

2011-03-30T17:59:00.002+09:00

I wanted to see traditional looking Korean houses rather than the high-rise apartments that are more common here so we took a trip out to Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul. You can experience the ambience of the Joseon Dynasty by walking in this neighborhood, where it was once a residential area only lived by royal families and high level aristocrats. The area is located on a hill so you can see the contrast of the new versus the old Seoul.

SANGGOJAE! If you are into Korean dramas, this is the famous house from "PERSONAL TASTE". Watching Korean dramas online(they have english subtitles) is a good way to learn Korean. I've met several people who say they learned Korean this way!

HOW TO GET HERE: Get off at Anguk Station(328) on Line 3, Exit 3. If you go straight out of the exit, away from the busy streets towards more residential area, you will see a large police headquarter building on your left. You will also hit a small information booth on your right where you can pick up a free map/guide in English. It was about a 5-8 minute walk to the different neighborhoods. You will see signs such as these(below). Good luck!

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FOOD: My Favorite Cafe Chain in Jihaeng / Dongducheon...(subject to change)

2011-03-29T13:42:00.000+09:00

I haven't been to all the cafe's in the Jihaeng area, but I will be sure to cover the ones I find good...or just plain interesting. Most of the cafe's in Jihaeng are chains, and not the one-of-a-kind ones I found more in the Samcheon-dong and Hondae areas which I fell in love with(entry coming soon). Coffees are pretty expensive here unlike other Korean foods, but I do like to indulge myself every now and then.

So far, we keep going back to Cafe 7gram. It is tucked away, but very easy to find and get to. We fell in love with the Peppermint Mocha Coffee drink which unfortunately I'm hearing is a seasonal thing...so get it while you can!

Our favorite Peppermint Mocha Drink and the Iced Dark Cherry Mocha(also seasonal)

I saw another seasonal drink menu at the register for a CEREAL LATTE & BLACK-BEAN LATTE...I wasn't brave enough to get the BLACK-BEAN, but did get the CEREAL LATTE. Let's just say, I will not be getting the Cereal Latte again. However, my hubby actually liked it. To me, it tastes like blended Cheerios mixed with hot milk.

They also serve tea and waffles like many other cafe's in Korea. Haven't tried it, but looked pretty good. Click here for their website(mostly in Korean).

My favorite coffee chain in Korea is still "A TWOSOME PLACE" which you can find in a previous entry here("Love at First Sip"). Unfortunately none in this area...yet!

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SHOPPING: Korean Cosmetics Haven in Myeong-Dong

2011-03-28T14:10:00.002+09:00

Korea is famous for their cheap yet good cosmetics...well, at least that's one of the drawing points for Japanese people to go to Korea. Koreans all assume I'm Korean since I'm Asian, but Myeong-dong is the first place everyone assumed I was Japanese because they can all speak it pretty well. The cosmetics shop employees are all yelling in Japanese because it is a hot spot for Japanese tourists. The Korea Times even wrote a reports on the number of Japanese customers decreasing 30-40% since the earthquake(Click here for more info on the The Korea Times) so that's definitely telling!

Getting off at Myeong-Dong Station

Anyways being a sucker, I bought into the the hype and bought lots of face masks and a BB Cream(Blemish Balm/Blemish Base). Finding the right BB Cream can be a challenge, but luckily in Korea they give away tons of samples - so don't forget to grab those already in the shopping basket and ask the cash register when you're checking out!

Shopping chaos begins...!

ALAND is a popular chain clothing store in Korea - reminds me of Urban Outfitters. Don't be afraid to go through all the small side streets...you just might find something you're looking for.

Fun people watching...through windows of Frisbee, an Apple refurbish store(no Apple stores in Korea!)

Food vendor strip - you can find these anywhere in Seoul including Myeong-dong

Lotte Young Shopping Mall includes Uniqlo, Zara and other stores...you can also find another Uniqlo and Zara store in this area right down the street.

For designer brands, this is located right next to Lotte Young Plaza.

Other American stores I found in the area were H&M, Guess, Polo, Club Monaco, Tommy Hilfiger, Forever 21, Mango, Nine West.

HOW TO GET HERE: Line 4, Myeong-dong Station(424). The exit signs will direct you to wherever you'd like to go. You may have to go underground through the subway station again to cross the street since there are no crosswalks in this intersection.

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FOOD: Samgyetang(삼계탕), Korean Chicken Soup

2011-03-21T12:18:00.000+09:00

Samgyetang(삼계탕) is perfect for a little pick me up, whether it's from a cold or a hangover...it was our first time trying this dish and we both agreed we will be a regular at this restaurant that specializes in Samgyetang. My friend and guidebook told me this place has the best Samgyetang in the Seoul region and was frequently visited by former South Korean President Moo-hyun Roh.

Samgyetang consists of a whole young chicken and Korean ginseng. The chicken is stuffed with rice, and boiled in a broth of Korean ginseng, dried seeded jujube fruits, garlic and ginger. It is said to be very good for you and Koreans believe it can cure and prevent physical ailments.

TOSOKCHON(토속촌)

There are gardens and separate small rooms inside the restaurant. Sort of feels like you're in a greenhouse.

SAMGYETANG - 14,000 WON

Inside the whole young chicken is glutinous rice.

Chinese Cabbage Kimchi, Radish Kimchi, salt & pepper, a small complimentary cup of Ginseng Wine(INSAMJU) and a bucket for the chicken bones.

HOW TO GET HERE: Get off Gyeongbokgung Station(327) on Line 3, and exit 2. It's a 3 minute walk straight from the exit, on a little side road on the left.

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A Message For Japan

2011-03-16T15:20:00.004+09:00

BBC News Report: "One of the worst earthquakes in recorded history has hit the world's most well-prepared, well-trained nations. The strength of its government and its people are put to the test. While there have been casualties, in no other country could the government and the people have worked together in such an accurate and coordinated way in the face of such tragedy. The Japanese people have shown their cultural ability to remain calm in the face of adversity."

I am moved by reports and stories like these from all over the world that are coming out about the resilience of the Japanese people.

Keeping Japan - my family, friends and the people of the Tohoku region in my thoughts and prayers...24/7.

GANBARE NIPPON! You will get through this. The world is sending their love and strength to you.

Check out this link for heartwarming, uplifting stories of the Japanese spirit despite facing their worst tragedy since WWII. I loved this although it brought me to tears:

http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.com/2011/03/japan-earthquake-stories-from-twitter.html

Found this encouraging sign showing support for Japan in the underground subway station in Myeong-dong, Seoul.

FOOD: The Fried Chicken & Beer Phenomenon in Korea

2011-03-11T10:24:00.001+09:00

Fried chicken & beer joints are everywhere in Korea...I mean EVERYWHERE. We got a booklet with all the delivery places and restaurants in the Dongducheon area, and I would have to say 80% of it is a chicken & beer joint. Most of them always have an original, spicy, and garlic chicken on their menu. Their batter tends to be crispier and less greasy.

I've also noticed chicken in Korea do not have as much meat on them as in the US. That's probably because the plump chickens in the US are injected with steroids...but those meaty chickens taste pretty darn good :P

The chicken sure looks happy serving himself on a platter!

Delivery from "BBQ CHICKEN" which is our favorite so far.

TWO TWO CHICKEN is a popular chicken & beer chain in Korea

Pickled Daikon Radish that goes well with anything fried to cut the grease.

Garlic & Soy Sauce Fried Chicken w/ Green Onions which is another popular menu item. However, the green onions are so strong that it will cure your sinus problems.

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SIGHTSEEING: Go back in time at Gyeongbokgung(경복궁) Palace

2011-03-07T13:22:00.001+09:00

Finally a semi-warm, sunny day out to enjoy some sightseeing in Korea! This palace was built in 1394, and is the main & largest palace out of the Five Palaces built by the first king and founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Walking through these beautiful palaces with the surrounding mountains was calming, and it really takes you back in time.

It's also neat to see the contrast of the modern buildings right beyond the old palaces.

I especially liked the Gyeonghoeru which is the Royal Banquet Hall, surrounded by water.

Tickets for entry is 3,000 won($2.70). They also provide free english guided tours at select times(as well as Japanese and Chinese).

We also checked out the free National Folk Museum located inside the premise where you can learn more about Korean history.

HOW TO GET HERE: Gyeongbokgung Station on Line 3, Exit 5. You can't miss it!

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For more information on Gyeongbokgung Palace, click here.

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FOOD: Cafe imA @ Ilmin Museum of Art...Belgian Waffles!

2011-03-03T22:02:00.001+09:00

This trendy cafe called Cafe imA is located on the first floor of the Ilmin Museum of Art. They serve sandwiches, hamburgers, panini's and one of Koreans favorite desserts...Belgian waffles. You can choose two out of four flavors of ice cream on their menu(chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and green tea) to put on top of your waffles.

Hamburger Steak

Belgian Waffles

Get there early because the line is usually a long one!

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FOOD: Let the Korean BBQ Begin - SAMGYEOPSAL(삼겹살)

2011-02-24T22:06:00.016+09:00

When I think of Korean food, the first thing that comes to mind is Korean BBQ aka GOGI(고기). If there was any late night drinking involved, my friends and I usually ended up at a 24-hour Korean BBQ joint. Now I can have the real deal and pay half of what it was back in the states!

There are several different types of meat in Korean BBQ, but not every place offers all the types. 돈day(DON DAY) in Sinchon(신촌) specializes in SAMGYEOPSAL(삼겹살) which are thick, fatty slices of pork belly.

We decided on 돈day since it was featured in a Japanese famous travel magazine(thanks Mapple/まっぷる) on Seoul. Japanese people travel to Seoul often(and vise versa) since it is so close and flights are fairly cheap. Anyways, this same magazine article that brought us here was blown up and covered half of their entrance door!

Miso marinaded Samgyeopsal

Samgyeopsal Original - only 4500 won($4)!

We wanted to try the tomato/chili marinade which was recommended in the article but they were all out for the night :( Oh well, there's always next time.

HOW TO GET HERE: Take Line 2, and get off at Sinchon station(#240), exit #2. It is a 5 minute walk from the train station(see map - DON DAY is circled and underlined in RED, The orange circle is the Sinchon train station).

HOURS: 12:30pm-1am. They're open 365 days a year.

PHONE: (02)337-3557

CULTURE: This is how Koreans "move" it!

2011-02-23T17:52:00.001+09:00

Now that's a way of moving I've never seen before...?! Wonder what kind of brawl would go down if someone's 60 inch LED TV fell down from up there.

FOOD: Love at First Sip.

2011-02-21T00:47:00.001+09:00

I've only been in Korea for less than a month, but one thing I learned immediately is that Koreans are obsessed with cafe's and coffeehouses. That's fine by me because I love them too! Coffee drinks are not cheap like most of the things in Korea. The price of a full Korean meal will only get you one special coffee drink.

Unlike the US, where the coffeehouses are usually Starbucks or Caribou, Korea has a variety of large chains as well as privately owned(no Caribou, but Starbucks & The Coffee Bean). I've gone to many already since I've been here, and I have to give a special entry to this one chain in particular...A Twosome Place.

They had the best special coffee drink that I fell in love with at the very first sip. I've only had it once, and I don't know why I keep trying to find something better because I just haven't!

Hazelnut Caramel Mocha Coffee, I can't wait to have you again.

Our end decision: Tiramisu

A Twosome Place can be found all around the Seoul area. This one in particular is right outside the Sinchon(신천) train station.