Aseul Seoul, located just five minutes from Seoul Station, offers a modern dining experience that blends traditional Korean flavors with innovative culinary techniques. Opened in December 2024 by Chef Lee Young-won, who previously honed his skills at a Michelin 2-star restaurant, Aseul Seoul is redefining the modern Korean dining scene.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The restaurant’s name, Aseul, is derived from the Korean word aseulnyeok, which refers to the dim, twilight time just after sunset. This poetic inspiration is reflected in the restaurant’s ambiance, where soft lighting creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Situated on the 13th floor, diners are treated to breathtaking views of the Seoul skyline, with the changing hues of the sky offering a beautiful backdrop to their meal.
Elegant Design with Traditional Touches
Upon entering Aseul Seoul, guests are greeted by an elegant yet intimate space. The restaurant’s design combines traditional Korean elements with modern aesthetics, highlighted by a central light fixture inspired by traditional Korean roof tiles. The ambiance is perfect for various occasions, from romantic dinners to business meetings or family gatherings.
A Unique Selection of Korean Liquors
Aseul Seoul also features a curated selection of traditional Korean liquors, such as makgeolli and cheongju, for those looking to complement their meals with authentic drinks.
Fusion Dishes That Redefine Korean Cuisine
The menu at Aseul Seoul is a thoughtful fusion of traditional Korean ingredients and global culinary techniques. From bite-sized appetizers to hearty mains and desserts, the restaurant offers a range of options for every palate.
Standout Appetizers
Yukhoe Milljeonbyeong Taco (9,000 won): This inventive dish reimagines traditional Korean raw beef by wrapping it in a chewy, grilled wheat crepe. Topped with a tangy fish roe sauce, guacamole, and sour cream, it delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Shrimp and Songhwa Mushroom Jeon (7,000 won): A crispy shrimp patty paired with earthy songhwa mushrooms deep-fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Scallops and Shrimp with Pine Nut Sauce (22,000 won): A refreshing appetizer that combines boiled shrimp and scallops with the rich, nutty flavor of pine nuts. Inspired by a traditional Joseon-era recipe, it’s enhanced with fresh strawberries for a modern twist.
Hearty Main Dishes
Seasonal Fish Stone Pot Rice (34,000 won for two): A comforting dish featuring seasonal fish (mackerel in this case) cooked with rice in a stone pot, accompanied by a soy-based sauce and clam broth. Served with three side dishes and a rich soup, it offers a well-rounded, traditional Korean meal.
Octopus Pistachio Pasta (28,000 won): The restaurant’s signature dish, this creative fusion combines tender octopus legs, caught from Korea’s southern seas, with creamy pistachio pasta. The nutty pistachio complements the octopus, creating a unique and delicious contrast in flavor.
Traditional Korean Drinks with a Twist
Aseul Seoul also offers a range of traditional Korean drinks, with one standout being the Nerd Basil Sparkling Makgeolli (28,000 won). This fizzy, refreshing drink infused with basil pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s dishes, offering a fragrant, herbaceous complement to the meal.
Service Needs Improvement
While Aseul Seoul excels in food and ambiance, some guests have noted that the service could use some refinement. Some diners reported that the staff lacked in-depth knowledge of the menu and had difficulty explaining the dishes in detail, which may impact the overall dining experience.
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