Suiree: The Undisputed Best Bar and Restaurant in Myeongji, Seoul

In the bustling neighborhood near Myeongji University, there are countless places to eat and drink. But finding a spot that truly excels in flavor, mood, and music is a rare gem. Suiree is that gem. It’s more than just a bar; it’s an experience, and I dare say, it’s the best in town.

The sweltering July heat had me craving one thing: a perfectly cold draft beer. But not just any beer. I wanted a drink accompanied by an appetizer so delicious it would make the heat melt away. That’s what led me to Suiree, eagerly anticipating their signature charcoal-grilled squid.

A Vibe You Can't Replicate

From the moment you step inside Suiree, you're enveloped in a different world. The dim, moody lighting, the trendy yet unpretentious decor, and the carefully curated 80s-00s playlist create a private and intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for a date night or a deep conversation with friends. It’s a neighborhood bar with a distinct personality, one that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Operating Hours: 18:00 - 02:00 (Closed on Sundays) Location: 25-5, Geobukgol-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

The ambiance is just the beginning. The real star of the show is the food, a menu filled with unique fusion dishes personally developed by the owner. This isn't your average bar food; it's a culinary adventure.

A Menu That Demands Exploration

The menu at Suiree is a masterpiece. It took us a good ten minutes just to decide, with every item sounding more tempting than the last. Forget pre-made meal kits; every dish here is a testament to the owner's culinary artistry.

We finally settled on the Squid Hangjeong Charcoal Grilled and the Gabrisal Beef Hot Pot, accompanied by three ice-cold draft beers. Ordering is conveniently done via a kiosk at your table, making the experience smooth and modern.

The Main Event: Food and Drinks

First, the complimentary "Oranda" snack and a glass of powerfully iced water set the stage. It’s small touches like this that make Suiree feel special.

Then came the Squid Hangjeong Charcoal Grilled. The visuals alone were stunning. Domestic squid and tender pork jowl (hangjeongsal) are sautéed in scallion oil and kissed by fire, resulting in a smoky, savory dish with absolutely no fishiness. Even the grilled scallions were a delight. This dish is a perfect companion for beer, soju, or a highball.

Speaking of highballs, Suiree’s are expertly mixed and dangerously delicious.

Next up was the Gabrisal Beef Hot Pot. The rich, flavorful broth was simply incredible. It was so good, we immediately ordered a bottle of soju to go with it. A spoonful of the hearty broth followed by a shot of soju is a combination that feels almost infinite—especially since they offer free broth refills!

The tender gabrisal (pork shoulder) and the blend of fresh vegetables, especially the flavorful mushrooms, were cooked to perfection. It’s a dish that makes you wonder: Why is this broth so deep? Why are these mushrooms so tasty?

An Unforgettable Experience

As the night went on, the combination of the incredible food, the perfectly chilled drinks, and the captivating atmosphere created a truly uplifting experience. There's a lot of good food in the world, but it's rare to find a place where everything exists in perfect harmony. Suiree is one of those rare places.

If you find yourself in Seoul, whether you live in Eunpyeong-gu, Seodaemun-gu, or are just visiting, do yourself a favor and take a taxi to Suiree. It’s a neighborhood bar we all wish we had in our own backyard. I know I’ll be back.

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Explore More Around Myeongji University

After your amazing meal at Suiree, why not explore the neighborhood? Here are a few suggestions:

• For Coffee Lovers: Check out Seodaemun Coffee Factory, a local hotspot that serves a variety of great coffees and stays open late.
• For a Late-Night Snack: Yakitorijoong is the perfect place for a second round of drinks and delicious yakitori.
• For a Peaceful Moment: Take a stroll through Myeongji Neighborhood Park, a small, charming park perfect for a quiet break.

Seoul Travel Guide Recommendation by Korean

Hello, we'd like to introduce you to some of the hidden gems around Myeongji, so start here!

Course 1: Nighttime romance in Myeongji University: Suiree Myeongji University.

• Suiree Myeongji Temple: This bar is known for its delicious charcoal-grilled squid, and is a great place to visit in the evening to enjoy a drink with a warm atmosphere[4].
• Seodaemun Coffee Factory: A short walk from Suiree, this hot spot serves a variety of coffees and stays open late into the night [2].
• Yakitorijoong: This is the perfect place for a late-night snack, and you'll definitely want to come back for more.

Course 2: A time of contemplation in South Tokyo

• Laonato Namga Jwadong: This is a cafe with a warm atmosphere and a variety of drinks, especially if you sit by the window, you can see the peacefulness of the neighborhood [2].
• Baluto Finch Myeongji Temple: This place has a hip atmosphere with a unique menu[2].
• Myeongji Neighborhood Park: A short walk away is a small park where you can relax in nature.

Course 3: Exploring the hidden gems of Namgaju-dong.

• Combe de Poussin: This is a cafe that offers a unique experience with French-style desserts[2].
• Suiree Myeongji Temple: It's worth revisiting, but this time during the day to try the delicious charcoal-grilled squid Hangjeong [4].
• Seodaemun Market: A short walk away is Seodaemun Market, where you can try a variety of traditional foods.

These itineraries will introduce you to hidden gems and unique places around Myeongji Temple, with a natural flow between each location. We hope you enjoy your trip