Sunday Salt: A Jazzy Mexican Escape on Seoul's Gyeongridan-gil

Just a couple of days before a special birthday, the desire for a unique celebration led us to a hidden gem in Itaewon's vibrant Gyeongridan-gil neighborhood. While every day holds its own magic, this called for something extraordinary. Our destination: Sunday Salt, a fine dining jazz bar with a twist—it's only open on Saturdays.

From the moment we saw the sign, we knew we were in for a treat. The name itself is an intriguing promise of a savory, soulful experience. Currently, Sunday Salt delights its guests with authentic Mexican cuisine, accompanied by two live jazz performances that set the perfect mood for a memorable evening. It's the kind of place you already know you'll want to return to for another special occasion.

An Entrance to Another World

The entrance felt wonderfully exotic. Seeing the "Sunday Salt" sign confirmed we were in the right place, building our anticipation.

Climbing to the second floor, we were welcomed into an interesting space by a gracious host. For a moment, we thought we might be the only guests, but he led us through another door, down a flight of stairs, and into a breathtaking, atmospheric dining area.

The space was buzzing with energy. It was clear this was a popular spot for those looking to make their Saturday special. The ambiance was perfect—a cool, speakeasy vibe that felt both intimate and lively.

Sunday Salt at a Glance:

• Google Rating: 5.0
• Hours: Saturday 17:00 - 23:00
• Location: 33 Hoeunamae-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
• Reservations: 010-4642-6825 (Catch-table reservation is recommended)

The Soul of Sunday Salt: Music & Cuisine

The heart of Sunday Salt is its seamless fusion of food and music. The open kitchen, the international staff, and the incredible performers all contribute to a vibrant, multinational atmosphere.

The menu features a curated selection of Mexican delights. We decided on the Beef Tacos, a Quesadilla, the Chipotle Minicourse House Salad, a classic Corona, and an Old Fashioned.

As we ordered, the jazz performance began. With shows at 5 PM and 7 PM, the music is a central part of the experience. The vocalist's voice was incredibly engaging, perfectly complemented by the smooth piano and guitar. An evening filled with live music is always a refreshing change of pace.

The performance was so moving that it almost felt wrong to eat while they were playing. We wanted to give them our full attention and cheer enthusiastically. A word to the wise: arrive for the 5 PM show to soak it all in from the beginning.

A Feast for the Senses

We arrived a little late, and the place was already bustling. While our food took a moment to arrive, the incredible drinks and mesmerizing jazz made the wait disappear.

My partner, an Old Fashioned enthusiast, declared his drink perfectly made—a sweet, potent concoction that hit all the right notes. My Corona was, of course, a perfect companion for the meal to come.

The Beef Tacos arrived first. They were perfectly portioned, and the combination with the Corona was simply fantastic. A squeeze of lime, and they melted in my mouth. I seriously considered ordering ten more but managed to restrain myself.

Next came the Chipotle House Salad, which was a delightful surprise. It wasn't a typical salad but a whole head of lettuce, lightly grilled or prepared in a way that gave it a unique texture. The server simply instructed us to "slice it up and eat it." The combination of the fresh lettuce, savory garlic flakes, and the chipotle sauce was a flavor I'd never experienced before. It was eye-rollingly good and felt like a course from a fine dining menu.

Finally, the Quesadilla. I thought I knew what to expect, but Sunday Salt's version was on another level. It was so unbelievably delicious that I found myself peering at the kitchen, wondering if the chef was a culinary genius from Mexico. Every bite was a revelation.

This is not just a dining bar; it's a true fine dining jazz bar. The quality of the food, the enchanting music, and the incredible atmosphere make it a standout destination.

We've already decided we're coming back on December 14th. When a place makes that strong of an impression, you know it's special. For any memorable occasion, Sunday Salt is the first place that will come to mind.

Perfect Pairings: 3 Spots to Visit Near Sunday Salt

Gyeongnidan-gil Path: Before your meal, take a relaxing stroll down this iconic road. It's filled with unique little shops, cozy cafes, and a vibrant, artistic atmosphere that perfectly sets the mood for a special evening.

Namsan Park & N Seoul Tower: For breathtaking sunset views of the city, head to nearby Namsan Park. A romantic walk followed by the stunning scenery from the N Seoul Tower is the perfect prelude to a steak dinner with live music.

Itaewon Antique Furniture Street: Discover hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces on this charming street. It's a great way to spend an afternoon exploring a different side of Seoul before your dinner reservation.