Seoul, Served My Way
A luxury travel advisor’s insider take on the city’s food, coffee, and cultural soul .
As the founder of Roam & Shine, I’m Raj Patel, a luxury travel advisor powered by FORA Travel, where curated journeys meet a positive, intentional mindset. Based in Queens, NY but fueled by a global spirit, I travel not just to escape but to understand. My clients don’t get cookiecutter itineraries or copy pasted hotel lists—they get insider intel from someone who’s actually been there. From Seoul to Rome, Mexico City to Tokyo, I bring boots on the ground experience to every trip I plan, blending cultural insight, hidden gems, and VIP access into one seamless journey.
And for this blog, I want to dive into my recent adventure to Seoul, South Korea, a city that completely blew me away with its energy, contrasts, and creativity. Here’s how I experienced it, and what I’d recommend if you’re planning your own unforgettable escape to Seoul.
Top Places to Visit in Seoul
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace – Royal Grandeur in the Heart of Seoul
This is Seoul’s crown jewel. Built in 1395, the palace offers a glimpse into the country’s royal past with sprawling courtyards, lotus ponds, and the dramatic changing of the guard ceremony. Rent a hanbok for the full experience—entry is free and the photos are next level.
2. Cheonggyecheon Stream – Urban Zen
One of my absolute favorites in the city. This peaceful stream flows quietly through the heart of downtown and gave me one of the calmest moments of the trip. You’ll find bridges, murals, light installations, and locals unwinding after work. A grounding contrast to the buzz of the city.
3. Starfield Library at COEX Mall – Read, Recharge, Repeat
This one floored me. Located inside Korea’s largest underground mall, this towering open library is not just a photo spot—it’s a vibe. With book walls that stretch to the ceiling, ambient lighting, and cafés nearby, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to grab a coffee and stay a while.
4. Bukchon Hanok Village – Living History
Traditional hanok homes line the hilly alleyways here, many still lived in today. It’s a quiet, picturesque pocket of history surrounded by modern Seoul. Respect the neighborhood—it’s not a museum, it’s a memory lane still in motion.
5. Namsan Seoul Tower – Iconic with a View
An iconic viewpoint and Seoul classic. The view from the top is vast and cinematic, especially at night when the city glows. I took the cable car up, wandered around the love lock fences, and let the panorama speak for itself.
6. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Futuristic Seoul
This Zaha Hadid designed space looks like a spaceship parked in the middle of the city. Inside, you’ll find art installations, exhibitions, and Seoul’s most creative design energy. Visit at night when the LED roses light up—pure magic.
7. The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae) – Political Grace
Formerly the residence of South Korea’s presidents, this blue tiled structure nestled at the base of Bugaksan Mountain is more peaceful than political. Book a tour in advance or enjoy a quiet walk around the grounds.
8. Jogyesa Buddhist Temple – Stillness in the City
Right in the middle of central Seoul, this peaceful temple offers bright lanterns, ancient trees, and quiet reflection. If you need a spiritual breather between sightseeing stops, this is your spot.
9. Gangnam Hands – Art in Motion
In the flashy, fast paced Gangnam district, this giant hand sculpture stops you in your tracks. It’s a nod to “Gangnam Style” and the city’s pop culture dominance. Snap a photo and enjoy the moment.
Where to Eat & Drink in Seoul
Seoul’s food scene is a full blown sensory experience—flavorful, stylish, and grounded in both tradition and innovation. These five places stood out during my trip. Whether you're craving charcoal kissed skewers, modern Korean fine dining, elegant dim sum, or cocktails that tell a story, Seoul delivers.
1. Yakitori Kiyu – Charcoal Driven Perfection
This place is a temple for yakitori lovers. Hidden on a quiet street, Yakitori Kiyu isn’t flashy—it’s focused. The skewers are grilled to precision over binchotan charcoal, with standout items like chicken thigh, skin, and seasonal vegetables hitting a smoky sweet high. The pacing was elegant, the plating minimal, and the quality? World class.
Order tip: Go with the omakase and let the chef guide you. Every bite builds on the last. It's intimate, deliberate, and absolutely worth it.
2. Sooksoodoga – Soulful Korean Done Beautifully
If you're seeking a modern yet deeply rooted Korean meal, this is your spot. Sooksoodoga serves hansik (traditional Korean cuisine) with an elegant, seasonal twist. Each dish is balanced, artfully plated, and clearly made with respect for its heritage.
Highlights: The abalone juk (porridge), grilled fish, and fermented side dishes were next level. The service is graceful, and the atmosphere feels like dining in a private hanok. Understated luxury in every sense.
3. Confier – Intimate, Refined, and Artful
Confier is one of those places where time slows down. A tasting menu driven by local ingredients and French technique, each course was like a small surprise. The chef’s attention to balance, temperature, and texture made this one of my favorite fine dining experiences in Seoul.
What stood out: The seafood dishes and sauces were phenomenal. The wine pairings were thoughtful without being pretentious. You leave impressed—but also cared for. A perfect choice for clients celebrating something special.
4. Yu Yuan at Four Seasons – Luxe Cantonese with Korean Precision
Yu Yuan at the Four Seasons Seoul is Cantonese cuisine at its most elegant. The setting is sleek and stylish, with service to match.
What to get: The dim sum is delicate and deeply flavorful—don’t miss the har gow or crispy spring rolls. Peking duck is carved tableside and roasted to perfection. It’s a splurge, but worth every won for the flavors and experience.
5. Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s OG Street Food Paradise
If you want to eat like a local, Gwangjang Market is where to go. One of the oldest and most beloved traditional markets in Korea, it’s a sensory overload in the best way—narrow alleys lined with sizzling hot plates, steamy vats of broth, and rows of vendors proudly serving recipes passed down for generations.
Must tries:
· Mayak gimbap ("narcotic" mini rice rolls—addictive in the best way)
· Bindaetteok (crispy mung bean pancakes made to order)
· Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes that hit hard)
· Soondae (Korean blood sausage, if you’re feeling bold)
It’s loud, chaotic, and packed with locals—which is exactly the point. Grab a plastic stool, point at something sizzling, and dive in. This is Seoul at its most authentic and delicious.
6. Zest Seoul – Cocktails That Tell a Story
Named one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, Zest isn’t just a cocktail bar—it’s a performance in a glass. Each drink is crafted around Korean ingredients and storytelling—house fermented citrus, wild herbs, and smoke infused spirits all come into play.
Vibe: Chic, dark, but welcoming. Whether you're solo, on a date, or with friends, Zest feels like a secret worth knowing. A must for cocktail lovers at the highest level.
7. Sinsajeon – Comfort Food, Seoul Style
Sinsajeon is one of those spots where the energy is casual, the food comes out bubbling, and the vibe is all about comfort and sharing. Their signature budae jjigae (Korean army stew) is spicy, savory, and served hot in the center of the table—meant to be enjoyed with friends.
What stood out: The stew hits all the right notes—rich broth, tender tofu, ramen noodles, and classic Korean spice—and it pairs perfectly with an ice cold glass of makgeolli, Korea’s lightly sparkling rice wine. Cozy, communal, and deeply satisfying.
Seoul’s Coffee Culture – Precision, Passion, and Pure Vibes
As a coffee lover, I was blown away by Seoul’s obsession with the bean. This city doesn’t just serve coffee—it perfects it. From tiny third wave roasters to multi-story cafés with rooftop views, Seoul treats coffee like art. Baristas here are detailed, deliberate, and serious about craft—from the grind size to the pour angle. And they deliver it all in beautifully designed spaces that make you want to linger.
What surprised me most? How consistently great the coffee was—smooth, rich, and made with pride. Honestly, exploring Seoul’s cafés was one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Seoul + Signature Drinks
1. Fritz Coffee Company (Mapo)
Signature: Butter Latte – smooth, nutty, and just the right amount of indulgence.
An iconic blend of vintage design, expert roasting, and a warm neighborhood vibe.
2. Anthracite Coffee (Hapjeong)
Signature: Hand drip Single Origin – rich and intense, with deep flavor profiles.
A moody, industrial café inside an old shoe factory with serious beans and atmosphere.
3. Onion (Anguk or Seongsu)
Signature: Einspänner – cold espresso topped with fresh cream, balanced and bold.
Minimalist design meets flawless execution—perfect for coffee and people watching.
4. Center Coffee (Hannam)
Signature: Filter Coffee Flight – three styles, one bean, all nuance.
Run by a former UK Barista Champion, this spot is a masterclass in detail.
5. Coffee Libre (Yeonnam-dong)
Signature: Espresso – bright, clean, and competition grade.
A pioneer of Seoul’s third wave scene, with direct trade beans and no gimmicks.
Top Neighborhoods to Explore in Seoul
1. Insadong – Tradition Meets Creativity
Insadong is where Seoul’s artistic soul and historical charm collide. Known for its traditional tea houses, antique shops, calligraphy stores, and galleries, it’s the perfect place to soak up Korean culture.
What to do:
· Wander down Insadong-gil for souvenirs, hanbok rentals, and handmade crafts
· Visit Jogyesa Temple for a peaceful cultural moment
· Try traditional snacks like hotteok or yakgwa from street vendors
· Stop by a tea house tucked down a side alley—calm, beautiful, and full of history
Insadong is perfect for travelers who want to slow down and step into Korea’s past—without leaving the city.
2. Hongdae – Youth, Energy, and Art Everywhere
Home to indie boutiques, street performers, and Seoul’s coolest cafés, Hongdae is the heartbeat of the city’s youth culture. It’s artistic, edgy, and buzzing 24/7.
What to do:
· Catch live buskers and dancers at night around Hongik University
· Browse unique concept stores and underground fashion brands
· Visit quirky museums like the Trick Eye Museum or Love Museum
· Café hop—this is where Seoul’s coffee obsession really shows off
If you're into streetwear, murals, and creative energy, Hongdae hits different.
3. Gangnam – Glamour, Shopping & K-Culture
Yes, the district made famous by that song. But Gangnam is more than just flash—it’s Seoul’s luxury and business center, with sleek malls, high end clinics, and a pulsing modern vibe.
What to do:
Shop and people watch at Starfield COEX Mall and check out the Starfield Library
Pose with the Gangnam Style hands sculpture
Explore local beauty and skincare brands (this is Korean beauty HQ)
Grab a cocktail at Zest or dine at top tier restaurants nearby
Gangnam is polished, high energy, and perfect for travelers who want to experience Seoul’s modern success story up close.
4. Gwanghwamun – Culture, History & 5 Star Comfort
This central district blends deep history with refined elegance—ideal for first time visitors. It's home to landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and top tier museums.
What to do:
· Tour Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the changing of the guard
· Walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream for some urban calm
· Visit the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
· Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul for luxury with cultural access
Gwanghwamun is where Seoul’s soul meets its skyline—an unbeatable base for exploring the city’s most iconic spots in comfort and style.
5. Seongsu-dong – Seoul’s Creative Playground
Often called “the Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu-dong has transformed from an old shoe factory district into the city’s most creative and design forward neighborhood. It’s where locals go for edgy cafés, pop up art spaces, and indie fashion brands—all with an industrial cool vibe.
What to do:
· Explore concept cafés like Daelim Changgo or Café Onion (in a former metal factory)
· Shop local at designer boutiques and lifestyle stores in converted warehouses
· Check out art exhibits or brand installations—this neighborhood reinvents itself weekly
· Grab pastries and pour over at minimalist coffee shops with serious design cred
Seongsu is where Seoul’s next wave of style and culture is happening. Come here if you want to feel like you’ve discovered something before it’s mainstream.
Day Trip: The DMZ – Tense, Fascinating, and Still Very Real
Visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is not just a tour—it’s a deep dive into one of the most complex, surreal, and emotionally charged borders in the world. Located just an hour north of Seoul, this strip of land—about 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide—separates North and South Korea, two nations still technically at war since the Korean War armistice in 1953.
Standing just meters away from North Korea, I felt a strange mix of awe, unease, and fascination. You see watchtowers, barbed wire, and rows of landmines—and then you hear… K-pop. Yes, in true only in Korea fashion, the South blasts upbeat Korean pop music through loudspeakers across the border. It's both a psychological tactic and a cultural flex, recently ramped up after the North started sending bags of trash via balloons into the South. The whole standoff is bizarre, intense, and somehow still... ongoing.
Depending on your tour, you might visit:
· Dora Observatory – where you can peer through binoculars into a North Korean village
· Third Infiltration Tunnel – one of the secret tunnels dug by the North, discovered in the 1970s
· Dorasan Station – the “last stop” before the border, once envisioned as a link to Pyongyang
· Joint Security Area (JSA) – where North and South soldiers stand face to face (if open to tourists)
This wasn’t just a sightseeing excursion—it was a reminder that the past is very much alive here. The line between North and South may be heavily guarded, but the emotions—curiosity, tension, hope—flow freely in both directions.
Where I Stayed: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – A Next Level Experience
If you’re coming to Seoul and want luxury, location, and a full five star experience, look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. I stayed here during my trip, and I’m still thinking about it. Everything—from the service to the amenities to the food—was exceptional, but a few things truly stood out:
The Breakfast Buffet:
I don’t say this lightly: this might have been the best breakfast buffet I’ve ever had anywhere in the world. We’re talking freshly baked breads, Korean specialties, housemade juices, made to order egg stations, dim sum, salads, pastries, and even a cold pressed juice bar. Every detail was dialed in. I looked forward to it every single morning. French Toast at another level.
The Wellness & Fitness Area:
The gym is basically a five star fitness club. Massive space, top of the line equipment, and serious attention to cleanliness and design. I used the gym, sauna, and pool daily—it was a perfect way to reset before heading back out into the city.
Charles H. – The Hidden Speakeasy:
Tucked discreetly behind an unmarked door in the hotel’s lower level is Charles H., the hotel’s cocktail bar—and let me tell you, this isn’t just hype. It’s consistently ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars and has been featured on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. The cocktails are inventive, balanced, and beautifully crafted. The ambiance? Dark, moody, and incredibly cool. It’s a destination in itself.
VIP Travel Advisor Perks:
As a luxury travel advisor, I booked this stay through Fora Travel, which meant I got to experience all the VIP perks I typically secure for my clients—this time, as my own guest. Booking through me includes exclusive benefits like daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (when available), early check-in, late check-out, and often a $100 hotel credit that you can use at the spa, restaurants, or bar. These little touches made an already incredible stay feel extra special—and I can offer the same perks to anyone who books through me.
Staying at the Four Seasons gave me the best of Seoul—steps from Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheonggyecheon Stream, but also its own self contained retreat when I wanted to recharge. This is exactly the kind of place I recommend for first time visitors, luxury seekers, or anyone who wants their stay to feel as unforgettable as the city itself.
Other Top Luxury Hotel Picks in Seoul
· The Shilla Seoul – Classic, elegant, and a favorite for luxury travelers who want a serene, polished escape near Namsan Park.
· Signiel Seoul (Lotte World Tower) – Ultra luxury with panoramic views from one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world.
· Andaz Seoul Gangnam – Trendy, bold design with a great location in the heart of Gangnam and strong dining and wellness offerings.
Final Thoughts: Seoul Left Its Mark on Me
What truly blew me away about Seoul was the incredible attention to detail infused into every aspect of daily life. From the ultra clean streets and flawless skincare rituals to the absurdly efficient service—like getting two pairs of prescription eyeglasses (including sunglasses) made in under 45 minutes—everything felt polished and purposeful. The food scene isn’t just tasty; it’s the heartbeat of the city, made with pride, plated with precision, and served with warmth.
Seoul’s hospitality is unmatched. Koreans are kind, respectful, and genuinely welcoming—traits that mirror their structured, thoughtful culture. I learned Seoul is ranked as the 6th happiest city in the world by the 2025 Happy City Index, even though it exists just south of one of the world’s most threatening neighbors—North Korea, whose missile capabilities and nuclear ambitions are very real.
I came to Seoul curious. I’m already planning my next visit out of love.
Thinking about your own Seoul escape?
Whether it’s street food and skincare or palaces and speakeasies, I can help you plan a trip that’s both meaningful and unforgettable—with all the VIP perks included.
📩 DM me @rajp10 or email me at Rajiv.patel@fora.travel
