A Cozy Western Bistro, Eulji Darak in Seoul
One quiet evening, my husband and I wandered into a little alley in Euljiro—Seoul’s old industrial neighborhood—and discovered a dining experience we still talk about weeks later. Eulji Darak, a modern Western bistro tucked away on the second floor of an old print shop building, instantly became one of our favorite hidden gems in the city.
Whether you’re a traveler looking for a unique local spot or a Seoulite seeking something intimate and flavorful, this is the kind of place that stays in your heart.
A Hidden Gem in a City of Neon
Finding Eulji Darak felt like uncovering a secret. The building is unassuming, almost deliberately invisible, but once you step inside, you’re transported: low ceilings, warm lights, exposed brick, and the hum of people enjoying good food and wine. It felt like we’d left the city and entered someone’s beautifully curated attic.
The word “Darak (다락)” means attic in Korean, and that cozy, tucked-away feeling is exactly what this place delivers.
What We Ordered (And Loved)
The menu is simple but full of surprises. It blends Western flavors with Korean ingredients in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
What We Shared:
- Perilla Leaf Butter Steak
Juicy, perfectly seared steak with fragrant Korean perilla butter melting on top. It was rich, flavorful, and paired beautifully with a glass of natural red wine. - Creamy Tomato Pasta with Chili Oil
Spicy, creamy, and comforting—a dish we scraped clean. The chili oil adds a gentle heat that lingers just enough. - Anchovy Garlic Toast
Salty, crunchy, and totally addictive. We fought over the last piece. - Grilled Vegetables with Doenjang Aioli
The earthy doenjang (fermented soybean paste) in the aioli gave the veggies a bold, umami depth. So simple, yet so satisfying.
We ended the night with two glasses of orange wine, lingering at our table long after we were full. The experience felt personal—like we were let in on a well-kept secret.
Why It Feels So Special
1. A Perfect Date Spot
Whether it’s your first date or your fiftieth, the intimate atmosphere makes every dinner feel special. We didn’t feel rushed, and the soft lighting made it easy to relax and connect.
2. Korean-Western Fusion Done Right
Unlike Western restaurants that simply import menus from abroad, Eulji Darak interprets Western cuisine through Korean sensibilities—using local ingredients, smaller portions, and bold flavors.
3. Natural Wine Heaven
If you love wine (or want to learn), this place is a great intro to natural wines. The servers are happy to suggest pairings based on your taste.
4. Affordable Luxury
We were surprised at how reasonably priced everything was. For the quality of the food, ambiance, and wine, it felt like a bargain.
Multiple Locations Across Seoul
Eulji Darak started in Euljiro but now has several branches. Here’s where you can find them:
| Location | Address | Map |
|---|---|---|
| Euljiro (Main) | 서울 중구 수표로 58-1 2층 | Google Maps |
| Hapjeong | 서울 마포구 양화로6길 84 | Google Maps |
| Seongsu | 서울 성동구 서울숲2길 34 | Google Maps |
📸 Tip: The original Euljiro branch has the most charm, but other locations maintain the same quality and vibe.
Visiting Tips
- Reservations: Not required but recommended for dinner.
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening on weekdays to avoid wait times.
- Instagram: @euljidarak for updates and menu changes.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Eulji Darak was more than just a good meal—it was an experience that lingered. The food, the atmosphere, the shared laughter with my husband—it all blended into a perfect evening. If you’re in Seoul and craving something cozy, flavorful, and a little off the beaten path, Eulji Darak is your next must-visit.