Sometimes the frosty Korean winter calls for a strong drink inside a warm, cozy bar. It’s no secret that Seoul has one of the best nightlife scenes in the world. There is always a sul-jib nearby to grab a drink! Personally, I love a good speakeasy-style bar in the big city, so I was thrilled when I happened to come across Zoo Sindang. Located on a backstreet in Sindang-dong, one of Seoul’s more traditional neighbourhoods, Zoo Sindang resembles an old fortune-telling shop. In fact, the outside looks so inconspicuous, most passers by wouldn’t know that its actually a really cool zodiac-themed bar.
After pushing open the door, guarded by a huge cat statue, you’ll feel as though you’ve arrived on the planet from the movie Avatar. There’s colourful lights, lanterns and plants hanging above you; the bar interior will leave you in awe. I mean… there’s an actual fish tank suspended above one of the tables!
Now, let’s get to the most important part of any bar: the drinks. The menu is centered around the zodiac signs and features cocktails based on each animal of the zodiac. I, of course, ordered a drink based on my own sign, the monkey. The presentation of this cocktail alone was enough to impress, and the drink itself was sweet and refreshing. The bartenders here are clearly professional, are polite and helpful and know how to make a good drink!
Sadly, I visited Zoo Sindang with a full stomach, so I didn’t order any food. However, I did take a glance at their menu. The menu offered a variety of delicious an-joo, aka food that goes great with alcohol. You can order Korean classics like meat skewers and pancakes, or American-style food like pasta and pizza.
Zoo Sindang Address: 411 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul Operating Hours: 5:00pm - 9:00pm weekdays; 4:00pm - weekends Directions: Sindang Station (Subway Line 2, 6) Exit 12. Turn right at Woori Bank and find Zoo Sindang on your left.
