The only neighborhood where we wouldn't run into anyone I know.
Why ITAEWON, why now
Itaewon has been undergoing a well-documented revival throughout 2025-2026, with lifestyle media and Korean Instagram accounts highlighting a wave of new independent cafes, cocktail bars, and concept stores replacing the post-2022 vacancies. The neighborhood is frequently appearing in 2026 'neighborhoods to watch' lists on Korean lifestyle publications and r/Seoul threads, making June 2026 a timely moment to feature it.
1. ITALYGUKSI HANNAM
- Seoul, Yongsan District, Itaewon-ro, 234 2층 극동스푸링쿨라(주
- 4.9 · 7877 reviews · 레스토랑
ITALYGUKSI HANNAM opens the course in the middle of the day when Hannam-dong is quiet enough to walk without rushing. The category sits right where this route needs it: a full lunch that holds you until evening. This stop anchors the plan, giving you a reason to be in the neighborhood early while the next stretch is still hours away.
Crew's note
I saved the corner table. Hannam on a weekday feels different.
What visitors say
I absolutely loved my meal at ITALYGUKSI! The Smoky Soybean Paste Stone Pot Pasta is a must-try fusion gem. The creamy, savory broth is infu…
Great lunch experience at Italyguski in Hannam-dong. We ordered the Charcoal Grilled Korean Beef Intestine Pot Pasta and the Cuttlefish Pael…
2. Bermuda
- 168-6 Noksapyeong-daero, Yongsan District, Seoul
- 4.2 · 418 reviews · 와인바
Bermuda closes the course after the neighborhood has already turned. This is the night stop, the wine bar that makes sense only after you've spent the afternoon somewhere else first. The timing puts you here when Itaewon feels like itself again, and the walk ends where it should: seated, with a glass in front of you and no next place to be.
Crew's note
I ordered this before you came. You'll like it.
What visitors say
The food was delicious and on the larger side. The prices are a bit high, but compared to the size of the portions, it is reasonable. Fun an…
Cute and creative bar / grill. just off the main path. We only went for drinks so i can't comment on the food. I loved the decor and service…
The walk between
The strip between Hannam and the heart of Itaewon carries you through the blocks that have been refilling with new storefronts. You pass the independent shops and cocktail bars that brought the neighborhood back into the rotation, the same ones lighting up Korean lifestyle feeds this year.
- Start the course around midday so the afternoon can breathe between lunch and wine.
- Bermuda works best as the last stop, when you've already eaten and the only task left is sitting still.
FAQ
- How large are the portions at the first stop?
- The food is on the larger side, enough to carry you through the afternoon without needing another meal before evening. The servings are filling, so plan accordingly if you're stopping anywhere else before wine.
- What's the price feel at Bermuda?
- Prices run a bit high, but the portions are generous enough that the value evens out. If you're coming only for drinks, expect wine bar pricing without the small-plate pressure.
Ask Solar
Seoul
