The neighborhood of Sindang-dong hides treasures within its old alleys. The paths are lined with shops and markets big and small, all with regular customers and stories to tell from when they first opened in the 1950s. The neighborhood is the furthest thing you can find to neat, clean, or sophisticated, but nonetheless has become a hotspot for the newest generation. Newer restaurants stand alongside the tried and true, showcasing how the past and the present and harmonize into something unique.

Cecile & Cedric

Cecile & Cedric is a select shop that sells vintage home décor and gardening items. Once you step inside through the mint entrance door, you’ll be greeted by an indoor garden interior. Although it may feel rather small at first glance, the two-story shop is filled with a wide array of items ranging from herbal sachets and fabric goods to European-style vintage items. The shop’s overall theme and products are selected based on an original story of two imaginary lovers of the shop’s namesake, Cecile and Cedric.

Sosoo Bookshop

Sosoo Bookshop is an eclectic mix of a café and bookstore for people who love art and literature. A free non-alcoholic drink comes with each book purchase. You can also forgo purchasing the book and just read it from one of the comfy seats in the shop. There is no time-limit on how long you can stay but if you have to go before finishing your book, they’ll also let you borrow it for free as long as you leave your name and contact number. There’s also a small selection of Korean books that have been translated into English so you can get a better understanding of Korean literature.

Zoosindang

Zoosindang is a unique bar where you can experience Oriental culture. The bar exterior is decorated like a shrine where liqueurs from around the world are gathered, playing on the history of Sindang-dong being a neighborhood of shamans during the Joseon dynasty. In contrast, the interior represents a “forest of the spirits,” with plants and colorful lighting. Signature menus are the 12 cocktails with names of the animals from the Sibijisin, or more widely known as the Chinese zodiac. However, the bartender can make any drink you want. Each seat in the bar is decorated with unique animal coasters and statues. Reservations are made through a mobile application, but you can also ask the staff for a paper wait number if you don’t have a Korean cell phone.

※ What is the Chinese Zodiac?
Despite its name, the Chinese zodiac is a key part of many Asian cultures, related to time and direction. In Korea, the animals (rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig) symbolize different characteristics and are used to represent each year and the people born in that year. 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit.

Mosaic

Mosaic is a café and record store that attracts individuals who have particular taste in music and style. About 150 to 200 vinyl records are added to the store’s collection every Sunday. What sets Mosaic apart from other music cafés are that the staff’s affection for music. Not only do the staff members listen to every vinyl LP and leave a one-line review, but also freely converse with the customers and even offer to demonstrate how to use the turn table and recommend music. There’s no need to worry about the language barrier at Mosaic even if you don't speak Korean thanks to the universal language – music!

Lab Pottery

Lab Pottery welcomes all who seek to have fun with clay. Unleash your creativity at this workshop to make a one-of-a-kind pottery or a décor for your home. Lab Pottery offers a one-day pottery wheel class where you can make your very own pottery. The class is 1 hour 30 minutes long, and you can get your end product after the drying and glazing process which can take up to 3 to 4 weeks. If you’re planning to take a long vacation in Korea, fit Lab Pottery in your schedule for an inspiring and therapeutic experience.

* This column was last updated in May 2023, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.