Where Chefs Eat: Sashimi Florist Alex Yu Indulged in This Set Menu in Seoul

Alex Yu has made a name for himself with his meticulously crafted and intricate dishes at Sokyo Sydney, Yugen in Melbourne and now Sokyo Brisbane, where he currently works as executive chef.

Yu is incredibly busy – but he recently carved out some time to visit South Korea. When he came home, he reached out to Broadsheet to share where (and what) he ate there.

Where is the best place for baked goods?
Cafe Onion in Seongsu. If you’ve ever planned a trip to Korea or Seoul, you’ve probably come across Cafe Onion. It is famous for its unique blend of old and new. It’s housed in an old-school renovated factory full of vintage charm. The cafe offers an impressive variety of pastries and breads that attract both locals and tourists. Its signature pastry is the pandoro, a castella made of a perfect balance of egg, butter and vanilla beans, covered with very fine house-made sugar powder.

Where can you find the best street food?
Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul. It was established in 1905. This market is especially famous for its street food. You’ll find a variety of Korean dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), gimbap, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), yukhoe (a raw beef dish), hotteok (sweet pancakes) and more.

Where is your go-to place for a drink?
Le Chamber. It’s a speakeasy bar in Seoul run by two well-known bartenders. There’s a great atmosphere and hospitality with an impressive whisky and cocktail list.

Where would you go for a special occasion or splurge meal?
Flavourtown in Seoul Forest. This place is owned and managed by a couple – chefs TK and Claire – who showcase modern Asian cuisine. Both chefs worked in Australia, Europe and Hong Kong before opening their own restaurant in Seoul.
I indulged in the set menu, which included signature dishes like deep-fried trotters with coconut caramel and chilli [as well as] emperor curry with Canadian lobster and clams, which has to be my favourite. Claire’s strawberry, coconut, mascarpone and strawberry ice-cream dessert is a must-try.

Is there anywhere on your list that you’re saving for your next trip?
Haebangchon (aka HBC), located in Itaewon, is a hillside village that was built by refugees during the Korean War. It has become a bit of a hotspot for young travellers. It’s filled with vibrant and unique cafes and street food, as well as many international restaurants and cuisines.

@alex.yu84