On a stretch of road in the expansive city of Seoul, you'll discover two of the finest cocktail bars in the entire city right across from each other: Alice Cheongdam and Le Chamber. Situated in Seoul's Gangnam district, which gained fame from a popular viral song in 2012 and represents the district's luxurious style, these two bars are now receiving international recognition, soaring in popularity across Asia and the globe.
The proximity of these two cocktail bars creates a remarkable synergy that cannot be underestimated, especially in a city where the drinking culture is predominantly centered around soju and beer. Despite being separate establishments with their own teams, Alice Cheongdam and Le Chamber share more than just their location—they both embody an unwavering commitment to hospitality, boast elaborate menus, innovative concepts, and exceptionally creative drinks.
Having two high-end bars situated so closely to each other can either breed a sense of unity or perpetuate bitter rivalry. In the case of Alice and Le Chamber in Gangnam, it's the former that prevails, as they foster a harmonious atmosphere as neighbors.
Alice Cheongdam Alice Cheongdam, a bar styled as a lounge, offers unconventional cocktails and equally eccentric bar snacks. The establishment's interior and lounge area emulate the ambiance of an English mansion, complete with plush sofas to sink into and ceilings that resemble the texture of a chocolate bar. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by swing jazz music infused with an EDM twist. For a truly unique experience, make sure to try the "Alice Boutique" from their signature cocktail selection.
The bartender will skillfully prepare a gin and tonic infused with grapefruit juice, accompanied by a captivating white cloud of food-grade nitrogen gas. This delightful concoction is served in an elephant-shaped glass, cleverly designed with the "nose" section functioning as a built-in straw. The bar's commitment to eclecticism doesn't stop there. With just a press of a button, bartenders can magically summon drink glasses from the bar table, and the bathroom, with its walls cleverly disguised, holds a mysterious surprise waiting to be discovered.
There's no actual sorcery or mysterious tricks involved at Alice, but the bar is meticulously crafted to create a fairy tale-like experience for those weary of the mundane aspects of everyday life. The owner, who has spent more than a decade working as a bartender in hotels, emphasizes the importance of attention to detail at Alice. This dedication is apparent in the fact that it took him two years to find the perfect location and bring his vision of such a bar and its accompanying story to life. If you're seeking a whimsical haven to revive your spirit, seek out the White Rabbit of Cheongdamland. The enchantment awaits you down the rabbit hole.
"Korea is renowned for its picturesque seasons, and even if you visit the same place, each season offers a distinct beauty," explains Willy Park, the head bartender. "The menu captures the essence of these four seasons, aligning with Alice's thematic concept."
The bar's upcoming menu showcases an emoticon that corresponds to each cocktail's unique sensory experience, while QR codes provide access to detailed information about the ingredients and explanations. In the past, a vibrant graphic novel depicted the mischievous adventures of a rabbit exploring the city, with colorful illustrations accompanying each drink.
The spirit of playfulness extends beyond the menus and into the ingredients and presentations of each beverage. Take, for example, the Birds & the Bees cocktail, which combines basil-infused gin with pineapple, honey, and an IPA foam. This delightful concoction is served in a mug placed within a straw bird's nest, adorned with chocolate eggs for an enjoyable snack. Another drink is prepared inside a jewelry box with a mirror-lined back, inviting guests to open it with sheer delight as the smoke dissipates.
Alice is a regular fixture on Asia's 50 Best Bars list, making it a highly regarded establishment in the region. This speakeasy lounge, adorned with luxurious curtains and whimsical nods to Lewis Carroll's world, offers a captivating experience with its diverse range of theatrical cocktails infused with molecular techniques. Additionally, Alice also surprises patrons with an array of unconventional bar snacks.
Le Chamber Elegant, luxurious, and refined are all apt descriptions when you step foot into Le Chamber. This exclusive speakeasy prides itself on its upscale ambiance and impeccable service. Embodying sophistication in every aspect, from its pricing to its attention to detail, Le Chamber ensures an exquisite experience. Adding to its allure, the entrance to the basement is shrouded in an intriguing air of mystery. Disguised as a bookshelf, only those who select the correct book can unveil the secret door, evoking a classic touch of intrigue reminiscent of a captivating mystery novel set in the modern-day.
Gaining entry to the lavish speakeasy, Le Chamber, is contingent upon selecting the correct book from the bookshelf entrance—a captivating detail that has become the subject of numerous Instagram posts. This imaginative concept was conceived by the talented world-champion bartender-owners, Eom Do-hwan and Lim Jae-jin. The venue, capable of accommodating up to 50 guests, exudes an atmosphere of elegance with its lofty ceilings, plush leather seating, dazzling chandeliers, and live piano performances. The menu, presented in hardcover books, showcases an extensive selection of around 200 whiskies and includes house-made ingredients such as ginger beer and fermented concoctions. Catering to VIPs, Le Chamber also offers a dedicated bottle-storage facility, making it a common sight to spot K-pop stars indulging in Gatsby-style cocktails, adorned with a clipped picture of none other than Leonardo DiCaprio.
Le Chamber, located in the basement, offers a contrasting experience to Alice. Instead of being concealed behind an elaborate facade, the stairs lead you into a lavish cocktail lounge adorned with a magnificent chandelier and a grand piano. While the city's stylish night owls flock to this establishment, what sets it apart is the welcoming atmosphere that embraces everyone.
The bar upholds a code of conduct known as "Hyang-Eum-JuRye," inspired by traditional etiquette from the Joseon Dynasty, a renowned kingdom that governed for five centuries after its establishment in the late 14th century. The head bartender explains, "Both the elite and the common people were encouraged to drink in public, as it provided an opportunity to learn the manners and customs valued in our culture. Moreover, it serves as a powerful reminder that responsible drinking is an essential aspect of the modern drinking experience."
A recent menu at Le Chamber featured an impressive array of ingredients and drinks, ranging from beloved classics to meticulously barrel-aged cocktails and omakase cocktail flights. Each drink was accompanied by captivating illustrations and informative details, including flavor profiles and alcohol by volume (ABV). Among the standout selections is the Love or Hate, which combines Islay whisky, amontillado sherry, and truffle, while a revamped version of the Pisco Sour incorporates yuzu and basil oil, adding a delightful twist to a beloved cocktail.
The proximity of these two cocktail bars creates a remarkable synergy that cannot be underestimated, especially in a city where the drinking culture is predominantly centered around soju and beer. Despite being separate establishments with their own teams, Alice Cheongdam and Le Chamber share more than just their location—they both embody an unwavering commitment to hospitality, boast elaborate menus, innovative concepts, and exceptionally creative drinks.
Having two high-end bars situated so closely to each other can either breed a sense of unity or perpetuate bitter rivalry. In the case of Alice and Le Chamber in Gangnam, it's the former that prevails, as they foster a harmonious atmosphere as neighbors.
Alice Cheongdam Alice Cheongdam, a bar styled as a lounge, offers unconventional cocktails and equally eccentric bar snacks. The establishment's interior and lounge area emulate the ambiance of an English mansion, complete with plush sofas to sink into and ceilings that resemble the texture of a chocolate bar. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by swing jazz music infused with an EDM twist. For a truly unique experience, make sure to try the "Alice Boutique" from their signature cocktail selection.
The bartender will skillfully prepare a gin and tonic infused with grapefruit juice, accompanied by a captivating white cloud of food-grade nitrogen gas. This delightful concoction is served in an elephant-shaped glass, cleverly designed with the "nose" section functioning as a built-in straw. The bar's commitment to eclecticism doesn't stop there. With just a press of a button, bartenders can magically summon drink glasses from the bar table, and the bathroom, with its walls cleverly disguised, holds a mysterious surprise waiting to be discovered.
There's no actual sorcery or mysterious tricks involved at Alice, but the bar is meticulously crafted to create a fairy tale-like experience for those weary of the mundane aspects of everyday life. The owner, who has spent more than a decade working as a bartender in hotels, emphasizes the importance of attention to detail at Alice. This dedication is apparent in the fact that it took him two years to find the perfect location and bring his vision of such a bar and its accompanying story to life. If you're seeking a whimsical haven to revive your spirit, seek out the White Rabbit of Cheongdamland. The enchantment awaits you down the rabbit hole.
"Korea is renowned for its picturesque seasons, and even if you visit the same place, each season offers a distinct beauty," explains Willy Park, the head bartender. "The menu captures the essence of these four seasons, aligning with Alice's thematic concept."
The bar's upcoming menu showcases an emoticon that corresponds to each cocktail's unique sensory experience, while QR codes provide access to detailed information about the ingredients and explanations. In the past, a vibrant graphic novel depicted the mischievous adventures of a rabbit exploring the city, with colorful illustrations accompanying each drink.
The spirit of playfulness extends beyond the menus and into the ingredients and presentations of each beverage. Take, for example, the Birds & the Bees cocktail, which combines basil-infused gin with pineapple, honey, and an IPA foam. This delightful concoction is served in a mug placed within a straw bird's nest, adorned with chocolate eggs for an enjoyable snack. Another drink is prepared inside a jewelry box with a mirror-lined back, inviting guests to open it with sheer delight as the smoke dissipates.
Alice is a regular fixture on Asia's 50 Best Bars list, making it a highly regarded establishment in the region. This speakeasy lounge, adorned with luxurious curtains and whimsical nods to Lewis Carroll's world, offers a captivating experience with its diverse range of theatrical cocktails infused with molecular techniques. Additionally, Alice also surprises patrons with an array of unconventional bar snacks.
Le Chamber Elegant, luxurious, and refined are all apt descriptions when you step foot into Le Chamber. This exclusive speakeasy prides itself on its upscale ambiance and impeccable service. Embodying sophistication in every aspect, from its pricing to its attention to detail, Le Chamber ensures an exquisite experience. Adding to its allure, the entrance to the basement is shrouded in an intriguing air of mystery. Disguised as a bookshelf, only those who select the correct book can unveil the secret door, evoking a classic touch of intrigue reminiscent of a captivating mystery novel set in the modern-day.
Gaining entry to the lavish speakeasy, Le Chamber, is contingent upon selecting the correct book from the bookshelf entrance—a captivating detail that has become the subject of numerous Instagram posts. This imaginative concept was conceived by the talented world-champion bartender-owners, Eom Do-hwan and Lim Jae-jin. The venue, capable of accommodating up to 50 guests, exudes an atmosphere of elegance with its lofty ceilings, plush leather seating, dazzling chandeliers, and live piano performances. The menu, presented in hardcover books, showcases an extensive selection of around 200 whiskies and includes house-made ingredients such as ginger beer and fermented concoctions. Catering to VIPs, Le Chamber also offers a dedicated bottle-storage facility, making it a common sight to spot K-pop stars indulging in Gatsby-style cocktails, adorned with a clipped picture of none other than Leonardo DiCaprio.
Le Chamber, located in the basement, offers a contrasting experience to Alice. Instead of being concealed behind an elaborate facade, the stairs lead you into a lavish cocktail lounge adorned with a magnificent chandelier and a grand piano. While the city's stylish night owls flock to this establishment, what sets it apart is the welcoming atmosphere that embraces everyone.
The bar upholds a code of conduct known as "Hyang-Eum-JuRye," inspired by traditional etiquette from the Joseon Dynasty, a renowned kingdom that governed for five centuries after its establishment in the late 14th century. The head bartender explains, "Both the elite and the common people were encouraged to drink in public, as it provided an opportunity to learn the manners and customs valued in our culture. Moreover, it serves as a powerful reminder that responsible drinking is an essential aspect of the modern drinking experience."
A recent menu at Le Chamber featured an impressive array of ingredients and drinks, ranging from beloved classics to meticulously barrel-aged cocktails and omakase cocktail flights. Each drink was accompanied by captivating illustrations and informative details, including flavor profiles and alcohol by volume (ABV). Among the standout selections is the Love or Hate, which combines Islay whisky, amontillado sherry, and truffle, while a revamped version of the Pisco Sour incorporates yuzu and basil oil, adding a delightful twist to a beloved cocktail.
