Discovering the Enchanting Blend of Old and New in Seoul
As I stepped through the unassuming entryway of The Hanok Smith Likes, a sense of wonder and delight washed over me. This charming restaurant, nestled in the captivating Samcheong-Dong area of Seoul, had managed to seamlessly blend the traditional Korean hanok architecture with the modern delights of Italian cuisine. It was a culinary adventure that promised to transport me to a realm where the past and present coexisted in perfect harmony.
Stepping into the Hanok Oasis
The Hanok Smith Likes, as the name suggests, is a restaurant that has made its home within the walls of a traditional Korean hanok house. These historic structures, with their distinctive curved roofs and intricate wooden frames, are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. As I pushed open the gate and entered the compound, I found myself in a tranquil oasis that seemed to exist in a different time and space altogether.
The courtyard, with its small stepping stones and alfresco dining area, exuded a serene ambiance that immediately put me at ease. The wooden floors, tables, and chairs complemented the traditional aesthetic, while the glass windows and dim garden lights added a touch of modernity. It was as if I had stumbled upon a hidden gem, a place where the past and present coexisted in perfect harmony.
Dining in the Heart of Old Seoul
As I settled into one of the wooden chairs, I couldn’t help but marvel at the juxtaposition of the Italian menu and the Korean hanok setting. It was a combination that, on paper, might have seemed mismatched, but in reality, it created a unique and enchanting dining experience.
The menu at The Hanok Smith Likes boasted an impressive array of Italian offerings, from salads and soups to pasta, pizza, and even steak. I decided to start with the Nut Salad with Yoghurt Dressing and the Smoked Salmon with Horseradish Cream Sauce, both of which sounded incredibly appetizing.
As I took my first bite of the Nut Salad, I was pleasantly surprised by the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy yoghurt dressing complemented the crunch of the nuts, while the fresh greens provided a refreshing contrast. It was a delightful way to begin my culinary journey.
The Smoked Salmon with Horseradish Cream Sauce was equally delectable, with the silky-smooth texture of the salmon perfectly complemented by the slightly pungent and tangy cream sauce. I found myself savoring each bite, letting the flavors dance on my tongue.
A Risotto to Remember
Having thoroughly enjoyed the starters, I moved on to the main course – the Mushroom and Cream Risotto, which had been highly recommended by the in-the-know bloggers. As the dish was placed before me, I couldn’t help but notice the creamy, plump, and tender rice, a testament to the love and care that had gone into its preparation.
The sautéed mushrooms, cooked in a touch of white wine, added a depth of flavor that enhanced the overall experience. With each bite, the risotto melted in my mouth, leaving a lingering creaminess that had me reaching for another spoonful.
A Spaghetti Triumph
Feeling suitably impressed by the risotto, I decided to round out my meal with the Mare Pasta, a spaghetti dish with a medley of seasonal seafood in a tomato-based sauce. The spaghetti, cooked to an al dente perfection, clung to the refreshing tomato sauce, ensuring that every strand was bursting with flavor.
The calamari, shrimp, mussels, clams, and scallops, all submerged in the lightly herb-perfumed sauce, created a symphony of textures and tastes. It was a true celebration of the sea, perfectly complemented by the robust Spicy Shiraz that I had chosen to accompany my meal.
Unwinding in the Hanok Courtyard
As I savored the last few bites of my spaghetti, I found myself drawn to the enchanting al fresco dining area in the courtyard. Sitting there, with a glass of wine in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of peace and tranquility. The zen-like atmosphere of the hanok setting provided the perfect counterpoint to the delicious Italian fare I had just indulged in.
It was in that moment, surrounded by the ancient walls and the gentle breeze, that I truly appreciated the unique charm of The Hanok Smith Likes. This restaurant had managed to create a truly memorable dining experience, one that seamlessly blended the traditional and the modern, leaving me with a newfound appreciation for the beauty that can arise from unexpected combinations.
As I reluctantly bid farewell to this enchanting oasis, I made a mental note to return soon and explore the restaurant’s other offerings, including the char-grilled pizza that I had heard was another specialty. I knew that my journey through the culinary delights of Seoul had only just begun, and I couldn’t wait to uncover more of the city’s hidden treasures.
