Name: Wolhyang (월향)
Location: Seogyo-dong
Reviewed by: Mama Julia & Papa Dan
Thoughts: Wolhyang is one of the largest and most reputable chains for makgeolli. They carry an extensive range of makgeolli from all over the peninsula, as well as their own brewed makgeolli. The Seogyo-dong location is in a large white house with two floors and a balcony, and the sparse decor makes it feel light and roomy. The prices are high at all Wolhyang locations, but you are guaranteed to get a wide selection of top shelf makgeolli. The other two locations are in Hongdae and Itaewon.
LOCATION
Service: ***
Style: **
Ambience: ***
OVERALL: ***
Food
Modum Jeon (모듬전): ***
Fried Eggplant (가지 튀김): ****
Recommended Makgeolli
Wolhyang Level 1 (월향 1단계): *** (sweet, medium bodied, clean, light)
Wolhyang Wonju 15% (월향 원주)) **** (strong, thick, dusty, alcoholic)
The Seogyo-dong location of Wolhyang has a very different atmosphere to the Hongdae location. As it is nestled in the backpacker side-streets of the neighborhood across from Hongdae, it has a slower and more relaxed feel. However, as with all Wolhyang bars, you can expect the same standard of menu and makgeolli on offer. It has large rooms for bigger groups which are not so easily accommodated in Hongdae, and there is no rush to leave to make room for other customers.
What We liked : The Selection.
The biggest draw for Wolhyang is the sheer selection and choice on the menu.
You can choose from the usual suspects which are common in many bars, or you can sample from a range of premium makgeolli, cheongju, and their very own wonju. The food is also of very good quality, though the serving portions can leave a hungry group wanting more.
What we didn’t like: The price. Even though Wolhyang has some excellent makgeolli from a range of reasonable to expensive prices, it’s the food costs that will hurt the wallet. If you are frequently ordering to replenish the food, the final bill can definitely get out of hand. The decor is also quite sparse, so it can feel like it is lacking in a bit of character.
Recommendation: Wolhyang Seogyo-dong is a great place for groups who are looking for a quality makgeolli and dining experience. If you have people visiting or would like to experience a wide range of traditional Korean liquors in a bright, open atmosphere, this is the place.
How to get there: Come out of Hongdae Station (Line 2) exit 1 and walk straight for two blocks. Turn at your second right and then right again. Take your first left and you will see a big white building which will be Wolhyang Seogyo-dong.
Address:서울 마포구 서교동 352-23 (02 336 9202)
Map: Here
Read our reviews of the other locations:
Wolhyang – Hongdae
Wolhyang – Itaewon
Have you been to Wolhyang Seogyo-dong before? Tried more dishes or have more opinions? More questions? Leave us a comment below and tell us what you think!