Seoul’s cocktail scene shines in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025. Explore Zest, Bar Cham, and Alice Cheongdam in this traveler’s guide.
If you’re planning a trip to Korea and enjoy a good cocktail, you’re in for a treat. At the 2025 Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards, Korea once again proved that its bar scene is among the best in the region. Leading the pack is Zest in Seoul, which held onto the impressive No. 2 spot in all of Asia. It’s not alone. Other top-tier Korean bars like Bar Cham and Alice Cheongdam also made the list, showing just how far Korea’s cocktail culture has come.
From creative drinks made with local ingredients to sleek interiors and unforgettable hospitality, these bars are redefining what it means to go out for a drink in Seoul. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a unique night out during your visit, these award-winning spots deserve a place on your itinerary.
Let’s introduce you to the best Korean bars featured in the 2025 rankings and show you why Seoul is quickly becoming one of Asia’s top destinations for world-class cocktails.
But before we dive into the best Seoul bars, let’s find out what makes this list so special.
What is Asia’s 50 Best Bars?
Asia’s 50 Best Bars is an annual ranking that celebrates the best and most innovative drinking spots across the continent. It was launched in 2016 and is part of the globally recognized 50 Best brand, which also produces the World’s 50 Best Restaurants and Bars lists.
The rankings are decided by a panel of over 260 bar industry experts from across Asia, including bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers, and cocktail aficionados. They vote based on their experiences at bars over the past 18 months, focusing on factors like drink quality, creativity, service, atmosphere, and overall experience.
Being included on the list is a major honor in the hospitality industry. For travelers, it’s a trusted guide to discovering exceptional cocktail bars, hidden gems, and local hotspots worth visiting.
Best Seoul Bars on the List
Zest – No. 2 in Asia
Tucked away in Seoul’s vibrant Itaewon neighborhood, Zest is not just a bar. It’s an experience. Ranked No. 2 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Zest has firmly placed Seoul on the global cocktail map.
What sets Zest apart is its creative use of Korean ingredients, its focus on sustainability, and its sleek, modern aesthetic. The bar does not display any bottles behind the counter, allowing guests to focus on the craftsmanship behind each drink. Everything is made in-house, including infused spirits, fermented elements, and carbonated mixers. Many of the ingredients are local, including Jeju citrus, wild herbs, and even upcycled fruit peels.
The team behind Zest, including Demie Kim, Sean Woo, Jisu Park, and Noah Kwon, comes from some of Seoul’s top hospitality venues. Their passion is evident in every sip and every detail, from the cocktails to the glassware.
Despite its polished feel, Zest remains welcoming and unpretentious. Bartenders are happy to explain each creation and share the inspiration behind it. The vibe is intimate, stylish, and perfect for travelers seeking a refined yet relaxed evening.
Signature Cocktails to Try
Here are a few standout drinks you might find on the seasonal menu:
- Harvest Hour – Made with Jeju Millet Soju, Corn Silk, Second Flush Citrus, Yellow Bell Pepper, Saffron.
- Last Piece – In remembrance of what’s left behind, made with Baguette End Rum, Oxidized Sherry, Pineapple Skin Wine, Burnt Gorgonzola.
- Ginseng Gimlet – A herbal, refreshing cocktail made with Korean ginseng and citrus cordial.
Note: The menu changes seasonally, so expect surprises.
How to Get There
Zest is located in Itaewon, just a short walk from Hangangjin Station (Line 6), Exit 3. From the station, it’s about a 5 to 7-minute walk. The bar is conveniently located near cultural spots like the Leeum Museum of Art and numerous excellent restaurants, making it a great starting point for a night out.
Address:
Zest
40, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
(서울 용산구 이태원로55가길 40)
Hours: Evenings only (check Instagram or Naver for latest schedule)
Travel tip: Zest is extremely popular, so reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. It’s located close to Hannam-dong and Itaewon’s other nightlife spots, making it perfect for a stylish evening out in Seoul.
Bar Cham – No. 6 in Asia
Hidden behind a wooden door in a quiet alley in Seochon, near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bar Cham offers a deeply Korean take on the cocktail bar experience. Ranked No. 6 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, this elegant bar blends traditional Korean elements with modern mixology in a way that feels both refined and inviting.
The word “Cham” means authentic in Korean, and that philosophy runs through everything at the bar, from the handcrafted drinks to the tranquil interior design. Bar Cham uses local ingredients like omija berries, perilla leaves, fermented grains, and traditional teas. Many of the cocktails feel like tasting Korean culture in a glass.
The bar is run by Soohyun Kim, a respected figure in Seoul’s bar scene, known for treating mixology with the same care and attention as fine cuisine. Every drink is carefully layered, with attention to flavor, aroma, and presentation. The space itself feels peaceful and intimate, with natural wood tones and a layout that encourages quiet conversation.
Signature Cocktails to Try
Here are a few highlights that reflect Bar Cham’s Korean roots:
- Pink Plane – Made with peanut butter, washed tequila & mezcal, fermented strawberries, lime, agave syrup, black pepper, and plane made with edible leather using strawberries and pepper.
- Gunsan Sonbi Gin Fino Sherry – Korean Spice Tonic, Cornelian Fruit, Bokbunja and Fig Leaves with carbonation.
- Beeter Man – Mint infused Jung One Gin, hop mead, malt whiskey, acacia honey, and lemon, features hop bitterness and honey from bees.
Note: Menus rotate seasonally, based on available ingredients.
How to Get There
Bar Cham is located near Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 2. From there, it’s a 5 to 10-minute walk through the charming alleys of Seochon. It’s a great stop after a palace visit or a stroll through nearby galleries and cafes.
Address:
Bar Cham
8 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
(서울 종로구 자하문로5길 8)
Hours: Evenings only, Closed Mondays
Travel Tip: Because of its intimate size and refined atmosphere, it’s best to visit in small groups, two to four people is ideal. Bar Cham has a quiet, almost meditative vibe, so it’s a great option for couples or solo travelers looking to unwind.
Alice Cheongdam – No. 13 in Asia
If you’re a fan of hidden gems and playful surprises, then Alice Cheongdam belongs on your Seoul bucket list. Ranked No. 13 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, this whimsical speakeasy-style bar offers a completely different vibe from Zest or Bar Cham, more playful, mysterious, and fun.
Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, the bar’s entrance is cleverly disguised behind a flower shop façade, adding an extra touch of curiosity and charm. Once inside, guests step into a dimly lit, stylish world filled with creative drinks, funky decor, and a sense of adventure. It’s part theater, part cocktail lounge.
Alice Cheongdam is known for its story-driven cocktails, where each drink tells a tale. The bartenders are as entertaining as they are skilled, often introducing their creations with humor or drama. The bar frequently updates its menu, but you can always expect a mix of unusual ingredients, bold presentation, and playful names.
Signature Cocktails to Try
- Drink Me – A mini multi-layered cocktail inspired by the famous potion in Alice in Wonderland.
- Unbirthday Tea Party – whimsical cocktail brings a playful twist to tea-based drinks, blending whisky, Oloroso sherry, bold black tea, and creamy coconut.
- Quack Quack – a playful yet refined cocktail inspired by the idea of a duck, smoky, savory, and just a little cheeky.
Pro tip: The bartenders love to surprise guests, so don’t be afraid to ask for something off-menu.
How to Get There
Located in the upscale Cheongdam area, Alice is about a 10-minute walk from Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Bundang Line, Exit 5). The neighborhood is known for high-end fashion, luxury dining, and stylish lounges, making Alice a perfect addition to an evening in Gangnam.
Address:
Alice Cheongdam
47 Apgujeong-ro 80-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
(서울 강남구 압구정로80길 47)
Hours: Open evenings until late, Closed Sundays
Walk-ins possible, but reservations are safer on weekends
Travel Tip: Alice is great for a night out with friends or a fun date night. The speakeasy theme and creative cocktails make it a perfect place for photos and memorable moments. Pair it with dinner in Cheongdam or nearby Sinsa-dong for a full evening in one of Seoul’s most fashionable districts.
Seoul’s Elite Bar Crawl: A Night Through Asia’s Best Bars
If you’re in Seoul and want to taste the very best of the cocktail scene in Seoul, this bar crawl is for you. Featuring Zest, Bar Cham, and Alice Cheongdam, this route is designed for adventurous travelers who want to explore different neighborhoods, enjoy world-class drinks, and experience Seoul’s unique nightlife vibe.
Start: Bar Cham (Seochon) – 6:00 PM
Begin your evening in Seochon, one of Seoul’s most atmospheric old-town neighborhoods. Start with dinner nearby — there are plenty of cozy Korean bistros, hanok-style restaurants, and even trendy bakeries. Then head to Bar Cham as your first stop.
- Why here first? The calm, refined vibe at Bar Cham sets the perfect tone for the night. It’s best enjoyed early in the evening when it’s quieter.
Next: Zest (Itaewon) – 8:00 PM
From Seochon, take a taxi or short subway ride to Hangangjin Station and walk to Zest. This bar hits the sweet spot between high-end and relaxed — perfect for your second round.
- Why second? Zest is all about balance and creativity. You’ll still be sharp enough to appreciate the complex flavors and house-made ingredients.
Final Stop: Alice Cheongdam (Gangnam) – 10:00 PM
Wrap up your night in Cheongdam, Seoul’s glitzy and fashion-forward district. After two more intimate bars, Alice offers a more lively and theatrical experience to end the evening.
- Why last? It’s fun, bold, and ideal for a slightly tipsy adventure. The playful atmosphere is perfect for a nightcap.
Tips for a Smooth Crawl
- Make reservations at all three spots, especially Zest and Bar Cham.
- Go light on food before Zest to better enjoy its unique cocktails, but eat well before Bar Cham.
- Pace yourself — these bars focus on quality, not quantity.
- Most speak English and are used to international guests.
- Dress smart-casual, especially for Alice and Zest.
Korea’s Rising Star in Global Hospitality
The 2025 Asia’s 50 Best Bars list has once again confirmed what travelers and cocktail enthusiasts have already started to discover — Korea is quickly becoming one of Asia’s top destinations for world-class bar experiences. With Zest holding strong at No. 2, and both Bar Cham and Alice Cheongdam earning well-deserved spots, Seoul is no longer just competing — it’s leading.
This growing recognition reflects more than just great drinks. It highlights Korea’s strength in hospitality, innovation, and cultural storytelling, all poured into a glass. Korean bartenders are not just mixing cocktails; they’re reimagining local ingredients, preserving traditions, and presenting them in creative, globally admired ways.
For travelers, this is the perfect time to explore Seoul’s vibrant bar scene. Whether you’re looking for minimalist sophistication, quiet craftsmanship, or playful creativity, these award-winning bars offer experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
And this is only the beginning. As we look ahead to 2026, Korea’s bar culture shows no signs of slowing down. With new talents emerging and established bars continuing to innovate, we can expect even more Korean names to climb the list — and more reasons to raise a glass in Seoul.
Featured Image: Alice Instagram
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