Sinsa Izakaya, Dotonbori Seoul is the perfect spot for those seeking an authentic taste of Osaka’s nightlife in the heart of Seoul’s Sinsa neighborhood. Located at the entrance of Garosugil, this large-scale izakaya brings the vibrant energy of Japan’s bustling night markets to Seoul, making it an ideal destination for both casual meetups and romantic dates.
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Overview, Sinsa Izakaya, Dotonbori Seoul
Located in Sinsa-dong, Dotonbori Seoul is a large izakaya that brings the ambiance of Osaka’s bustling nightlife to the heart of Seoul. Whether you’re going with friends or on a date, this Sinsa hotspot offers a truly immersive Japanese izakaya experience.
If you’re looking for a place that captures the energy of a Japanese night market, I highly recommend checking out Dotonbori Seoul. It’s conveniently located at the entrance of Garosu-gil, right by Sinsa Station Exit 8, and valet parking is available, making it easy to visit even if you’re driving.
Operating Hours for Dotonbori Seoul:
- Open daily: 5:00 PM – 5:00 AM
- Valet parking is available for 5,000 KRW for 2 hours, making it affordable in this area.
With a variety of light yet flavorful dishes to accompany your drinks and an atmosphere that perfectly recreates the youthful and trendy vibe of Osaka, it was an exciting and enjoyable night.
more info and make a reservation via Catch Table
Interior and Atmosphere of Sinsa Izakaya, Dotonbori Seoul
From the moment you approach the entrance, the bold presence of Dotonbori Seoul makes an impression. Even if you’ve never been to Osaka, the large sign featuring the iconic Glico Runner character instantly evokes the feeling of Japan’s famous street.
Descending a broad staircase into the basement, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a hidden underground city. It’s like a massive night market within Gangnam, with the interior designed to make you feel like you’re walking through a mini-Japan.
The waiting area is adorned with quirky, eye-catching banners reminiscent of Japanese street posters, giving you plenty to look at while waiting.
Once inside, you’ll find private rooms lined up along the hallway, each capable of accommodating 6 to 10 people. Each room is named after a famous Japanese city, so you can even request a specific room. If you’re planning a gathering, calling ahead to reserve a room is recommended. Luckily, there’s no additional room charge or deposit required.
After the private rooms, you’ll come across a long corridor leading to a quieter area with more intimate 2- to 4-person rooms. There’s also a large hall with plenty of seating, perfect for larger groups. The hall can accommodate around 100 people, making it an ideal venue for corporate events, holiday parties, or group gatherings.
If you’re visiting with a partner, the bar seating is an excellent option, as the preparation of food itself feels like a performance. Watching the chefs in action adds to the charm of the dotchi seating, making it a perfect place to share a drink with a date or even to break the ice with someone new.
The decor features eye-catching red lanterns, giving the space a lively yet cozy festival vibe. It’s like enjoying a Japanese street festival while comfortably seated at a table.
There’s even a smoking room and a system for borrowing portable chargers.
Menu
Each table is equipped with a kiosk system, making it easy to browse and order dishes. Plus, they run promotions, such as offering free drinks in exchange for leaving reviews on social media platforms like Instagram or Naver Receipts.
The menu offers a wide range of choices, from sashimi, grilled dishes (robata-yaki), tempura, stir-fried dishes, hot pots (nabe), and rice bowls. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack to accompany your drinks or a full meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
For the evening, we chose some lighter dishes and drinks to enjoy:
- Sashimi Set for 2: 23,000 KRW
- Yakitori 3-piece Set (3 skewers): 9,000 KRW
- Grilled Buttered Abalone (2 pieces): 20,000 KRW
- 2 Earl Grey Highballs: 15,800 KRW
The prices are reasonable, making this a great place for younger crowds, and they also offer a variety of drinks, including Japanese soju, sake, and champagne.
Taste of the Food at Sinsa Izakaya, Dotonbori Seoul
The first thing that surprised me was the size of the glasses for the highball—absolutely huge! The Earl Grey Highball had a classic, refreshing flavor with a subtle hint of Earl Grey.
Next up was the Sashimi Set for 2. The selection varies depending on the day’s catch, but today’s offering was perfectly tailored to my taste. With six types of fish, all served in pairs, it was a great deal for the price. The sashimi was fresh, tender, and practically melted in my mouth—just like you’d expect from a top-tier sushi restaurant. The wakame salad that accompanied the sashimi was also delicious.
Following the sashimi, we enjoyed the Yakitori 3-piece Set, a staple whenever I visit an izakaya. The set came with bacon-wrapped cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken skewers, and heart skewers, along with a side of cabbage. The skewers were grilled to perfection, and each bite was savory and satisfying.
Lastly, we were treated to a visually stunning Grilled Buttered Abalone, served with a dramatic flame as the finishing touch. The abalone was cooked to a tender, chewy texture and paired perfectly with the buttery flavor. Even the innards, which I usually avoid, were tasty and expertly prepared. This dish is a must-try!
Conclusion
Dotonbori Seoul officially opened its doors on September 1, 2023, and it’s already become one of the hottest izakayas in Sinsa. Despite being newly opened, the place was packed on a weekday evening, showing how quickly it’s become a popular spot.
Whether you’re coming for a first round, second round, or even a third, Dotonbori Seoul is an excellent choice for friends, dates, or group gatherings. If you’re looking for privacy, make sure to reserve one of the rooms, or if you prefer the lively atmosphere of a Japanese night market, opt for the main hall seating. Highly recommended for any occasion!