An Unexpected Delight in Cheongdam: Cucholo Terrazza – A Hidden Gem in Seoul
Exploring the streets of Cheongdam, I had initially set my sights on visiting a place called “Tea Collective” to end the day on a peaceful note. Armed with Naver Maps and a hopeful heart, I wandered leisurely, soaking in the vibrant streets. However, after what felt like an extended treasure hunt, I came to a bittersweet realization: Tea Collective no longer existed.
Just when I thought my day might end on a flat note, fate intervened in the form of Cucholo Terrazza, a charming spot I stumbled upon on the ground floor of the very building where Tea Collective once stood.
The Serendipitous Discovery
On my way up the stairs to what I thought would lead to Tea Collective, I paused. The music floating through the air and the lively yet cozy ambiance around me piqued my curiosity. My inner traveler’s spirit awakened instantly. Snapping a quick photo, I thought, “What’s this place?” and decided to venture in.
Let me tell you, losing Tea Collective turned out to be one of the best things to happen that day.
Cucholo Terrazza: A Vibe That Hits Just Right
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about a place, always opt for the bar. Watching the skilled staff in action and chatting with them always adds to the experience.
A Wine-Centric Menu
Having already eaten, I wasn’t planning on a full meal. Instead, I decided to sample their wines and pair them with light bites. At first, I had hoped for a cold beer to beat the heat, but Cucholo Terrazza specializes in wine, particularly natural wines, along with a curated selection of small plates.
Though the idea of beer was quickly shelved, the wine selection more than made up for it. I ordered a sparkling wine for myself and a white wine for my companion. Adding a few ice cubes to the sparkling wine turned it into a heavenly refresher—the kind that erases the day’s heat in an instant.
The Menu: Hits and Misses
The first dish to arrive was a fresh salad topped with jamón (Spanish cured ham). It was the perfect pairing with our wine and felt like a trip abroad without leaving Seoul. I joked that I was dining in New York, while my friend claimed we were in Spain. Wherever we were, we agreed that the salad was the epitome of fresh, simple, and delicious.
Dish 2: Anchovy Pizza
The Star of the Show: Natural Wine
Midway through, we decided to try something new—a glass of their signature natural wine, highly recommended by the staff. Now, natural wine can be an acquired taste. My first sip? Let’s just say it reminded me of, uh, medicinal antiseptic. My friend quipped, “It’s got a disinfectant vibe,” which sent us into fits of laughter.
But the staff reassured us: “The more you drink, the more you’ll appreciate its unique flavor.” And they weren’t entirely wrong. By the time we finished, we agreed that it had grown on us. Still, whether it’ll make my “must-have again” list remains to be seen.
The Damage
For two glasses of wine each, a jamón salad, and an anchovy pizza, the bill came to about 110,000 KRW (~$85 USD). Considering the ambiance, service, and overall experience, it felt like a fair deal for a night that felt like a mini-vacation.
Final Thoughts
Cucholo Terrazza was the perfect way to cap off my Cheongdam outing. The serendipity of stumbling upon this hidden gem made it all the more special. From the stylish interiors to the friendly staff and their wine expertise, everything about this place made me want to linger.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone looking for a memorable evening in Seoul, Cucholo Terrazza is worth the visit. Just remember, they don’t serve beer—so embrace the wine and let the vibe take over!
Address: 90-25 Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Pro Tip: Try their natural wine, even if it scares you. You might end up loving it—or at least have a fun story to tell!