Sashimi till I drop (literally)@Caribu, Seoul

I've been told that Korea is known for steal deal sushis and sashimis, but I was always skeptical of this statement until I experienced it myself at Caribu, a local sashimi joint nearby Diana Hotel, in Gyungmyeong.

It was rather obvious that I looked like a "mountain pig" unsure of how to order, blindly staring at the a picture less menu filled with Korean wording hung on the wall. Lucky Dogma was around to do some amateur translation and we ended up ordering some sashimis at 25000won/pax. (RM75). At first, only 10 pieces were placed on this gigantic plate. Strangely, the locals love their sashimis slightly frozen, thus hard. Not accustomed to this style of eating, I left mine on the bowl for a while to thaw and soften them before eating. Within minutes, the 10 pieces were almost gone and I was left feeling cheated, thinking this cost RM 75. I must confess I was quick to complain in Mandarin, forgetting that many locals here can also speak Chinese. Urks.. Only then I had slight suspicions that the chef might be able to understand me. Just when I was about to pack up, all of a sudden, the chef took out his sharp knife and started adding more slides on the iced bowl. Like ALOT of slices. From different parts of the body. The image above was the 2nd serving. Oops. I was too quick to judge.

I was further surprised when the chef started cutting the tuna meat again, this time giving us, the eyes, cheeks, tongue, neck parts. WOAH ! And to add the wow factor even more, the chef covered the meat with some gold dust. Who says gold accessories can only be used on humans? Fishes too! My favorite part was the eye. So, so, so, so tender. Beyond description.

Based on my observation, the two distinct methods of sashimi eating between the Koreans and the Japanese are: 1) fish slices are served slightly frozen and hardened versus just nicely defrosted and soft 2) the sashimis are wrapped in seaweed for the Koreans

The other distinct difference was also the side dishes serving, I didn't expect that the prawn sashimis and rolls would be complimentary. What a generous gesture! And the other side dish given was fried ginkgo and garlic on served on the hot plate. I have never eaten ginkgo in such a manner before, and it was delish! The oil brought out the nutty flavor and soaked with garlic fragrance making them truly enjoyable just munching them as they were. We had to reject their third serving of side dish which was beef slices with foochuk. It is madness the amount of food given ! I regretted speaking so harshly right from the beginning condemning the overpriced RM 75 10 sashimi slices, only to know I was about to embark on a long educational dining experience on the tuna. We were so full that we had to tell the chef, "no more....no more sashimi please... Stop ..." I'm sure no one has ever declined the chef from serving sashimis before, it is definitely my first, for someone who loves sashimis and any worthy steal deals! If I were to dine like this in Malaysia, I must be prepared to spend at least RM 300-RM 500, like the price in Gaon, Sri Hartamas. I am very, very, very glad I had this surprisingly pleasant and educational dining experience in Caribu! Looking forward for another year of fruitful foodie venture on my next Korea church retreat trip.

Best cheesecake Ive ever had@New York Cheesecake Factory, Seoul

We were aimlessly walking around the Gyungmyeong area after arriving back at Seoul from Yeojoo. This summer retreat was truly blessed, heartfelt with tearful prayers and humbling for me.

Before I left, this shop was still under renovation. Amazingly after 5 days the shop is now opened.

The beautifully displayed cakes decorated with such refined and delicate touches, I could not resist trying the cake, despite the pricey tag (one slice is 5500 won, 15 RM!)

And I was glad I followed my hunch.

By far the best cheesecake I ever had.

The cheese was so soft every mouthful of it just melted into my mouth. The biscuit base layer was also just nice, soft and evenly ground. Definitely the proportion of butter and biscuits was perfection.

One of my friends, a japanese, says the best cheesecake in Malaysia still goes to Secret Recipe's and I overpromised him that this slice was 100 times better.

The verdict given by him was not 100 haha..but 80 at least! Victory!

Syok!@Mcdonalds, Gyeungamyong area, Seoul

An early morning walk around Diana hotel area where I am staying. Scouting for a coffee fix and decided to go with a budget breakfast at McDs since they have non-halal options of mcmuffin sets!

The ham, egg and cheese mcmuffin was yummylicious! The cheese really nicely melted onto the egg and muffins unlike lousy ones we get back home.

The muffin n coffee cost 2500 won (about RM7-8)

As I realised locals love to drink and even more so on a Friday night. This dude slept on the pavement since who knows when. If it was in Malaysia I am certain he would have been robbed and stripped naked based on our nation's 'low' level of crime as claimed by our 'respected' politicians.

Coffee break@Coffeesmith, Seoul

Finally the long awaited trip is here!

Despite the sticky sweaty hot summer, it didn't stop me from foodie exploring in Seoul.

I am at Apgujeong area, people watching and coffee chilling. Fascinated by the local fashion trends and facial plastic surgery trends (urks).

A break away from the hectic work life. Feels great!

Apparently Coffeesmith is a popular coffee joint among locals as 'cool people' hang out here.

Coffee wise..only soso. But environment wise does feel rather cozy here.

Next stop, lunch!

A sweet bun surprise right before bed@Paris Baguette

Korea's patisserie, Paris Baguette is one of the top bakeries in the Won land and it is easily spotted just about any corner of the street.

I got a bun, stuffed with thicky and fluffy cream and red bean paste... my favourite for.. freeeeeeeeeee...! It was really yummy...mmmmm....bliss!

Ok, time to sleep *burp*. A healthy diet indeed, cream and sugar and straight to bed.