Found on a still-kinda-forlorn stretch of Bloor West, Seoul Shakers has all the trappings of a Leemo Han joint. Along with bartender Inh Huh, the restaurateurs behind the vivacious Pinky’s Ca Phe have opened up a space that is a feast for both the eyes and stomach. A retro vibe permeates the long room, accented with beaded fringe and hanging faux ferns, and neon signage lends everything a reddish hue. The cuisine is Korean by way of South America. Corn tortillas are vessels for pineapple and gochujang al pastor marinated pork neck. The iceberg wedge salad comes gussied up with fermented Korean pear, shreds of radish, roasted brown rice and Stilton cheese and is finished off with a gingery dressing. And a riff on a chopped cheese sandwich piles roast kimchi atop a chopped ground beef patty with pickles, cheese and plenty o’ sauce. Bar stool seating may alienate an older clientele at Seoul Shakers, but this is a haven for cool kids anyways. Don’t even think about trying to make resos.
MUST-HAVE: Eggplant kangpungi
IF YOU CAN’T GET A RESO TRY: Leemo Han’s other nearby ventures Hanmoto, Juanmoto or Pinky’s Ca Phe.
PRICE: $$​
By Karolyne Ellacott
Published: January 7, 2019
