Bar SAHM

Gangnam’s Apgujeong is Seoul’s answer to Rodeo Drive, a mecca for hardcore fashionistas with money to burn. Yet tucked away down a side street behind all the glamour and glitz is this neighbourhood-seeming joint that wouldn’t feel out of place in downtown Brooklyn. Well, that’s until you look at the bar crew. The owner started out as a model, while several of the bartenders would fit in just fine on the cover of L’Officiel Korea; their patrons are almost equally cool, with a focus on entertainment and media. The boys typically cycle to work, and you’ll see their trusty steeds suspended from the ceiling, along with a glorious array of whisky and fine spirits. SAHM stands for Strong of Heart and Mind and, since opening in 2010, this intimate spot has remained true to its principles: a focus on great drinks, be they fine spirits, classically stunning cocktails, great imported wine or a rich stout (yes, really!). There’s no real cocktail menu. Order a drink you already know and love, a classic you’d like to discover, or simply say what you’re in the mood for – “I usually drink Negronis but I’m looking for a bit of a change” – and let the able bar team surprise you. If you want to step out of the Apgujeong glitter and bling and into a firmly classical bar, then SAHM will hit your drinking sweet spot. On warm evenings, they open up the outside patio, creating extra space.