Seoul of London: The Seoul Bakery Story.

It reads "Welcome - Seoul Cafe."

If you stay in this 'quintessential hole in the wall' for too long, you might forget you're in London. Sitting at a little corner in London's Centre point, Seoul Bakery could easily be missed! But, if you're lucky enough to spot it, a step inside will have you  falling in love with it's charm at first sight. 

If there ever was a tourist guide for Korea in London, Seoul Bakery will be right at the hub of the kpop and foodie section! Known for the best kimbap in town, Koreans in London and visiting Koreans— including some Kpop idols— along with Londoners have sat at this cramped restaurant surrounded by it's quirky and unique interior.

Sadly due to the expansion going on at Tottenham Court road station, a lot of businesses had to shut down or relocate along with this iconic symbol of a place. I had a chance however to have a chat with it's owner Hoja Sun before it shut down.

Walking down the tiny staircase leading to the basement —otherwise known as Hoho's Kpop shop— lined with notes and scribbles of Fans of Korea, I couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging laced with comfort and a nostalgia for what was about to be lost. I walked into the room and asked for the owner, I was introduced to this warm and welcoming Ahjumma who was nice enough to spare a few minutes of what appeared to be a busy lunchtime. We spoke about everything from food to kpop, indicating's Seoul bakery fusion of Music and Food in equal proportion.

Hoja Sun or Hoho as everyone calls her is from Jejudo island and she moved to London in 1996 from Korea.  She has had about 18 years experience working in the Korean food business in London, and it can be said that she has witnessed the effect of the Hallyu wave on the international community and the Korean food industry here.

Starting off as a waitress at a Korean restaurant she recalls back when 80% of her job was explaining to customers what Bibimbap was—now everyone knows including actors Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield  whom have fallen in love with this comfort food.  There are still the odd people who have no clue about Korean food but it has come a long way.

The concept for what is known as Seoul Bakery started off as a bakery specializing in Korean pastries— hence the name— before it got transformed into a restaurant. At first it was your run-of-the-mill restaurant, with plain walls and seating. But then Hoho wanted to display some Korean memorabilia, and so she put up random things like stickers and socks on the walls, which eventually caught the attention of curious customers, some even asking if they could buy the products. With the increased popularity of kpop, and generally the influx of the Hallyu wave, Korean establishments abroad have seen an increase in their customer base and so did Seoul Bakery. Kpop fans started requesting for specific items from Korea and so Hoho's Kpop shop was born!

At first Hoho bought things that she liked on her trips back to Korea without a preconception as to what her customers may like but lately with popular bands like Big Bang and EXO dominating the music charts, her younger customers seem to be more interested in that.

"When I go to Korea and see something interesting, I think my customer might like this. It doesn't have to be sold, it will be nice as a display".

With Kpop Idol group Shinee and Super Junior's Donghae being customers at the store, with their autograph on the walls, Kpop fans have a special interest in Seoul Bakery. This has made the store an unofficial tourist destination and Kpop fans from other countries make it a point of visiting the famous restaurant. Well for all of you curious as to how the idols ended up at Hoho's Restaurant, It was because of their stylists. The Kpop Idols Korean stylists attended a fashion institute in London which was not far from the store, so they were regular customers and through word of mouth the store became popular which resulted in our favourite stars eating there.

"I wanted my customers to be happy when they visit my store, it's not just about the food. Food is culture, when they love our food, a relationship is sort of built from that and they become regular customers."

A section of what the restaurant looks like. Disclaimer: The entire store is covered in scribbles and memories.

Hoho might well be the coolest ahjumma I have met—not that I've met a lot— I had a nice time talking to her and delving into the quriky world she built for herself here in London. We had a bit of a 'fangirling' moment talking about how great Big Bang and 2NE1 were. Hoho told me about the days when she was younger and liked artists such as the legendary singer, Cho Yong Pil, whom might have popped up on the rader of this generations fans, with his 19th Album Hello which debuted at #1, making him take the stage at Korean Music shows like Music Show Champion. She was one of his biggest fans and still is—she told me that she went to his concert about two years ago!

"Although there has been some changes in the music scene over the years, one thing that remains constant is the heart of the fans and their spirit" which makes Hoho understand this generation's Music Fans and relate to them. Owning a Kpop store is not just about business for her, she enjoys music and sharing Korean culture with the people and visitors of London.

"When I go to Korea and find new items relating to the bands my customers like, I get excited and want to show it to them."

Hoho tries to create a bit of diversity in the products that she sells, you could find handmade Korean cards, ceramics, movies, and so much more. So although the Kpop shop caters mostly to the kpop fans, She wants to in a way showcase other aspect of Korean entertainment and products as well.

Well I had a sort of 'last meal' before the store closed and it was soooo good!

Seoul Bakery was opened even before Korea became very popular in London and so I wondered what sort of things people wanted to know about Korea back then. Hoho said the biggest question she got was about North Korea. Then people wanted to know about the language. "People ask me about Kim Yuna, the figure Skater."

"People thought I knew everything about Korea or the popsters. I tried to tell them as much as I knew even if it was just a little".

With Korean food becoming a hot trend in the food industry, I asked Hoho if over the years she has noticed a dish that is most popular amongst the customers?

"Bibimbap I believe is very popular with everyone. However my husband and I have lived in Japan for some time and so we know a lot about Japanese and Chinese people, and what we find most surprising is that  back then not many people liked ddeokbokki, but these days there has been a change in that dynamic. A lot of our customers especially order ddeokbokki a lot. I think this might be as a result of the popularity of Korean dramas. In a lot of theses dramas, the actors eat ddeokbokki which may have contributed to it's increasing popularity."

However Hoho added this 

"Food is culture, if you try a food three times you might end up liking it. You can't say this food is better than this food. The difference is that have you tried it or not!"

This reminded me of my kimchi story which I shared with her and she agreed comparing it to how when she was a child, she didn't like kimchi but she had to eat it and she grew to like it. Apparently it is common to find Koreans who didn't like Kimchi but now can't eat a meal without kimchi.

Notes from some staff and customers, including an Artwork of the shop.

It is a general reaction, everyone misses Seoul Bakery and we can't wait for the store to re-open.

 
I know we all have the question of whether the store will re-open and if the original concept of the store will be in place or if there will be changes made. Well Hoho is not sure, although she wants to keep it exactly the way it is but some part of her wants to branch out into something new. A new challenge. But all this will depend on the new location and area, then they will focus and decide on what direction the store will take. However recent posts of mouth-watering korean dishes on the Seoul Bakery Facebook with captions of "New Menu" hinting plans of re-opening has already started creating a buzz! One thing that is certain however is that it will be Korean oriented and continue to express the Korean culture.

Have you been to Seoul Bakery, Any interesting stories to share and what will you miss the most about it. Share with us in the comments  :) 

For more pictures, check out my facebook page and also I'm on instagram!

[Review] Wagamama Japanese Restaurant Uxbridge

It is safe to say that every foodie, tom, dick, and harry have tried Wagamama. If you haven't, get on google and find the nearest one STAT!! So I suppose it is no surprise that I­— as well as most Brunelians (Brunel Uni students) and residents of Uxbridge, was excited for the opening of Wagamama in our dear town.

I waited with anticipation and planned on going to the opening but I unfortunately couldn't and had to keep putting it off, that is until tonight. I went for dinner with Gaya and a friend and to my surprise we had to wait for a table. I guess it is a smashing hit!! This might be because it's a Sunday night or because it recently opened, heck who am I kidding it is because it's Wagamama!!

We didn't have to wait for long but it was okay cos we got the chance to peruse the menu. One thing we noticed is that there's a difference from the regular menu and this one was limited  but most of the popular dishes were definitely on there (Calm down, there's a Firecracker ;). 

The sitting area was set out as the picture below and I liked it. It makes it comfortable whether you are in a group or alone. Plus I have a thing for East Asian architecture so I liked the way this was set up. The kitchen is an open plan setting and there are some stools around there as well. How nice to have your food prepared right in front of you (Note to self: try that out)

My first K-pop Concert Experience: Mini concert with Super Junior'sDongHae & EunHyuk.

The first thing I noticed when I walked into the theatre was the stage. There was this huge lighting panels and bright lights with smoke and I thought, 'Yup this is it'!!! From when I got to the venue I could feel the general attitude and level of excitement, everyone was there because they loved Kpop and it was such a wonderful feeling being in that room. It was kinda like a community and this is where I belong...

Fans were handing out photo cards and banners and everyone was sharing kpop stories and asking about biases ( fave kpop idols) and what-nots. You could tell that the fans are very dedicated and this was not just a concert but it meant so much more...One of the fans designed a mini banner to celebrate the group's 9th Anniversary which was produced through Super Junior UK Fanclub and distributed at the event. The most surprising thing however is the demographic of the fans, as expected there were a lot of fangirls, but there were fanboys present as well as Mum's, Dad's and even Grandparents.

My Family's First taste of Korean Food.

우리 가족을 한식은 처음 먹었어다

Mini Korean lesson before we start!!

우리 ~ My/Our

가족 ~ Family

한식 which is the short form of 한국 음식 ~ Korean Food
처음 ~ First time

I have been interested in the Korean culture for about two years now. It all started when a friend recommended the drama 'Boys Over Flowers' as a sort of "break" after a long study session. It was a nice distraction and the start of my love affair with Korea. My family eventually caught on to my love for Korea, well I guess it was pretty obvious because I couldn't shut up about it. Coming from Nigeria where there isn't that much Korean presence, my family wondered at how I ended with such fascination for this country. But they eventually got used to it.

I had always told them about Korean food but they never got to try it because you can't find Korean food in Nigeria. My mum however went on a business trip to Ethiopia and was delighted to come across a Korean restaurant, she then told her colleagues about my interest in Korea and suggested they have dinner at the restaurant. Unfortunately she didn't know the name of the dishes they were served because the waiter recommended it­— well except for the BBQ which by the way was served with lettuce, but they didn't know you were supposed to wrap the meat in the leaves so they left the leaves untouched ­— but they liked it.  Most Africans like 매운 음식 (Spicy Food) so there was no complain with that. I told my mum that I will take her to a Korean restaurant when they come to London so she could try my favourite dishes ­— and maybe know what she ate this time around.

Mum was hooked, time to work on the rest of the Family. 

My birthday was a few weeks ago, my only wish was that I wanted my family to go to a Korean restaurant to celebrate my birthday. Luckily my family was in London, I knew it was a rare opportunity to have them try out all the food for themselves rather than having to hear me gush about it. I decided on Kimchee restaurant because it was reviewed as a fusion Korean restaurant. I thought it will be more suitable for their palate and help to ease them into the Hansik flavour.

The first thing we noticed when we walked into the restaurant was this spectacular wall covered in Hangul

Restaurant Review: Assaha Lebanese Traditional Village, Paddington

Image source: Assaha Website

 As I mentioned in an earlier post, my family was here in the UK for holiday so we did a lot of touristy things which I can't wait to share with you guys :)

One of the things we did was try out different cuisines (my two younger brothers were on a mission to try out cuisines from around the world). Luckily for them London is just the right place...

Seeing as the first half of their holiday was during Ramadan (holy month of fasting for Muslims), we could only go out for iftar (breaking of fast). On one of those days we were debating on where to eat when my dad mentioned a Mediterranean restaurant that his friend took him to on one of his business trips. A quick phone call to said friend, and we got the name, ASSAHA.

Before we went to the restaurant, my dad was already giving great reviews, I was intrigued at this point cos the last time he was there was a few years ago but he could still remember the place.

Remember Kpop Academy? Well you could also Apply for the 6th Kpop Academy!!!

The graduating class of the 5th Kpop Academy with friends and Family. Can you spot me ;)

Just like the title says, do you remember the time when all I wrote about was the amazing adventures I had exploring Korea in London.....Click HERE for a reminder!!

Well I've got good news for you....You could also experience it!!!!

The Korean cultural Centre UK, after its successful completion of the 5th Kpop academy, has opened applications for the 6th Kpop academy. 30 people will be given the opportunity to explore different facets of Korea with the highlight being taking part in the promotions of this years Korean film festival.

You will get the opportunity not only to learn first hand about Korea from experts, but also to meet like-minded individuals who share similar interests as you. Over the 12 weeks journey, you will take part in awesome activities like learning how to make Korean food or learning the steps to your fave Kpop songs whilst making friends and having a jolly good time doing it!!!

To apply for this priceless opportunity and for a chance to win a return flight to Korea, check out the details below:

Download the Application From from the KCCUK website which can be found here 

Complete the application process and submit either by:

• Email: info@kccuk.org.uk

• Fax: 020 7004 2619

• In person or post: Korean Cultural Centre UK, Grand Buildings, 1-3 Strand, London WC2N 5BW

Everyone interested in Korean culture (minimum age to apply: 15 years and over) is eligible to apply. 

Don't worry 누나~Noonas, 오빠~Oppas, 아저씨~Ahjussis or 아줌마~Ahjummas, you will not feel out of place so send in your applications :)

 
The successful applicants will be announced on the KCCUK homepage and Facebook on Thurs 15^th September 2014 and contacted individually via email

Note: The deadline for application is 5 pm on Thursday 11^th September 2014

* Application forms received outside of the application window will not be accepted.

*Postal applications must arrive by 5pm on Thurs 4^th September in order to be accepted. (The KCCUK is closed on Sundays)

For more enquiries about KPop Academy, contact KCCUK at: 020 7004 2600 or info@kccuk.org.uk

The class will run from

Good luck and hope you have an amazing time like I did. 

P.S: If you are lucky and do get in, don't be shy and say hello to people on the first day of class. Everybody is welcoming and there is bound to be someone who likes the same band as you. Besides with kpop and Kdrama, there is already so much to talk about ;)

with love,
meera

[ Event Review ] 'Brush' Korean Family Play by the Haddangse ~ 하땅세 Crew

The Haddangse crew are here in the UK to participate in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Ahead of their performance at Edinburgh, they put on a ‘one night only performance’ at the Korean cultural Centre in London. Since I can’t make it to the festival, plus it looked  interesting to me I decided to go check it out and it was a good opportunity to introduce my family to Korea.

Haddangse ~ 하땅세 is a 28 member Eco-friendly theatre company based in South Korea. Their plays are performed brilliantly in the most unconventional style I have ever seen. They tell their stories by painting it out live on stage in an animated manner, capturing the essence of a story and bringing it to live before your eyes.

Photo Credit: KCCUK

I met up with the Producer/director of the show, Lee Kil Jun, before the play to have a chat and get a better understanding of Brush and the Haddangse crew, and also to have an idea of what to expect. He spoke Korean and I English, but with Chris Ryn of Coreamuser, a touring agency for Korean performing artists, translating for us, I got to learn a lot.

Guide to Finding Korea in London

Korean pop culture has gained popularity the world over. This can be attributed to the sensational TV dramas and delightful music scene, which led to an increasing interest in the Korean culture in general. This doesn’t just stop at entertainment, food and fashion but has transgressed to history, art and of course the language.

Due to popular demand, business owners in the UK have found a niche market to cater for the growing number of Korean fans in the country.

I have put together this guide to help the new fans to Korea navigate their way to all the Korean delight London has to offer…

CULTURE

Korean Cultural Centre UK. Image Source: KCCUK Flickr

The Korean Cultural Centre is located in the heart of touristville London AKA Trafalgar square. Here, you are sure to find all the information you could possibly need about Korea. The centre boasts an interesting exhibition hall with displays ranging from ‘thousand year old scripts’ to

The day I hung out with Gaya: Books, good food, Art, Culture and Walking around london

One of my very good friends from Uni, Gaya, hung out with me after our final exams. I shared some pictures from that day here ~ Covent Garden through my iPhone Lens...

So Gaya and I share a love for good food, Arts and Books. So you can imagine that we have tons to talk about when we do manage to find the time to hang out. There's always so much to say and do, She is my kinda person!!

We started out the day eating lunch at Busaba Eatthai......

Happy Birthday M....

Dear Min Min,

It's been a year since I met you, and I have to say staying in Flat 22 was one of my best decisions because it brought me you and the rest of the guys.

It's been a year of friendship laced with laughter, fun and happy memories. But underneath there were trying times and you have shown me what a true friend means with your sound advice, caring words and steadfast spirit. And I can speak for all of us when I say this, thank you, terimah kasih mina, for being an angel to us all. We love you and wish you all of life's best gifts.

Some of my best memories of the last year has your smiling face popping out of it (with the most prominent one being you dancing around the statue of brunel in the H A P P Y video, LOL) and I'm glad about that. You've taught me a lot without you realizing and I shall hold on to those for life for they are important life lessons.

I hope you never lose your smile and you keep being exactly the way you are cos 
YOU IS AWESOME!!

Thank you for all that you've done and all that you are.

In the end I'd like to say 

with love,

meera

Afternoon Tea at The Leonard Hotel

There's nothing more British than drinking tea in the afternoon except maybe talking to a stranger on the street about the weather. My friends from KPop Academy and I decided to partake in this British tradition as a fun thought and we settled on the oh so lovely Leonard Hotel over at Marble Arch.

Covent Garden through my iPhone Lens....

A day after my final exam, I met up with Gaya and went to London for some much needed catch-up and breather. We started off with lunch at Busaba Eatthai and then headed over to Covent Garden for a wander round. I took these pictures with my iPhone and I thought to share it with ya'll. Enjoy exploring Covent Garden vicariously through me. This was on a random Thursday afternoon BTW.

Yori Restaurant London, A Review.

Last Saturday after the K-Pop Academy class, a bunch of us decided to head over to Yori for an early dinner. One of the main reasons I decided to join in (aside from the fact that I can never say no to Korean food) was because someone mentioned earlier that they serve Cheese ddeobokki (Rice cake and fish cake in sweet red chilli sauce). I was excited about that cos I love me some ddeokbokki and a cheesy one sounds heavenly (and it was).

We got to the restaurant early for dinner, but they were already a few customers eating and they were all Koreans. That is usually a good sign, one thing my food exploration has taught me is when the people local to the cuisine frequent a restaurant, then it has a good and authentic taste (Take note of that :). We were greeted by the friendly waiter whom I later found knew one of the girls in our group, She was really easy-going which I really appreciate in staffs at a restaurant. 

Here's what we ordered....