There have been many popular restaurants and cafes near Dosan Park since the days of Apgujeong cafe alley. Although it's not as famous as it used to be, Cheongdam-dong is recognized as a quiet luxurious place. Especially, most of the visitors are picky about taste, so having a long stay around here means there's something special abut them. The place I am going to introduce today is 'Grandciel', an Italian restaurant that has been in business for 15 years since 2005.
The sun is burning, but the shade is cool in early summer. Most of the terrace seats are already occupied.
I guess that bright yellow is their theme color. Fresh and warm color brightens the atmosphere indoors.
It is a restaurant that received Blue Ribbon twice, which is a Korean Michelin guide. Uniquely, they sell meal kits that can be cooked at home. I think I should try it next time. There are chairs for infants in the corner, so you can visit with your child.
The ceiling is high and it makes the room not stuffy. I feel like I'm at a restaurant somewhere in a foreign country.
The open kitchen stands out as if there's nothing to hide. It's neat and tidy.
The basic setting is simple. There are olive oil and vinegar for pre-dinner bread.
They emphasize healthy ingredients, such as organic eggs. I wonder if it tastes as good as it's healthy.
The signature menu of Grandciel is anchovy oil pasta. I don't usually enjoy oil pasta, but I was wondering how it would be.
Soft bread stimulate appetite and wake up my stomach. 'Let's work!'
At first, the pasta looks simple compared to its reputation. That was my first impression. But...
Ah, what's this? At first, it's nothing much more than I expected. I'm sure it was, but the more I eat, the more I crave it. The savory anchovy flavor continues. The herbs placed on top is refreshing my mouth when I felt it's a bit salty. You'll have to try to understand what I am talking about. The saltiness of it is exquisite.
Most of the other foods here are acclaimed. They have enough reason to be loved for a long time for its atmosphere, taste and healthy.
- Food ★★★★☆
Healthy and delicious Italian food. It's faithful to the basic without any fancy skills and still it tastes good. Anchovy oil pasta may feel a little salty. If you choose more than two menus well, you'll be able to enjoy them very deliciously.
- Cleanliness ★★★★☆
Overall clean. I can feel the confidence of their kitchen.
- Service ★★★☆☆
Average
- Ambience ★★★★☆
The natural lighting and the atmosphere of the terrace are good. It'll be nice for meals and dates.
- Accessibility ★☆☆☆☆
25 minutes of walk from exit 3 of Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Bundang line. (Near from Dosan Park)
- Open Hours: Weekdays - 11:00 to 23:00/Break time 15:00~17:00/Last order 21:30
Sunday - 11:00~22:00/Last order 21:00
- Recommended Number of People: 2 or more
- Recommended Menu: Anchovy Oil Pasta, Grilled Beef Ribs Steak
- Value: 22,000 won for anchovy oil pasta
- Amenities: Group seats, meal kit, baby seat
Address: 16-6 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
