Cricket Seoul & Pine & Co. – Two Bars, One Vision | Redefining Seoul’s Cocktail Scene

Seoul’s cocktail scene is a vibrant fusion of innovation and tradition, and my journey led me to two standout bars: Cricket Seoul and Pine & Co. Both are operated by Team Kite, a collective dedicated to reshaping Korea’s beverage landscape. Their mission goes beyond crafting exceptional drinks—they aim to introduce diverse drinking cultures, blending storytelling, art, and hospitality into unforgettable bar experiences.

While each bar has its own unique character, both share a commitment to high-quality ingredients, inventive techniques, and warm hospitality—ensuring every visit is something special.

Cricket Seoul – A Celebration of Nature & Craftsmanship

Tucked away in Gangnam, Cricket Seoul is a stylish yet laid-back bar that seamlessly merges nature-inspired aesthetics with meticulously crafted cocktails. The ambiance is warm and inviting, complemented by a menu that focuses on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

One of the bar’s most unique features is its cocktails on tap—a rarity in Seoul. Their menu strikes a balance between creativity and craftsmanship, and a personal highlight for me was Yin and Yang, a cocktail showcasing Vallajro Oak, a spirit distilled from white wine and aged in port wine oak barrels.

But what truly made my night at Cricket Seoul memorable was the communal table experience. The bar has a single bar station at the head of the communal table, seating just six guests – creating an intimate and social atmosphere. There are also a few more spots around to sit, offering a cosy yet engaging experience. I shared the space with three local ladies who not only shared their dinner with me but also made the night fun with great conversation. Together, we took on the Cricket Menu Challenge—hunting for 11 hidden crickets on the menu to win free shots!

Speaking of the menu, it was designed like a foldable map, guiding guests through cocktails, tap drinks, spirits, and delicious bar food. This creative touch, combined with the cozy setting, makes Cricket Seoul a perfect blend of playfulness and sophistication.

If you’re looking for a bar that delivers thoughtful drinks, a relaxed setting, and a touch of adventure, Cricket Seoul is a must-visit.

Pine & Co. – A Nostalgic Journey Through Seoul’s Cocktail Scene

In contrast to Cricket Seoul’s nature-inspired theme, Pine & Co. transports guests back to 1980s-1990s Seoul. Located in Apgujeong-dong, this speakeasy-style bar blends retro Seoul vibes with modern cocktail techniques, offering a unique journey through time and taste.

From the moment you step through its discreet entrance, reminiscent of a hidden alleyway from decades past, you’re immersed in nostalgia. Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and sophisticated, with low leather couches, flickering candle-lit bookshelves, and a cozy, living-room-like ambiance.

Forward-Thinking Cocktails with a Retro Soul | Pine & Co.’s cocktail menu is a testament to its innovative approach. The bar embraces advanced techniques like vacuum packing, rotovap, and sous vide, allowing the team to extract deep, layered flavours in every drink.

A standout creation was the Nuruk—a modern twist on a classic whisky highball, incorporating nuruk, a traditional Korean fermentation starter. Served in a bowl, this cocktail allows you to savour the aroma of roasted barley while sipping, creating a beautifully balanced blend of tradition and innovation.

For the grand finale, my last drink was a cocktail transformed into a sorbet using liquid nitrogen—a refreshing and visually striking way to end the night.

An unexpected highlight: One of the owners recognised me at the bar, gave me a personal tour, and pointed out that the shapes of the two bar counters and the communal table form the Korean letter “P.” This level of thoughtfulness in design perfectly reflects Pine & Co.’s attention to detail.

Beyond its inventive drinks, Pine & Co. is deeply committed to sustainability.

Their dedication to excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed—Pine & Co. ranked No. 50 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list, cementing its place among the top bars in the region.

Two Bars, One Passion

Though Cricket Seoul and Pine & Co. offer vastly different experiences, they share a common vision: pushing the boundaries of Korea’s cocktail scene while honouring tradition. Whether you’re in the mood for a nature-inspired escape or a nostalgic dive into Seoul’s past, these two bars promise unforgettable drinks, thoughtful craftsmanship, and warm hospitality.

Which one would you visit first? Check out my website for more cocktail adventures in South Korea!