Alice Cheongdam, a whimsical cocktail bar nestled in the upscale Cheongdam-dong district of southern Seoul, has secured the 13th position on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 list. The establishment, inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," has become a premier destination where mixology meets surrealism, attracting both local and international cocktail enthusiasts with its imaginative approach to drink creation.
Upon entering Alice Cheongdam, visitors are immediately transported into an alternate universe that mirrors the fantastical world of Wonderland. The bar features dimly lit corridors, quirky artwork, and a mysterious ambiance that captures the essence of Carroll's beloved story. The walls proudly display achievements of the head bartenders from various national and international competitions, showcasing the establishment's unwavering commitment to excellence in mixology.
The bar's impressive track record includes winning Best Bar in Korea at the 2017 Korea Best Bar Awards, and its recent recognition on Asia's 50 Best Bars list solidifies its status as more than just a drinking establishment – it serves as a cultural hub for cocktail aficionados. This recognition demonstrates that in the world of mixology, the only limit is one's imagination.
Alice Cheongdam's menu is as creative and imaginative as its décor, offering 12 signature cocktails that each draw inspiration from the fantastical elements of Wonderland. Priced at 27,000 won each, these beverages are presented in whimsical ways that challenge the boundaries of traditional mixology. "Our concept is about recapturing the sense of childlike wonder," explained a staff member. "Through these cocktails, we want to evoke that innocent curiosity and creativity we lose as we grow older."
The evening begins with a welcome drink – a soju-based cocktail featuring Campari and raspberry – that sets the tone for a night of sensory exploration. For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, a mocktail version is available, ensuring that everyone can participate in the adventure. The bar also offers a collectible card-themed menu book priced at 30,000 won, featuring detailed artwork and insights into each drink, making it a sought-after keepsake for visitors.
A particularly charming touch is the fresh white rose presented to each guest upon seating, serving as a nod to the iconic imagery from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." This attention to detail reinforces the bar's commitment to creating an immersive experience that extends beyond just serving drinks.
Among the standout offerings is the Face to Vase cocktail, inspired by Alice's famous tea party scene. This unique creation combines gin, eucalyptus, sake, and mango, served in an actual vase to enhance the theatrical presentation. Each sip delivers light herbal and floral notes that transport drinkers into the story's whimsical world. "We wanted to capture the absurdity of Alice's world – where flowers grow in unexpected places," explained one of the bartenders.
Another creative highlight is the Okie Dok, a dessert cocktail that ingeniously blends traditional Korean ingredients including soju, strawberry gochujang (red chile paste), rice ice cream, and walnut. Served in a glass designed to resemble a jangdok (Korean earthenware jar), this innovative drink masterfully combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements. The subtle heat from the gochujang pairs beautifully with refreshing strawberry flavors, while the drink is elegantly topped with a crispy cracker and safflower oil for a sophisticated yet playful experience.
For non-drinking guests, the Snooze mocktail provides a refreshing alternative that doesn't compromise on complexity or presentation. Made with kiwi, apple, and botanicals, it successfully mimics the crispness of a gin and tonic without any alcohol content. Served on a glowing box, the Snooze evokes the magical realism that defines Wonderland's atmosphere. "Our mocktails aren't just imitations; we use fresh ingredients and advanced techniques to create complex, satisfying flavors," a staff member emphasized.
Alice Cheongdam attracts a diverse international clientele, welcoming visitors from countries including India, Hong Kong, and the United States. To accommodate this global audience, many staff members are fluent in English, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all guests regardless of their native language.
The bar's food menu thoughtfully complements its innovative drink offerings. Guests can enjoy a carefully curated cheese platter (30,000 won) featuring Manchego, smoked cheese, and chorizo, or opt for a fresh fruit platter (30,000 won). For those seeking something more casual, crispy French fries are available for 20,000 won.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the Alice Cheongdam experience is the bar's cleverly hidden bathroom door, which provides yet another playful element that reinforces the establishment's commitment to surreal charm and attention to detail. This hidden feature encourages guests to explore and discover, much like Alice herself did in her adventures.
Alice Cheongdam transcends the traditional concept of a cocktail bar, offering instead an immersive journey where imagination runs wild and creativity knows no bounds. Whether visitors come for the expertly crafted cocktails, the enchanting ambiance, or simply the sense of adventure, Alice Cheongdam successfully invites everyone to step into its wonderland and lose themselves in its unique brand of magic.
