Deoksugung Palace / Jeongdong-gil Restaurants: Ode House..Fiddlehead Pasta Recommended ♡ (Shinailbo Memorial Hall

Who this is for

This article is for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Seoul, particularly those interested in historic buildings and modern Korean cuisine. It’s especially recommended for couples or friends seeking a delightful lunch spot near 徳寿宮 and Jeongdonggil.

Overview

The author visited Odd House, a restaurant located in a charming, over-100-year-old building opposite Ewha Girls’ High School. This historic structure, formerly the Shin-A Ilbo newspaper building, now houses a garden terrace brunch & wine bar. The interior is decorated with a collection of vintage furniture, lighting, and posters, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere complemented by carefully selected music. While initially hesitant about the prices, the author found the lunch menu comparable to other pasta restaurants. They enjoyed a delicious meal, particularly recommending the Fern Pasta (고사리 파스타), which was a delightful surprise with its balanced flavors of perilla oil and perilla leaves. The Ragu Pasta was also noted as a solid choice. After the meal, they explored the memorial hall dedicated to Jang Ki-bong, the founder of Shin-A Ilbo, located behind the kitchen.

Travel tips

Consider visiting Odd House if you appreciate Western-style cuisine and enjoy exploring places with historical significance. The Fern Pasta is highly recommended for its unique and delicious flavor profile. Be aware that the restaurant might run out of popular brunch items, so have a backup pasta choice in mind. While the pasta dishes were satisfying, the author noted the absence of pickles and suggested ordering a side salad if desired.