Want to experience real Seoul nightlife? Try Chimaek. Chimaek is Korea's favorite combination of fried chicken and cold beer. Here's how to find a Hof, order without Korean, and even get delivery to your hotel.
1. What is Chimaek? What is a Hof?
Chimaek = Chicken + Maekju (beer in Korean). A Hof is a Korean beer pub. The word comes from German Hofbräu. It's casual, loud, and focused on Anju (food for alcohol). Unlike western bars, you must order food with beer.
2. Types of Hof and General Chicken Menu
Types of Hof in Downtown Seoul
- Chicken Hof: Mainly chicken
- Suljip Hof: More Soju and various Anju
- Craft Beer Hof: Gangnam, Itaewon has many
General Menu Terms
Huraideu, Yangnyeom, Ganjang, Banhban (half-half) - Banhban is best for first-timers. Always comes with Chikin-mu (pickled radish) to refresh your mouth.
3. How to Use and Order at a Hof
Step-by-Step
1. Sit and find bell or tablet. If tablet, change language to English.
2. Order: "Banhban 1-mari + Saeng-maekju 2-jan juseyo (반반 1마리 + 생맥주 2잔 주세요)" - One half-half chicken + 2 draft beers.
3. Self bar: Get radish, sauce yourself.
4. Pay at counter when leaving. No tip needed in Korea.
4. How to Enjoy at Famous Franchise Restaurants
Franchises are safest for tourists because staff often speak basic English and menus have pictures.
BBQ, BHC, Kyochon, Puradak - Order Sunsal (순살 - boneless) if you don't want bones. Add Gamja-twigim (French fries) as side.
5. How to Eat Chimaek at Your Hotel Using a Delivery App
Download Coupang Eats (easiest for foreigners). Enter hotel address in English. In delivery request, write hotel name and room number. Most riders meet you at the lobby. You can pay with overseas card. Delivery fee is about 3,000 KRW.
6. How to Find Famous Hofs Near City Center & Tourist Spots
Open Google Maps and search "Best Hof in Myeongdong" or "Chicken and Beer Itaewon". Areas with most Hofs: Hongdae, Konkuk University, Gangnam Station, Euljiro.
Final Tip
Chimaek culture is about sharing. Order one chicken, share with friends, and shout "Jjan!" for cheers. Your hotel room delivery will be one of the best memories in Seoul.
🗣️ Useful Korean Phrases for Enjoying Chimaek in Seoul
Tap ▶ Listen to hear native pronunciation. Even offline works! Tap ⭐ Fav to save your favorites.
