Côté Jardin: A Hidden Slice of Paris & Romantic French Brunch in Itaewon

You don’t always need a plane ticket to experience the romance of France. Today, I wandered through the charming streets of Itaewon and stepped into a place that felt like a sudden teleportation to a Parisian alleyway: Côté Jardin (꾸띠자르당). Known for its soul-stirring atmosphere and authentic French touch, this is a spot where time seems to slow down.

Location

• –Address: 122-1 Bogwang-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (1F & 2F)
• –Access: A quick 3-minute walk from Itaewon Station (Exit 3). Its accessibility makes it a perfect hub for your Itaewon exploration.
• –Parking: No private lot. Use nearby public or private parking. I used the Hamilton Hotel Parking Lot (7,500 KRW for the first hour).

Hours

A Parisian Escape: Warmth, Light, and French Souls

Côté Jardin is split into two distinct vibes: the 1st floor features a lively bar, while the 2nd floor houses the elegant restaurant. Since we were there for brunch, we headed upstairs.

1st floor / 2nd floor

The interior is a love letter to French aesthetics—vintage furniture, warm lighting, and a palette that feels both sophisticated and cozy. I sat by the floor-to-ceiling windows, where the afternoon sun poured in, creating the perfect lighting for “life shots” (인생샷). You’ll often see foreign families and couples dining here, which only adds to the authentic international vibe of the space.

The Feast: French Comfort on a Plate

Ordering is modern and easy via QR codes at each table. The menu ranges from classic Beef Bourguignon to diverse lunch sets.

To Sip: House Sparkling Wine (Louis Perdrier)

I started with a glass of Louis Perdrier. It’s a light, refreshing sparkling wine that I personally adore. It was the perfect companion for a sunny afternoon brunch.

The Appetizer: Baguette

Simple but essential. The baguette was crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft inside—the ultimate vehicle for soaking up sauces later in the meal.

The Star: Ravioli

The ravioli was a masterclass in creamy indulgence. It delivered a triple threat of softness, nuttiness, and deep aroma. If you are a fan of cream-based pastas, this dish is an absolute must-order. It paired beautifully with the sparkling wine.

The Signature: French-style Lasagna

Unlike the heavy Italian versions, this is a French-style lasagna. Served piping hot straight from the oven, it was topped with a generous layer of savory cheese. Beneath the crust lay a wealth of tender, flavorful meat.

Pro Tip: Eat it with a piece of the baguette to catch every bit of that rich filling.

The Value Pick: Lunch Omelet Set

The lunch set (Omelet + Broccoli Soup + Iced Americano) is fantastic for its price and balance. The omelet was thin and delicate, filled with gooey cheese that stretched with every bite. The savory egg contrasted perfectly with the sweetness of the side blueberries. The broccoli soup was thick, creamy, and carried the gentle, honest flavor of fresh greens.

Afternoon Cocktails at the 1st Floor Bar

The vibe on the 1st floor was so inviting that we decided to stay for a “second round.” Watching the bartender craft cocktails at the bar was a joy in itself. We ordered a Mojito and a Non-alcoholic Lemon Tropical. The staff’s hospitality was a perfect 100/100—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming.

Price Range

• –The lunch sets offer remarkable value, allowing you to enjoy a full European brunch experience in Itaewon without the premium price tag.
• –With generously portioned mains like the French-style lasagna and ravioli, the à la carte menu is perfect for sharing, making it a budget-friendly option for dates or groups.
• –Considering the authentic Parisian atmosphere, attentive service, and high-quality ingredients, the cost feels incredibly reasonable for a mini-vacation in the heart of the city.

Ordering & Tips

• –QR Ordering: Make sure your phone is ready to scan the QR code at the table.
• –Staff: Don’t be surprised if the staff speaks to you in English or French—it’s part of the charm!
• –Best For: Romantic dates, life-shot seekers, and groups looking for an exotic but cozy atmosphere.
• –Evening Vibe: While brunch is sun-drenched and peaceful, the 1st-floor bar comes alive at night for a completely different energy.

Who I Recommend It For

• –Couples looking for a romantic, sun-lit date spot.
• –Friends who want to enjoy a slow brunch with a glass of sparkling wine.
• –Anyone who misses the chic, effortless vibe of European cafes.