Raymond Hongdae: Conquering the Iconic 20-Inch American Giant Pizza in Seoul

As the Lunar New Year holiday drew to a close, I found myself wandering through the vibrant streets of Hongdae, seeking a meal that could match the neighborhood’s electric energy. My destination was Raymond Hongdae, a spot that has become legendary among local pizza enthusiasts for its massive 20-inch American-style pies.

Stepping into the hip, Manhattan-inspired vibes of Raymond Hongdae.

Walking into Raymond is like taking a sudden detour into a vintage Manhattan slice shop. With its bold red and blue accents and industrial-chic decor, it’s the kind of space that instantly shifts your mood into high gear. Whether you’re wrapping up a long holiday or looking for the ultimate “Pi-Maek” (Pizza & Beer) experience, this is where the soul of New York meets the pulse of Seoul.

Location

• –Address: 15 Yanghwa-ro 18an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• –Access: Just a 140m stroll from Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2), Exit 8
• –Parking: Public parking lots nearby are recommended as the area is quite busy.

The Vibe: A Slice of Manhattan in Hongdae

The interior is a masterful blend of vintage aesthetics and modern hipness. Despite the late afternoon hour, the hall was already buzzing with couples on dates and groups of friends sharing laughs over enormous plates.

One of Raymond’s standout features is its dedication to World Champion Craft Beers. The lineup changes periodically, ensuring that beer aficionados always have something new and exciting to pair with their crust. The atmosphere is undeniably free-spirited—a perfect refuge for those who appreciate the urban grit and artistic flair of the Hongdae area.

Vibrant colors and industrial vibes create the ultimate pizza pub atmosphere.

Taste Notes: Scale, Texture, and Flavor

Belgian Wheat Ale: The Taste of First Love

The Belgian Wheat Ale arrived first, and its description on the menu was poetic: “The pure, fresh taste of a first love that lingers in your memory.” It lives up to the hype. This 26-time international award-winner is incredibly smooth, with a delicate citrus aroma that acts as the perfect palate cleanser before the main event.

The Mond Set: The 20-Inch Masterpiece

The arrival of the Mond Set is a true sensory event. The scale of the 20-inch pizza is breathtaking, demanding immediate attention. This set is a flavor tour-de-force, featuring four distinct varieties:

1. Bulgogi: A sweet and savory Korean classic.

2. Hawaiian: A perfect “sweet and salty” harmony of pineapple and bacon.

3. Pepperoni: The umami-packed American standard.

4. Mac & Cheese: Rich, creamy, and undeniably decadent.

The Hawaiian was my personal standout—the juicy acidity of the pineapple beautifully cutting through the smokiness of the bacon. Accompanied by crunchy Gourmet Chicken and aromatic Truffle Fries, it’s a feast that satisfies every craving.

Price Range

• –Range: Budget to Moderate Epic Value!
• –When that colossal 20-inch pizza hits the table, you might think it’s going to empty your wallet. But here is the beautiful reality: grab three or four friends, split this absolute monster of a pie, and pair it with a world-class craft beer!
• –You are getting a mind-blowing, belly-busting feast for what feels like an absolute steal in the middle of pricey Hongdae. It’s the ultimate budget-friendly power move—maximum flavor, maximum fun, and incredible value!

Ordering & Tips

• –Size Matters: The 20-inch pizza is no joke. Come hungry and bring friends! The half-and-half or 4-flavor options (like the Mond Set) are the best way to avoid flavor fatigue.
• –Craft Beer Pairings: Don’t just order a standard lager. Ask the staff for their current “World Champion” craft beer rotations to elevate your “Pi-Maek” (Pizza & Beer) experience.
• –Sauce Variety: The set comes with multiple dipping sauces, including Garlic Mayo and Truffle. Dip the crust in the truffle sauce—it’s a game-changer.
• –Late Night Vibes: Open until 12:00 AM on weekdays and 2:00 AM on weekends. It’s the perfect spot for a late-night feast after exploring Hongdae.

Who I Recommend It For

• –Friend Groups & Students: The ultimate spot to share a giant meal, drink good beer, and talk loudly over great music.
• –Casual Dates: The vintage Manhattan interior provides a hip, low-pressure atmosphere that’s very Instagram-friendly.
• –Craft Beer Enthusiasts: If you care as much about the quality of the hops as you do the cheese on your pizza.