Zest

Zest is a pioneering cocktail bar located in Seoul’s upscale Cheongdam district. Established in December 2020, it has rapidly gained international acclaim for its commitment to sustainability and innovative mixology. The bar’s name, a blend of “zero” and “waste,” encapsulates its mission to minimize environmental impact while delivering exceptional cocktails. With a focus on local ingredients and zero-waste practices, Zest offers a unique and immersive drinking experience that reflects the essence of modern Korean culture.

History & Concept

Founded by renowned bartenders Demie Kim, Sean Woo, Jisu Park, and Noah Kwon, Zest was conceived as a response to the need for sustainable practices in the bar industry. Drawing from their extensive experience in Seoul’s cocktail scene, the team envisioned a space where sustainability and creativity coexist. By sourcing ingredients locally and repurposing waste into new components for drinks, Zest has redefined the standards of eco-conscious mixology.

Design & Atmosphere

Zest’s interior design reflects its minimalist and sustainable ethos. The bar features natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. A prominent street-level window allows natural light to flood the space, contrasting with the typical underground bars in Seoul. The absence of visible liquor bottles emphasizes the bar’s focus on house-made infusions and ingredients. An open prep lab invites guests to observe the meticulous process behind each cocktail, fostering transparency and engagement.

Zest Menu

The Zest menu is a testament to the bar’s dedication to sustainability and innovation. Each cocktail is crafted using locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on minimizing waste and highlighting Korean flavors. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring a fresh and dynamic selection for patrons.

Cocktail Menu

Zest’s cocktail offerings are both inventive and environmentally conscious:

• Jeju Garibaldi. A vibrant mix of hallabong citrus juice and Gujwa village carrots, with peels redistilled into house gin and pulp transformed into cordial or sauerkraut.
• Oh My G!bson. Combines citrus cardamom gin, Italian vermouth, omegi artisanal sour yakju, and seasonal pickles for a complex flavor profile.
• Sikhye Milk Punch. Features organic rice soju, Korean spiced rum, pumpkin sikhye, milk whey, and amaro dust, showcasing traditional Korean ingredients.
• Z&T (Zest & Tonic). A house-made tonic paired with gin, eliminating the need for bottled mixers and reducing waste.

Food Menu

While Zest primarily focuses on cocktails, it offers a selection of small bites that complement its drink offerings. These dishes are crafted using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, aligning with the bar’s sustainability principles. The menu varies, ensuring fresh and innovative options for guests.

Price Level

Zest positions itself within a premium price range, reflecting the quality of ingredients and craftsmanship involved in each cocktail. The average price per cocktail is approximately $10, offering value for the exceptional experience provided.

Awards & Recognition

Zest’s commitment to excellence and sustainability has earned it numerous accolades:

• Ranked No. 9 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024.
• Awarded the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award 2024.
• Named The Best Bar in Korea 2024 by Asia’s 50 Best Bars.
• Received the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award in 2023, debuting at No. 18 on The World’s 50 Best Bars list.

Opening Hours & Guest Policy

Zest operates daily, welcoming guests from the afternoon into the evening. The bar encourages a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, inviting patrons to experience its unique approach to mixology at any time.

Reservations

Given its popularity and limited seating, reservations at Zest are recommended. Guests can book a table through the bar’s official website or by contacting them directly via phone.

Why Visit?

Zest offers a distinctive and forward-thinking cocktail experience that seamlessly blends sustainability, innovation, and Korean culture. Its commitment to zero-waste practices, use of local ingredients, and minimalist design create an environment that is both inviting and thought-provoking. For those seeking a bar that challenges conventions and sets new standards in mixology, Zest is an essential destination.