RESTAURANT OF THE WEEK CALI Kitchen contends for Seoul's best burger
The food at CALI Kitchen / Courtesy of Shuttle Delivery
California Kitchen & Craft Pub, more affectionately known as CALI Kitchen, serves craft beer and California-inspired cuisine from their hillside pub with stunning sunset panoramas overlooking N Seoul Tower. It is a popular American restaurant and pub located halfway up the hill in the Gyeongnidan-gil neighborhood of central Seoul's Itaewon. CALI Kitchen is known for its incredibly tasty burgers, burritos, nachos, craft beer and lively atmosphere.
One of the things that makes CALI Kitchen special is their commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This ensures that their food is always fresh and delicious. Their burgers are always made to order and cooked to perfection. The signature CALI Burger is a USDA Prime All-Beef patty served with co-owner Chuck Chun’s homemade burger sauce, tomato, lettuce, American cheese and grilled onions. It’s a masterclass that many patrons call one of the best burgers in the city. They typically have a couple of other burgers on the menu, including the ridiculously tasty Bacon Western Cheeseburger, but what sets them apart is their burger of the month ― a delectable, innovative creation born from their culinary imagination.
The CALI Burger Double at CALI Kitchen / Courtesy of Shuttle Delivery
They are also known for their Cali-inspired Burrito Bowls. They offer chipotle marinated chicken, carnitas and veggie burrito bowls. The bowls are stuffed with rice, cilantro-lime sauce, black beans, cheese blend, roasted corn salsa, pico de gallo and sour cream. Don’t forget to add the guacamole! They make a perfect meal on the go or for delivery.
CALI Kitchen is also a great place to go for a drink. They have a wide selection of craft beers from both Korean and international breweries and the bartenders are also happy to make you a tasty cocktail or mixed drink. If you are out for a drink and a snack, they also serve homemade nachos and super fries.
Whether you are looking for a juicy burger, a refreshing craft beer or a lively atmosphere, CALI Kitchen is a great place for anyone visiting Itaewon's Gyeongnidan area. Cali Kitchen is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. except on Wednesdays. If you're in the Yongsan area, you can skip the queue, pay online and place a delivery or pick-up orders using the Shuttle app or by visiting shuttledelivery.co.kr.
Mark Boesch is co-founder and chief marketing officer of Shuttle Delivery.