The right impression
Exhibition of impressionists, cafe with view and hot dating spot
Lasting impression
'Frontiers of Impressionism: Paintings from the Worcester Art Museum' is running at The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido through May 26.
The exhibition features 53 paintings from 39 impressionists, who favored sketching the fleeting over the eternal, everyday life over the grand and indoors over outdoors when recording their view of the 19th century world.
Starting with 'Water Lilies' by French impressionism pioneer Claude Monet, the exhibition looks at how the movement that valued lighter palettes and loose brushwork spread from France to the US.
The paintings also demonstrate how the initial focus on depicting French landscapes expanded to embrace different subjects.
Also on display are works embracing tonalism, an American art movement that focused on portraying the overall mood of landscapes rather than their details.
A brief explanation of each work next to the paintings are helpful for visitors unfamiliar with art.
Admission is 20,000 won for adults. The gallery is open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday-Thursday, closing 30 minutes later Friday-Sunday.
Stunning view at heart of Myeongdong
Amid the bustling streets of Myeongdong, central Seoul, filled with countless restaurants, shops and department stores, there is a tranquil escape — cafe Pines.
Though the indoor seating area is limited to just seven tables, the true highlight of the cafe is its outdoor terrace. From this spot, visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view of Myeongdong Cathedral, one of Seoul's most iconic landmarks.
Myeongdong Cathedral, one of Korea's most iconic Gothic-style churches, took six years to build, from 1892 to 1898. The cathedral sits atop Myeongdong Hill, a historically significant site that was once home to Kim Beom-woo Thomas, Korea's first Catholic martyr. This site holds deep meaning in the history of Korean Catholicism.
Built with antique red bricks, the cathedral stands out amidst the surrounding modern buildings, making it a visually captivating landmark in the heart of Seoul.
Cafe Pines offers an extensive coffee menu featuring espresso con panna and espresso Sale, as well as a selection of teas, ades, and desserts.
The cafe is open 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., year-round.
Spend a stylish night at 'Single's Inferno' dating spot
For a special evening in Seoul, make your way to Arch Seoul, a dining destination nestled in the trendy streets of Samgakji.
This restaurant, the date spot for Yuk Jun-seo and Lee Si-an from Netflix's hit dating show "Single's Inferno" Season 4, boasts an expansive 400 square meters framed by towering arches and luxurious terraces.
The menu presents a delightful fusion of European and Korean flavors.
A diverse European selection including gambas, pastas and risottos is available along with comforting Korean staples such as kimchi fried rice and tteokbokki.
A standout dish is the octopus set, featuring grilled octopus with romesco sauce. The wine list is extensive and the staff are eager to assist with pairing recommendations.
Arch Seoul is also a pet-friendly haven, but note that only medium-sized and smaller dogs are permitted indoors, and carriers or strollers are required. For those with larger dogs, a spacious terrace is available.
Arch Seoul is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. The restaurant offers food service until 10 p.m. and reservations can be made via Naver or Catchtable.
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