Bajiro

About

A compact, Japan-inspired whisky bar tucked into a basement in Seochon, with a quiet atmosphere, Japanese snacks, and vanilla ice cream topped with olive oil and pepper.

In Jongno, 바지로 is easy to mistake for a place to eat sushi: the name and Japanese touches suggest one thing, but this small basement spot is a whisky bar. Find the discreet entrance, head downstairs, and you’ll find a compact room with a bar counter and a few tables. Japanese decorations, posters, little objects to linger over, and J-pop give the space a playful character; the overall mood, visitors say, stays quiet and relaxed. It suits a solo drink at the counter as readily as a low-key evening with company. Whisky is the main event, with a range broad enough to invite browsing. For a first visit, try the signature Jiro Highball: a blend of Scotch, bourbon, and rum, described by one guest as lightly carbonated, not too sweet, and assertive in whisky flavor. You can also ask about unfamiliar pours; one visitor praised the pleasure of taking a recommendation, and bottles are shown when drinks are served. If you’re exploring soju, one blogger found sweet-potato soju in a highball surprising and preferred it straight or on the rocks. The food is best understood as drinking accompaniments rather than a full meal. Japanese snacks and instant ramen are available, while the small menu includes edamame and potato salad with a gently spicy sauce. The vanilla ice cream has become a memorable finish: one version arrives with olive oil, pepper, and a crunchy cone, an unexpectedly savory-sweet match for whisky. It’s simple, but distinctive enough to order even after dinner. 바지로’s appeal is its combination of an intimate, carefully decorated setting and drinks that reward curiosity. Come for a considered pour or a highball, add a small plate or ice cream, and take your time.