Bar
Zest
A basement cocktail bar in Gangnam built around Korean produce and zero-waste methods, ranked second on Asia's 50 Best Bars list in 2026.
Charles H.
A hidden cocktail bar on the lower level of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, named after the writer Charles H. Baker and open nightly until 01:30.
At a glance
- Type
- Hotel speakeasy cocktail bar
- Area
- Gwanghwamun, Seoul, South Korea
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
- Opening
- Open daily · 17:00–01:30
- Official site
- fourseasons.com
Good to know
- Open daily until 01:30
- Ages 19 and over
- No sportswear
- Online booking for first seatings
Why we recommend it
Charles H. is the cocktail bar of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, tucked away on the hotel's lower level near Gwanghwamun. It takes its name and spirit from Charles H. Baker, the American writer and bon vivant whose travel books collected drinks from around the world, and its mood is intimate and glamorous rather than showy. It has featured on international rankings, placing 42nd on The World's 50 Best Bars in 2021 and seventh on Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2022.
The entrance is discreet, and inside the low-lit room has the feel of a classic hotel bar with a speakeasy twist. The menu is built around Baker's love of travel, with drinks inspired by places around the world, and recent signatures have included the Vixen Fix, Queen of Diamonds and Spilled Milk. Under head bartender Odd Strandbakken, the bar emphasises clean, well-balanced cocktails and works with local producers. There is a good selection of spirits for those who prefer something neat or a classic made to order.
The bar suits couples, hotel guests, business travellers and anyone who wants a polished night out in central Seoul. It is a good choice after dinner in Gwanghwamun or Seochon, or after an evening visit to Deoksugung. Groups are welcome, but the room is designed for conversation.
Charles H. opens every day from 17:00 to 01:30, with last orders at 01:00. Guests must be 19 or over, and the dress code excludes sportswear and slippers. A limited number of first seatings can be reserved in advance online through TableCheck or by contacting the hotel; otherwise plan to walk in, and note that it can be busy at weekends, so arrive early or book if you have your heart set on a particular night. Prices reflect the luxury hotel setting.
If Charles H. is full, H. Bar, elsewhere in the hotel, is a lighter alternative for a drink.
The hotel stands on Saemunan-ro, a few minutes' walk from Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5, and close to Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace and the start of the Cheonggyecheon stream. The Four Seasons has several other restaurants and bars if you want dinner before or a nightcap after.
Charles H. FAQs
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 17:00 to 01:30, with last orders at 01:00.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Sportswear and slippers are not permitted.
Can you book?
A limited number of first seatings can be reserved online through TableCheck or by contacting the hotel.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. Guests must be 19 or over.
Who was Charles H. Baker?
An American writer and bon vivant whose travel books collected cocktails from around the world; the bar's menu draws on his travels.
Has the bar won awards?
It was 42nd on The World's 50 Best Bars in 2021 and seventh on Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2022.
Where is it?
On the lower level of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul at 97 Saemunan-ro.
How do you get there?
Walk a few minutes from Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5.