If you’re visiting Seoul and looking to experience a stylish, modern twist on Korean fried chicken—especially a spot that catches the eyes of foreigners—교촌필방 in the Itaewon / Yongsan area is a strong recommendation. Below is a blog-style introduction aimed at international visitors, with menu highlights, pricing, ambiance and practical tips included.
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📍 Location & Concept
Located in the heart of Itaewon, near Itaewon Station in Yongsan District of Seoul, 교촌필방 presents itself as a “hidden gem” rather than a typical visible storefront. The most striking feature is the giant brush (붓) at the entrance — you literally pull the brush-shaped handle downward to open the door.
The concept is built around the idea of “붓질” – the brush-stroke of sauce being applied carefully to the chicken, reflecting the parent brand’s value of craftsmanship.
Because of its location in Itaewon, the audience tends to be diverse and many foreigners visit. It’s a nice combination of “K-fried-chicken” + cool interior + photo-worthy design.
🍽 Main Menu & Pricing
Here are some of the main dishes and approximate prices (as of current reporting) at 교촌필방:
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필방 시그니처 플래터 (Signature Platter): ₩ 43,000. This includes wings and drums (“봉” + “윙”) with 4 flavors: 간장 (soy), 허니 (honey), 레드 (spicy/red), and 블랙/옥수수 combo.
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스몰 런치 메뉴: 필방 시그니처 플래터 미니(런치) ₩ 18,000.
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필방 장각구이 (Grilled chicken legs) ₩ 20,000.
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연골튀김 (Chicken cartilage fries) ₩ 9,000.
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샐러드 / 사이드 메뉴: 소이 살살 샐러드 ₩ 13,000, 필방 샐러드 ₩ 11,000.
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기타: 필방 치킨버거 ₩ 11,000, 닭가슴살 트러플 볶음밥 ₩ 12,000.
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드링크/주류: 수제맥주 샘플러 ₩ 20,000.
Tip: The signature platter is ideal for sharing (e.g., 2-3 people) and gives you a variety of flavors in one dish. The playful “brush” application of sauce is part of the experience.
🏠 Interior & Atmosphere
From the moment you approach the entrance, the vibe is different from a typical fried-chicken joint:
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The exterior purposely lacks large signs or storefront windows, giving a “secret bar” / speak-easy feel.
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The interior uses the brush motif extensively: giant brushes hanging from ceiling walls, brush-shaped decor, and art-like design touches (e.g., 한지 paper, subtle indirect lighting) creating a modern Korean aesthetic.
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Although it’s a chicken restaurant, the ambience feels upscale, clean, and quite suitable for a casual date, a group of friends, or a visit with friends from abroad. One reviewer noted: “기름 냄새도 안 나고 향기까지 나는… 럭셔리합니다.”
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For evening, given the location and atmosphere, it shifts toward being more of a chic dining & drinks place than a rowdy pub.
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Because many foreign visitors come and the décor is photogenic, taking photos is quite common.
📝 Why It’s Good for Foreign Visitors
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It gives a “K-chicken” experience but in a stylish, Instagram-friendly setting — not a noisy typical fried-chicken shop.
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Accessible location in Itaewon, which is familiar to many visitors.
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Unique concept (brush-handle door, sauce brush application) which is fun and memorable.
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Good sharing menu; you can sample different flavors in one go.
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Offers more than just chicken: sides, salads, Asian-twist dishes, craft beer, etc.
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Because it attracts foreigners, the staff may be more accustomed to visitors who speak English (though checking in advance is wise).
✅ Visiting Tips
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Reservation recommended: On weekends or peak hours, there may be waiting. One reviewer says “예약 필수” for weekend visits.
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Go early if you prefer a quieter experience or better photo opportunities. Lunchtime or early dinner is a good choice.
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Split the signature platter if you’re in a group of 2-3; it gives variety.
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Try the brush-sauce experience: Some wings come un-sauced so you can apply the sauce yourself with a brush — fun for groups/friends.
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Parking/transport: Located near Itaewon Station (4 번 출구) in Yongsan, central and convenient for public transport. Parking is limited.
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Time-window: There may be a break time in the afternoon (some sources say ~15:00-16:00) on certain days.
🧭 Where Exactly
Address (approximate): Seoul Special City, Yongsan-gu, Itaewon-dong, Bogwang-ro 127 (유영빌딩) near Itaewon Station exit 4.
