KMK: Casablanca

The great thing about living in Haebangchon is that you never know what new bar or restaurant will pop up. Recently, the latest addition to appear has been the sandwich spot Casablanca.

I assume the place is named after the classic film with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.  Moroccan landscape of Arabic culture and African influences makes for a great backdrop for a restaurant but I think proves even more intriguing when the place serves up sandwiches.

Don’t expect exotic decor or mysterious atmosphere. Casablanca keeps it simple with only a few tables and chairs. Thankfully the background music isn’t distracting or jarring like in some places. Instead I can’t even remember it at all which is better than some out of place DMX blaring in my ear. When it comes to seating the place could possibly seat 12 at full capacity. So don’t go for the ambiance because there isn’t any.

I wasn’t there to take in the atmosphere. I went solely because of the urging of friends who couldn’t stop raving about the place. The menu isn’t big at all. You can choose between four sandwiches: vegetarian (4,000), Berber omelette (4,000), Moroccan chicken(4,000), Lamb chili (5,000), an spiced shrimp (5,000).

I chose the Moroccan chicken. Satisfying doesn’t even begin to express how much I liked it. The chicken was tender and the spices and sauces served to enhance to overwhelm. The bread was a perfect sandwich bun; hearty and easy to hold without falling apart yet still moist and delicious. Each sandwich also comes with maokooda which is a spiced fried potato patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, olive, and pickles. I can’t wait to try the others.

The sides on hand include a trio of Lentil soup (2,000), Moroccan salad (2,000), and spiced carrot salad (2,000). Cola or sprite can be had for 1,500 KRW or water for 1,000.

The place has just opened and has an awkward opening time. Yet, they still have a steady flow of local HBC folk coming in to order. More places like this hopefully will be on the way. It’s perfect to stop in after work for a bite to take home or to meet a few friends.

Prices: 4,000 to 5,000 for sandwiches. 1,500 for soda.

Delivery:

You can order Delivery from Casablanca via Shuttle (셔틀). The prep time is 15 to 35 minutes.

Hours: T-Sun Opens at 5PM-1045pm  Closed Mondays

Phone:

(02) 797-8367

Address:

Website: None

Directions: Take exit two of Noksapyeong station. Walk straight and make a left and go up hill at the kimchi pots. Keep walking past Indigo and Pita Time. It will be on your left.