A $250 Strawberry buffet in Seoul, is it worth it
Let me add some additional context for you.
💵 Price: $250 seems expensive from an American perspective but also remember the average Korean makes less than a quarter of what the average American does so the amount of cost that this feels to someone with Korean salary like myself a significantly higher.
👍Pros : if you’re OK with perfume strawberries and you truly do love strawberries and a variety of desserts. This is good for you.
🤔Cons: if you cannot eat pork or dairy, you will not be able to eat more than 2/3 of the total items there. They’re very little meat or cheeses to choose from so you’re stuck basically only eating desserts.
you do get a free coffee but in my case I had to wait over 30 minutes to receive my coffee. The staff is clearly overworked with too many people so there is no helping you if you need something.
The strawberries are perfumed so you do not get them fresh.
The seats are even more expensive if you pick a seat by the window.
⭐️Overall rating: 2/10: I think this is only worth it if it’s $50 a plate or less
Visiting a high-end strawberry buffet like the one at Lotte Hotel Seoul offers a unique culinary experience, especially for those who adore strawberry-themed desserts. However, it's important to consider certain factors before deciding if it's worth the steep price. From personal experience, one of the key aspects that stands out is the quality and type of strawberries offered. The strawberries served here are perfumed rather than fresh, which can impact the overall taste experience. For enthusiasts who prefer fresh, natural fruit flavors, this might be a downside. However, if you enjoy a variety of strawberry-infused desserts that include mousse and cream cheese combinations, this buffet can satisfy that craving. Another point to consider is dietary preferences and restrictions. The buffet emphasizes desserts, and with limited meat and cheese options, individuals avoiding pork or dairy might find their choices limited to fewer than a third of all items offered. This focus on sweet dishes works well if you have a sweet tooth, but it might not suit everyone. The buffet's service can also influence your experience. During peak times, the staff may be overwhelmed, resulting in delayed service—such as waiting over 30 minutes for a complimentary coffee—as mentioned by visitors. This can detract from the overall enjoyment if you're expecting prompt attention. Pricing is a significant factor. While $250 might seem reasonable to some, especially tourists or those with a higher disposable income, it feels quite expensive relative to average local earnings in Korea. Choosing premium seats by the window increases the cost further, so budget-conscious diners might want to opt for standard seating. In summary, if you truly love strawberries and desserts and don't mind paying a premium for the ambiance and variety, this buffet might be a pleasant indulgence. However, for those with dietary restrictions, expectations of fresh fruit, or seeking good service, it may not justify the hefty price tag. For a more enjoyable experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or exploring other dessert spots that offer fresh strawberries and a wider variety of savory options at a lower cost.
