La Notte (CLOSED)

Located in an alley next to the Cheongdam CGV movie theater, La Notte is a casual Italian restaurant. The area in general is always on the leading edge of the latest trends and as such is in constant change, yet this place is one of the few that has withstood the fickleness of tastes quietly and steadily over the years. Rather than pursuing authentic Italian flavors, La Notte has unrepentently adapted to the Korean palate. Regulars are fond of their steamed tomato seafood ("great for hangovers") and their hot panini ("when cold and hungry for a quick bite"). Yes, their interior design isn't the trendiest, and yes, it's not probably not the best place to impress a date who needs impressing, but the place is popular enough that reservations are still a must on weekends. The owner’s stubborn managing philosophy may make some shake their heads, but it is also this same stubbornness that has kept La Notte in business where others have failed. And that's something you have to respect.