Bosky: A Taste of Spain in Bongseon-dong

Written and photographed by William Urbanski.

From Ricky Martin to the Macarena, the cultural exports of Spain are virtually innumerable. And while French and Italian cuisine usually get a lot of shine in Korea (and rightfully so because they are amazing), Spain is perhaps the most overlooked European country in terms of gastronomy. Beyond soccer and the occasional separatist movement, Spain and its beautiful culture remain relatively unknown in Korea. Asador Bosky, a new restaurant in Bongseon-dong, is more than a restaurant in this respect: It is a cultural bridge, showing that Spain is more than just a country of party islands and bullfighting.

Originally, we intended on visiting “Bosky” over the Chuseok weekend, but fortune, my constant enemy, thwarted my plans yet again. While walking up to the gorgeous, wood-panelled doors, my wife and I both exclaimed “¡Ay, caramba!” in unison as we saw that the restaurant was closed. While I would have normally just shrugged my shoulders and gone home to a cup of ramen, we were with friends and ended up going to some joint that served BBQ octopus or something. A taste of Spain would have to wait.

A few days later, a short window of opportunity opened up for us to try again. After work, I walked over to Bosky and was relieved to see the “open” sign. Upon entering, I was pleased with the tasteful decorum and was struck by how fancy yet accessible it seemed. Bosky is quite a small restaurant, which gives it an “exclusive” feeling for the diners.

Regarding the price, I would definitely say that Bosky falls under the category of “special treat” restaurants. A meal for two including tapas (appetizers) would definitely run upwards of 50,000 won, not including any kinds or drinks. So if you are looking for pure quantity at a cheap price, this is not the place. But, if you are looking for a romantic night out with a special someone, or just a very nice place to enjoy a classy dinner with some friends, Bosky has you covered.

After taking a seat, I looked in my wallet, frowned, and then ordered something on the menu with the number nine beside it. I was not even sure what I had ordered until something resembling a flat pancake with bingsu
(빙수, ice flakes with syrup) on it was placed on my table. It ended up being eggplant topped with finely shredded cheese. It was sweet yet savory and left me wanting more; overall amazing, and a welcome change from the sandwiches and ice cream that comprise my regular diet. If the eggplant was any indication of the overall quality of the rest of the menu, then it would definitely be worth coming back for a full and proper meal.

Speaking of the regular menu, a big feature is the selection of tapas, a Spanish specialty. The other highlight is the “wood fire” section, which has all sorts of meat and squid dishes. If that does not make your bull run, there are also some pizzas and pastas. And of course, there is a wide selection of fancy wines.

Something to keep in mind with this restaurant is the operating hours. In Spain, as in much of Europe, people tend to eat dinner quite late, often at 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. Keeping with this tradition, Bosky does not open until 5:00 p.m. and takes its last orders at midnight. Bosky is easy to find, just steps behind the E-mart in Bongseon-dong.

You can go anywhere and get something to eat. What Bosky offers is more than just food in your stomach – it offers a dining experience. Hasta la vista, Bosky.

아사도르바스키 Asador Bosky

Opening hours: Daily, 5 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Address: Hyosarang-gil 12, Nam-gu, Gwangju 광주 남구 효사랑길 12
Tel: 062-654-3990

The Author
William Urbanski, managing editor of the Gwangju News, has an MA in International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy. He is married to a wonderful Korean woman, always pays cash, and keeps all his receipts.