Global Economic Times

Taste of South Korea Met in Hongdae, Seoul… Paraguayan Traditional Restaurant ‘CASA LATINO’: KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2026-05-25 13:46:37

Hongdae Entrance Casa Latino Panorama (C) Nammi Dong-A News

An exotic South American gourmet journey taking place in Hongdae, the center of trends
Perfect reproduction of local flavors from the Paraguayan traditional dumpling ‘Empanada’ to the national snack ‘Chipa’
Attracting attention as a unique dating course and a new hotspot for global cultural exchange
A special space where one can fully experience the exotic atmosphere and intense gastronomy of Central and South America has entered Hongdae, Mapo-gu, Seoul—the center of South Korea's culture and trends—drawing the attention of the domestic food and beverage (F&B) industry and foodies alike. 'CASA LATINO,' which specializes in authentic home-cooked meals and traditional dishes from Paraguay, a country whose cuisine was previously difficult to encounter in South Korea, is the main protagonist.

Meaning 'House of the Latino' in Spanish, 'Casa Latino' captures the five senses from the moment you open the door, living up to its name. The vibrant and warm-colored interior characteristic of Latin America, the cheerful Latin music filling the restaurant, and the exotic aroma of spices wafting from the kitchen make visitors feel as if they have jetted off and arrived at a alleyway restaurant in Asunción, the capital of Paraguay.

Paraguayan Traditional Foods (C) Nammi Dong-A News

Proposing South Korea's First-Level Authentic Paraguayan Gastronomy… A Differentiated Menu Lineup
The biggest competitiveness of Casa Latino lies in its uncompromised 'local flavor.' It is evaluated to have expanded the spectrum of domestic South American food—which had been confined mostly to Mexican or Brazilian food—to the traditional dishes of Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, and other regions of the Southern Cone (Cone Sur).

The signature menu item is ‘Empanada,’ the traditional dumpling dish most loved by Paraguayans. Wrapped in a flour dough that is fried or baked to a crisp, it is stuffed generously with finely minced beef, eggs, onions, and local unique spices, boasting both abundant juices and a crispy texture at the same time.

Also not to be missed is 'Sopa paraguaya,' a national snack and traditional dish of Paraguay. Baked with a blend of mandioca (cassava) starch, rich cheese, and cornmeal, Sopa paraguaya uses no flour at all, gaining great popularity among modern people who prefer gluten-free options for its healthy yet chewy texture. In addition, ‘Vori Vori,’ a traditional Paraguayan soup utilizing beef and cornmeal, along with the South American-style 'Milanesa de Carne' dish, are capturing the palates of meat-loving South Koreans and receiving continuous rave reviews.

All dishes strictly adhere to authentic Paraguayan local recipes, and key ingredients and spices that form the essence of the flavor are sourced directly from South America. Through this, the restaurant offers a taste of home to South American expatriates living in South Korea, while delivering a fresh culinary thrill to the younger South Korean generation who enjoy exotic cultures.

Interior View of Casa Latino Restaurant (C) Nammi Dong-A News

A Unique Cultural Platform Met in Hongdae, the Street of Youth
Hongdae, where Casa Latino is located, is a place where countless domestic and foreign tourists and trendsetters gather every year. Casa Latino aims to be a 'cultural platform' where South American culture is shared and communicated, going beyond simply being a restaurant that sells South American food.

On weekend evenings, various events such as small-scale language exchange meetings and Latin music networking parties are held for those interested in South American culture, causing it to rapidly emerge as a new global hotspot in Hongdae.

The response on social media (SNS) platforms like Instagram is also fervent. Reviews such as "It feels like traveling through Paraguay in the middle of Hongdae," "It's the best unique dating course," and "The combination of Empanada and South American beer is fantastic" are continuing to spread through word of mouth as young people voluntarily post their visit verifications.

Anticipated to Grow as a Well-Made Brand Expanding Global Culinary Diversity
An official from Casa Latino stated, "We are delighted to introduce the rich and warm food culture of Paraguay, which was not well known in South Korea until now, here in Hongdae, the center of trends." They added, "Rather than simply chasing stimulating flavors, we will present the essence of Paraguayan home cooking made sincerely with good ingredients, establishing ourselves as a well-made brand that can satisfy both South American food enthusiasts and customers trying exotic food for the first time."

If you want to escape a boring daily routine and embark on a special gourmet journey, or if you want to feel the lively energy and warm affection of South America, it is highly recommended to knock on the door of Casa Latino located in Hongdae. Casa Latino is open year-round and also provides group reservations and South American catering services.