Cafe-hopping in Seoul
Cafes in Seoul are next-level. So unique, so creative, so different than anything, anywhere. If you’re going to Seoul, you should definitely make time for some cafe-hopping to soak up the unique cafe culture that this wonderful city boasts, we guarantee that you’ll find one (or odds are, many) that you’ll love.
From tranquil cafes where you can sit back and watch the hours fly by to fun, eclectic spaces with bold interiors and never-seen-before drinks and flavour combinations, your surroundings are just as big of an experience as the drink or pastry that you choose to enjoy. The art of cafe-hopping in Seoul is to find an area, and then explore. In fact, hop from cafe to cafe, because in some areas they are right next to each other.
Go to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village for some of the most famous hanok cafes (looking at you, Cheungsudang). Be prepared for the queues, but also keep your camera handy because you’re bound to see the most aesthetic pastries and cakes in whichever direction you look. Soha Salt Pond is worth a visit, there’s an ornamental salt pond in the middle of the hanok courtyard and salt (and salt-inspired) decorations on all of the pastries and drinks.
For something that feels cool as in really cool, head to Seungsu-dong. The cafes here are often found in old warehouses and have a sort of artsy feel to them, and it’ll feel as if you’re enjoying a coffee in the middle of an art exhibition. Tongue Planet is a favourite. With its bold, funky interiors, signature cookies, and rooftop that overlooks the old shoe factories, it’s a space that impresses.
If you’re looking for something more modern, and more sophisticated, Hannam-dong is for you. Located just beside bustling Itaewon, it has a more grown-up feel but still with lots of edge. For some of the best coffee in Seoul, Anthracite is a go-to. It’s also an excellent place to people watch.
