Seoul is a city that never sleeps, and that means there is always a place to get a cup of coffee and a bite to eat. Whether you are looking for a cozy spot to relax, a trendy place to socialize, or a creative space to work, you can find it in one of the many cafes that dot the capital of Korea’s streets. What really sets Seoul’s cafe scene apart from those around the world is the sheer number of unique cafe experiences you can find aside from just having your normal iced coffee to go.
It’s hard to pick among the thousands (or possibly tens of thousands!) of cute Seoul cafe options, but I’ve narrowed it down to my favorites. Note that besides number one, these options are not in any particular order!
1. Cheongsudang
Cheongsudang is my favorite cafe in Seoul, hands down. Literally translating to “clear water room,” this cafe tucked in a hidden bamboo forest in the bustling artistic district of Ikseon-dong embodies the peace and calm associated with its name. Seating ranges from the cushioned floor overlooking the bamboo forest with its numerous tiny fish to a stone counter covered in minuscule trees and plants. I love the tiramisu cakes, they’re absolutely gorgeous, and the drinks are as delicious as they are aesthetic. Sipping away at tea or coffee in Cheongsudang’s magical forest, it’s too easy to forget that you’re in one of the busiest cities in the world.
Address: 31-9, Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
2. Cafe Onion
Cafe Onion located in Anguk is one of the most popular cafes in all of Seoul for its gorgeous hanok (or traditional Korean architecture) interior and courtyard. And when I say one of the most popular, you’ll have to be ready to queue for hours if you want to come on a weekend. Their housemade pastry and bread options are released one by one every morning fresh from the oven, and you’ll want to bring a friend because the portions are massive.
The house specialty is their pandoro, a cone-shaped pastry covered in powdered sugar, but we were more impressed by the strawberry tart. The options here change throughout the seasons, so even if neither of those are up your alley, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious at Cafe Onion.
Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
3. Dae-o Bookstore
K-pop fans will surely love Dae-o Bookstore—this historic swimming pool-turned-bookstore-turned-cafe (yes, all of those) is frequented as a shooting set for famous idols, including BTS’s RM and soloist IU. Even if you aren’t interested in K-pop, it’s hard not to fall for the kitschy, vintage-style charm of this tiny cafe crammed among the dusty shelves full of antique books. Only a handful of drinks are available, and to be honest, the beverage selection isn’t the main draw here. It’s more fun to pick around the cozy interior, examine the piano room, and imagine the historic movies and music videos that were shot here.
Note that full-size cameras are not allowed. Phones are OK!
Address: 55 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, 청운효자동 Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
4. Tteul-An
I’ve already listed two hanok cafes on this list alone, so what makes Tteul-An special? Unlike Cheongsudang and Onion, which have traditional exteriors but are modern cafes at the core, Tteul-An is fully dedicated to its historical aesthetic. The tea options are all extremely traditional, such as medicinal herbal tea and pear tea, as are the desserts. There are no pastel lattes or French pastries here. Instead, you’ll sample hard squares of sesame, puffed rice crackers, and dried persimmon stuffed with chopped walnuts. Of course, you’ll also be treated to the typical floor seating and a small side garden. The vibe is relaxed, slow, and authentic—a perfect way to step back in time and take a breather at the same time.
Address: 35-169, Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
5. Peach Gray
One unique feature of Seoul is the number of activity-related cafes. You can find sewing cafes, laundry cafes, and of course classic pet cafes, among hundreds of other options. Peach Gray is a relatively low-key watercolor cafe located in trendy Jamsil, near the famous Lotte World Tower, where you can paint and eat at the same time. A custom watercolor set and drink are only 10,000 won, with the option to add some fluffy souffle pancakes on the side. The food and drink are quite delicious, but the star of the show is peacefully sitting and painting away for an hour or two, before admiring your masterpiece on a full stomach. It’s great fun, especially on a rainy day.
Address: 14-1 Garok-ro 21-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
If that isn’t enough cafe options for you, here are some other standouts in Seoul that are worth visiting if you have enough time:
- Sumsei Terrarium: A plant-themed gallery crossed with a cafe featuring five rooms of exhibits focused on nature and sustainability. Aside from being breathtakingly beautiful, the cafe also aims to educate visitors on ecology initiatives. Your drink is included in the entrance fee.
- Art x Shift: A trendy experimental blue art gallery that also functions as a cafe. The interior is extremely vibrant and feels like a modern museum, designed to create immersive artistic experiences for the guests.
- T.Nomad Seoul: Another beautiful traditional-style cafe with floor cushions, traditional tea and desserts, and warm wooden interiors.
- Cafe Lingling: A tiny cafe featuring beautiful pastel artwork in the drinks and on their pastries and cakes. The interior is otherwise unremarkable and monochrome, but the food is extremely maximalist (and heaven for pink and blue lovers).
I hope you enjoyed my selection of favorite cafes that Seoul has to offer. These cafes are not just places to get a cup of coffee, but destinations to explore and discover. Each of them has a unique atmosphere and menu that reflects the culture and personality of Seoul. Whether you want to experience the traditional, the modern, or the elaborate, you can find it in one of these cafes. Happy cafe hopping, and let me know your thoughts if you visited any of these!
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