Seoul is one of the most colourful cities in Asia, with quirky and trendy cafes on virtually every corner. See some of our picks for cafes worthy of ending up on your Instagram feed, all just a train ride away.
Cafe Ann House
Feel like a life-sized doll and host your own tea party in this dainty cafe. With a wide menu of desserts, coffee, and hot chocolate and interiors filled with plump sofas and chandeliers, dining at Cafe Ann House feels much like hosting your own tea party.
Address:
Hours: 10:00am to Midnight
Takeout Drawing
Enjoy art pieces from Korea’s up-and-coming artists as you sip Takeout Drawing’s Meringue coffee, as this place doubles as both a cafe and art exhibition space. With its great customer service and rustic interior, be sure to leave a tip; all proceeds from the cafe are used to maintain the art space.
Address: Itaewon-ro 252-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 140-892 (near Hangangjin Station, Exit 2)
Hours: Daily, 11am to 11pm
Insadong Chatjip
In the middle of all of Korea’s modern novelty shops and cafes, Insadong Chatjip is a welcome haven for anyone looking for a taste of Korea’s traditional tea culture. Small, unassuming, and tucked away from the busy streets of Insadong, the warm and earthy interiors make for a great experience. Enjoy a pot of hot tea paired with some rice cakes as traditional music plays in the background.
Address: 33-1, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (near Anguk Station, Exit 6)
Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Hello Kitty Cafe
Perhaps Seoul’s most popular novelty cafe. After a long day of exploring Seoul’s top tourist destinations, enjoy a snack in this fun and playful cafe that’s sure to amuse the kids. With excellent customer service and a menu full of sugary desserts, this cafe will appeal to traveler’s of all ages.
Address: 28, Myeongdong 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Book: 1-Day Seoul City TourYour with KKday!
Kakao Friends Cafe
One thing you should have with you on your trip to Korea is the Kakao Talk App. It’s the most common messaging app in the country and a definite travel essential (READ: Essential Smarthphone Apps for your South Korea Trip). The app is so popular that there’s even a whole cafe dedicated to its cute characters! See the Kakao Friends come to life as you order specially designed pastries and and shop around for all sorts of Kakao-themed souvenirs. There are branches in both Seoul and Busan.
Address: 1st to 3rd floors of Yoochang Building 1305-7 Seocho-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Coffee Prince Cafe
How many times have you pictured your love story unfolding right at your favorite coffee shop? That’s exactly the premise of the 2007 hit Korean Drama, ‘The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince.” The show stars the ever-charming Gong Yoo as the owner/manager of the quaint coffee space. Experience the iconic moments as you visit the real-life coffee shop and sip your own cappuccino.
Address: 5, Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (near Hongik University Station, Exit 8)