Although Incheon is most often associated with jajangmyeon, seafood and Korean BBQ, the city also boasts a number of restaurants that cater to Western-style brunch lovers. Whether you’re look to indulge in eggs Florentine or try something new like a breakfast burger, the following restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for early morning treats.
Brunch Bazar (브런치바자)
Restaurant, North American, British, $$$
Brunch Bazar offers a wide range of tasty Western-style brunch sets, all of which are uniquely named: Brangelina’s Morning, Madame Paris and Victoria Beckham’s Plate are just a few examples. Despite their comical titles, each incorporates fresh, organic ingredients. Their coffee is just as fantastic and with floor-to-ceiling windows, and plenty of natural light, the environment of Brunch Bazar makes for a great spot to spend the morning.
Although you won’t find traditional Western-style dishes at Café Blankis, you will be able to enjoy a nice variety of fusion foods in a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Coffee enthusiasts will be happy to find a vast selection of caffeinated beverages, including Dutch Coffee, cold brew varieties and even a Tiramisu Latte. The dessert menu is just as impressive, and Instagram-able.
Although Doré Doré is most famous for their eye-catching cakes and inventive desserts, they also serve a number of brunch items including sandwiches, hot dogs, and salads. The cafe is at once modern and cozy, and their window seats are especially welcoming, as the huge floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of natural sunlight.
At Café Leeman’s, diners can sample a number of culinary classics, including various brunch sets, French toast, pancakes, and even pizzas. Small décor details, such as their newspaper-style menu, create a homey atmosphere while service is fast and friendly. Looking to cool down in the summer heat? Try their mango bingsoo (shaved ice), one of their more popular menu items.
Located in the luxurious Sheraton Hotel, Bene serves up Italian, Korean, and fusion cuisine in a sophisticated setting. For a proper breakfast, make a point to visit during their morning buffet, where you can gorge on fresh crab, prawns, grilled meat and made-to-order eggs, in addition to a selection of Korean cuisine.
The Italian-style brunch sets at Chapter 1 are especially memorable, as they are prepared by the in-house chef de cuisine, who happens to be a graduate from Le Courdon Bleu. Offering a wide range of appetizing pizzas, pastas, and salads, the restaurant broadcasts the kitchen action on televisions in the dining room as diners’ meals are being made. Portions are fairly small but tasty.
Highly regarded as one of the best burger joints in Incheon, Burgeroom 181 serves up an eclectic selection of burgers, shakes and sides in a modern dining space. In the mood for breakfast? Then give the Breakfastroom burger a try. This hearty sandwich consists of a beef patty topped with hashbrowns, American cheese, bacon and a fried egg – the best of both the breakfast and burger worlds!
Tucked into an obscure plaza in the Songdo area, Manhattan does some fantastic breakfast items, including the French Toast, which is topped with mounds of fresh fruit. Their sandwiches are equally delicious; favorites include the Crazy Hot Shrimp and Cotechino Sandwich. Brunch is served from 10am to 3pm.
For brunch with a view, look no further than Andhari. With a contemporary décor and relaxed atmosphere, this classic café boasts a limited menu of brunch items that include paninis and pastas. If the weather permits, enjoy your meal from the terrace, which offers a spectacular coastal view. For a sweet finish, conclude your meal with an order of Andhari’s housemade, Italian-style tiramisu or one of their cakes or tarts.
In addition to serving up a nice selection of Italian dishes – including mouthwatering homemade pasta dishes – The Hidden Kitchen in Bucheon offers a noteworthy brunch menu. Those seeking something sweet should opt for the Apple Flambe Pancackes, a trio of pancakes served with bacon, eggs and mixed greens. Or, for something savory, the Eggs Florentine (two poached eggs on a bed of spinach topped with Hollandaise Sauce) is the way to go. As an added bonus, coffee with unlimited refills is only 3,000 won!
If you miss the USA’s In-N-Out Burger, Crycheese Burger is the place to go to get those familiar West Coast flavors. Situated in Bucheon, this friendly and affordable burger spot even assembles their burgers with their own version of the franchise’s animal sauce. Rumor has it that the restaurant’s owner worked at the popular fast food chain for a while, then applied what he learned to his own business’ menu items.
