The Seodaemun district is located in northwest Seoul. Home to Ehwa Women’s University, one of the most prestigious in the country, it has become a hotspot for cafe-goers. Here’s our guide to the top 10.
Part of Queenmamamarket, one of Seoul’s hottest concept stores right now, Manufact Coffee Roasters is a true hidden gem. Walk up a tasteful concrete staircase in the store and you’ll enter a completely different world. High ceilings, wood panels and glass details make Manufact one of the most beautiful coffee shops in Seoul.
Conveniently located next to the outlet at Namyeong station, De Chocolat Coffee has become widely popular among the coffee critics of Seoul. Not only is the coffee delicious, the interior is cozy and polished. As the name suggests, their signature drink is a rich hot chocolate that should not be missed.
Specializing in healthy fare and natural drinks, Dr. Robbin is a hit, especially among students of the nearby Ehwa Women’s University. Most drinks on offer are sugar-free, instead containing natural sweeteners. Wholesome lunch and dinner options are available, one of their signature dishes is arugula pizza.
C’lucy Café du Chocolatier is the favorite for those with a sweet tooth in Seoul. The café make bespoke chocolate in their own ‘chocolate room’ and tastefully display their creations inside. Besides delicious chocolate, C’lucy also serves homemade gelato, as well as various cakes. Try the strawberry tart or tiramisu if you need a pick-me-up after a long day at work or sightseeing.
A truly unique cafe in the city, Majane specialize in homemade pudding. The owner is a New Yorker, so authentic NY-style custard pudding is available in the heart of Seoul. In addition, a roster of puddings are prepared daily, with most selling out by 4pm. So, get there early to avoid disappointment.
This homely coffee shop is the perfect place to unwind. Located at the foot of Ansan Mountain, you can grab a drink after a hike in the surrounding area. Locals love the atmosphere of this cafe and can spend a whole afternoon here relaxing. The blueberry rooibos tea comes highly recommended.
This lovely cafe is full of every kind of tea imaginable. Literally translated, the name means “everyone together,” with a smart wordplay hinting their passion for tea. On top of the extensive tea menu, Moduda Gatea also offer delicious cakes and salads. During the summer months, be sure to try their lip-smacking orange salad with a fruity homemade dressing.
Coffeest is the perfect place for coffee lovers. They offer a huge selection of coffee from a variety of origins; from Ethiopia and Indonesia to Brazil, Colombia and Guatemala. Moreover, Coffeest also serve tea, if coffee is not your thing. The staff are knowledgable and evidently passionate about coffee, as each cup is brewed to perfection.
Waffle It Up is a little off the beaten track, on an alleyway close to Ehwa Women’s University, but well worth the search. The waffles are freshly made to order, topped with delicious gelato and/or whipped cream. Waffles aside, the cafe serves a range of beverages to suit all tastes.
It’s no surprise that the Australian world champion barista Paul Bassett’s chain has been a huge hit in Seoul. The coffee connoisseurs are known for their attention to detail, from selecting the beans to roasting and brewing the coffee, according to Bassett’s high standards and specialist techniques. On top of first-class coffee varieties, you can also get ice-cream at their location in Seodaemun.
