The Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots In Busan South Korea

South Korea’s second largest city, Busan, has a well-deserved reputation as a party, shopping and sightseeing destination. Whether you want to dance the night away at Seomyeon’s many clubs, hit the malls like never before, or if you simply want to spend the day sightseeing in this historic port city, the all-important question is, “where can you fuel up?” Here are our top seven havens for breakfast and brunch.

1. Sinchang Toast

Cafe, British, Korean

A small, but perfectly crafted menu made up of various combinations of toast, eggs and ham is what you’ll find at Sinchang Toast. Freshly squeezed fruit juice is guaranteed to pep you up however early in the morning it might be (unlike some other breakfast cafes, Sinchang Toast opens with early birds in mind). For a more Korean breakfast beverage, go for the warm soy milk. The food here is simple and delicious, and made with love by the friendly couple who run the cafe. There’s a small seating area, but most visitors take food with them or eat outside the stall.

2. The Pancake Epidemic

Cafe, American

No prizes for guessing what they serve here. It’s all about the pancakes served with coffee from Stumptown Roasters (all the way from Oregon, USA!) Piled with toppings, these American-style pancakes are small in diameter and satisfyingly sweet. It’s a little on the pricier side, but if you’re after West Coast chill, this is the place to go. The cafe has a funky, skater-boy vibe, and you can also buy California-inspired streetwear here.

3. Ecotopia

Cafe, Korean, Vegetarian, Vegan

One of Busan’s few vegetarian cafes, Ecotopia serves organic, eco-friendly fare. Located in Namcheon, not far from Gwangalli Beach, its food makes you feel good inside and out; many of its dishes are vegan (although be aware that its kimchi contains fish sauce). It grows herbs and some vegetables on the premises and also runs cooking classes.

5. Wolfhound (울프하운드)

Pub, Pub Grub, Irish

If you’re craving a fry-up or something comforting, this is the place to go. A popular Irish pub, the Wolfhound is located just a stone’s throw from Haeundae Beach. It serves up a great all-day breakfast and has a hearty veggie option for non-meat-eaters. Lighter options include salads and soups.

6. Homestead Coffee (홈스테드 커피)

Cafe, Restaurant, European, American

Homestead Coffee has two locations in Busan. One is on Gwangalli beach and the other is at Lotte Department Store, one of Korea’s largest mall chains. At Homestead Coffee your day can start with breakfast before a day of shopping or a day at the beach. Homestead has made a reputation for its homemade waffles that come topped with several varieties of fruit. They also have other western-style brunch and breakfast items, such as omelettes, pancakes, sausages, and bacon.

7. Brunch Cafe Ean (이안)

Cafe, European, American

This is another Western-style brunch cafe that is located between Gwangalli beach and the Geumnyeonsan subway station. For brunch they serve eggs, waffles, ham, crepes, and salad, all of which come with interesting toppings. The cafe looks much like a resident’s house that’s been redone, which gives the place a homey vibe. We recommend their French toast or homemade yogurt.

Sekilah Calvin also contributed to this article.

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