22 Seoul cafes to visit for the ‘gram and for delicious treats

When in Korea, it might be your first instinct to look for Korean barbecue spots, but don’t forget to carve out some time for Seoul cafes, too. The cafe scene in Seoul is vibrant and offers a wide array of cafe types, from minimalist chic to cute and fun.

There are plenty of easily accessible cafes close to popular tourist destinations that can be added to your day’s itinerary.

These best cafes in Seoul aren’t just about aesthetics — they serve inventive desserts that are visually appealing and equally satisfying. 

So go on, and eat your way through Seoul with this list of Seoul cafes, we’re sure you’ll have no shortage of stunning photos for your social feeds and an unforgettable trip. 

1. Daelim Changgo

78 Seongsui-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? Daelim Changgo is a unique cafe that offers a sophisticated rustic ambience in a converted warehouse — in fact, “changgo” means warehouse in Korean. 

Given its industrial exterior, Daelim Changgo may not immediately strike you as one of the most Instagrammable cafes in Seoul. However, once you push through its large wooden doors, you’ll be greeted with high ceilings, a vast space, natural sunlight, and the aroma of baked goods.  

Part of the property is also dedicated to an art gallery with murals and installation art, so you’ll have plenty to do while you’re there. In addition to delectable baked goods, it also serves beer and wine, making it a chill, wind-down spot after a day of sightseeing in Seongsu.

Crowd favourites: Give its signature geisha coffee drinks a go (15,000 won or S$14.73), along with either the blueberry and cream cheese danish (8,000 won) or macha cream croffin (a matcha-flavoured croissant-muffin, 7,400 won). 

2. Cafe Onion

5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Friday (7am to 10pm), Saturday and Sunday (9am to 10pm)

Why visit? If you only have time for one aesthetically-pleasing cafe in Seoul, the make Cafe Onion, which is modelled after a hanok (a traditional Korean house), a go.

With its tiled roof and wooden interior, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Joseon dynasty in Korea. This cafe is extremely popular among tourists, so be prepared to wait or go during off-peak hours.

The cafe has many sweet treats on display, but a standout is its pandoro, a fluffy and soft Italian pastry doused with powdered sugar, complete with Cafe Onion’s injeolmi (Korean rice cake powder) spin on it

Crowd favourites: You can’t miss out on the popular pandoro (5,000 won), which is perfect for a light tea-time snack. If you’re feeling hungrier, the avocado pollack roe baguette (5,500 won) will also do the trick.

3. Nudake 

43 Gangnam-daero, 162-gil, Gangnam, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9pm)

50 Apgujeong-ro 46-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9pm)

26 Seongsui-ro 7-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9pm)

Why visit? If you’re looking for the hottest Seoul cafe of the moment to visit, then look no further than Nudake, with its sleek design and sculpted desserts. Renowned Korean eyewear label Gentle Monster is behind this gourmet dessert business, which probably explains its chic aesthetic.

If you are a croissant aficionado, you’ll enjoy its large centrepieces of onigiri-shaped croissants, croissant-shaped door handles and workers adorned with croissant features on their outfits. Visitors have likened this spot to a gallery, rather than just a regular cafe. 

Tip: The cafe can get really crowded, so opt for takeaway if you want to spend less time queueing and more time enjoying these croissants. There’s also three different Nudakes around Seoul (there’s one in Dosan Park and another in Seongsu), so take your pick depending on your schedule for the day. 

Crowd favourites: You might be tempted to try every item on display at this Korean cafe, but if you have a limited budget and stomach space, Nudake’s must-tries include its unique delicacies such as The Peak (a black layered croissant cake with a matcha cream filling, 28,000 won) and its Nu latte (a truffle-infused mocha, 9,000 won).

4. Ongozisin

101 Gwanak-ro 14-gil, Gwanak-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 10pm)

Why visit? Ongozisin may be located all the way at Gwanak-gu, a sleepy neighbourhood near the prestigious Seoul National University, but we’d say it’s worth a visit if you’re a fan of cafes with clean, minimalist interiors. The cafe, which is housed in a two-story house, specialises in blended tea. 

The polished stonework, tatami chairs and blonde wood furniture give the concrete area a no-frills, rustic vibe, while its eye-catching large, circular window offers plenty of sunlight into the cafe, creating a warm ambience. 

Crowd favourites: Since it’s known for its teas, we’d suggest giving its blended tea series (5,500 won for hot or iced) a shot — there are several types available at any one time so speak with the staff and pick one that has your favourite notes in it when you’re there. 

Coffee drinkers only have the choice of black coffee (5,000 won) — it is a tea spot after all — or if we were you we’d just spend our calories on its desserts. There is the Ongo Hansang set (12,000 won) which comes with a selection of all of its desserts — bread, ice cream and yakgwa (a traditional Korean sweet). 

5. Perception

16 Eoulmadang-ro 1-gil, Hapdzong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

Why visit? Perception is a unique cafe in Seoul, with a one-of-a-kind wooden ceiling feature, which resembles waves. The cafe’s designer, Jung Hae Jun, has even received an award for the outstanding and eye-catching ceiling design.

The cafe is located in the Hapjeong neighbourhood, an arguably quieter precinct compared to its neighbouring bustling Hongdae area, but it still draws in the crowds owing to its interior, robust brews and treats. 

Crowd favourites: Perception’s drinks menu consists solely of coffee, unlike other cafes — there are roughly 15 variations for coffee, which might make it tough to choose one. We recommend trying the signature espresso mixes (from 5,500 won). 

If you need some treats to pair your coffee with, try its housemade financiers (3,300 won), which include both sweet and savoury flavours.

6. Cong Caphe

Multiple outlets citywide.
Open: Operating hours vary across stores.

Why visit? Cong Caphe is a Vietnamese cafe chain with almost 50 locations around Seoul. This cafe’s decor is inspired by the communist Viet Cong era. The store’s interior is decked in old-school furnishings with an emerald colour theme, while its baristas are decked in green, military-style attire.

The employees at this establishment received training in Vietnam to help them understand the authentic regional flavours of Vietnam and stay true to its roots. This cafe chain is well-known for its rich and delectable coconut with coffee (6,300 won) — a creamy delight when you need a refreshing break from Seoul’s many iced americanos.

Crowd favourites: Try the strawberry latte (6,300 won) or one of its signature smoothies, such as the coconut with mung bean (6,000 won).

7. Cafe Layered

2-3 Bukchon-ro 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (8am to 10pm)

161-4 Seongmisan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

Why visit? Cafe Layered’s owner’s experiences in the United Kingdom led to the setting up of this British-inspired eatery.

As you enter the cafe, you’ll be greeted by an impressive display of pastries and small savoury bites. Look around, and you’ll notice accessories and trinkets from the UK, adding to the cafe’s quaint, English charm.

Aside from the decor, this cafe is a scone wonderland and serves different flavours of scones — both sweet and savoury.

Crowd favourites: The earl grey scone (5,200 won) and apple crumble scone (5,200) pairs perfectly with a caramel latte (6,500 won) or hibiscus tea (6,500 won).

8. London Bagel Museum

20 Bukchon-ro 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (8am to 6pm)

Why visit? Following its debut, the London Bagel Museum has grown from one location in Anguk to opening its second in Dosan. It’s a bit of a viral hit among tourists and locals alike, owing to its wide array of bagels. 

How extensive is its bagel collection? Let’s just say, if bagels are your thing, this cafe will be a dream. However, be prepared to queue for up to a couple of hours; eager visitors start queuing long before its 8am opening time. 

The London Bagel Museum offers many options — something for everyone, no matter your taste. Among its unique bagel flavours are the salt butter bagel (4,700 won) and cinnamon pecan bagel (4,700 won).

Crowd favourites: While the more uncommon bagel flavours are a hit, you can also order a straightforward garlic spring onion bagel (3,800 won). Sweet variations include the blueberry bagel (4,700 won) and the dark chocolate bagel (4,900 won).

9. Grain Seoul

53 Yeonhui-ro 11ga-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 5.30pm)

Why visit? Grain Seoul Cafe is one of Seoul’s top breakfast spots thanks to its colourful breakfast bowls and healthy build-your-own-brunch trays. It’s located in the busy and hip Yeonnam district, which is next to the busy Hongik University subway station, so it’s common for the small cafe space to fill quickly.  

If you prefer sweet brunch treats, the cafe also offers wholemeal pancakes and granola.

Crowd favourites: The build your own brunch (15,500 won for up to six items) is a great option if you enjoy a good mix of food options. For a la carte options, you can’t go wrong with the oatmeal pancakes (11,500 won) and fries with truffle mayo (8,000 won).

10. Tongue Planet

82-2 Seongsui-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul  (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 9pm)

Why visit? The founder of Tongue Planet believes the tongue is a vital tool for communication. As such, the creations in this cafe reflect the different ways the owner enjoys communicating with diners. 

The interior is quirkily designed, with pops of colour in the furniture and cool art installations. Apart from its unique pastries — such as a purse-shaped croissant — the cafe is a cool space to hang out with friends while taking a break from shopping and sightseeing.

Crowd favourites: The signature tongue emoji cake (12,000 won) and cloud cake (12,000 won) are the must-orders here.

11. Green Mile Coffee

64 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 7pm)

Why visit? Located close to Bukchon Hanok Village, Green Mile Coffee was founded in 2009. It prides itself in using quality ingredients and a very specific extraction method for its brews, which has resulted in the cafe quickly becoming a crowd favourite, apart from its traditional-meets-modern interior also being a draw. 

Green Mile offers siphon coffee, obtained through a process which mixes coffee with boiling water that rises from a flask through siphonage. Through this unique process, the cafe is able to extract the deep, rich flavours of the crushed beans, serving up robust, fragrant brews that bring in the crowds. 

Crowd favourites: Enjoy a cup of espresso con panna (5,500 won) with a helping of tiramisu (7,000 won) for an afternoon tea break. Alternatively, opt for a creamier blend with the signature coconut coffee (6,000 won).

12. Munei Cafe

11-2 Mareunnae-ro 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 9pm)

Why visit? While there are numerous Seoul cafes that serve sandwiches and sweet treats, Munei one-ups all of them by serving up sandwiches that look like cakes. Even though whipped cream over a sandwich might seem strange, it somehow complements the savoury elements nicely. 

Crowd favourites: Everything looks almost too good to eat, but a must-try is its signature Sandcake (16,000 won), a sandwich dressed like a cake, topped with daisies. 

Wash it down with the refreshing cooler, Red Ocean (6,000 won), a blend of hibiscus syrup and orange juice. 

13. Madang Flower Cafe

33-12 Supyo-ro, 28-gil, Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 11pm)

Why visit? Madang Flower Cafe is a floral wonderland for those who appreciate the colourful world of plants. Though the cafe is located squarely in the popular Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, it differentiates itself from its many surrounding popular cafes in Seoul by its abundant greenery.

We think this is the spot to visit if you like the traditional Korean hanok aesthetic, with a touch of florals. 

Crowd favourites: The crispy yet soft Madang waffles (16,000 won) are not to be missed at this cafe. Its caramel latte (7,000 won) is also a best-seller, though the delicate-tasting rose latte (7,000 won) is a unique flavour that you should also try. 

14. Ongeundal

41-1 Seongsui-ro 7-gil, Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 11pm)

Why visit? Two-storey Seongsu cafe Ongeundal is impressively big, especially for a cafe, and its unique layout, which features a wide range of seating options, is what draws visitors in — it even has an outdoor garden space and a rooftop patio.

Besides its expansive space, Ongeundal is also well-loved for its cruffins, a hybrid of croissants and muffins. Expect to find flavours such as banana caramel, earl grey, lemon curd, and peanut, which are among the best-selling options.

Crowd favourites: Try its banana caramel croissant (6,500 won), which balances a crunchy exterior and a sweet filling. To accompany your pastry, wash it down with a refreshing glass of ginger pineapple ade (7,500 won).

15. Cheongsudang Cafe

31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (10.30am to 9pm)

223-104 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm) 

32-4 Dosan-daero 15-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 9.30pm)

Why visit? If you prefer serene and chill cafes, then save Cheongsudang Cafe on your list of Seoul cafes to visit. This hanok-style cafe is popular (yes, all three outlets are typically packed out), but it still manages to retain its calm vibes, thanks to elements such as a running water fountain within the cafe. 

That’s not all — you’ll also find plenty of photo worthy spots at this cafe with its wooden lamps and stone steps that line the entrance. If we were you, we’d make a beeline for the outdoor seats when it isn’t too warm, to truly feel like we’re one with nature at this cafe 

Tip: The Ikseon-dong one seems like the most-visited one for now, so consider heading to the Dosan or Yeonnam ones if those work for your itinerary. 

Crowd favourites: You can’t leave without trying the castella and fromage cake (13,000 to 18,000 won). Otherwise, the strawberry souffle (18,000 won) is a light, sweet treat to accompany your mid-day coffee.

16. Seoul Coffee 

166-31 Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? Seoul Coffee blends modernity and history in its decor with its aesthetic that resembles a South Korean shophouse in the 80s. The entrance even features a cylindrical, rotating sign that was used by shops in Seoul during that time.

The cafe makes clever use of clear glass panels on its ceiling, which blend in well with its traditional architecture and gives one the feeling that you’re dining al fresco, but in reality, you’re sitting in cool air-conditioned comfort.  

Crowd favourites: The Vienna coffee (7,000 won), served with sweet cream and chocolate powder, is a must-try for coffee lovers. 

For a modern twist on traditional desserts, order the ice cream yakgwa cookie (7,000 won), which combines a traditional Korean honey cookie, with a vanilla ice cream scoop and a butter cookie — it’s made up of three sweet elements, so only order if you’ve got a (very) sweet tooth. 

17. Ver’s Garden

44 Seongmisan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? The key element of Ver’s Garden‘s distinctive and fashionable interior design is its flora — when you first enter, you’ll notice that the space is decked with unusual flowers and plants in every corner.

The interior is cosy, with three storeys of various themed seating areas. If you’re lucky enough to score a table at the semi-al fresco seating on the top floor, you’ll get to enjoy a scenic view of the Yeonnam neighbourhood.

It isn’t just the interior — the cafe incorporates flowers and leaves into the drinks and desserts to complement the cafe’s theme, making the dining experience worthy of a couple of photos to keep as memories.

Crowd favourites: Try its herbal teas (from 7,000 won) and enjoy it with a slice of banana cake (6,000 won) or blueberry cake (8,000 won).

18. Thanks, Oat

68 Seongmisan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 7pm)

Why visit? If you’re a fan of oats, you must swing by Thanks, Oat, an eatery serving yoghurt and granola bowls in the trendy Yeonnam district. If you love furkids, you’ll be glad to know that pets are welcome at this cafe — there’s even a dedicated dog-friendly yoghurt dish on the menu.

Crowd favourites: This cafe specialises in Greek yoghurt and oat granolas — try its Blue Night (7,500 won), a Greek yoghurt bowl inspired by blueberry cheesecake. Those who love their oats sweet should also give the banana pudding (7,500 won) tossed with cacao nibs and caramel, a go. 

19. C. Through Cafe

266-6-1, Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 10pm)

Why visit? Popular Seoul cafe C. Through is known for its adorable and meticulously designed lattes. It’s owned by well-known Korean barista Lee Kang Bin, who has created these lattes with the hope that every sip provides an artistic experience for diners. 

If you’re considering which cute cafes in Seoul to include in your itinerary, this should be at the top of your list.

Crowd favourites: Go for one of the Creamart coffees (from 7,500 won) to enjoy a cuppa adorned with adorable artwork. There’s also the Scotchno (6,000 won), a coffee drink infused with butterscotch candy.

If you want dessert and coffee all-in-one, the novel Caramelting (8,000 won) comes with flame-torched caramel custard choux sitting atop a cuppa.

20. Soha Salt Pond

21-5 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 9pm)

Why visit? You might have to wait in line for this one because Soha Salt Pond is one of the more popular Seoul cafes selling the famous, well-loved salt bread. It’s so popular that we hear that you’ll have to arrive at 12pm if you even want a chance at enjoying the savoury treat. 

True to its name, the cafe comprises elements that showcase the salt-making process, including a watermill, as well as faux neon-blue salt ponds that make for a great phot backdrop. 

Crowd favourites: As you can tell, the salt theme is strong here, so you have to give one of its salted butter rolls (from 3,500 won) a try, along with a cup of salt coffee (6,300 won).

21. Bear’s Den

10 Yeonhui-ro 4-gil, Sinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (Naver map link)
Open: Wednesday to Friday (11am to 5pm), Saturday and Sunday (10am to 6pm)

Why visit? Bear’s Den is a hole-in-the-wall cafe located along an alleyway. Climb a short flight of stairs, and you’ll find yourself in a cosy space that was once a bakery. 

Today, it’s a full-fledged cafe that serves aesthetically pleasing, generously portioned brunch platters that taste as good as they look. 

Crowd favourites: Try its signature creations with adorable names, such as Hidden Honey Pot (14,000 won) , which features soup served in a bread “pot” which resembles a honey pot, and Bear’s Plate (fresh salad, eggs, toast, sausages, jam, and bacon, 14,000 won).

Why visit? Rust Bakery serves sweet and savoury treats in Seoul’s Mullae district. During the 1970s, the neighbourhood was home to numerous small-scale steel manufacturers. However, many left in the late 1990s, and the units, such as Rust Bakery’s, were transformed into rustic cafes. 

See if you can spot elements of the yesteryear at this unique cafe spot. 

Crowd favourites: Give its savoury croissant, the garlic croissant (4,600 won), a try, or if you have a sweet tooth, the decadent cheese brownie (5,500 won) will satisfy. For drinks, the caramel latte (5,300 won) or vanilla mint chai and chamomile medley (5,000 won) will perk you up for a mid-day refreshment.

Contributed by Regiena R. 

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