Seoul’s cafe scene isn’t just about grabbing a quick coffee—it’s a full-on cultural experience that blends creativity, comfort, and style. Whether you’re after a cosy nook to unwind or a vibrant space that sparks your imagination, Seoul’s cafes offer a little bit of everything. In this guide, we’re diving into 15 of the city’s best spots, where the atmosphere is as good as the brew. Expect hidden gems, artistic escapes, and perfect corners to sip, relax, and soak in the unique vibe of this dynamic city.
Our Selection of 15 Best Cafes in Seoul
Seoul’s vibrant cafe culture is a blend of artistic charm, innovative brews, and cozy retreats, making it a coffee lover’s paradise. In this curated selection, we’ve highlighted the 15 best cafes across the city, each offering something unique—whether it’s a stunning interior, artisanal coffee, or delectable pastries.
1. 943 Kings Cross
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the wizarding world of Harry Potter, 943 King’s Cross in Hongdae is where the magic comes alive. This themed cafe, spanning five floors, transports you straight into Hogwarts, complete with enchanting decor and immersive photo zones. Each level offers a unique experience, from the wizard’s hut in the basement to the spellbinding dormitory on the fourth floor, where you can even dress up in Hogwarts uniforms for that perfect shot.
But before you start your magical journey, be sure to order a beverage—it’s a must! With unique drinks and dishes you won’t find in your typical cafe, 943 King’s Cross is a whimsical adventure you won’t want to miss in Seoul.
943 Kings Cross
Operating Hours: 11:30 am – 09:30 pm (Monday – Thursday) | 10:00 am – 09:30 pm (Friday – Sunday)
Address: 24 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
2. Old Ferry Donut
Old Ferry Donut is where simplicity meets indulgence, creating a doughnut experience that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious. Inspired by New York City’s vibrant doughnut culture, Old Ferry opened its doors in 2016, quickly establishing itself as South Korea’s first premium doughnut brand. The cafe’s minimalist interior, with geometric wooden furniture and whimsical donut-themed Korean paintings, sets the stage for a treat that’s anything but ordinary.
The doughnuts here are crafted with precision and passion. The raspberry doughnut is a must-try with its perfectly balanced tart jam and sweet icing. For matcha lovers, the custard-filled doughnut offers a rich, earthy flavour. Pair your doughnut with a classic coffee—something unsweetened to let the doughnut shine. Old Ferry Donut isn’t just about great taste; it’s about enjoying a moment of perfection in every bite.
Old Ferry Donut
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 08:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 66 Hannam-daero 27-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
3. Egg Drop
Egg Drop has quickly become a must-visit spot for anyone craving a premium egg sandwich experience. Since its launch in 2017, this brand has taken South Korea by storm, with its Instagrammable sandwiches and a concept that blends American diner vibes with a modern twist. The sandwiches here aren’t just food—they’re a statement, crafted with distinctively developed brioche bread and filled with soft scrambled eggs, savoury meats, and a special egg sauce that ties everything together.
The American Ham Cheese is a fan favourite, offering a delicious mix of scrambled egg, ham, and cheddar cheese in every bite. But if you’re feeling adventurous, the Teriyaki BBQ or Avo Holic might be your next obsession. With a menu designed in collaboration with star chefs, Egg Drop delivers both flavour and style, making it the perfect place to start your day or grab a quick, satisfying bite.
Egg Drop
Operating Hours: 08:30 am – 10:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 15 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Check out more locations on their website)
Visit Them Via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
4. Peach Gray
Peach Gray offers a cafe experience that’s as creative as it is relaxing. In this charming spot, not only do you get to sip on a latte or enjoy a fluffy pancake, but you also get to unleash your inner artist. With every order, you’re handed a watercolour palette, brush, and paper, inviting you to paint away your stress while your food is being prepared. The ambience is calming, with soft music playing in the background, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Whether you’re painting for fun or creating a masterpiece to pin on the wall or take home, Peach Gray adds a unique twist to the typical cafe outing. The signature fluffy pancakes are worth the wait, and the chance to create art while enjoying your drink makes this cafe a must-visit for anyone looking to add a bit of creativity to their day. It’s a peaceful haven where you can sip, paint, and relax.
Peach Gray
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 25 Songpa-dong, Songpa District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
5. JL Dessert Bar
JL Dessert Bar is a sweet sanctuary where dessert meets artistry, offering an experience that goes far beyond the typical cafe visit. Helmed by the talented Pastry Chef Justin Lee, who honed his craft across the globe before returning to Korea, this dessert bar is a celebration of fine dining in every bite. Each dish is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, blending the finest Valrhona chocolates with seasonal local ingredients to create desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
The highlight here is the “Dessert Tasting Menu,” a multi-course journey through Chef Justin’s innovative creations. From the rich flavours of Maitake and Marsala to the delicate balance of Mandarin and Pine Nut, every plate tells a story of passion and precision. Whether you’re indulging in a signature macaron or savouring a plated dessert, JL Dessert Bar offers a luxurious escape into the world of gourmet sweets.
JL Dessert Bar
Operating Hours: 01:00 pm – 05:00 pm, 06:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Monday – Friday) | 01:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Saturday) | 01:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Sunday)
Address: 3rd level, 7-2, Daesagwan-ro 31-gil, Yongsangu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. Cafe Onion
Café Onion Anguk is a must-visit spot in Seoul, blending traditional Korean architecture with modern café culture. Located in a beautifully restored hanok (traditional Korean house), this café offers a unique ambience that attracts both locals and tourists alike. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by an open sand courtyard surrounded by the hanok’s wooden structures, creating a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying a cup of coffee. The café’s interior preserves the charm of traditional Korea while adding a contemporary touch with its coffee bar and seating arrangements. It’s a visual feast that appeals to those who appreciate both history and modernity.
The menu at Café Onion Anguk is as impressive as its setting, featuring a wide array of drinks and an extensive selection of pastries. The honey seaweed fulvescens bread is a standout, offering a delightful mix of flavours that might surprise you. Their milk tea is also highly recommended, providing a comforting balance to their more adventurous food offerings. Whether you’re in the area visiting Bukchon Hanok Village or Gyeongbokgung Palace, this café is a perfect spot to unwind. The traditional seating around the courtyard is particularly sought after, offering an authentic experience that makes your visit even more memorable.
Cafe Onion
Operating Hours: 07:00 am – 10:00 pm (Monday – Friday) | 09:00 am – 10:00 pm (Saturday – Sunday)
Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
7. London Bagel Museum
London Bagel Museum is a standout destination for bagel enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse array of innovative bagel creations. Since opening in 2021, the café has quickly gained acclaim for its unique flavours such as the Spring Onion Pretzel Bagel, which combines the chewy texture of a pretzel with the zest of spring onions, and the Bacon Potato Sandwich Bagel, featuring a rich blend of spicy meat sauce, crispy bacon, and creamy potato salad. The café also excels with its selection of cream cheeses, including Maple Pecan and Garlic Scallion Onion, which add distinctive and delicious twists to their bagels.
The interior design of the London Bagel Museum exudes a classic British charm with wooden furnishings, exposed brick, and high ceilings. This setting enhances the café’s appeal, making it a popular spot where patrons can enjoy freshly baked bagels in a relaxed atmosphere. Despite occasional long waits, the café’s reputation for quality and creativity ensures that it remains a sought-after venue for a memorable bagel experience.
London Bagel Museum
Operating Hours: 08:00 am – 06:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 20 Bukchon-ro 4-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
8. Nudake
Nudake is a croissant-themed wonderland that stands out with its innovative approach and artistic flair. The bakery, envisioned by the renowned eyewear brand Gentle Monster, is more than just a place to get pastries; it’s an immersive experience. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by croissant-shaped decor, including giant sculptures and creative installations that set the tone for the unique offerings inside.
The menu features the signature Oniwassants—onigiri-shaped croissants available in flavours like spicy Kimchi and refreshing Basil Lemon. These flaky, buttery pastries are complemented by a selection of beverages such as the Croi Choco Latte, which combines a croissant with chocolate cream, and the Nu Latte, featuring a silky caramel cream. For something lighter, the Fruitea Ade offers a perfect balance of sweet and sour. Nudake delivers a visually captivating and gastronomically delightful experience, making it a must-visit for both pastry enthusiasts and those who appreciate creative, aesthetic cafes.
Nudake
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 09:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 43 Gangnam-daero 162-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram | YouTube
9. Perception Coffee
Perception Coffee redefines the coffee shop experience with its exceptional architectural and interior design. Known for its striking wooden decor, the café features an award-winning ceiling installation that resembles a cloud or wave, created by the renowned architect Jung Hae Jun. This unique design element, along with the café’s warm wood tones and minimalist aesthetic, sets it apart from typical coffee shops, offering a distinctive atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of its coffee.
The menu at Perception Coffee focuses solely on coffee, offering around 15 options including Flannel Drip, Chemex Drip, and a range of espresso-based drinks. Signature coffees come in hot or iced variations and are noted for their creative names and quality. Emphasising the sensory experience of coffee, Perception Coffee also supports local artists and uses seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and engaging visit each time.
Perception Coffee
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 16 Eoulmadang-ro 1-gil, Hapdžong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
10. Gwehdo Coffee Roasters
Gwehdo Coffee Roasters offers a distinctive coffee experience with its unique design and service style. Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a striking long rectangular table adorned with an LED projection of flowing blue water, creating a calming ambience. Surrounding the central table is a U-shaped, metallic conveyor belt reminiscent of sushi restaurants. Orders are placed at the corner counter, and items are delivered via the conveyor belt, adding a fun, interactive element to the visit. Missed your order? The staff can assist, ensuring a smooth experience.
The menu at Gwehdo Coffee Roasters focuses on high-quality coffee, with an array of expertly brewed options. The innovative setup not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also offers a unique way to enjoy coffee in a stylish and engaging environment.
Gwehdo Coffee Roasters
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 07:00 pm (Closed on Wednesdays)
Address: 19 Yeonnam-ro, 1st Floor, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
11. Seoul Angmusae
Seoul Angmusae grabs attention with its rainbow-coloured facade and charming parrot figurine, embodying a vibrant and playful spirit. The cafe features a strikingly colourful decor that mirrors its namesake, the lively Angmusae parrot. Inside, patrons find a split setup: a cosy seating area on the main floor and a basement where the coffee counter is located.
Renowned for its diverse Kouign Amann offerings, Seoul Angmusae serves flavours like Strawberry, Matcha, Pistachio, and Earl Grey, priced between 5,000 and 8,500 Won. The cafe often has lines for its popular pastries, but visiting during quieter times can offer a more relaxed experience. Additionally, the first floor includes a selection of stationery and merchandise, adding to the cafe’s unique and welcoming atmosphere.
Seoul Angmusae
Operating Hours: 08:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 3 Seoulsup 9-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
12. Cafe Low Roof
Cafe Low Roof surprises with its fusion of modern and traditional elements. The sleek, minimalist facade belies the charm waiting in the backyard—a beautifully preserved hanok, Hwigyeomjae, built in the 1920s. This hanok serves as a tranquil retreat with both indoor seating, where you can experience traditional Korean floor seating, and an outdoor area equipped with heaters for comfort during colder months.
The cafe offers a modest selection of coffee and baked goods, including Korean Honey Cookies (yakgwa) and Crown Daisy Pesto Cold Pasta. Despite its modern exterior, Cafe Low Roof provides a unique blend of contemporary architecture and historical ambience, creating a serene spot where visitors can enjoy a cultural heritage site alongside their coffee.
Cafe Low Roof
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 08:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Address: 46-1 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
13. Deus Cafe
Deus Cafe introduces a bold blend of modernity and tradition in its latest venture. Designed in collaboration with Andrea Caputo Architecture, the space stands out with its striking industrial aesthetic—brick and metal elements paired with expansive glass walls. This ambitious project, completed in just six months, offers a unique pitstop in the vibrant Hongdae area, known for its artistic and musical scene.
Inside, Deus Cafe’s gallery-style layout features a glass-fronted bakery staffed by skilled bakers and coffee experts. The menu includes signature drinks like the Lemon Matcha Latte and Honey Pumpkin Latte, alongside classic coffee options. The highlight of the cafe is its open yard, transformed into a casual alfresco seating area adorned with camping chairs, blending outdoor charm with a traditional backdrop.
Deus Cafe
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 19-12 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Instagram
14. Cha Cha Tea Club
Cha Cha Tea Club offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle, nestled in a charmingly refurbished building. This cosy teahouse features traditional wooden decor and a glass-roofed central courtyard showcasing a variety of teas. The space is thoughtfully designed with multiple nooks, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for a relaxing tea break.
Guests at Cha Cha Tea Club can enjoy a hands-on tea experience with guidance from knowledgeable staff. Each visit includes a demonstration of the tea-making process, including the unique step of discarding the first brew to prepare the tea for drinking. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a newcomer, the tranquil setting and personal touch make it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
Cha Cha Tea Club
Operating Hours: 04:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Tuesday) | 01:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Wednesday – Sunday) | Closed on Mondays
Address: 13 Jong-ro 46ga-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
15. Pont Cafe
Pont Cafe seamlessly blends history with modernity in a repurposed factory space. Located in Mullae-dong, an area undergoing a creative transformation from old steel factories to vibrant artistic hubs, Pont Cafe occupies five former factory units, now reimagined as a roastery, showroom, and seminar space. The design integrates elements from the building’s industrial past with contemporary aesthetics, featuring a blend of weathered wood, metals, and exposed ceilings that pay homage to the site’s history.
The cafe’s interior showcases a minimalist display area and a curved coffee bar that extends through the space, fostering a sense of connectivity and movement. Sunlight filters through varied windows, enhancing the warmth of the orange-toned interior with terracotta tiles and plaster walls. Pont Cafe stands as a bridge between past and present, offering a unique ambience where history and modern coffee culture converge.
Pont Cafe
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 09:00 pm (Saturday – Wednesday) | 11:00 am – 07:00 pm (Thursday – Friday)
Address: 19-16 Hangang-daero 15-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Visit Them Via: Website | Instagram
Conclusion
Seoul’s cafe scene is a blend of cosy nooks and creative spaces, each offering its own unique vibe. From laid-back spots perfect for catching up with friends to stunning places that double as art installations, these 15 cafes show off the city’s diverse coffee culture. Each place provides more than just a good cup of coffee—it’s a chance to experience a bit of Seoul’s personality. So whether you’re after a peaceful retreat or a trendy hangout, these cafés have something special to offer. Dive in, sip away, and enjoy the rich variety of what Seoul has to offer.