Hey coffee lovers! Can you believe Seoul has over 100,000 coffee shops? It’s wild! And it’s no wonder, considering South Koreans drink twice as much coffee as the global average.
As a caffeine enthusiast, I wanted to go on this coffee adventure to find the best coffee spots. I’ve put together a list of what I think are some of the best coffee shops in Seoul. If you’re looking for a perfect specialty brew, a quiet workspace, or just a cafe with an Instagrammable theme, you’ll find something here.
Here is a link to all the coffee shops in Google Maps.
Special Themed Cafes to Check Out in Seoul
1. Rain Report | Itaewon, Seoul
Address: 258-63 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul
This rain-themed café in Itaewon is unlike any other. As soon as you step inside, you can clearly see the thought and effort that has gone into every detail. The gentle sound of raindrops on the rooftops creates a calming atmosphere, while the artificial rain effects outside transform into snow during the winter. Weather reports displayed on screens throughout the café make it feel like you’re in your own little weather world.
This café offered some unique options, so I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try their signature ‘sesame cloud’. To my surprise, it was creamy and sweet with a powerful coffee flavor that really stood out. Paired with a dessert shaped like candles which you could actually light up, it made an overall cool experience.
Afterward, I went for round two and ordered an espresso to assess their bean quality, and it was incredibly enjoyable. If you go to this cafe, do not hesitate to take a few photos, because you might regret it later.
2. Drunken Bean Café | Gangnam, Seoul
Address: 56 Sapyeong-daero 55-gil, Seocho District, Seoul
Hidden in the lively streets of Gangnam, Drunken Bean Cafe is one of the most impressive themed cafes I’ve encountered. A New York subway vibe that feels nostalgic and draws you in immediately. The cafe includes five floors, each with its own unique atmosphere, but I chose to settle in the subway-themed area, which felt charmingly unique.
I ordered the signature drink, the Drunken Cold Brew. This drink is made to bring out smoky and caramel flavors that remind you of whiskey, but it has no alcohol in it. One sip revealed its strong and unique flavor. It tasted like nothing I had experienced before. After that fascinating brew, I cooled down with a classic espresso, which rounded out my visit perfectly.
Beyond its New York subway theme, Drunken Bean Cafe offers unexpected coffee quality and delicious cakes that are worth trying in Gangnam.
Historic Cafes Reflecting Korean Culture in Seoul
3. Hanok Langsom Ikseon | Jongno, Seoul
Address: Seoul, Jongno District, Supyo-ro 28-gil, 21-6 1층
A Café blended in a traditional hanok house, including tiled roofs, stepping-stone entrance for the perfect picture and a touch of the Joseon Dynasty era that lasted for centuries. This historic setting is nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace which adds to its cultural importance.
I really enjoy the location of this café, as it makes it easy to combine a day of exploring Bukchon Hanok Village with visits to nearby palaces. The café has a calming vibe, which is just what you need after wandering through the small streets that can get pretty crowded with tourists. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and feel the charm of the area while enjoying a good cup of coffee or a cup of tea. If you find yourself near this cafe, don’t overthink it too much and give it a try.
4. Starbucks Gyeongdong 1960 Branch | Dongdaemun, Seoul
Address: 1036 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun District, Seoul
Starbucks Gyeongdong 1960 is located in the historic Gyeongdong Market, in the former Gyeongdong Theatre, which operated from 1960 to 1994. Renovated in 2022, it features vintage-inspired decor that celebrates its cinematic past. This café symbolizes the spirit of Korea’s “Golden Age” of cinema, known for its influential filmmakers and socially relevant storytelling.
I found out that part of the revenue from this Starbucks goes back to supporting Gyeongdong Market, which felt really good to me. Personally, I’m a big fan of giving new strength to older locations with new functions because it adds a unique twist to their stories. While the offerings at this Starbucks are similar to those at other locations, the overall atmosphere and connection to the community make it a special place worth mentioning. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit!
Unique Niche Cafes in Seoul That Stand Out
5. Dior Café | Gangnam, Seoul
Address: 464 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam District, Seoul
The café, located on the fifth floor of the Seoul House of DIOR, offers a luxurious atmosphere that perfectly complements its lovely menu. I was excited to try the cappuccino, which came beautifully topped with the signature “CD” design. It felt special to enjoy this hot drink in an unusual place that normally stands for fashion. The drinks are priced on the higher end which reflects the brand’s prestige rather than just the coffee quality.
With my cappuccino, I treated myself to some delicious pastries that made my afternoon even sweeter. Café DIOR is more than just a coffee shop because it playfully mixes the art of fashion with coffee and cuisine.
6. Ediya Coffee Lab | Gangnam, Seoul
Address: Seoul, Gangnam District, Nonhyeon-ro, 636 이디야빌딩
Ediya Coffee Lab in Gangnam is a standout among the various Ediya locations, offering a more upscale experience that sets it apart from the typical quick-service coffee shops. As I approached, I couldn’t help but notice the lineup of luxury cars parked out front, thanks to their valet parking service, which immediately hinted at the cafe’s unique vibe.
Once inside, the spacious seating areas create a relaxed environment perfect for both work and socializing. Exploring the cafe reveals an enjoyable museum-like scene filled with timeless design elements and stories. I decided to try their exclusive CoffeeLAB Signature Latte, which was a balanced drink that showcased the quality of their coffee without being too flashy.
Take a moment to explore Ediya Coffee Lab because you will find it is well worth your time.
Specialty Coffee Shops in Seoul for Unique Brews
7. Café Brown City | Hongdae, Seoul
Address: 360-3 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul
This coffee shop in Hongdae caught my eye many times before I decided to go in. I finally gave it a shot, and it turns out that it is a specialty coffee shop. You can choose the type of coffee bean you want. In my opinion, the Americano had a very rich flavor, and I paired it with a not-too-sweet matcha cake, it was perfect. Café Brown City is a great place to drink a tasteful black coffee for the real coffee drinkers out there.
If you’re visiting Hongdae shopping street, be sure to check out this coffee shop. It’s definitely worth a visit, and you’ll have no trouble finding it!
8. Leesar Coffee | Myeongdong, Seoul
Address: 58 Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung District, Seoul
This coffee shop in the Myeongdong area would be a great pick for a laid-back coffee experience. With its modern design, it is a nice escape from the usual coffee shop scene.
As I walked in, the smell of brewed espresso welcomed me. I appreciated the option to enjoy my drink standing at the bar since it adds a casual touch to the experience. I decided to try their signature Caffe con Panna, which was strong and satisfying. If you’re into trying something different, try the Caffe Pieno. It is a refreshing mix of espresso with cream and cacao topping.
Leesar Coffee also has a selection of desserts, including an authentic Italian tiramisu that strikes just the right balance of flavors. When in need for a quick caffeine boost or a place to unwind for a bit, Leesar Coffee offers a comfortable atmosphere and quality drinks that make it a solid choice in Myeongdong.
Study Cafes in Seoul for Getting Things Done
9. Café Debunk | Hongdae, Seoul
Address: Seoul, Mapo-gu, Seongji 1-gil, 30 지하1층 더보이드빌딩
This café is a great choice for students looking to study or hang out with friends. With its variety of seating options and inviting atmosphere, it’s hard to go wrong here.
I decided to settle in a quieter corner where I could keep an eye on the space around me. I ordered one of their signature drinks, which was tasty but felt more like a dessert than a coffee, so if you’re a serious coffee lover, you might want to stick with the classic options. They also offer a selection of desserts and food, perfect for a little snack while you work. The place has a library-like vibe that really helps you focus, thanks to the natural quiet that many people find appealing.
Café Debunk is closely located near several universities, making it an excellent spot for students. It’s particularly close to Hongik University, so if you find yourself in the area, I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
10. Café Gabie | Hongdae, Seoul
Café Gabie, located in Hongdae has quickly become one of my favorite spots. Open 24/7, it’s perfect for students and professionals seeking a comfortable place to work or study. Its nearby distance to Yonsei University and Hongik University attracts a creative crowd.
You can choose from two floors depending on what you prefer. The quieter second floor is ideal for focused study sessions, while the lively first floor suits with group work and casual meetings. With fast Wi-Fi and plenty of power outlets, I can stay connected while I work.
One unique feature is how they categorize their coffee by strength (A, B, or C) allowing me to choose based on my energy needs. The menu includes a variety of coffee drinks and homemade teas. With its welcoming vibe and diverse drink selection, Café Gabie is my best pick for productivity and great coffee in Seoul, especially if I need a last-minute study session.
Also, If you want to find the best cafes with flat whites in Seoul, click here.
In conclusion, each of these best coffee shops in Seoul has its own charm and character, reminding us that the perfect cup of coffee often comes down to personal preference.
39 comments
Issabella
Thank you for provide such a great info.I can sympathize with someone who just wants a fix, whether it be alcohol, heroine, cocaine or caffeine.
Annabelle
The times call for an update!
I like Coffee LEC in Sinsa. It’s a tiny shop around the corner of Grill 5.
Won Jong Woo ,Brian
I live in Seoul, but I am even not aware of those coffee shop.
Thank you for offering me such a good information !
Won Jong Woo ,Brian
Now I’m living in Seoul, but I am even not aware of the coffe shop you’ve mentioned above.
Thank you for offering me such a nice information !!
Jason
I’m going to have to add the single best shop in Seoul that you left out. In all fairness, it’s pretty hard to do a list like this for the second largest city on Earth. Uncle Bean, run by an amazing couple is a small shop across the street from Exit 1 (to the right) of Mok-Dong Station. Although the shop itself is small, and the decor/furniture is basic, they ROAST THEIR OWN COFFEE EVERY DAY! And it’s amazing coffee as well. To top it off, the last time I was there in December 2011, a 12 oz latte was 2.900 Won! You can buy coffee by the half kilo either whole bean, or they can also grind it for you. All of the pastries are also made in house! They have several different roasts so your cup changes by the day. Go check it out. When you exit the station look to your right. It’s about a block down on the right fork of the intersection on the opposite side of the street.
jacob
Thanks Jason.
I’ve never been out there myself but “Uncle Bean” also known as “Coffee Uncle” has an excellent reputation amongst Seoul’s coffee aristocracy. Next time I have to go to immigration I’ll make sure to stop in.
Jason
Uncle Bean address and phone number
sinjung jungang-ro, Seoul, Korea 158-856
+82 2-2690-3330
Jason
http://blog.naver.com/hyejin830?Redirect=Log&logNo=120120192679
제니퍼
There is also a STANDING COFFEE near Noksapyeong – take out, cheap, and not shy on caffeine. There is a small place tucked in near 고덕역 called MANOS CAFE, he has traveled for his coffee beans and imports quality from the little I was able to talk to the owner. It’s not for a top 10 list, but a good cup on the East side of Seoul.
jacob
Thanks 제니퍼. I would definitely like to give Manos a try, though I don’t often get out to that end of town. Standing Coffee, belongs nowhere near this list. They serve the crack cocaine of coffee, super high on caffeine, super low on quality, what’s more is that less than 20 meters down the street from Escobar’s dregs is Chan Bros which is probably the best coffee in Yongsan.
lucylee
Typed “best coffee Seoul” and this was the first site listed. I went down the list and when I saw CBTL listed, I knew this is NOT the list I was looking for. I’m looking for REAL coffee, not the Starbucks/CBTL drain water that’s served.
Found this site instead. Head here if you know your flat white from a ristretto.
http://frshgrnd.com/2012/02/best-cafes-in-seoul-korea-2012-updated-list/
jacob
Hey lucylee
Aaron Fey over at freshgrind is indeed a coffee master and his blog is very informative. In fact it is listed above, first thing, even before the article starts.
“Words by Jacob Roy with special thanks to Aaron Frey frshgrnd.com”
Also if you read the comments below you’ll notice that Aaron also went to the CBTL. With the CBTL’s resources and heavy investment into the shop, location and equipment it had the potential to be something special. Unfortunately, I’m not sure exactly why, perhaps, because of amateurish baristi, the coffee isn’t particularly good. The rest of the cafes, however, should not be judged on the strength, or lack there off of the one.
Doksu
For those in 영등포구 (Yongdeung-po-gu), I found a “bread” shop/cafe that makes a half-decent latte for 5500 W. It’s called ‘Alaska’ and is located on the right-hand side as you enter 현대백화점 (Hyundai Baikhwajom) from the street. If you come via subway, 오목교역 (Oh-mok-kyo Station) on line 5 connects directly to it.
jacob
@ Heckman. Currently working on a top 10 cafe nation wide. With new several new Seoul digs.
@ Don C. I agree with you there. Coffee Factory have fallen off. The list is getting pretty dated.
Don C
I travelled to #5, Coffee Factory yesterday because of this article. If this is fifth best in Seoul, then the remainder must be crap. Sure, the coffee is decent, but there’s nothing special. The beans are not fresh, and there were only four options.
Sunnie
Definitely agreed that coffee factory is nothing special. They just have cheap beverages before 3pm. Coffee is much better at coffee bang-aat-gan 커피방앗간 around the corner. Their hand-drip Guatemala is wonderful!
Heckman
Oh yeah, and La Caffe in Wangsimni, if it still exists at all, has relocated. Time for this section to be updated!
Heckman
Why is Le Cafe in Haebangcheon not listed? I’ve been to most of the coffee shops listed above and the coffee is mediocre compared to Le Cafe. Maybe Le Cafe is too recent to be included?
kay
where in seoul the Purple Coffee shop?.. Is there anyone who know the address of that Coffee sop?
Rachel
I tried again today with the naver map and got really lost. I think I’ll give up on this one. Though I did make it to Coffee Lab and it was wonderful.
David Carruth
Try exit 3 instead of exit 2. Hongdae Station just underwent some pretty heavy-duty construction and some of the exits were inaccessible until recently.
You can also get a rough idea of the location from Naver maps here: http://bit.ly/ecegn1
Rachel
I tried to find Addis Ababa from these directions, but came out of exit #2 and there was no Donggyo-dong intersection. Do you have to walk a ways? I asked someone on the street where the intersection was and he pointed in the opposite direction of the direction here.
Anatole
I had the same problem Rachel. There’s no Donggyo-dong intersection at exit two, and “walk straight” doesn’t specify in which direction 🙂 I walked to Donggo-ro and turned left, but no Addis Ababa appeared.
jacob
Nice catch Scott.
Our mistake there.
We should have specified the B2 location. We even put the wrong pic 🙁
I hope you enjoyed your espresso as much as the Pope does his.
Scott
I was at the coffee bean in the basement of Seoul Financial Center. Not sure if they still got one of those Victoria Arduino Venus Century espresso jawns ( based on a comparison of the pictures I saw online and what they were using here). Maybe they sold it. Online line prices looked to be around 21,000 $. That’s a big investment for 4,500 won little cups of coffee.
Scott
I retract my statement. Hey people there are two. One is regular and one is super fancy.
Sean
Very surprised that Dr. Beans in ì‹ ì´Œ didn’t get a mention. That place has great atomosphere, excellent coffee that they roast on site and they sell the beans. Can’t recommend it enough.
exit by McDonalds and walk towards Yonsei university. It’s on the right on the second floor – if you’ve made it to Starbucks you’ve gone to far.
Katrina
What did Starbucks do that is considered so evil? There are plenty of other large coffee chains in Korea that charge the same prices and sell the same kinds of coffee. If you want to rant against large coffee chains then be consistent and include them all if all of them are doing something you dislike.
MC
I frequent Addis Ababa quite often. I love the place. The drinks are always excellent. Service is great. I buy ground coffee from Addis Ababa about twice a month. The owner has given me several free samples too! The prices are what you would expect from a good café. The prices start from 3,500 to 8,000 won for a drink. An espresso is 3,500 and a hand dripped coffee is 8,000 or 9,000. All the other popular drinks are the same as elsewhere — 5,000 won…cheaper than Starbucks, right? Speaking of Starbucks, you can get FREE internet connect at Addis Ababa without having to enter your ID # (you have to enter your ID # at Starbucks=LAME). Additional direction: turn right when you see “Dunkin Donuts.”
Alex
Not in Seoul, but if you’re on the cafe street in Bundang, near Jeongja Station, check out Coffee 121. Very good.
Julia Johansen
One of my favorite coffee shops is SLOW. It’s located in Gangnam on the Green 2 line. Walk out exit 5, go down the steps (Smoothie King will be on the left, Starbucks will be on the right). Keep walking until you pass YOU & I, and SLOW will be on the left-hand side, shortly after.
I really enjoy their cappuccinos, though they are a bit expensive: 6,500.
Aimee White
I wholeheartedly agree with #3! I work in the same building as the lovely people at La Caffe, and I feel infinitely lucky to have them here. They also serve thin crust, Italian pizza!
Here are some more specific directions:
La Caffè is located at Lemon Plaza 107 in Haengdang-dong, Seongdong-gu. Take Line 2 (green line) to Wangsimni Station. Go out of exit 9, walk straight down this road and pass the KB Bank. Turn left just after the pedestrian bridge, then take your second left (down a small alley) after that. La Caffè will be on the right-hand side. 02-2299-9442
jacob
I can sympathize with someone who just wants a fix, whether it be alcohol, heroine, cocaine or caffeine.
Drug pushers know real estate and marketing. Starbucks and every other major chain place themselves not only so that they are easy to find but so that you can’t miss them. It’s pretty much impossible to travel around downtown Seoul without crossing the major chains. The major coffee chains are for the most part over roasted and over caffeinated but that being said when I do not have the time to go somewhere better I will occasionally stop into a Starbucks and I certainly do enjoy the double dosage of caffeine and sugar they offer ubiquitously. I don’t think any of 10’s readers need help finding a Starbucks.
Some of the shops I recommended will definitely take some effort to find and for me that’s part of the fun. I like to get off the beaten path. Though that does take a bit of time. When time is an issue I do sometimes go to a Starbucks and I usually get my coffee take out, where as with the above shops I will bring a book or notebook computer and spend some time enjoying the atmosphere, aromas, and downtime.
As for service, well, most of the shops above are great but the few that aren’t can still be fun. Like the soup Nazi in Seinfeld. Here in Seoul there is one particular Pho restaurant in Apgu that I think rocks. Not despite they’re rude wait staff, dark Brutalist interior and higher prices but partly because of it. They also have the best Pho in town.
Prices. Like most, if not all of 10’s readers, I am ridiculously wealthy and I only frequent the most expensive shops if only to keep away from the pleb. However, sometimes a copy makes its way into the hands of a commoner but what can we do? Just what can we do? That has excellent potential for a future article. I think its up to us as individual billionaires and millionaires. Personally I won’t employ any chauffeurs who can read English. With my cerfs, I mean, employees in the factories I own, 14 hour work days are the norm so they have no energy or inclination to try reading when they finish a shift. I do however provide them with every opportunity to purchase overpriced and over caffeinated Starbucks coffee. The same Starbucks coffee that happens to be more expensive then almost all the coffee in the shops listed above. Good beans, good brewing, good design and music aren’t all that expensive, downtown Seoul real estate and massive ad campaigns are.
Allison
Starbucks is just a coffee shop. Did they fire you, or something? It sounds like you have a grudge against them.
Kerry Kosakowski
If so many of the places on this list are difficult to find or offer bad service then why recommend them to others? I also noticed only a few websites listed and no prices. Price may be “no object” for some, but for others it’s an important factor for choosing restaurants and coffee houses.
Admin
One area is strangely missing from the list. Itaewon. Why is it there is nothing but chain coffee shops that serve decent coffee in Itaewon? Where do you go for coffee when you’re there?
Standing Coffee is the big one in Gyeongridan. Pretty good coffee over there~
q
Coffee design is also one of hidden treasures. Their coffees are a bit on the pricey side, but it is well worth it. I personally loved dutch coffee. I have never tasted anything so pure and unique in my life.
jacob
Hey lucylee
Aaron Fey over at freshgrind is indeed a coffee master and his blog is very informative. In fact it is listed above, first thing, even before the article starts.
“Words by Jacob Roy with special thanks to Aaron Frey frshgrnd.com”
Also if you read the comments below you’ll notice that Aaron also went to the CBTL. With the CBTL’s resources and heavy investment into the shop, location and equipment it had the potential to be something special. Unfortunately, I’m not sure exactly why, perhaps, because of amateurish baristi, the coffee isn’t particularly good. The rest of the cafes, however, should not be judged on the strength, or lack there off of the one.
Steve
Was about to chime in with the same thing