Finding good fresh bread in Seoul can be difficult in a country where a common greeting is ‘밥 먹었어요?’, which literally translates to ‘have you eaten rice?’. It is immediately obvious to anyone who has been to South Korea that rice is by far the more superior carbohydrate, and unfortunately, freshly baked bread is a rare thing to casually stumble across.
Bakeries can be found all over Seoul, but they tend to be chain stores which produce more sweet breads, pastries and cakes rather than simple and traditional loaves of bread. And while bread can be found in most food marts, these are usually factory produced loaves which don’t have quite the same charm as freshly baked bread made with natural ingredients.
Although you won’t find them on every street corner, there are a few great spots around Seoul to find delicious bread, if you are willing to go out of your way a bit, they are definitely worth it!
Dear Bread | Seodamun-gu, Seoul
This bakery is located near EWHA Woman’s University, and is well known for its variety of fresh homemade bread at reasonable prices. Their bread is made from natural ingredients for a distinctive delicious and healthy taste. There is no seating within the bakery but they do offer free samples and many snacks if you want a lighter option.
Bob’s Bread | Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
This bakery produce simple sourdough breads from their own natural levain.
They became incredibly popular following their appearance on the KBS1 program 이웃집 찰스 (Neighbor Charles) and have attracted bread lovers from all over the world since then.
They don’t use any preservatives, artificial sweeteners, eggs, dairy, fat or sugar in their bread. Bob’s Bread keeps things simple by using as few ingredients as possible to make delicious and healthy goods.
The Baker’s Table | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Fresh, healthy and delicious German-style bread in Itaewon.
The bakery sell a wide selection of homemade bread as well as hummus, jams, spreads, wines and much more. There is seating available inside the bakery to enjoy breakfast or lunch from the main menu and don’t forget to take away a delicious baked treat away with you!
Paul and Paulina | Mapo-gu, Seoul
This bakery is well-known for producing delicious artisan bread, made with all natural ingredients. Prices are reasonable and they usually provide plenty of free samples! Visit the bakery early though, as they are extremely popular and tend to sell out fast.
Publique | Mapo-gu, Seoul
An authentic French-style bakery which produces fresh bread made with flour imported from France. They offer a range of sweet and savory bread which attract masses of satisfied customers every day.
There is seating within the bakery but avoid rush hour as there is usually a full house and a long queue.
Retro Oven | Gangnam-gu, Seoul
This bakery focus on producing simple, delicious bread made the old-fashioned way. Expect to find a wide variety of fresh, homemade bread at Retro Oven. There is no indoor seating available at this bakery, so find a spot near-by to enjoy your bread while it’s still fresh!
Bonanza Bakery | Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Bonanza Bakery sell organic bread made with no sugar, milk, butter or eggs. This bakery focuses on simple bread made with only natural ingredients. Fresh bread is baked daily and sold at reasonable prices, so will not disappoint.
Bread Lab | Mapo-gu, Seoul
Simple homemade bread sold at reasonable prices. This bakery is a favorite for its savory breads and sweet treats. There is seating available for those who want to stop by for a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy with your bread.
Maybell | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Sugar-free, vegan bread made with natural ingredients. This bakery in Itaewon is well-known for its delicious range of fresh bread, so expect there to be a long queue if you visit. For those wanting to stop by for something to eat or drink, they have another shop nearby where customers can sit down and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
