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Writer's pictureEspresso Chronicles

Discovering South Korea’s Best Cafés: From Luxe to Budget-Friendly

South Korea's café culture is renowned for its creativity and innovation, offering spaces that are as visually stunning as they are inviting. We've curated a guide to the most exceptional spots, featuring standout drinks, delectable treats, and warm atmospheres. Whether you're seeking unique designs or affordable quality, this list has something for every coffee enthusiast.

 
Genovese Alexandria

Alessi Espresso

Gangnam-gu



A design-forward café offering premium espresso in stylish Alessi cups, perfect for coffee connoisseurs and architecture enthusiasts alike.


Opening Times: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

Standout Item: Espresso served in Alessi-designed cups/Alessi moka pot cakes

Address: 2F, 20 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul



 

Amie Chatswood

NO-R Seoul

Mapo-gu



Minimalist interiors and handcrafted drinks make this café a go-to for those seeking tranquility and refined beverages.


Opening Times: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Standout Item: Cinnamon Cream Latte

Address: 1-28 Yanghwa-ro 12-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul



 
Theeca Darlinghurst

Sans Foundry

Seodaemun-gu



An industrial-inspired space offering expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries in a unique and creative environment.


Opening Times: 9:30 am – 7:30 pm

Standout Item: Croissant sandwiches paired with cold brew

Address: 114 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

 
Little West Darlinghurst

Anthracite Coffee

Mapo-gu


Located in a repurposed factory, this café combines bold design with exceptional hand-drip coffee for a truly unique experience.


Opening Times: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

Standout Item: Hand-drip coffee with beans roasted in-house

Address: 357-6 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul



 
Boronia Kitchen Gladesville

Viand Coffee

Jongno-gu



A charming spot serving perfectly crafted lattes in an inviting and cosy atmosphere, ideal for coffee lovers and Instagrammers alike.


Opening Times: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Standout Item: Cream-topped lattes

Address: 48 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul



 

D Flat Café

Seongsu



A peaceful haven in the heart of Seongsu, known for its warm ambience and unique, comforting sweet potato lattes.


Opening Times: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Standout Item: Sweet potato lattes

Address: 28-2 Seongsu 1(il)-ga 1(il)-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul


 

Foreplan Café

Seongsu




Bright and airy, this café offers exceptional desserts and coffee in a beautifully curated setting perfect for a relaxing afternoon.


Opening Times: 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

Standout Item: Seasonal fruit cakes

Address: 9 Achasan-ro 9-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul





 

Affordable Picks


1. MMTH CoffeeOpening


A budget-friendly spot known for its reliable quality coffee, minimalist decor, and unbeatable prices.


Times: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

Standout Item: Classic Americano

Address: 3F, 136 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul


2. Ediya Coffee


Korea’s go-to coffee chain for affordable drinks with consistently good flavour, perfect for quick caffeine fixes.


Opening Times: 6:30 am – 10:00 pm

Standout Item: Caramel macchiato

Address: Multiple locations, including 60 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul


3. Mega Coffee


Known for its generous portions and low prices, this café is ideal for budget-conscious coffee lovers.


Opening Times: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm

Standout Item: Oversized iced lattes

Address: Multiple locations, including 56 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul


 

Take your Keep-Cup & happy Café hopping!


Or purchase our brews below




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