By Ggot-song Kim, a Seoul-based K-lifestyle curator. As a local, she loves exploring the city’s hidden gems and sharing her favorite spots with a global audience.
Finding the most aesthetic cafes in Seoul is a key part of any trip to Korea.
Seoul is a paradise for cafe lovers, filled with unique spots where you can enjoy an amazing atmosphere with delicious coffee and desserts. As a Seoul local, I’m sharing my personal list of the top 5 aesthetic cafes you must visit to recharge and capture that perfect Instagram shot.
1. DRAW ESPRESSO BAR
- 드로우 에스프레소 바 (DRAW ESPRESSO BAR)
- 한국 주소: 서울 중구 청파로 463
- Location: 463 Cheongpa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Ggot-song’s Experience: “From the moment I stepped in, I felt a modern yet warm atmosphere. The art on the walls and the lighting were so chic. When I ordered their signature Lieto, I was amazed—espresso, ice cream, and olive oil created a nutty and sweet flavor that was totally unique. With the first sip, I felt a happy richness spread through my mouth. It’s great that they offer decaf options too!”
2. Analog Garden
- 아날로그 가든 (Analog Garden)
- 한국 주소: 서울 마포구 잔다리로 145
- Location: 145 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Ggot-song’s Experience: “As soon as I opened the door, a cozy space full of natural light unfolded. The indoor plants made me feel like I was in a small garden. I visited on a rainy day, and it was the perfect place to heal in a quiet atmosphere with the sound of the rain. The omelet was so soft and moist it literally melted in my mouth!”
3. Cheongsudang 청수당 베이커리
- 청수당 (Cheongsudang)
- 서울 종로구 돈화문로11나길 31-9
- Location: 31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- G1got-song’s Experience: “This place was a hidden gem I stumbled upon in the complex alleys of Ikseon-dong. As soon as I entered the mystical space filled with bamboo and lanterns, I felt like I had entered another world. The interior, a blend of traditional Hanok and nature, was truly beautiful. Their signature Soufflé Castella was incredibly soft and moist, a luxurious dessert that melted in my mouth.”
4. Kitasuten 킷사텐 발산점
- 킷사텐 (Kitasuten)
- 한국 주소: 서울 강서구 마곡중앙로 161
- Location: 161 Magokjungang-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul
- Ggot-song’s Experience: “Famous for its pudding, the dessert showcase stood out. The pudding was incredibly soft and jiggly, melting gently in my mouth, while the crème brûlée was a masterpiece of sweet and savory flavors. The quiet, cozy atmosphere made it a great space to read a book or work alone.”
5. Coffee Polly
- 커피폴리 (Coffee Polly)
- 한국 주소: 서울 마포구 월드컵로 1길 28
- Location: 28 World Cup-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Ggot-song’s Experience: “The smell of freshly baked bread filled this bakery cafe. The vintage lighting and cute props were everywhere, making it a perfect place for photos. I ordered a croissant and an egg tart; the croissant was crispy yet soft, and the egg tart was exquisitely sweet and savory.”
Final Thoughts
Enjoying cafes is a big part of Korean life, just like finding amazing deals at the famous Korean Daiso!
Seoul’s aesthetic cafes are more than just places for coffee; they are spaces that provide a unique atmosphere and a moment of healing. I hope you enjoy these special spots and recharge yourself with some beauty and flavor during your time in Seoul!
P.S. Great cafes are a big part of Korean life, just like fashion! Discover the latest trends in our Korean Street Style Guide.
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[…] To experience K-street style firsthand, visit fashion hotspots in Seoul like Hongdae, Itaewon, and Garosu-gil. After a successful shopping trip, why not show off your new look at one of the most aesthetic cafes in Seoul? […]