Cafes Galore!

My love for cafes started when I was studying abroad in Korea in 2003. Much like NYC, most people prefer to meet friends outside of their homes - whether it's due to space, location, or living situations. Though many streets are now homes to franchises, there are still many unique cafes hidden in small nooks and crannies of each neighborhood. It's been such a treat to visit a number of them with Gina, who knows them all! The possibilities and room for new and cute ideas are endless... and one day, I'll have one of my own :)

This one, 'Coffee Dalakbang' in sanchong dong has been my favorite so far. It was built in remembrance of the old shops our parents used to frequent back in the day. It was the first shop to open on this cozy side street tucked between traditional style residential homes. This street has since blossomed into a really cute area for private designers, boutique jewelers, galleries, and many more cafes.


Totally my style! Mismatching coffee mugs, worn wooden countertops, assortment of printed napkins, walls lined with comical illustrations from loyal customers, and the hissing of the espresso machine amidst the chatter of friends spending time together. I find it fascinating that the most popular cafes are always the beaten up ones with makeshift shelving and rusty chairs. Maybe folks feel more welcomed in a place where not everything is meant to be perfect, but the kids behind the counter are always smiling and want you to take a seat, take a breath, and just enjoy a cup of Joe. Just like hanging out at a friend's house :)


This cafe in JungJaDong (which also means sperm hahaha) was a little more commercialized but I really liked the rustic salvaged wooden french doors and the tree trunks used as support columns. And their bingsoo was really delicious :)


This little cafe was really something - a warm and fuzzy success story that began with a blog. The specialty here is the owner's beautiful cakes made with dduk (rice flour)! It's so popular now that when we went in today, they were filming a tv show with a comedian and child star.


I love that it's built in a traditional Korean house. There's even a cute courtyard that leads to another little house where all the genius baking happens.


Mmm! Strawberry dduk cake with rose tea! Who would have thought dduk could be made into such a beautiful and delicious artsy creation? Since a lot of Koreans don't really like super sweet sugary desserts like Magnolia cupcakes, this is just perfect!


Thanks, unnie!