cafes in seoul

Most Beautiful 15 Cafes in Seoul

If you love coffee and cute hangouts, Seoul is the place to be. Beyond its K-pop vibes, street food, and famous kimchi, the city is packed with amazing cafes waiting to be discovered. From quiet alley spots to trendy, photo-ready spaces, each cafe has its own charm. We’ve rounded up 15 of the most beautiful cafes in Seoul to explore. Grab your latte, your camera, and let’s dive into Seoul’s coffee scene, one cafe at a time!

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The Spectacular Aesthetics of Osulloc Tea House Bukchon Branch: A Feast for the Eyes and Taste Buds

Cafes-in-Seoul-Osulloc
  • Address: 45 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Opening hours: Mon-Thu: 11 AM – 8 PM, Fri-Sun: 11 AM – 9 PM
  • Price range: 8,500 KRW (~6.49 USD) to 50,000 KRW (~41.85 USD) 
  • Website: osulloc.com

Osulloc Tea House Bukchon is a cozy three-story cafe set in a 1970s-style building, and it’s a must for tea lovers. Inside, you can shop for premium teas at the tea atelier, sip your favorite brew in the cafe, and check out the exclusive Bar Sulloc—a spot only at this branch where you can try tea-inspired drinks and desserts. It’s also one of the prettiest cafes in Seoul and a go-to for anyone who loves matcha lattes and desserts.

Besides all the treats, Osulloc also sells its own specialty teas like Foose Green Tea Leaves, Moon Walk, and Coral Island, starting from 4,500 KRW (~3.42 USD). They even have green tea-based skincare—think cleansing oils, foams, and face masks—to take a little bit of the tea magic home.

Gongmyoung: Blending Traditional Seoul with Contemporary Café Culture

Cafes-in-Seoul-Gongmyeong
  • Address: 11-8 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea 
  • Opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00 Every day
  • Price range: 5,000 KRW (~3.80 USD) to 7,000 KRW (~5.32 USD) 
  • Instagram: cafegm

In the heart of Mapo-gu, Gongmyoung Cafe is a go-to spot for anyone who loves milk tea and cozy cafe vibes. This stylish cafe is best known for its Gongmyoung latte, a creamy, layered drink with a rich flavor and smooth texture that keeps people coming back for more.

Beyond the drinks, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes it easy to relax, whether you’re catching up with friends or taking a quiet break. It’s no surprise that Gongmyoung is often listed as one of the most beautiful cafes in Seoul, attracting both locals and travelers looking for a chill spot to sip and unwind.

Cafe Onion Anguk: Where Coffee Meets Tradition

  • Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 7 AM – 10 PM, Sat-Sun: 9 AM – 10 PM
  • Price range: 10,000 ~ 20,000 KRW
  • Instagram: cafe.onion

If you want an authentic Korean experience, Cafe Onion is your destination. It is among the most beautiful cafes in Seoul, whose Hanok theme transforms visitors from the bustling city scene to a serene old Korea. This place is a must-visit if you are visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village. Unlike other modern cafes, Cafe Onion features traditional floor seating on the wooden veranda where you can snap aesthetic shots for your Instagram. Other photo spots include the establishment’s aesthetic courtyard, which serves as the ideal backdrop. Remember to wear a Hanbok for pictures!

Mooni: The Starlit Café That Makes Seoul Nights Extra Magical

Cafes-in-Seoul-Mooni
  • Address: 16 Apgujeong-ro 56-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 
  • Opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00 Every day
  • Price range: 7,000 KRW (~5.32 USD) to 12,000 KRW (~9.13 USD) 

Mooni Cafe looks like a pastel dollhouse straight out of a dream. With its Parisian-inspired design and soft, romantic colors, it’s a favorite spot for photos and relaxing with friends. The cafe doubles as a bakery, serving up fresh pastries and their famous cronuts—a croissant-donut hybrid. The strawberry custard and blueberry cronuts are so popular that they often sell out fast, so get there early.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t miss their signature milkshakes, which come in flavors like coffee and matcha. The cafe also serves brunch favorites like pulled beef or eggplant bagel sandwiches, plus wine by the bottle for a fancier touch.

Cheongsudang Gallery: A Story of Timeless Elegance in Every Cup

Cafes-in-Seoul-Cheong su dang
  • Address: 32-4 Dosan-daero 15-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Opening hours: 11 AM –11 PM Every day
  • Price range: 5,900 KRW (~4.49 USD) to 16,600 KRW (~12.63 USD) 
  • Website: glowseoul.co.kr

Cheongsudang, meaning “clear water room,” is a calm little escape in Seoul’s Ikseon-dong neighborhood, known for its pretty Hanok streets. The entrance feels like a scene from a movie, with stepping stones, bamboo, and wooden lanterns leading you inside. Outside, it looks like a traditional Hanok, but inside it’s a cozy mix of modern and classic vibes.

You can sit on the floor overlooking a quiet garden or grab a regular table if that’s more your style. The drinks are what people come for—Iced Matcha with Milk and Iced Black Tea with Cream are favorites—and their fresh, warm soufflés are a must-try. If you’re looking for a chill spot to cool off and slow down, Cheongsudang is one of the most beautiful cafes in Seoul to do just that.

T(ER)T(RE): A Bird’s Eye View Of Seoul City

  • Address: 46 Naksan 5-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
  • Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday: 3-10:30 PM, Saturday-Sunday: 1-10:30 PM | Closed on Mondays
  • Price range: 1,000 ~ 10,000 KRW  
  • Instagram: tertre_cafe

Look at Seoul from above at Tertre Cafe. This Changsin-dong cafe is the favorite spot for locals and tourists alike who want to get a bird’s eye view of Seoul. It features floor-to-ceiling windows offering the unobstructed views of the city. They are also the perfect backdrops for aesthetic IG photos. The best time to visit Tertre Cafe is in the late afternoon, when you can see the sun sinking down into the horizon. Head to the rooftop to enjoy this mesmerizing view. Oh, and don’t forget to order the signature Pink Ade and desserts.

Ssijang: A Hidden Gem in Seoul’s Bustling Café Scene

Cafes-in-Seoul-Ssijang
  • Address: 1st Floor, 92, Seongdeokjeong-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea 
  • Opening hours: Wed-Mon: 10 AM – 7 PM, Tue: 10 AM – 4 PM
  • Price range: 6,000 KRW (~4.56 USD) – 32,000 KRW (~24.35 USD) 

SSIJANG is a cozy French-style bakery and cafe tucked away in Seongdong-gu, Seoul. With its white walls, wooden furniture, and touches of greenery, it feels warm and inviting—perfect for a quiet morning. The menu is full of freshly baked goodies like croissants, pain au chocolat, danishes, muffins, and artisan breads, including baguettes and sourdough. Pair them with their smooth coffee or tea for a simple but satisfying start to the day.

It’s no surprise SSIJANG is a favorite for both locals and travelers. People come to relax, grab a light breakfast or lunch, and snap photos of the beautifully displayed pastries (which are just as tasty as they look).

Urban Plant Seobinggo: Where Nature Meets Novelty in Seoul’s Coffee Culture

Cafes-in-Seoul-Urban Plant

Seobinggo is a hidden cafe tucked away in a quiet alley, and stepping inside feels like walking into an oriental painting. With pine trees, white roof tiles, a small flowing water yard, and stepping stones, the space has a calm, almost dreamlike vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

What makes Seobinggo stand out is its unique design. Instead of the usual Japanese-style sand gardens, the cafe uses sand in the middle of its seating area, creating a look you won’t see elsewhere in Seoul. On warm days, when the doors open and fresh air flows through, it feels even more relaxing. It can get busy on weekends, but it’s still worth a visit for its serene atmosphere, nature-inspired space, and tasty drinks.

Sumsei Terarium: An Oasis of Relaxation in the Heart of Seoul

Cafes-in-Seoul-Seomsei-Terarium
  • Address: 44-1 Seoulsup 2-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Price range: Barefoot experience exhibition (with drink/takes 1 hour) 18,000 KRW (~13.69 USD) 

Sumsei Terrarium is part gallery, part nature escape, designed to help you slow down and reconnect with the natural world. This unique spot has five different nature-themed zones. You’ll wander through spaces like Black Out, a dark cave-like room where you walk barefoot toward a glowing aurora display, and Water of Dawn, where you step through shallow water and mist. There are also cozy spots like Heart of Wind, with waterbeds and gentle breezes, and the SUMSEI Forest, a forest-themed cafe where you can sip a drink surrounded by plants and even live birds.

Entry includes a drink at SUMSEI Forest, plus a card explaining the gallery’s focus on ecological awareness. Beyond the relaxing atmosphere, you can also join workshops like meditation, gardening, and DIY terrarium-making.

* Important Note: Unfortunately, Sumsei Terrarium is temporarily closed. Please inquire about its opening before planning a visit.

Rain Report: Seoul’s Weather-Themed Café That Keeps You Coming Back for More

Cafes-in-Seoul-RainReport
  • Address: 1st-2nd floor, 85 Sowol-ro 40-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
  • Opening hours: Every day 11:00 – 21:00
  • Price range: 4,000 KRW (~3.04 USD) to 38,000 KRW (~28.93 USD) 
  • Instagram: rainreport_official

Rain Report Cafe is a new spot in Itaewon, near Gyeongnidan-gil, and it’s quickly become one of Seoul’s most talked-about cafes. The whole place is rain-themed, with a calm, minimalist vibe that feels like a break from the busy city. Its highlight is a photo zone with artificial rain, where you can snap dreamy pictures while enjoying the sound and look of falling rain.

The cafe roasts its own coffee and serves up fun desserts, including freshly baked financiers in unique flavors like squid ink, basil, maple bacon, fig wine, and triple cheese. Coffee lovers should try the Sesame Cloud, a smooth black sesame latte, or stick to their classic espresso and iced drinks. With its peaceful rain effects (running every 15 minutes) and cozy atmosphere, Rain Report Cafe is one of the most unique cafes in Seoul and a must-visit for a relaxing, photo-worthy stop.

Another Side: Unveiling a Different Perspective of Seoul’s Café Landscape

Cafes-in-Seoul-Another-Side
  • Address: 1F Cafe Another Side, 318, Gangseo-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul
  • Opening hours: 09:00 – 23:00 Every day 
  • Price range: 3,900 KRW (~2.96 USD) to 21,900 KRW (~16.67 USD) 
  • Instagram: anotherside_coffee

Another Side is a cozy cafe that’s been getting a lot of buzz with both locals and travelers. It’s a pretty, welcoming spot with a menu full of coffee, tea, and desserts. Their Milk Tea made with fresh Sangha Farm milk is a favorite, along with the Vanilla and Iced Lattes for something classic.

The must-try here is the Strawberry Tiramisu, a fun twist on the traditional dessert topped with soft bread—it’s super popular with anyone who loves sweets. The cafe also serves Sangha Farm milk ice cream, which is a hit, though some drinks like the Americano and Milk Tea get mixed reviews. Seating is limited, so it’s best to arrive early.

Perception: Where The Ceiling Comes To Life

  • Address: 16 Eoulmadang-ro 1-gil, Hapdžong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9 AM – 10 PM, Sat-Sun: 10 AM – 10 PM
  • Price range: 1,000 ~ 10,000 KRW
  • Website: perception.kr

We all have seen cafes with unique interiors and designs; however, rarely do they pay attention to their ceilings. And that’s why Perception is on our list of the most beautiful cafes in Seoul. Its mesmerizing ceiling design features wooden waves creating an ‘otherworldly’ experience to its modern interior. This sensory experience is crafted through its Signature Espresso menu, including drinks named ‘Memory of the Moment’ and ‘Atmosphere of the Place.’ In addition to single-origin and decaffeinated coffee, Perception serves handcrafted desserts. You have to visit here to understand its charm.

Knotted: A Knot of Tradition and Modernity in Seoul’s Coffee Haven

Cafes-Knotted
  • Address: 5F Lotte World Mall, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul 
  • Opening hours: Every day from 10:30 to 22:00
  • Price range: from 3,500 KRW (~2.66 USD) to 14,800 KRW (~11.256 USD) 
  • Website: gffg.co.kr

Knotted is the donut shop everyone in Seoul is talking about, with locations all over the city. Some of their most popular flavors even sell out minutes after opening, which says a lot about how loved this place is. We checked out the Samseong branch near COEX in Gangnam to see what all the hype was about—and it didn’t disappoint.

While they also serve scones, brownies, and croissants, the real stars are the donuts, packed in their signature smiley boxes that make them as cute as they are tasty. The choco pudding donut, filled with rich chocolate cream, is a must-try. On top of the treats, Knotted has a bright, stylish design that makes it a perfect spot for Instagram photos.

Hey: The Friendly Encounter in Seoul’s Café Scene You Can’t Resist

Cafes-Hey
  • Address: 1F THE RIVER, 2085-96 Olympic-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
  • Opening hours: 12 PM – 9 PM
  • Price range: 7,000 KRW (~5.33 USD) – 16,000 KRW (~12.18 USD) 
  • Instagram: hey_theriver 

Hey is a cozy little cafe near the lively Hyehwa area, and it’s the perfect spot to escape the city buzz. With its wooden interior and soft lighting, the place feels warm and calming, like a quiet hideaway. Visit during a weekday, and you might even have the whole place to yourself—it really feels like finding a secret spot off the busy streets.

The menu has plenty of coffee options, and while the coffee can be on the stronger side, the desserts get all the love—fresh, sweet, and worth coming back for. If you’re looking for a quiet, charming cafe in Seoul to relax with a treat, Hey is one of the best places to slow down and enjoy a peaceful break.

FOUR STONES: Unearthing the Four Gems of Café Culture in Seoul

Cafes-FOUR-STONES
  • Address: Four Stones Coffee Roasters, 5 Teheran-ro 103-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 
  • Opening hours: Mon-Thu: 7:30 AM – 10 PM, Fri-Sun: 8 AM – 10 PM
  • Price range: 3,000 KRW (~2.28 USD) – 23,000 KRW (~17.51 USD) 
  • Website: fourstones.co.kr

Four Stones Coffee Roasters looks like an American-style mansion from the outside, but inside it feels warm and welcoming. Despite its fancy vibe, the prices here are reasonable, and the coffee is the star—smooth, rich, and carefully made, which makes it a favorite for coffee lovers.

One of the best parts of Four Stones is its big outdoor terrace, perfect for sitting back with a drink and enjoying the weather. It’s close to Samseong Station, so it’s easy to stop by if you’re in the area. With good coffee, tasty desserts (try the fig sauce one), and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s one of the nicest spots in Seoul to slow down for a while.

Download a map of the most beautiful cafes in Seoul

From cozy hidden gems to trendy hotspots, this curated list will guide you to the most Instagrammable spots in the city. Save the map for your Seoul journey here 👉🏻 https://naver.me/5bdJJXC8

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a traveler seeking Instagram-worthy spots, a local looking for a cozy corner to unwind, or an art enthusiast searching for inspiration, Seoul’s café scene caters to all. These 15 cafes are just the tip of the iceberg, a glimpse into a world where every corner turned can reveal a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

So, whether you’re intrigued by the minimalist designs of Italian-inspired cafes or the traditional charm of tea-style establishments, Seoul invites you to embark on a delightful café-hopping adventure. As the city continues to evolve and reinvent itself, the café culture is a testament to its commitment to beauty, innovation, and the art of savoring life’s simple pleasures amidst breathtaking surroundings. Happy travel~

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