Travel like a Pro: 5 aesthetic cafes to check out in Seoul this summer

Along with all the shopping and eating South Korea is known for, there’s one more thing we cannot miss: the cafes.

We all know that feeling. With countless cafe recommendations sweeping our TikTok feeds, it’s hard to decide which spots are worth a visit.

Cafes can be found everywhere in Seoul. But here are five must-visit cafes that stand out for their aesthetics and vibes.

1. Ginger Bear Pie Shop

Located in Jamsil, Ginger Bear Pie Shop attracts visitors worldwide. Even celebrities like Day6’s Sunjin and Dowoon have paid a visit.

The cafe adopts a vintage European interior with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features a mix of both savoury and sweet items, such as the Classic Meat Pie and Lemon Meringue Pie.

2. Cafe Onion

How can we forget about Cafe Onion? The cafe has become a must-visit spot in Seoul, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Read more: Your ultimate guide to cafe-hopping in Seoul: Mil Toast, Onion, Nudakke and more

The famous Hanok-themed cafe blends traditional Korean architecture with modern minimalism, making it a hotspot for Instagram-worthy photos.

Not to mention: the bakes. They sell a wide variety of freshly baked goods, including the Pandoro — the famed Italian-style bread covered in powdered sugar.

3. Rain Report Croissant

A fan of how rain sounds? This is the perfect cafe for you.

With the ambience of a rainy day, the cafe offers a cosy atmosphere that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee. They sell an array of croissants in all shapes, flavours and colours inspired by nature and the weather.

4. Inc Coffee

 

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Located in the Gasan area, Inc Coffee is famous for its beans aged in rum barrels. The cafe spans three levels, each with its distinct theme. The first floor has an industrial theme while the second floor boasts a garden look.

Their topmost third floor gives off a futuristic theme with a science-lab energy.

Their signature selection includes the Rum Barrel Latte and Rum Barrel Cream Coffee. They also offer various non-coffee options and an impressive selection of bakes.

5. Perception Coffee

Award-winning cafe Perception Coffee is located near the trendy Hapjeong neighbourhood in Seoul.

As its name suggests, it is designed to challenge and expand customers’ perception of what a coffee shop can be. The cafe has a unique and striking decor, especially the ceiling crafted from wood panels resembling a cloud or a wave.

 

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Even their signature drinks have unique names like Atmosphere of the Place, Temperature in the Day, and Memory of the Moment, turning them into an experience instead of just a beverage.