The Ultimate Guide to Korean Cafes

Sip, bite, and Seoul-search with coffee and carbs.

People often joke that I live a bicoastal life, and it’s true. While I mainly travel for business and family, I always make time to explore new restaurants, cafes, and shops. Korea never gets boring, with trendy spots popping up weekly. Over the years, I’ve curated a list of favorite places and hidden gems that I typically share only with close friends—so consider yourself part of that group! Here’s my first round-up of favorite bakeries, cafes, and coffee shops.

Follow me on IG to stay up to date live with my travels!

BAKERIES

First off, carbs don’t count in Korea.

First up on my list is NUDAKE. NUDAKE offers a unique twist on the traditional café experience and their culinary creations are truly a work of art – almost too pretty to eat. My favorites are The Peak (a black layered croissant tart crust with matcha milk spread) and their croissants (you can even air fry them a few days later and it’s just as good). Owned by the same company as Gentle Monster; so it makes sense why everything is so chic.

Seongbuk-dong (SB) Bread Factory is the definition of no frills, just value. This bakery never uses artificial flavoring while finding ways to incorporate modern flavors like maple fromage and cream cheese with more traditional flavors like red bean. I always bring back home extra loaves.

I’m sure you’ve seen Jayeondo Salt Bread all over your IG feed by now, and it truly lives up to the hype. This is the best salt bread out there – the bread has the crispiest exterior, with a soft, pillowy, airy, and moist interior. The perfect balance of buttery and salty without being too overpowering. Best when piping hot. I could eat all four in one sitting. Absolutely LOVE the salt bread at O’Pato as well.