If you’re a coffee lover planning a trip to Seoul, or even just daydreaming about sipping a perfect brew in a stylish café, you’re in for a treat.
Seoul’s café scene isn’t just big, it’s a full-blown vibe. We’re talking cozy hideaways, sleek minimal interiors, barista-led specialty spots, and jaw-dropping aesthetic cafés that look like they were built for your Instagram feed (spoiler: many of them were).
What makes Seoul’s café culture so unique is how fast it evolves. One month, everyone’s obsessed with dalgona-topped lattes, and the next, it’s all about matcha soufflé pancakes or coffee served in glass globes that look like snow domes. Cafés here aren’t just places to get your caffeine fix: they’re a lifestyle, a creative outlet, and sometimes even a part-time office.
Whether you’re into pour-over perfection, creamy flat whites, or seasonal drinks that could double as desserts, Seoul has a café for that. And the best part? Many of these spots are tucked away in cool neighbourhoods like Seongsu, Yeonnam-dong, or Ikseon-dong, just waiting to be discovered.
So if you’re ready to explore Seoul one coffee at a time, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s best and most beloved coffee shops—plus a few hidden gems you probably haven’t heard of yet. We’ll tell you what makes each one special, what to order, and exactly where to find them. Let’s dive in.
1. Today’s Enough Espresso Bar
Tucked away in the quiet, artsy neighbourhood of Yeonnam-dong, Today’s Enough Espresso Bar is one of those places you almost don’t want to tell too many people about, because part of its charm is how peaceful and under-the-radar it feels. The vibe here is simple and clean, with a cozy, minimalist design that lets the coffee do all the talking. No fancy decor or loud playlists—just warm wood, soft lighting, and the hum of a well-tuned espresso machine.
What really sets this spot apart is its unwavering focus on espresso. You won’t find elaborate seasonal drinks or sugary add-ons here. Instead, it’s all about mastering the basics. Every shot is carefully pulled, with a richness and depth that true coffee lovers will appreciate. If you’re the type who gets excited over crema quality or bean origin, this place is basically your version of a day spa.
There’s something kind of refreshing about how Today’s Enough keeps things stripped down. It’s not trying to be trendy or overly curated—it’s just a genuinely good spot for great espresso, made by people who care about getting it right. Whether you’re popping in for a quiet moment alone or introducing a fellow coffee nerd to your new favourite find, this café is the kind of hidden gem that sticks with you.
Address: 27 Donggyo-ro 38-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
2. Fritz Coffee Company
If you’re exploring Seoul’s coffee scene, Fritz Coffee Company is one spot you can’t miss. It’s one of the OGs when it comes to specialty coffee in the city—way before latte art and single-origin pour-overs became the norm.
What makes Fritz so special? For starters, their cafés are tucked inside beautifully preserved hanok-style buildings—the traditional Korean houses with curved tiled roofs and wooden beams. It’s the kind of setting that instantly feels warm and welcoming, mixing old-school charm with a modern coffeehouse vibe. Think vintage decor, handwritten menus, and soft indie music playing in the background. It’s the perfect place to slow down and actually enjoy your cup.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. They roast their own beans in-house, and you can really taste the care and quality in every cup, whether you go for a classic espresso, a pour-over, or one of their seasonal signature drinks. The baristas are friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always happy to walk you through the different beans or brewing methods.
If you’ve seen that adorable chubby seal mascot wearing a beret, you’ve seen Fritz. It’s playful, a little quirky, and somehow instantly recognisable, just like the brand itself. Their merch is just as iconic as their coffee, so don’t be surprised if you leave with a tote bag or mug you didn’t plan on buying.
And if you’re into pastries? You’re in luck. Fritz has some of the best baked goods around: crispy croissants, soft bread rolls, and Korean twists like sweet red bean buns or injeolmi mochi bread. It’s the kind of place where coffee and bakery magic come together.
Whether you’re a coffee purist or just in it for the cozy vibes, Fritz delivers. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Seoul’s café culture at its finest—with a seal of approval, literally.
What to order:
A pour-over of their seasonal single-origin beans or a latte paired with a pastry (their in-house bakery is chef’s kiss).
Address: 17 Saechang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
3. Anthracite Coffee Roasters (Hapjeong)
If you’re hunting for a cool, low-key coffee spot in Seoul that locals actually love, Anthracite should be at the top of your list. This place has built a loyal following thanks to its bold, expertly roasted coffee and its seriously unique vibe.
One of the coolest things about Anthracite is its industrial-chic aesthetic: think raw concrete walls, exposed beams, vintage furniture, and a kind of moody, minimalist charm. It’s the kind of place where you want to sit and sip slowly, maybe with a book or some ambient indie music in your headphones.
What makes it even more special? One of their most iconic locations is actually set inside a converted shoe factory. Yep, they took an old industrial space and turned it into a café that feels equal parts artsy and cozy. There’s this perfect mix of old and new: machine parts as décor, vintage windows, and that warm, earthy smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the space.
As for the drinks, Anthracite doesn’t mess around. Their coffee is strong, smooth, and meticulously crafted. Whether you go for a pour-over, an espresso, or one of their signature blends, you can really taste the quality and care that goes into each cup. Plus, their baristas know their stuff, so if you’re not sure what to try, just ask for a recommendation.
It’s a great spot for anyone who appreciates the craft of coffee but also wants to chill in a space that feels like a hidden gem. And yes, it’s definitely Instagrammable, but without trying too hard.
What to order:
A flat white or an espresso tonic if you’re feeling adventurous. They roast all their beans in-house, so freshness is guaranteed.
Address: 357-6 Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
4. Cafe Onion (Seongsu)
If you’re heading to Seoul and only have time for one café, Café Onion should be high on your list. This place isn’t just about coffee: it’s an experience. With locations that range from a restored metal factory in Seongsu to a beautiful traditional hanok in Anguk, Café Onion has completely nailed that perfect mix of aesthetic and atmosphere.
Let’s talk about the Seongsu branch first. It’s got that industrial-chic vibe down to a science: raw concrete, high ceilings, and just the right amount of minimalism to make your iced latte feel like a work of art. Then there’s the Anguk location, set inside a hanok (a traditional Korean house), where you can sip your coffee surrounded by wooden beams, papered windows, and all the cozy heritage charm you could hope for.
Of course, the design is only part of the magic. The coffee here is genuinely great: smooth, balanced, and expertly brewed. And don’t even get us started on the pastries. The star of the show? The pandoro, a tall, sugar-dusted beauty that’s basically gone viral for a reason.
Yes, there are often lines out the door, especially on weekends. But honestly? Totally worth it. Whether you’re a design nerd, a coffee lover, or someone just looking for a unique place to chill in Seoul, Café Onion delivers every single time.
What to order:
Their famous “Pandoro” (a mountain of powdered sugar on brioche) and a cold brew to balance the sweetness.
Address: 8 Achasan-ro 9-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
5. Coffee Hanyakbang
Tucked away in the maze-like backstreets of the old Euljiro district, Coffee Hanyakbang feels like stepping into a different era—in the best possible way. This hidden gem is known for its nostalgic 1930s-inspired interior, complete with antique furniture, vintage wallpaper, and soft jazz playing in the background. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, put your phone away, and just soak in the old-world charm.
What really sets Coffee Hanyakbang apart, though, is its commitment to old-school brewing. Their hand-drip coffee is brewed with the kind of care and patience that you just don’t see everywhere anymore. The baristas here aren’t rushing anything. They take their time with each pour, making sure every cup is perfectly balanced and smooth. Whether you’re a coffee purist or just someone who appreciates a good atmosphere, it’s hard not to fall for this spot.
And while the coffee is excellent, it’s also the overall vibe that keeps people coming back. Think warm lighting, hushed conversations, and the comforting sound of coffee being brewed the traditional way. If you’re in Seoul and want a break from the trendier, ultra-modern cafés, Coffee Hanyakbang is the perfect escape. It’s like a little time capsule of calm in the middle of the city’s buzz.
What to order:
Their signature Dutch coffee (slow-drip cold brew) served in old glassware—it feels like a ritual.
Address: 16-6 Samil-daero 12-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
6. Perception Coffee
If you’re someone who takes your coffee seriously—like really seriously—then Perception Coffee is probably already on your radar. And if it’s not, it should be.
This place is all about the craft with no unnecessary frills. Just a laser focus on delivering high-quality specialty brews.
What makes Perception stand out is how they rotate their beans seasonally, curating a thoughtful selection that highlights different origins, roasting styles, and flavor profiles throughout the year. One visit might introduce you to a bright, citrusy Ethiopian single-origin. The next visit could be a nutty, chocolate-toned Guatemalan roast. It keeps things fresh, literally and figuratively.
The baristas here know their stuff, too. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a pour-over purist or just dipping your toes into third-wave coffee culture. They’ll walk you through the tasting notes and brewing methods like you’re chatting with an old friend. It definitely doesn’t feel like getting lectured at a coffee seminar! It’s a great spot for those who want to explore the nuances of a well-crafted cup without any pretentious vibes.
Bottom line? Perception Coffee is a dream hangout for anyone who’s into thoughtful, beautifully brewed coffee, and it’ll probably ruin your regular flat white forever (in the best way).
Address: 25 Eonju-ro 168-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
7. Felt Coffee
Felt Coffee is one of those hidden gems that feels like your own little secret, until you realize half the neighborhood already knows and loves it too. From the outside, it keeps things cool and minimalist: clean lines, simple interiors, and zero fuss. But the moment you take that first sip, you’ll know there’s nothing basic about what’s happening behind the bar.
The baristas here know their stuff. Whether you’re ordering a silky flat white, a single-origin pour over, or just a solid black coffee, it’s made with care and consistency every single time. There’s a quiet confidence in the way they work: not flashy, just focused on letting the coffee speak for itself.
The vibe is relaxed and low-key, making it the kind of place you can park yourself for hours—laptop open, headphones in—or just catch up with a friend over a warm cup. It’s a magnet for creatives, freelancers, and anyone who appreciates a good brew in a calm, unfussy space.
In short, Felt Coffee is proof that simple doesn’t mean boring; it means considered. And that shows up in every detail, from the cozy seats to the quality of the beans.
What to order:
A simple black coffee or an iced flat white. Sometimes less really is more.
Address: 23, Seogang-ro 11-gil, Mapo-gu, Seou
8. Tertre Café
Tertre is one of those little hidden gems that’s easy to miss. However, once you step inside, it’s like a peaceful oasis. The space has beautiful terrazzo floors that give it a sleek, modern vibe. There are also lush leafy plants scattered throughout, adding a fresh touch of greenery. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, making it the perfect spot to just unwind.
Whether you’re looking to journal, get lost in your thoughts, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of Seoul, Tertre offers that calm, clean atmosphere that feels like a mini getaway for an hour or two. It’s a serene escape that lets you recharge without even having to leave the city.
What to order:
An iced matcha latte or their house café mocha—balanced and rich.
Address: 46 Naksan 5-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
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