Happy Friday, everyone! (At least it is here in Seoul! ^^)
I hope you’re all having a wonderful Friday filled with that exciting “weekend-is-almost-here” energy. There’s just something special about the air on a Friday, isn’t there?
Last time, I shared some great restaurants and cafes near the SM Entertainment headquarters for all the K-pop fans out there. It seems like many of you who are planning a trip from afar were really curious about the area!
Since so many of you found it helpful, I’ve decided to unlock a bit more of my personal list. When it comes to the best dining spots and hidden cafes right around the SM building, I’m incredibly confident in my recommendations. Consider this your “insider’s guide” to eating like a local (and maybe even a trainee!) in one of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods.
However, if you aren’t reading this post in real-time, I highly recommend double-checking if these spots are still open before you head out!
As you probably know, Seongsu-dong is one of the trendiest and fastest-changing neighborhoods in Seoul. Places pop up and disappear overnight, and new “hot spots” are born every single day. To make sure your K-pop pilgrimage goes smoothly, a quick search on Naver Maps or Google before you go is always a smart move!
Lowkey: A Sanctuary for Coffee Purists in Seongsu
If you are looking for a place that prioritizes the essence of coffee over flashy decor, Lowkey is the answer.
Unlike many “Instagrammable” cafes that can feel loud and hectic, Lowkey has a grounded, cozy atmosphere. The dim lighting and wooden accents make it the perfect spot to take a break and simply enjoy the aroma of freshly roasted beans.
hey are famous for their hand-drip coffee and carefully curated blends.
NUDAKE: Where Dessert Meets High-End Art
NUDAKE is for those who crave a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. Owned by the innovative eyewear brand Gentle Monster, this cafe is famous for its avant-garde approach to desserts. It feels more like a modern art gallery than a traditional bakery.
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a bold, futuristic interior. The centerpiece is often a long, minimalist table displaying their signature pastries like sculptures. It’s a place where every corner is “Instagram-ready.”
Coffee Nap Roasters: An Architectural Gem in Seongsu
If you appreciate minimalism and unique spatial design, Coffee Nap Roasters is a destination. It’s offering a serene escape with some of the best roasted beans in the city.
As the name “Roasters” suggests, they take their beans very seriously. Their flat white and cream-based coffees are exceptionally smooth, balanced, and rich. If you’re a fan of tasting different origins, their filter coffee lineup is always curated with precision.
“Is this really the right way?”
While following the map, you might find yourself hesitating as you enter a quiet alley that looks like it only leads to residential villas and apartments. You might even think you’ve taken a wrong turn, but don’t worry—you are exactly where you need to be! Even if you start to doubt yourself, just keep heading straight! Behind those plain residential walls lie some of the most sophisticated coffee spots in Seoul.
Iridescent: A Modern Palette of Coffee and Style
As the name suggests, the cafe often plays with light and subtle color accents. The interior is thoughtfully designed with a mix of industrial textures and modern furniture, making it feel both trendy and incredibly cozy.
They are well-known for their creative seasonal beverages. If you’re looking for something refreshing, their signature ades and lattes are as beautiful to look at as they are to drink.
Now, let’s talk about a menu item that catches even Koreans off guard: the Perilla Leaf (Kkaet-nip) Smoothie. If you’ve had Korean BBQ, you’re probably familiar with perilla leaves as a savory wrap for meat. They have a distinct, bold, and slightly minty aroma. But putting them in a sweet, icy smoothie? It sounds experimental, but it’s actually a stroke of genius at Iridescent. Imagine a drink that’s incredibly refreshing—similar to a mojito but with a unique herbal depth that only perilla leaves can provide. It’s sweet, crisp, and has a clean finish that instantly cools you down.
Foreplan: A Cafe Designed by Architects
This cafe was actually conceived and designed by architects, and it serves as a shared office space by day and a moody bar/cafe by night.
The interior is filled with blueprints, architectural models, and professional drafting tools. The long wooden tables and organized shelves create an atmosphere of creative focus.
During the day, it’s a bright and productive space for creators. As the sun sets, the lighting dims, and it turns into a sophisticated lounge where you can enjoy coffee or even a light drink.
Green Room: A Lush Oasis in the Heart of the City
The first thing that hits you when you walk into Green Room isn’t actually green—it’s a striking, vibrant Red!
The interior is thoughtfully decorated with various plants and soft, natural tones, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Large windows often allow sunlight to pour in, making it a “sunlight-drenched” spot that’s perfect for those golden-hour photos.
At first glance, the building might look a bit weathered and the narrow stairs up to the 3rd floor can be a little intimidating, but I promise it is absolutely worth the climb.
Once you reach the top, the space opens up beautifully. A large portion of the cafe is dedicated to a spacious outdoor terrace. On a clear day, there’s nothing quite like sitting at one of the open-air tables, looking out over the unique rooftops of Seongsu-dong, and soaking in that breezy, relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect hidden rooftop escape!
Kokkiri Bagel: The Art of Wood-Fired Bagels in Seongsu
Unlike commercial bagels that are boiled and then baked, these are hand-shaped and baked in a massive wood-fired furnace. This process creates a texture that is chewy on the inside with a perfectly crisp, slightly charred exterior.
When you’ve been walking for hours and your energy starts to dip, don’t just settle for a quick caffeine fix! Stopping by this spot for their signature Butter Salt Bagel or the decadent Cream Cheese Whipped Bagel is the ultimate way to recharge your batteries. The savory, chewy goodness is guaranteed to bring your “tension” (energy) right back up!
Oh, and if you want my personal recommendation—I absolutely love the Choco Salty Bagel!
Jayeondo Salt Bread: A Masterpiece of Butter and Salt in Seongsu
I’ll share one more bakery instead of a coffee shop this time. This place focuses solely on one thing—Salt Bread—and they only offer takeout. Since it’s a dedicated bakery, I recommend grabbing a set here and finding a cozy spot (or your favorite nearby cafe) to enjoy it with a fresh cup of coffee!
Jayeondo Salt Bread stands out by doing one thing perfectly. This spot has become a phenomenon, with people lining up day and night just to get their hands on a set of these warm, buttery rolls.
They bake their bread at specific times throughout the day. If you catch a fresh batch, the warmth and the aroma of premium butter are absolutely heavenly. It’s savory, buttery, and has that signature salty kick!
Today, I introduced 8 unique spots that are a bit further from the SM (KWANGYA) building than my previous recommendations. However, as you wander through the charming alleys of Seongsu, you’ll naturally find yourself in these areas. I wanted to give you a broader look at what this neighborhood has to offer!.
Wishing all K-pop fans a joyful and delicious adventure in Seongsu-dong.
From Seongsu-dong, MJay!
Check out my previous post for cafes right next to the SM building!
How about a cafe tour in Mullae-dong? It keeps that raw, industrial aesthetic you love about Seongsu-dong but skips the overwhelming crowds. It’s the perfect balance of grit and comfort. Check out the post below to discover the hidden gems waiting for you!
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