Hidden in a small alley near Korea University lies a little gem called Pika Coffee. Only a mere 250m away from Anam Station, its the perfect place to cram for your exams then unwind in the evenings with a glass of wine. This is one Korea University cafe you shouldnโt pass on!
First Impressions
On first glance, I found the cafe airy and bright โ the perfect oasis to escape Koreaโs extreme weather. I felt all of my worries melt away as I took my fist step inside; what I saw next perked my interest immediately.
Artsy Aesthetic
Pika Coffeeโs interior designer definitely has a flair for the unusual, all the chairs and tables were mismatched. However, I didnโt find it grotesque. Altogether, it made for a very artsy atmosphere. I discovered that the space was not only a cafe but also sold interior goods and furniture โ which would explain the mishmash of furniture dotted around the store.
I enjoyed the open and spacious seating. My friends and I agreed, it would be a great place to study when we grew tired of the KU libraryโs stuffy cubicles. Furthermore, for days with pleasant weather, there was a veranda with outside seating where you could watch Korea University students rush to class through the alleys of Anam.
Wine!
In the evenings, Pika Coffee transforms into a bar that serves wine by the glass. The large, haphazard display of bottles scattered around the place showcased their entire catalog. I couldnโt spot any menus. Instead, visitors could amble around the shop and choose a wine based on the bottles that catch their fancy. The quirky system perfectly matched the unique charm of the place.
Cafe Review
The menu was extensive โ options included coffee, teas, and a wide selection of sweet treats. I ordered an iced latte. My friends ordered royal milk tea and an iced americano. Together we shared a caramel ice cream.
The drinks were served quickly. Pikaโs espresso is dark and bitter, which deeply satisfied my friend who ordered the americano. If you are a black coffee fan, this is the place for you. I enjoy sweet drinks but was saved thanks to the sweet milk mixed into my latte. As for the royal milk tea, we found it a bit grainy. Although my friend mixed it well, the tea at the bottom failed to dissolve completely.
Finally, The caramel ice cream was nothing special, but we couldnโt complain. It consisted of three large scoops of vanilla ice cream with a heavy helping of caramel drizzled over the top. Thereโs a pure joy that can be found in simplicity, especially when it comes to vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we were happy to have found this Korea University cafe. We were thoroughly charmed by the uniqueness of the cafe. I look forward to coming back during my next exam season and finding inspiration in the quirky beauty surrounding me.
Location & Direction
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PIKA COFFEE
Address: Hannuri Church, 29 Goryeodae-ro 30-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: 10:00am - 11:00pm everyday
Directions: Anam Station (Subway Line 6) Exit 3. Walk straight and turn right at DST Cafe, turn left and continue round the bend. Turn right again and you'll reach PIKA COFFEE on your right.
