Located a stone’s throw away from Hyehwa Station: Daehak-ro. The mecca of performing arts and culture in Korea. Here, you can find amazing restaurants serving mouth-watering food and aesthetic cafés with cozy and friendly ambience. Speaking of which, let’s take a look at one of the best cafes on offer: Seohwa Coffee.
Seohwa Coffee at a Glance
The small alleyways of Daehak-ro are home to many hidden gems. One of which is Seohwa Coffee, a traditional hanok-themed cafe tucked amidst residential homes. The cafe preserves the look and atmosphere of a traditional Korean house from the 1970s. You will feel as though you entering a historical wonderworld like that of K Dramas.
In Hanja, the word “Seohwa” represents calligraphic works like paintings and writings. You can see a few flower paintings in the café. The old-framed paintings, lamps, clocks, dried ground cherries and windows create a nostalgic atmosphere.
If you come in a group of four, you can sit in the private room available on the left of the entrance. It is very comfortable, decorated with antiques and has a relaxing secluded feel.
What’s more, you can even purchase antiques here. Next to the counter where you order you’ll see a display case of antiques, be sure to have a glance over them! When I went, there was a vase on sale for 300,000 won, a little out of my price range… but still beautiful.
Menu
Undoubtedly the signature beverage at Seohwa Coffee is their extensive selection of coffee and tea. As a tea lover, I was particularly fascinated with their unique range of homemade blends such as Sonamu (pine tree) and Mugunghwa (rose of Sharon.) Sonamu has a nutty, almost savoury flavour, while Mugunghwa has a sour taste.
Seohwa Coffee also sell pound cakes and scones, the perfect accompaniment to a pot of hot tea or iced tea bottles.
My friend and I ordered the hibiscus orange ice tea bottle and a slice of carrot pound cake. I’m not usually a fan of carrot cake but the carrot pound cake was a really creative combination and I adored it. I felt very satisfied after washing it down with the refreshing tea. Moreover, as you can see, it was a feast for the eyes as well!
Final Thoughts
Seohwa Coffee’s tea and desserts will awaken your senses: both by sight and taste. The natural atmosphere of the hanok setting seems to add extra flavour to the food and drink. Finally, its a must-see destination for tea lovers.
Interested in what else Daehak-ro and Hyehwa have to offer? Click >> here <<
Location and Getting There
Address: 8 Daehak-ro 9ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: 11:00am - 10:00pm everyday
Directions: Hyehwa Station (Subway Line 4) Exit 3. Turn around and take the first left. Walk straight until you reach the bend. Turn left just before Coffee Bay, walk straight again until you reach Seohwa Coffee.
