Andrea Larice YapIt’s no secret that the vibrant and bustling city of Seoul has long been hailed as a breeding ground for aesthetically pleasing dining spots. From their unique approaches to themes and the culinary arts, they have become tourist attractions themselves. And of course, its hanok cafes and teahouses are not to be missed. Characterised by centuries-old Korean architecture, these themed establishments stand as spaces for tranquillity and loyal protectors of tradition.
Keep reading to learn more about the best hanok cafes and teahouses in Seoul and where to find them! seon
Also read: 20 Stunning Hanoks in South Korea You Can Book on Airbnb
Every Seoul hanok cafe and tea house you should check out
1. The Hanok
Image credit: The Hanok Official Instagram Page
The Hanok Coffee & Brunch, or simply The Hanok, is one of the few dining spots in Bukchon Hanok Village that specialises in Western breakfast fare. When you enter this quaint cafe, you’ll be greeted by its homely vibe and Korean-style furnishings which make for a rather welcoming dining experience. Have a go at its classic Korean refreshments like jujube and ssanghwa teas, which pair well with its selection of toasts and savoury sandwiches.
Address: 75 Gyedong-gil, Gye-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
2. Hanok Tea House
Image credit: Hanok Tea House Official Instagram Page
Nestled right in the heart of Seoul is the artsy neighbourhood of Insa-dong, whose main street blends traditional charm with modern gems like cafes and boutiques. Here lies the picturesque Hanok Tea House, a beautifully renovated Korean-style house that serves handcrafted beverages and delicious snacks. While it’s best loved for its selection of refreshing tea-based drinks, you can also satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with desserts like bingsu, rice cakes, and red bean porridge.
Address: 9 Insadong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
3. J. Hidden House
Image credit: J. Hidden House Official Facebook Page
Another popular hanok cafe in Seoul, J. Hidden House has flourished into a go-to stomping ground for casual hangouts over a cuppa. Located in the buzzing fashion district of Dongdaemun, it’s surrounded by retail stores, shopping centres, and even traditional markets. When in the area, chill by this century-old courtyard dating back to 1915, which now holds a beautifully modernised space for savouring unique beverages and delicious Korean treats.
Address: 94 Jongno 6(yuk)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
4. Cha-teul
Image credit: Cha-Teul Official Instagram Page
Cha-teul is a traditional Korean teahouse in Seoul that offers an unparalleled dining experience. This Bukchon Hanok Village cafe features both a spacious al fresco and indoor seating. If you opt to sit by the patio, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Interiors-wise, it boasts an elegantly designed space with huge windows that provide stunning mountain views.
Of course, Cha-teul’s menu is equally impressive as its visual appeal. In addition to serving coffee and tea, it also offers traditional Korean snacks and desserts. Some of its popular bites include yugwa (puffed rice snack) and sweet red bean porridge, which is often paired with red ginseng tea or ssanghwa tea.
Address: 26 Bukchon-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
5. YiChae Cafe
Image credit: YiChae Cafe Official Instagram Page
Just a stone’s throw away from the historical complex of Bukchon Cultural Center stands the quaint and humble YiChae Cafe. If you’re looking for a hanok cafe in Seoul for a boozy evening, this one’s your best bet! Not only do they offer coffee and tea-infused beverages, but they also serve wine; perfect for your day-to-night cafe experience. Keep cool indoors or bask in the sun’s warmth in its courtyard space.
Address: 20-21 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
6. Cafe Onion Anguk – Bukchon Hanok Village
Image credit: Cafe Onion Official Instagram Page
When in Seoul, most coffee-loving folks would have already visited the ever-so-popular Cafe Onion in the trendy neighbourhoods of Seongsu-dong and Mia-dong. While these branches are famed for their concrete, brutalist interiors, the cafe’s third post in Anguk strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Located near the iconic Gyeongokgung Palace, Cafe Onion’s hanok-themed store deviates from its distinctive aesthetic. Get all of your fave pastries, baked goods, and drinks while indulging in a totally different ambience.
Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
7. Seoul Coffee 1945
Image credit: Seoul Coffee 1945 Official Instagram Page
Tucked away in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village stands the hidden hanok cafe of Seoul Coffee 1945. The area has emerged as one of the city’s most popular yet laidback gathering spots — thanks to its barrage of hipster coffee shops, homegrown restaurants, and small boutiques. On your visit to Seoul Coffee 1945, try the bestseller black bread with a butter filling and choose from its selection of homemade ice cream bars.
Address: 166-31 Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
8. Cheongsudang
Image credit: Cheongsudang Official Instagram Page
If there’s anything hanok cafe Cheongsudang should be known for, it would most likely be its sprawling and thoughtfully landscaped garden entrance. Bamboo trees, beautiful lanterns, and stepping stones form a walking path over the pond. And as one would expect, its menu is just as incredibly enticing as its aesthetic. Take your pick among its artisan desserts like souffle and fromage cakes.
Address: 31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
9. Shinleedoga
Image credit: Shinleedoga Official Instagram Page
Shinleedoga in Hongdae is a newly opened three-storey modern hanok cafe with a roof deck dining area and a beautifully landscaped courtyard. Most Seoul hanok cafes are found in locations such as Buckchon and Ikseon-dong Hanok Villages. Thus, Shinleedoga’s traditional charm comes as a surprise amid the urban landscape of the city’s university town. In addition to its rustic Korean-style facade, its minimalist interiors and creative menu offerings are sure to attract cafe-goers and Instagram enthusiasts alike.
Address: 20-12 Jandari-ro, 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
10. Tteuran Tea House
Image credit: Tteuran Tea House Official Instagram Page
Hidden from the main street of the bustling Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, Tteuran Tea House is an unmissable gem for its cosy and peaceful vibe alone. This traditional tea house in Seoul features a small unroofed garden in the middle of its space. Try to snag a seat by the window and enjoy the view of its lush greenery while sipping your drink of choice. With its vast selection of teas and Korean grub, you’ll surely never run out of options.
Address: 17-35 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Also read: 15 Unique Cafes in Seoul for Coffee, Brunch, & More!
Truly, each hanok cafe in Seoul on this list is unique in its own way! Compared to more modern coffee shops, these architectural wonders offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage while providing delicious fare and a tranquil dining atmosphere. So, on your next trip to Seoul, be sure to bookmark these spots for a unique coffee and traditional tea-drinking experience!
Facebook image credit (L-R): J. Hidden House | Official Facebook Page; Cha-Teul | Official Instagram Page
