Immersing in Seoul’s Endless Cafe Adventures
My stay thus far in Seoul has consisted of an immense amount of walking, and throughout my travels, I’ve noticed that every street will have at least one cafe. It seems that regardless of the population density of the immediate area, there will always be a cafe nearby with an amazing ambiance and lovely drinks and desserts to enjoy.
Living in Seoul has taught me that it is similar to other big cities in the sense that there is limited, very limited space, and therefore the living spaces are also smaller, which creates the demand for elaborate and large varieties of outdoor hangout spots. For this reason, Seoul’s society saw this need from its people and fulfilled that demand by creating some of the best and most unique themed cafe experiences there are in the world.
There are endless themed cafes to explore, but I have chosen three from my visits so far to highlight. The three themed cafes include the 2D Cafe in Mapo-gu, Onion in Jongno-gu, and lastly, a dog cafe also located in Mapo-gu. All three are very varied in their themes, and all have their own unique, charming points and reasons I chose to highlight them.
Stepping into a Cartoon at the 2D Cafe
To begin, the 2D cafe is a surreal experience when you first walk in. It almost feels like you have actually stepped into a cartoon, and you are just the character inhabiting it. The 2D cafe falls under the funky, aesthetic, and Instagrammable cafes that are a must-visit when in Seoul. There I ordered a warm hazelnut latte and a matcha roll cake that were both delicious, especially with such an interesting environment to enjoy them in.
The concept behind the 2D cafe is inspired by the popular South Korean television series “W – Two Worlds,” where the characters clash between the real world and a fantasy world inside a webtoon (online comic). The entire cafe is designed to look like a 2D cartoon, with everything from the ceiling to the floor, including chairs, tables, and even crockery, held in black and white and the style of flatline paintings, making everything look like a simple pen-on-paper drawing.
It’s an absolute feast for the senses, and you can’t help but feel like you’ve been transported to another dimension. The attention to detail is truly remarkable, and it’s easy to get lost in the surreal surroundings, sipping on your delicious beverage and indulging in your pastry. It’s the perfect spot for those who love a bit of whimsy and want to step out of the ordinary and into a world of imagination.
Onion – Blending Tradition and Modernity
The next cafe, Onion, is definitely also Instagrammable, but the ambiance of this location is very serene and encapsulates what I believe to be a treasured novelty of Seoul – the mixing of the modern city lifestyles with the traditional architecture. Onion was located near the Bukchon Hanok Village, which is known for its stunning traditional architecture, and those styles were heavily incorporated in the design of Onion.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by a spacious and airy interior, with natural light flooding in through the large windows. The decor seamlessly blends modern and traditional elements, creating a truly harmonious and calming atmosphere. There, they have a large selection of freshly made baked goods and unique drinks, such as passion fruit ade and a local berry ade that I tried during my visit.
While enjoying their refreshments, you’re able to view the small courtyard and surrounding scenery of plants. They even offer a section where futons and floor tables are setting options, where you can extend the traditional experience further, as well as more common regular tables and chair seating.
The attention to detail and the thoughtful integration of the traditional Korean hanok architecture create a truly immersive and serene experience. It’s the perfect spot to escape the bustling city life and indulge in some quiet contemplation, all while sipping on a delightful beverage and indulging in some freshly baked treats.
Playtime at the Paw-some Dog Cafe
The last cafe visit was at one of Seoul’s many dog cafes, where a dozen dogs kept me company while I enjoyed the cafe treats. This one in particular had so many different breeds that all hung out in an enclosed area where customers could interact with them.
It was a lovely experience to play with the dogs, and the owners were very attentive and constantly watching the dogs’ conditions. This one definitely falls under the category of animal-themed cafes in Seoul, and it’s a unique opportunity to get your caffeine fix while also getting some much-needed puppy love.
While some may have concerns about the welfare of the animals in these types of cafes, it’s important to note that the best ones, like the one I visited, prioritize the comfort and well-being of the animals. The dogs are well-cared for, and the interactions are closely monitored to ensure a positive experience for both the animals and the customers.
If you’re a dog lover, a visit to a Seoul dog cafe is an absolute must. It’s a chance to not only enjoy a delicious beverage and treat but also to interact with some furry friends in a safe and controlled environment. Just be sure to follow the cafe’s rules and regulations to ensure the best experience for everyone involved.
Exploring the Endless Variety of Themed Cafes
Overall, Seoul has allowed me to experience the best cafes I have ever been to in my life, and I have yet to scratch the surface of exploring all the varieties in Seoul. From the surreal and whimsical 2D Cafe to the serene and harmonious Onion, and the playful dog cafe, the city has truly proven itself to be a mecca of themed cafe experiences.
I highly recommend popping into anyone that piques your interest slightly, because if one doesn’t entice you enough, the one immediately down the street just might. Seoul is a city that never ceases to surprise, and the endless array of unique and creative cafes is just one of the many reasons why it should be at the top of every traveler’s list.
So, the next time you find yourself in the bustling streets of Seoul, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for these hidden gems. You never know what kind of delightful and unexpected experience might be waiting for you just around the corner.
