While the pandemic might have put a dampener on social events such as coffee dates or the casual act of spreading out to work or read in a café, things have opened and we’re able to reunite with old friends or hog the WiFi once again.
Korea might be the “land of…” many things, but coffee shops and cute cafes are definitely in the running. From themed décor and cozy corners to palatial event spaces, all are available to you when selecting where to sip on a morning (or evening) brew.
For those of us living in Songtan, around Osan Air Base, in Pyeongtaek city, or are willing to travel north to Dongtan, here are the top coffee shops (the curated favorites) for you to enjoy. We’re talking quality cafes (with tea options) that you can easily walk or drive to in order to get your fill. Note the hours—an early opener is a rare find—and recommendations when ordering.
*menu prices are in Korean won. 4 represents 4,000. 5,5 is 5,500 and so on.
Boaz Mansion
Hours: Open 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Mon – Sat. Closed on Sundays
Hidden from the main road, this spacious escape will be a repeat visit. As you enter, you’re greeted with gorgeous, natural light. Generous windows and seating take up two floors. There’s a table lined with baked goods (croissants and cake) to tempt you as you check out. And the mood changes depending on where you choose to sit.
BM has ample parking and is a hop, skip, and a jump from Buraksan—the trail-lined mountain closest to the base.
Menu sample:
· Latte 4,5
· Cappuccino 4,5
· Mocha 5
· Boaz Coffee 6
· Vanilla Latte 5
· Tea 5 - 6
Hot tip
I order the cappuccino or latte here with a freshly-baked croissant. Friends have mentioned that the smoothies are also worthy.
There is oat milk on the menu. Almond milk is available upon request—find them on Instagram to organize.
Location
On Naver: Boajeu Mansion ;
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Caffeine
Across from Parragon Apartments in Godeok City
Hours: Open weekdays from 8:40 a.m. – 10 p.m. Weekends and holidays from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Hidden snuggly across from Godeok City’s Paragon Apartments, Caffeine might be mistaken for any other business along the strip. Once you find it, you’ll be glad you popped in. You’re not there for the interior (which resembles a cleaner college dorm room with simple furniture, a cozy couch and misplaced décor). The cold brew in a floral can is a must.
Menu
The menu is varied, with coffee, non-coffee, tea, ades, smoothies, juices, and desserts.
· Americano 3,8
· Hazelnut Latte 4
· Cappuccino 4
· Cafe Latte 4,3
· Cafe Mocha 4,5
· Vanilla Latte 4,5
· *Almond Milk +500 won
· Hibiscus Tea 4
· Ginger Tea 3
· Smoothie 5,3
Hot tip
Wait inside while your order is being prepared—my favorites are the Vanilla or Hazelnut Lattes with almond milk—and get it to go. Walk the trails along the river in Godeok city (turn right out of the coffee shop and keep walking until you intercept one).
Location
On Naver: Caffeine
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Camel Espresso
Located on the SED, the main strip
Hours: 11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. daily
Camel Espresso is a skip out of the main gate on your right-hand side (tucked behind an overwhelming camo-gortex display) and will lure you in with the tasteful Egyptian décor.
Menu
Camel Espresso’s menu features standard coffee options as well as flavored lattes (green tea, sweet potato, chocolate), protein shakes and bubble tea, blended iced drinks, fruit smoothies, sparkling ades, and herbal teas.
In terms of pricing you can expect the following:
· Latte 5
· Cappuccino 5
· Alternative milk 1
· Cold Brew 5,5
· Vanilla Chai Latte 5,3
Hot tip
Whether you get your order to go or sit inside on one of the two floors, get the cold brew if you need energy for the whole week–it’s strong but smooth.
Location
On Naver: Camel Espresso ;
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Coffee Nap
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily
*Give yourself 15 minutes to get there.
While you might have discovered this gorgeous spot in Seoul, the HQ was established on our doorstep–lucky us.
A friend introduced me to this humble, converted factory and the moment I stepped inside, I was charmed. In terms of space, think ‘architecture meets environment’ where the owners embraced the space—deteriorated floors and an elongated shape—and added simple furniture to complement it, allowing the outside to creep in.
I love a simple menu and beautifully executed pastries. You’ll find both here.
Menu:
· Espresso 5
· Americano* 5
· Flat White* 5
· Café Latte* 5
· Café Vanilla 5.5
· Cube Latte 7
· Cold Brew 6
· Filter (drip: Honduras, Guatemala, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru) 6
There are also a few non-coffee options, such as ades, teas and chocolate milks.
*Three bean options to select from.
Hot tip
Save room for the baked goods. The canelés are sublime and I’ll return for the decadent croissants—especially their cocoa-dusted Deep Choco. If you beat me to it, I expect a full report. ;)
Location
On Naver: Coffee Naep Roasters HQ
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Counting Stars
Located on the SED, the main strip, on your right.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Mon - Fri and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat.
An easy stumble out of the main gate gets you to a vibrant green façade. The coffee shop is a popular option for both the quality beans and the alternative (almond, oat, and coconut) milk options. Seasonal beverages, such as Pumpkin Spice Lattes, are offered here.
Menu
The menu is varied, with classic and creative options.
· Latte 4,5
· Cappuccino 4,5
· Alternative milk 1
· Espresso 3,5
· Chai Latte 6
· Tea 6
· Breads (4 - 5) and cookies (2,5).
Hot tip
I’d recommend a standard latte; steer clear of unusual options. Almond milk is my choice alternative milk here. Coffee is largely to go as the tiny indoor table seats two.
Location
On Naver: Kaunting Star ;
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Gustare Coffee
Hours: Open Friday to Wednesday, noon – 9 p.m. Closed on Thursdays.
Follow the traffic flow as you step outside the main gate and take a right (walk if you can). At the top of the hill, hidden from view, is a cute café with a minimalist menu. Simple, solid coffee with that stunning La Marzocco machine and an almond milk menu option… what’s not to love?
Menu:
· Espresso 5
· Americano 5
· Café Latte 5,5
· Flat White 5,5
· Almond Milk Espresso 5
· Dolce
· Matcha Espresso 6
· Vanilla Latte 6
· Smoothie – plain or blueberry 6
Hot tip
Don’t be fooled, the coffee shop appears empty (and/or closed) but that’s just another reason to step inside: undisturbed quiet. If you need me, I’ll be sipping on a Vanilla Almond Milk latte (an adaption, yes) and chatting quietly with a friend in the intimate setting. Scones are often available.
Location
On Naver: Guseuttare
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Hocus Pocus Roasters
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Located off the main road, with ample parking and space for large groups, Hocus Pocus is nothing short of magical. The on-site roastery allows earthy aromas to permeate the space; enticing baked goods eyeball you as you line up to pay; and if you looking for more than coffee, there’s a brunch menu to boot.
The HPR brand is impressive, extending the invitation to socialize: with various hangout options from the garden tables to an upstairs “no kid” zone, the crowds pick up in the afternoon on weekends and bottles of wine are opened in celebration (alongside the cofee, naturally).
Menu:
· Espresso 5,5
· Americano 5,5
· Café Latte 5,8
· Flat White 5,8
· Oatly Latte 5
· Butter Scotch Latte 6,3
· Prana Chai Latte 6,5
· Almond Milk Tea 6
· Assorted baked goods, desserts and brunch-lunch items
Hot tip
Take a whiff of the daily coffee rotation and ask the barista for a personal rec. My first order is always the Oatly Latte—pair that with a scone and/or Prana Chai Latte and you’re prepped to start the day/weekend right. And if you like the beans, you can buy them there or order online.
Location
On Naver: Hokeoseu Focus Roasters
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LEE & HOY’S Coffee
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
A dear friend let me in on a secret. This is it: three rustic stories and patio space overlooking a lake brewing house-roasted, freshly-ground coffee. Tucked on the east bank of the Giheung Reservoir, sits a sizeable, industrial-clad shed... erm, cafe. Both the indoor and outdoor areas are lovely (I would sit in front of the large windows if available). En route to the restroom, an ill -placed shoe store will meet you half way. You might be tempted to call the owner and purchase a pair.
Menu:
· Cappuccino 5,5
· Latte 5,5
· Herbal Tea 5,5
· Ade 6,5
· Yoghurt smoothie 6
Hot tip
Skip the matcha latte and go for the coffee… and a pastry (or two or three). It’s usually busy—head out early on a weekend to secure a window seat. Parking is available.
Location
On Naver: Rien Hoiseu
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Rahyo Café
Across from Seohee StarHills near the Morrin gate
Hours: Noon – 10 p.m. Wed - Mon. Closed on Tuesdays
Rayho’s space is well lit, features natural grasses and muted, warm tones as well as ample seating—you guessed it, the perfect location for Instagrammers to snap photos (you’ll see them).
Various seating options are available, from breezy patio chairs to sectioned-off lounge chairs and work tables indoors. It’s a sweet place to spend an afternoon.
Menu
From signature drinks to non-coffee offerings, all palates are accounted for.
· Café Latte 5 (add 500 for vanilla)
· Cappuccino 5
· Add 1 for oat milk
· Oat Latte (hot or iced) 6,5
· Häagen Dazs Affogato 7
· Caramel Macchiato 5,5
· Tea (herbal, green, citron) 4,5 - 6,
· Dessert (Cookie, Häagen Dazs Croffle, tiramisu, brownie) 2,5 - 6 won
Hot tip
You’ll want to hop on the indoor swing while you wait for your order—cappuccinos or lattes are a good choice; try the Rahyo Oat Latte… you’ll get it every time.
Location
On Naver: Rahyo Café ;
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Gravity, Godeok City
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. -11 p.m.
Gravity Coffee is spacious, has natural light streaming through the windows, and comfy seating. There are multiple locations—the closest to Osan Air Base is in Godeok City but my favorite is located in the heart of Pyeongtaek City (airy, two stories).
Menu:
The menu is extensive. (Dream it up and you’ll be able to order it.)
· Coffee 4-5;
· Tea 6-ish;
· Lemonades 6;
· Smoothies 6-6,5
· There are bagels, pastries, and desserts on offer.
Hot tip
I order the cappuccino or café latte. While this spot isn’t my first choice for coffee, it’s a decent meeting spot for remote work or a chat-chat and can accommodate larger (pandemic-adverse) crowds.
Location
On Naver: Gravity Pyeongtaek Godeok Branch
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Won Forest
Ever so close to Koaroo Apartments
Hours: Open daily 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Last order is at 8:30 p.m.
Won Forest appears to be hidden in an industrial area—don’t let that deter you; it’s off a main road with parking available. This spacious mansion of a café serves a solid spread. For beverage choice, the Vanilla and Matcha Green Tea lattes are the favorites, my favorites.
Each level (of three) has its own ambiance. I’ll let you discover it yourself but I will tease you with a second-floor tidbit: the space emanates tranquility with myriad houseplants and an indoor pond. With each visit, I’ve felt myself sinking into a zen state as I sip my drink of choice and soak up the surroundings.
Menu:
· Espresso 4
· Americano 4,5
· Café Latte 5
· Café Mocha 5,5
· Vanilla Latte 5,5
· Cold Brew 6
· Matcha Latte 6,5
· Homemade Tea 6
· Chamomile, Rooibos, Earl Grey, Peppermint 5,5
· There are also ades, juices, and smoothies. Croffles are 5.5 – 11 depending on topping.
Hot tip
Croissants are available after 11 a.m. but you’ll know as soon as that oven door opens and a rich, buttery scent overwhelms the space. You’ll either purchase one to eat there or to go. I’ve unintentionally left with a sexy Pain au Chocolat more than a few times. (I regret nothing.)
Location
On Naver: Won Forest
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A little further out
Nine Block (Giheung branch); 35 mins away
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Last order is at 8:30 p.m.
Tucked on the east bank of the Giheung Reservoir, sits a sizeable, industrial-clad shed café. Once you enter the parking lot, it confronts you, looming. You’ve come for the drip coffee—sourced from Ethiopia, Guatemala, Indonesia, and Nicaragua—or cold brew. I’ve had the iced Vanilla Latte and would order it again. Paying 18,000 won for a sandwich, however, might be a pressing point.
Menu:
*Items are at a higher price point than the norm but are beautifully presented and well executed
· Espresso 6
· Americano 6
· Café Latte 6
· Vanilla Latte 7
· Cold Brew 6-8
· Drip Coffee 8
· Homemade Tea 6
· Herbal Tea (Chamomile, Rooibos, Earl Grey, Peppermint, Hibiscus) 7
· There are also ades, juices, sandwiches, and a few baked items such as scones and buns.
Hot tip
The beautifully decorated space fills quickly on a weekend—get in early if possible. Both the indoor and outdoor areas are lovely (I would sit in front of the large windows if available). En route to the restroom, an ill placed shoe store will meet you half way. You might be tempted to call the owner and purchase a pair.
Nearby Dongtan Reservoir and Lake Como are idyllic pit stops for a leisurely walk or picnic in the park.
Location
On Naver: Nine Block Giheung Branch
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