By Real Korean Foodie
Hello, this is a Seoul local blogger who loves coffee!
Today, I’m excited to introduce two truly unique cafes in Euljiro that I highly recommend to anyone visiting Seoul: Coffee Hanyakbang and Hyemindang.
During a recent family outing to Myeongdong, I decided to take a nostalgic walk to Euljiro, an area known for its retro charm. It had been years since I last visited these cafes, and to my delight, they remain as captivating as ever — perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, local cafe experience in Seoul.
📍 Coffee Hanyakbang — Basic Information
- Address: 16-6 Samil-daero 12-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Google map link)
- Phone: +82 70-4148-4242
- Hours: Weekdays 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM / Weekends 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🏠 Retro Interiors — Timeless Atmosphere at Coffee Hanyakbang
Coffee Hanyakbang is a small hidden cafe located behind Lotte City Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from Euljiro 3-ga Station. The name "Hanyakbang" translates to "Traditional Herbal Medicine Room," reflecting its design, which resembles a classic Korean apothecary.
Stepping inside, you'll find vintage Korean cabinets called jagae-jang and other antique decor pieces that make you feel like you've traveled back in time. Originally, there were more tables on the first floor, but the cafe has since expanded to additional floors in neighboring buildings, offering a more spacious and relaxed environment.
Despite the growth, Coffee Hanyakbang’s retro charm remains perfectly intact, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique Seoul cafe experience.
☕ Signature Coffee — Rich and Earthy Filter Coffee
The highlight of Coffee Hanyakbang is definitely its filter coffee. Brewed slowly by hand, the coffee has a deep, earthy flavor — reminiscent of traditional Korean herbal drinks but with the warmth and richness of true specialty coffee.
Watching the owner carefully hand-drip each cup is part of the charm. It’s a genuine, slow coffee experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors looking for something authentic and special.
🍰 Hyemindang — A Retro Dessert Paradise
After enjoying our coffee, we crossed the street to Hyemindang, the sister dessert cafe to Coffee Hanyakbang.
📍 Hyemindang — Basic Information
- Address: 16-9 Samil-daero 12-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Google map link)
The name "Hyemindang" is inspired by "Hyeminseo," a historic Korean medical institution that once stood in this area. Today, it has been transformed into a warm, retro dessert cafe where history and sweetness meet.
Just like Coffee Hanyakbang, Hyemindang is filled with nostalgic decor — old wall clocks, vintage radios, and antique furniture — making it a cozy, timeless place to enjoy coffee and desserts.
Hyemindang offers a delightful array of cakes, pastries, and tarts. It's a dessert lover’s paradise, and the perfect complement to a cup of Korean-style coffee. We ordered a few pastries, but they looked so delicious that we couldn’t resist diving in before taking any photos!
🧠 Final Thoughts
Coffee Hanyakbang and Hyemindang offer a special experience for visitors wanting to explore the hidden retro gems of Seoul. With their nostalgic interiors, rich coffee flavors, and charming atmospheres, these cafes perfectly capture the spirit of old Seoul while welcoming today’s travelers.
If you're planning to visit Seoul and want to go beyond typical tourist spots, be sure to stop by these timeless cafes in Euljiro. Enjoy the beauty of Korean retro culture, sip an authentic hand-dripped coffee, and indulge in heavenly desserts. 🌸
