Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city known for its rich history, bustling city life, and delightful culinary scene. Among its many charms is a thriving tea culture that blends tradition with modernity. Whether you’re a tea aficionado or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax, Seoul has a variety of tea houses and cafes to explore. Here’s our guide to some of the best tea spots in Seoul:
Traditional Tea Houses (찻집 – Chatjib)
- Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art Tea House (경인미술관 찻집) – Nestled within a traditional Korean hanok house, this tea house offers a serene escape from the city. Enjoy a wide selection of Korean teas served in delicate ceramic ware.
- Jakgabi Tea House (작가비) – Located in the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, Jakgabi Tea House combines traditional Korean architecture with a modern twist. Sip on traditional teas while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
- Daon Tea House (다온찻집) – Tucked away in Insa-dong, a neighborhood known for its traditional arts and crafts, Daon Tea House offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets. Try their specialty, omija tea, made from five different fruits.
Modern Tea Cafes
- Osulloc Tea House (오설록티하우스) – A must-visit for tea lovers, Osulloc is known for its high-quality green tea grown on Jeju Island. Indulge in green tea lattes, ice creams, and traditional Korean sweets.
- Tea Therapy (티테라피) – With a focus on health and well-being, Tea Therapy offers a range of herbal teas and blends. Try their signature teas, which are designed to relax, rejuvenate, and restore balance.
- Teazen (티젠) – Offering a modern twist on traditional Korean teas, Teazen is a popular spot for tea enthusiasts. Their menu includes a variety of teas, from classic green tea to unique fruit blends.
Unique Tea Experiences
- Jin Dal Lae (진달래) – Experience the art of Korean tea ceremony at Jin Dal Lae. Located in the heart of Seoul, this tea house offers a serene environment where you can learn about the history and customs of Korean tea.
- Moonbird Only Thé (문버드온리떼) – A hidden gem in the bustling neighborhood of Hongdae, Moonbird Only Thé offers a unique tea experience. Try their signature tea cocktails, which blend traditional Korean teas with modern flavors.
- Chunhcheon Dakdoritang Tea House (춘천 닭도리탕 찻집) – For a taste of traditional Korean cuisine and tea, visit Chunhcheon Dakdoritang Tea House. This cozy spot offers a variety of teas paired with delicious Korean dishes.
Tips for Tea Lovers:
- Try Traditional Korean Teas: Explore the world of Korean teas, including barley tea (보리차 – bori-cha), persimmon leaf tea (감잎차 – gam-ip-cha), and jujube tea (대추차 – daechu-cha).
- Join a Tea Workshop: Many tea houses offer workshops where you can learn about tea culture and even make your own tea blend.
- Pair Tea with Korean Sweets: Enjoy your tea with traditional Korean sweets like hangwa (한과) or rice cakes (떡).
Seoul’s tea spots offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Korea’s rich tea culture. Whether you’re sipping on a traditional Korean tea in a hanok house or enjoying a modern tea blend in a trendy cafe, Seoul’s tea spots are sure to delight your senses.