Bukchon Hanok Village, nestled in the heart of northern Seoul, is a captivating blend of history and modernity. Home to over 900 traditional Korean houses, known as hanok, this picturesque neighborhood feels like stepping back in time. Here’s a guide to some of the standout cafes in Bukchon, where the charm of the old meets the allure of the new.

Mirror Room
40 Samcheong-ro 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opens daily 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Closes early on Mondays at 6 p.m.)
Located across from the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, this cafe is both intriguing and inviting. Its entrance, true to its name, is adorned with mirrors, blending into the surroundings and inviting curiosity.
Mirror Room occupies a century-old hanok once home to Jang Seung-eop, a renowned painter of the late Joseon Dynasty. The interior reflects a delicate balance of heritage and contemporary design, with mirrors and floral arrangements enhancing the sense of space. The cafe features about 15 tables, providing an intimate setting for visitors.
The menu changes with the seasons, offering customers fresh, natural ingredients. Highlights include garden-fresh apple tea, apple cocktails, and unique seasonal offerings like apple waffles and omija ade.

Tea Therapy
74 Yunboseon-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opens daily 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
A tranquil retreat for tea enthusiasts, Tea Therapy offers peace and relaxation. Tucked away near Bukchon’s cultural and artistic landmarks, this hanok-turned-cafe greets visitors with the soothing shade of a large persimmon tree at its entrance. The peaceful surroundings complement the cafe’s mission to provide a restorative experience through tea.
At Tea Therapy, you’ll find an extensive menu featuring around 20 types of tea, each designed to address different health and wellness needs. Visitors are encouraged to sample a variety of teas, with tasting sessions at their table helping them discover their perfect match. Popular selections include wonkicha (qi-boosting tea) and onkyungcha (body-warming tea). Served in glass pots, teas cost 8,000 won per pot.
Pair your tea with one of the cafe’s traditional treats, such as red bean toast or goji berry rice cake, known for their delicate sweetness. For those who want to take a piece of the experience home, Tea Therapy offers tea blends which its portion is up to 10 servings.

Thanks Oat
21-10 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opens daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For those who prioritize health and sustainability, Thanks Oat offers a dining experience rooted in care and consciousness. The cafe’s name hints at its signature oatmeal-inspired dishes, including creamy oatmeal lattes and nourishing Greek yogurt bowls.
Sustainability is at the heart of Thanks Oat -- the cafe sources organic, locally grown ingredients and avoids artificial additives. Yogurt is fermented in-house, and granola is baked fresh daily, ensuring wholesome bite.
Thanks Oat is also committed to reducing its environmental footprint by using recyclable packaging. Its menu evolves with the seasons, reflecting the cafe’s dedication to fresh and eco-conscious dining.

Café Rosso
81-12 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opens daily 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Cafe Rosso is a haven for coffee lovers who appreciate craftsmanship and authenticity. Specializing in small-batch roasting, the cafe sources its beans directly from farmers, ensuring every cup delivers maximum flavor.
The rustic, minimalistic interior allows the coffee to take center stage, with options ranging from smooth pour-overs to rich espressos. Cafe Rosso’s commitment to quality and its intimate atmosphere make it a standout spot in Bukchon.

Ma Cantine
31 Palpan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opens daily 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
A block away from Bukchon’s bustling main streets, Ma Cantine is a cozy retreat known for its handcrafted scones. The cafe’s vintage-inspired interior creates a nostalgic charm, offering a warm, inviting space to enjoy a peaceful afternoon with desserts.
The menu features a variety of scones, both sweet and savory, with flavors like cranberry walnut and chocolate chip among the favorites. These pair perfectly with the cafe’s selection of teas and coffee.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet moment or a tasty treat, Ma Cantine delivers a delightful experience that blends comfort with culinary artistry. But as there is no seating area inside this tiny baked goods shop, take away of baked goods and stroll down the Samcheongdong is highly recommended.