Samcheongdong (삼청동) is by far my favorite neighborhood in Seoul. It's a good place to get lost in, with lots to see, from boutiques and art galleries to traditional Korean homes. I could spend days just roaming the unique streets - sights change with every few minutes walked; no two blocks look alike. For the tired feet, plenty of artsy cafes await. For the indecisive soul, unfortunately, too many to choose from...
On my first visit to Samcheongdong, we stumbled upon
커피방앗간 (roughly translated as Coffee Mill), a cozy coffee shop tucked away somewhere up a hill and around a corner deep in the less touristy area (accurate and reliable GPS provided by yours truly). Side note: apparently Korea did not name its streets until last year. So locals still give directions using "that big pole" and "over yonder."
"Coffee House"
"Beans for sale! Can grind for you"
"To-go very welcomed"
Out front, the owner draws 1-minute portraits for 1,000 won.
The proceeds from portraits go to needy children - though I'm not sure what kind of needy.
Do we really look like this?
Wander around the home-turned-cafe, and you will find a back alley with a simple sign that reads "side door."
Solid drinks, indie ambiance, and a boldly honest shop-owner. I bought some espresso and my coffee-master aunt approved!
