Craving something sweet in Seoul? Beyond kimchi and BBQ, Seoul’s dessert scene explodes with creativity, tradition, and Instagram-worthy delights! As a global city, you’ll find everything from delicate French patisseries to quirky Korean twists. Here’s your curated guide to unforgettable sugar rushes, complete with must-try items and insider tips:
1. Sulbing (설빙)
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Multiple Locations (Hongdae, Myeongdong, Gangnam)
Forget ordinary shaved ice! Sulbing specializes in bingsu (Korean shaved ice), featuring impossibly fine, milk-based snow piled high with premium toppings.
Must-Try: Injeolmi Bingsu (toasted soybean powder + chewy rice cakes) or Mango Cheese Bingsu (fresh mango + cream cheese).
Foreigner-Friendly: Picture menus & easy kiosk ordering. Share one bowl—they’re huge!
2. Passion 5 (패션5)
Upscale Indulgence in Itaewon
Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu
Housed in a stunning glass building, this luxury bakery/pastry lab offers Parisian-level artistry. Think edible jewels: eclairs, tarts, and cakes crafted by master chefs.
Must-Try: Strawberry Shortcake (cloud-like layers) or Green Grape Tart (seasonal fruit perfection).
Pro Tip: Grab a seat upstairs for chic café vibes. English widely spoken.
3. Cafe de Paris (카페드파리)
Fruit Fantasies Come True
Hongdae, Garosu-gil
Pioneer of Korea’s fruit bonbon trend—giant coupes overflowing with fresh, ripe fruit and cream. Vibrant, refreshing, and ultra-photogenic.
Must-Try: Mango Bonbon (their signature) or Strawberry Bonbon (in winter).
Note: Portions are massive—ideal for sharing. Cash preferred at some branches.
4. O’sulloc Tea House (오설록 티하우스)
Matcha Paradise
Insa-dong, Myeongdong, Ikseon-dong
From Jeju’s famed green tea fields, O’sulloc serves matcha (powdered green tea) in every form imaginable: drinks, cakes, ice cream, and even tiramisu!
Must-Try: Matcha Roll Cake or Matcha Latte with a scoop of Matcha Ice Cream.
Cultural Bonus: Try omija (five-flavor berry) tea for a uniquely Korean taste.
5. Remicone (레미콘)
Quirky Science Lab Ice Cream
Garosu-gil, Hongdae
Step into a “dessert laboratory” where ice cream gets a playful twist. Toppings include cotton candy, popping candy, and even “thunder” (caramelized sugar bolts).
Must-Try: Thunder Bomb (vanilla soft-serve + “lightning” caramel) or Magic Purple (ube-flavored).
Fun Factor: Customize your creation at the topping bar. Great for kids!
6. Billy Angel Cake Company (빌리엔젤)
Cloud-Light Cakes
Citywide (Lotte Department Stores, Express Bus Terminal)
Known for ethereally fluffy cakes using whipped cream instead of heavy buttercream. A guilt-free(ish) indulgence beloved by locals.
Must-Try: Rainbow Cream Cake (layers of pastel sponge) or Tiramisu.
Accessibility: Often found in major transit hubs—perfect for a quick treat!
7. Be Sweet on Me (비스위트온미)
Macaron Heaven in Ikseon-dong
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Tucked in Seoul’s trendiest hanok (traditional house) alley, this pastel-hued café offers exquisite French macarons with Korean-inspired flavors.
Must-Try: Black Sesame Macaron or Yuja (Citron) Macaron. Pair with floral tea.
Atmosphere: Sip tea in a serene courtyard—a hidden oasis!
Insider Tips for Foreign Travelers:
- T-Money Card: Use it to pay at many cafes (like Sulbing).
- Naver Maps > Google Maps: For precise directions (search using English names).
- Portion Sizes: Korean desserts are often shareable—order strategically!
- Café Culture: Many spots open late (until 10 PM or later).
- Language: Menus often have English; staff in tourist areas usually understand basic English.
Final Scoop: Seoul’s dessert landscape blends global trends with Korean flair—whether you’re hunting street-food hotteok (sweet pancakes) or designer cakes. Don’t just eat; explore neighborhoods like Ikseon-dong or Garosu-gil where hidden gems await. Your sweet tooth will thank you! 🍰✨