Sanmotoonge Cafe - Buamdong

Confession time: So prior to this trip, I don't think I have payed much attention to the 'Coffee Prince' Korean drama, much less intended to visit the place where it was filmed at. So when my friends said they want to check it out, I admit I had my doubts about it. But you know what, it's actually a really chill place to hang out and have a drink with the mountains and fog as your companions.

Getting there can be a hassle, since it's up on a hill, but the way route there is a very scenic and enjoyable one. Plus the chilly weather and cherry blossoms made the journey up a whole lot more bearable. 

It should be really easy to spot this little brown house. After a final turn, you'll notice that there are a lot more cars lined along the street. Before entering the cafe, don't forget to check out the eclectic range of decorations and knick-knacks, including a bright yellow Beetle parked outside.

There are plenty of seats available, but that also depends on whether you prefer seating indoor or outside and whether you are visiting during a peak period obviously.

You can actually the see Seoul Fortress Wall along the mountain

The food and drinks there are pricier compared to a typical Korean cafe, but I do suppose you are paying for the view and the whole association with the 'Coffee Prince' drama. Sadly, the food and drinks aren't very memorable or maybe they were over-shadowed by the picturesque view.

I think we spent a couple hours there just recuperating from the trek up (haha!), but we decided to leave before the sun set.

As mentioned, Sanmotoonge Cafe (and Buamdong actually) is not the easiest place to get to and navigate, but we got some directions there online (source here) and were able to get there smoothly.

Sanmootonge (산모퉁이) 

Address: Seoul Jongno-gu Buamdong 97-5

Operating Hours: 11:00AM-10:00PM 

Directions: Go to Gyeongbokgung Station (line 3), get out at exit 3.

Go straight about 100 meters to the second bus stop, take green buses #1020 or #7022 and get off at the Buam-dong Community Service Center 부암동민주센터 (6 stops away). Turn right when you get off the bus and walk straight up the hill until you hit Espresso Club. Turn left and you’ll see a fork in the road. Stay left and keep walking; soon you’ll hit a small bend where you’ll see a white building with a large brown sign for Santoomonge, pointing you uphill. It’s about 10-15 minute walk uphill.

To get back to Subway station, simply walk back to the bus stop where you 1st dropped off. Cross the street and walk to bus stop: 자하문고재. Take bus number 7022/1020 and get off at the Gyeongbokgung.