[Seoul] I know “hidden gem” is overused in many food blogs when it comes to cafes, but Coffee Hanyakbang 커피한약방 truly deserves the title.
The word ‘Hanyakbang’ 한약방 translates to ‘herbal medicine shop’ or ‘traditional Korean medicine dispensary,’ and you might wonder what it has to do with coffee.
The café occupies the former site of Hyeminseo, a medical office from the Joseon Dynasty where the renowned physician Heo Jun treated patients.
This historical backdrop adds depth to the café’s character.
To get there, take the Seoul Subway Line 2 or Line 3 and get off at Euljiro 3-ga Station (을지로3가역), and look for Exit 6.
Once out, walk straight for about 2-3 minutes, then turn into the small alley where the café is located.
It might be a bit tucked away, so keep an eye out for its vintage exterior.
Coffee Hanyakbang’s retro interior, adorned with antique medicine cabinets and vintage décor, immediately transports you to a different era.
The café is renowned for its hand-dripped Filter Coffee (from 5,000 Won), meticulously prepared using manually roasted beans.
The menu features a variety of blends, each with distinct flavour profiles catering to diverse palates.
Coffee beans are roasted over direct fire, and each cup is brewed by hand.
And yes, you can also purchase some coffee back home… and comes wrapped like a medicine bag.
Other coffee choices include Café Latte (5,500 Won), Vanilla Latte (6,000 Won), Maple Latte (6,000 Won), Espresso (4,500 Won), Con Panna (5,500 Won), and Americano (4,500 Won).
What makes Coffee Hanyakbang even more delightful is the connection to Hyemindang, the bakery across the alley.
You can pick up a fresh pastry or cake to pair with the coffee here.
Choices include Chocolate Cake (7,200 Won), Whole Wheat Carrot Cake (7,000 Won), and a variety of tarts like Grapefruit Tart and Mango Tart (8,500 Won each).
Other highlights include Blueberry Tart (9,500 Won), Mont Blanc Cake (8,000 Won), and delicate mousse cakes such as Snow White (8,500 Won) and Blueberry Mousse Cake (8,900 Won).
Seating is spread across several floors, and while each has its own charm, the second floor stood out to me.
It was quieter and felt a bit like a retreat from the city outside. The dim lighting might not suit everyone, but for me, it added to the cosy atmosphere.
It is a space that invites you to slow down, perhaps read a book or have a lingering conversation.
Coffee Hanyakbang is the kind of place you stumble upon by chance but never forget. You find yourself wanting to tell only your closest friends about it, keeping it as your little secret.
Coffee Hanyakbang 커피한약방
16-6 Samil-daero 12-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
서울 중구 삼일대로12길 16-6
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sat), 11am – 8pm (Sun)
Naver Maps – Coffee Hanyakbang
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