The streets of Seoul are packed with many independent cafes, of which most are beyond outstanding—in terms of both aesthetics and the wide range of coffee and baked goods that they offer.
Yet, it was not hard to decide which cafe was our favourite among all. Cafe Onion in Seongdong-gu neighbourhood—also known as the Brooklyn of Seoul— checks all the boxes that we are looking for in a cafe. The industrial-themed cafe has their own bakery and an open rooftop terrace for guests to chill at.
For those who are visiting Seoul, you cannot skip Cafe Onion for anything in the world. Read on to find out why this is our all-time favourite cafe in Seoul.
Before Cafe Onion was born, the same building was previously used for many other purposes, including a supermarket, a repair shop and a metal factory. The chic industrial-themed cafe that you see today is a reflection of its past, with cement floors, stained grey walls and chipped red bricks.
Having an in-house bakery means guests are able to enjoy warm pastries that are freshly baked from the oven.
We noticed that their staff is quick in refilling the trays, so just be a little patient if the item you are looking for is out of stock.
Most of the tables on the ground level are catered for communal dining, so expect to share tables with other visitors. Despite so, there is ample space for you to move around or have private conversations with your friends.
There are also sofa seats for those who wish to lounge around and laze the afternoon away with a drink and some light bites.
Head further in and you will notice that there is a sunny courtyard accompanied with long wooden benches. This spot is perfect for those who visit during colder days as you can bask in the warm glows of the sun.
Cafe Onion’s rooftop terrace is where busy locals unwind after a day of work or school. The cool breeze and calm ambience help you to forget about the pressures of life as your attention is focused on excellent coffee and food instead.
It feels like you are being teleported into another world as you watch the crowd hustle down the streets and hear the background hum of traffic.
Cafe Onion is perhaps best known for its Pandor (W5,000/ S$6.02), which is a pastry topped off lavishly with icing sugar. The airy pastry was decent and we enjoyed having it as a sweet treat with iced coffee.
Cafe Onion offers a range of house brews such as Cappuccino (W5,000/ S$6.02), Flat White (W5,000/ S$6.02) and Cafe Latte (W5,000/ S$6.02).
Otherwise, go for other beverages including Pineapple with Coconut Water, Carrot Juice (W5,000/ S$6.02) and Matcha Latte (W6,000/ S$7.22).
Cafe Onion
277-135 Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga
Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Mon to Fri: 8am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Seongsu
For more recommendations, read our Seoul food and travel guides featuring the best places to visit.