Tucked away on South Korea’s east coast, the city of Gangneung has quietly established itself as a caffeine mecca. The place with its famed coffee street draws both locals and international travellers. This unique strip offers a sensory feast of ocean breezes, aromatic brews, and creative cafes that make it a must-visit for any coffee lover.
Korea’s Coffee Mecca, Gangneung
[Guide de voyage] 🌊☕ A la recherche d'un café avec une jolie vue sur la mer au pays du matin frais ? Rendez-vous à #Gangneung, sur la côte est, chez Shelly’s Coffee Roastery House !
📸 @amien__s#travel #CoréeduSud pic.twitter.com/HAIIC0kj7j
— K.Owls (@koreasowls) April 19, 2023
Gangneung’s emergence as a coffee hub can be traced back to its scenic coastal setting and the local community’s passion for quality coffee. The city’s relationship with coffee began to flourish in the early 2000s. Thanks to a combination of factors–its picturesque landscapes, a burgeoning cafe culture, and the efforts of passionate coffee artisans.
Anmok Beach, one of Gangneung’s most famous coastal stretches, is home to Coffee Street. It is a vibrant promenade of cafes offering a wide array of coffee blends and brews. Walking down Coffee Street is an experience that transcends the simple act of sipping a cup of joe. As you stroll along the beach, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, creating an irresistible allure. The cafes on Coffee Street are known for their diverse styles and offerings, from traditional Korean brews to modern espresso-based drinks.
Coffee Street’s appeal extends beyond South Korea’s borders. Similar to K-drama and Korean skincare, travellers are now interested in experiencing Korea’s unique coffee culture. The area’s reputation has grown as a trending destination for travellers seeking both culinary and cultural experiences.
Where To Go Here?
Berkat kafe inilah Gangneung dijuluki kota kopi. Bohemian Park I-Choo Coffee adalah rumah bagi barista gen pertama di Korea, Park I-Choo. Kopi bohemian diperkenalkan oleh beliau dan menjadi identitas kota ini. Kopi Gangneung begitu khas karena rasanya yang tidak terlalu asam. pic.twitter.com/O7OzIf9NJP
— KTO Jakarta (@KTOJakarta) June 10, 2023
Here, the cafes make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. One of the pioneers of Gangneung’s coffee scene, Terarosa Coffee is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The cafe’s rustic interior and artisanal coffee blends make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Founded by renowned barista Park I-chu, Bohemian Roasters is a testament to the art of coffee roasting. The cafe’s cosy ambience and carefully crafted brews make it a must-visit for coffee connoisseurs.
However, if you find Anmok Beach Coffee Street crowded with avid cafe-goers, Sinami Myeongju Street is the place to go. The 2011-opened cafe-turned-gallery BonBon Roastery was once an abandoned 1940s-era mill. It has kept its retro appeal inside a hip atmosphere where culture and coffee coexist. Head to Owol Coffee along a narrow side street; a cafe remodelled from an old Japanese-style structure. Another well-liked location is 7Coffee, which was formerly a seven-room hotel.
Gangneung’s Coffee Street leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The blend of exquisite brews, scenic vistas, and cultural vibrancy makes it a truly unique place.So, when are you going?
Cover image credits: Visit Korea/Website