Why Apgujeong is Seoul's Brunch Capital
Nestled in the heart of Gangnam, Apgujeong-dong is where Seoul's fashion elite and K-pop stars come to see and be seen. This upscale neighborhood has evolved into a brunch paradise, blending European café culture with distinctly Korean aesthetics. If you've seen those dreamy café photos on Korean Instagram, chances are they were taken here.
Top 5 Brunch Cafés Worth the Visit
1. Minimalist Havens
Apgujeong's signature style features clean white interiors, natural light flooding through floor-to-ceiling windows, and meticulously plated dishes. Expect to pay around $15-25 USD (₩20,000-35,000) per person for a full brunch experience including coffee.
2. What to Order
- Egg Benedict Korean Style - Often served with gochujang hollandaise
- Ricotta Pancakes - A local favorite with seasonal fruits
- Avocado Toast - Elevated with Korean perilla leaves
- Croffles - The croissant-waffle hybrid that took Korea by storm
3. The Celebrity Factor
Many cafés here are frequented by K-pop idols and Korean actors. Staff are discreet and respectful of privacy, making these spots comfortable for everyone.
Practical Tips for International Visitors
Getting There
Take Subway Line 3 to Apgujeong Station (Exit 2 or 3) or Bundang Line to Apgujeong Rodeo Station. Most cafés are within a 10-minute walk.
Beat the Weekend Crowds
- Arrive before 10:00 AM on weekends to avoid 1-2 hour waits
- Weekday visits between Tuesday-Thursday offer the best experience
- Some cafés accept Naver or Kakao reservations - download these apps beforehand
- Ask your hotel concierge to make reservations in Korean
Language Tips
Most cafés have English menus or picture menus. Staff may have limited English, but are helpful and patient. Having Papago or Google Translate ready on your phone is always useful.
Best Time to Visit
Brunch hours typically run from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Many popular spots close on Mondays or have reduced weekday hours, so check ahead. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for café-hopping.