In the Gwanghwamun area, you can find a variety of cafes, ranging from large franchises like Starbucks and Hollys to budget-friendly coffee brands and even small, independently operated cafes. Exploring Gwanghwamun, you can stumble upon cafes with unique atmospheres, especially in the alley between Hwanghuijeong 3rd Complex and Seonggok Art Museum.
“Gombal Coffee: A Gwanghwamun Roastery Café”
Gombal Coffee is one of those distinctive cafes tucked away in a charming alley. What sets it apart is its logo, which features a coffee bean shaped like a bear paw. The name “Gombal” stems from the fact that the owner, known for having large hands, crafts coffee just like bear paws. The cafe’s logo cleverly combines a coffee bean to create a bear paw.
Owner Hwang Hee-jeong appears to have served as a judge in various coffee championships, including the 2016 World Coffee Championship of Korea, 2019 Korea Brewers Cup Championship, 2019 Korea Coffee Roasting Championship, and the 2020 Korea Coffee Roasting Championship. These accolades are proudly displayed in the cafe.
“A Cozy Hideaway Atmosphere”
Gombal Coffee exudes a clean yet snug ambiance. Though not overly spacious, it gives off a vibe reminiscent of entering a slightly dim underground cave, offering a unique sense of seclusion from the outside world.
In addition to the seating near the entrance, you can also utilize the roasting room towards the back. Of course, it may not be accessible during roasting hours, but during other times, you’re welcome to enter and use the seating. This further adds to the café’s hidden gem atmosphere.
“A Variety of Coffee Menu Options”
At Gombal Coffee, you can explore various coffee menu options, including the standard Americano priced at 4,000 won, making for an affordable choice.
Additionally, the cafe offers a range of hand-drip coffee. Specialty drip coffee is priced at 7,000 won, and the daily hand-drip coffee is available for 5,000 won, making hand-drip coffee reasonably priced.
Notably, they also serve a Ginger Latte priced at 7,500 won. This latte boasts a strong ginger flavor, making it a menu item worth trying for those conscious of their health.
Particularly appealing due to its cozy atmosphere, this café provides a comfortable setting for a brief respite. It’s an ideal place for casual meetings or a date. Additionally, as a roastery café that offers hand-drip coffee, it’s a must-visit spot for coffee enthusiasts in search of quality brews.
“Gombal Coffee: A Gwanghwamun Café”
- Address: 9-1 Gyeonghuigung 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: 02-787-3371
- Operating Hours: (Mon-Fri) 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, (Sat) 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM, (Sun) 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Instagram: Link to Instagram